Giovanni L.A. Hold Styling Gel (200ml)

This is my fave gel for my fine-but-dense, mid-low porosity, 2C/3A hair. I’ve been using it for about a year, and have tested it through most UK weathers. I like that it leaves a strong cast when built-up in layers; I use extra on my problem frizzy areas, yet it can be much softer over the rest of my hair when used more sparingly. I use about 5 hazelnuts-worth over my whole head of shoulder-length hair, sleep in the cast, and it mostly scrunches out itself by morning. The cast is not a ‘dry’ cast; it doesn’t poof away in a powdery cloud, and instead has some lasting bendable quality, with an almost wax-like hint to its finish. For this reason I find it moisturising. I also like that it’s one of the few gels that doesn’t leave my hair looking like it needs a re-style ... MoreThis is my fave gel for my fine-but-dense, mid-low porosity, 2C/3A hair. I’ve been using it for about a year, and have tested it through most UK weathers. I like that it leaves a strong cast when built-up in layers; I use extra on my problem frizzy areas, yet it can be much softer over the rest of my hair when used more sparingly. I use about 5 hazelnuts-worth over my whole head of shoulder-length hair, sleep in the cast, and it mostly scrunches out itself by morning. The cast is not a ‘dry’ cast; it doesn’t poof away in a powdery cloud, and instead has some lasting bendable quality, with an almost wax-like hint to its finish. For this reason I find it moisturising. I also like that it’s one of the few gels that doesn’t leave my hair looking like it needs a re-style after the first day; 3 sleeps later, and my hair looks (almost) freshly scrunched, unlike with the majority of gels where the lengths tangle and go stringy. I attribute this partly to the residue it leaves behind which helps to separate the strands for more volume, although with too much, it can feel tacky on my hair. It withstands heat and humidity very well, and my hair hardly proofed-up at all last summer. Light rain reforms a cast, but it shakes free when dry with virtually no ill effects. Note that I use the gel after the direct leave-in conditioner (2 hazelnuts-worth), and foam mousse (6 pumps), from the same range, so some of its physical properties might be from their combined effects. My only gripe is that the gel is very thick so I have to mix it with a few squirts of water before each application, but it does have good slip so brush-styling is easy afterwards. I’m super happy with this gel and whole-heartedly recommend it.

Being someone with long hair, I recently decided to experiment with the curly hair method I discovered online. I have to say, I'm thoroughly impressed with the incredible hold this styling gel delivers. It's truly ideal for creating and sustaining beautifully defined curls that last all day long. What I particularly love is that this product doesn't weigh my hair down or leave any unpleasant residue. It has completely transformed my hair styling routine, and I can't recommend it enough. If you're seeking a dependable product to achieve breathtaking curls, I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this gel a go. Prepare to be amazed!

This is one of the top rated gel’s Curly Girl-ers. It’s lightweight, not too sticky and leaves a perfect cast around your curls. Once I crunch it out I have soft, bouncy curls that last. You really don’t need a lot of product, it’s deceivingly potent…I learnt that the hard way when I put too much on! The tube will last forever. There is no overpowering scent or weird color which is great because I’m sensitive to those things. Highly recommend for all hair types but especially those with curly hair.