Locking gels are a popular hair styling product for those who want to achieve a sleek and polished look. The gel is designed to hold hair in place and prevent frizz, making it a great choice for individuals with curly or wavy hair. Locking gels come in a variety of formulas, each with its own unique benefits.
When choosing the best locking gel, it’s important to consider the hold strength, ingredients, and texture. A strong hold gel is ideal for those with thick or coarse hair, while a lighter hold gel may be better for finer hair. It’s also important to look for natural ingredients that won’t damage hair or cause irritation to the scalp.
After researching and testing various locking gels, we have identified the top options for achieving a long-lasting, polished look. Our team has taken into account factors such as hold strength, ingredients, and texture to provide you with the best options on the market.
Best Locking Gels
Locking gels are an essential product for anyone with dreadlocks or natural hair. They help to keep hair in place and maintain the shape of the locks. We’ve scoured the market and tested various products to bring you the best locking gels. Our list includes products that are easy to apply, provide a strong hold, and are suitable for different hair types. Check out our top picks below.
Genuine African Formula SuperGro Hair Gel with Extra Hold
If you’re looking for a hair gel that can help you keep your locks in place, you might want to consider the Genuine African Formula SuperGro Hair Gel with Extra Hold. We’ve tried this product, and here’s what we have to say about it:
Pros
- The SuperGro Hair Gel has an extra hold that can help keep your locks in place, even if you’re active throughout the day.
- We appreciate that this hair gel is designed to stimulate natural hair growth and prevent hair loss or thinning.
- The product can give your hair a new inner strength, making it look and feel healthier.
Cons
- Some users might not like the clean scent of this hair gel, as it may not be as fragrant as other hair products.
- The product may not work as well for individuals with very thick or coarse hair, as it may not provide enough hold.
- The hair gel may leave some residue on your scalp or hair, which can be difficult to remove.
Overall, we think the Genuine African Formula SuperGro Hair Gel with Extra Hold is a decent product that can help you style and hold your locks. However, it may not be the best option for everyone, and you may want to consider other hair gels if you have specific hair care needs.
Bronner Brothers Tropical Roots Firm Locking Gel
If you’re looking for a product that will give your resistant hair an extra firm and long-lasting hold, Bronner Brothers Tropical Roots Firm Locking Gel is the way to go.
Pros
- This gel provides an extra firm hold that lasts for a long time without flaking.
- It promotes healthy hair growth, which is a great bonus for those who want to maintain healthy locks.
- It is a Best Beauty product, which means that it is a highly recommended product in the beauty industry.
Cons
- The product contains lead, which can cause birth defects and other reproductive harm.
- It may not work as well for those with hair that is not resistant.
- Some users have reported that the gel flakes on their hair.
We’ve had the chance to use Bronner Brothers Tropical Roots Firm Locking Gel and we can say that it definitely lives up to its promise of providing an extra firm hold. The gel is easy to apply and does not leave any residue on your hair. It also has a pleasant scent that is not overpowering.
One of the standout features of this gel is that it promotes healthy hair growth. This is a great bonus for those who want to maintain healthy locks while keeping them in place.
However, it is important to note that the product contains lead, which can be harmful to your health. It is also not suitable for those with hair that is not resistant.
Overall, Bronner Brothers Tropical Roots Firm Locking Gel is a great product for those with resistant hair who want an extra firm hold that lasts for a long time. If you’re looking for a product that will keep your locks in place without flaking, this is definitely worth a try.
Jamaican Mango and Lime Resistant Formula Locking Hair Gel
If you’re looking for a hair gel that can help you maintain your locks and twists naturally, then Jamaican Mango and Lime Resistant Formula Locking Hair Gel is worth considering.
Pros
- This gel provides a long-lasting hold that can keep your locks and twists in place all day.
- It doesn’t leave any buildup, so you don’t have to worry about your hair feeling heavy or greasy.
- The clean scent of this gel is refreshing and tropical, making it a pleasure to use.
Cons
- The consistency of this gel may be a bit too thick for some users, making it difficult to apply.
- It may not work as well on hair that is very fine or thin, as it can be a bit heavy.
- Some users may find the price of this gel to be a bit higher than other similar products on the market.
In our experience, Jamaican Mango and Lime Resistant Formula Locking Hair Gel is a reliable product that can help you maintain your locks and twists with ease. The long-lasting hold and refreshing scent make it a pleasure to use, and the lack of buildup means that your hair will feel light and clean. However, the thick consistency of the gel may take some getting used to, and it may not work as well on all hair types. Overall, we would recommend this product to anyone looking for a high-quality locking gel that can help them maintain their hairstyle with ease.
Beard Gains Lion Locs Dreadlocks Moisturizer
We highly recommend the Beard Gains Lion Locs Dreadlocks Moisturizer for those who want to keep their locks healthy and shiny.
Pros
- The all-natural ingredients control frizz and tame stray flyaways, making it perfect for all loc and hair types.
- It’s lightweight and healthy, making it great for retwisting and moisturizing that prevents hair from heat and sun damage.
- The creamy texture of this loc butter for dreads is enhanced with Aloe Vera Leaf Juice, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Argan Oil, and Jojoba Oil for added protection.
Cons
- Some may find the floral scent too strong for their liking.
- The product may not work as well for those with very thick hair.
- It may take a few tries to find the right amount of product to use for your hair type.
We were impressed with the moisturizing twist lock gel that prevented further breakage and made our locs healthier and shinier. The product is made from handpicked natural and organic ingredients, is vegan and cruelty-free, and is specifically made to help with any hairstyle or type.
The Lion Locs Dreadlocks Moisturizer is easy to use and penetrates into hair, sealing open hair cuticles to control frizz and tame stray flyaways. It’s also paraben and sulfate-free, and unlike other gels on the market, it doesn’t leave any debris, build-up, or flakes.
Overall, the Beard Gains Lion Locs Dreadlocks Moisturizer is an excellent choice for anyone looking to keep their locks healthy, shiny, and frizz-free.
AllDay Locks Lock N Twist
If you’re looking for a supreme hold locking gel that will keep your dreadlocks, faux locs, interlocks, microlocks, or any other loc style in place, then AllDay Locks Lock N Twist is the perfect product for you.
Pros
- Provides a supreme hold that lasts all day long
- Re-twists with ease and leaves your locs looking healthy and shiny
- No flakiness or buildup, leaving you with a soft finish
Cons
- Scent may not be suitable for everyone
- May require some experimentation to find the right amount for your hair type
- Some users have reported that it dries white if not applied properly
We were impressed with the supreme hold of this locking gel, which kept our locs in place throughout the day without any flakiness or buildup. It was easy to apply, and we appreciated the detailed instructions on how to use it effectively.
One of the standout features of this product is its ability to re-twist with ease, making it easy to maintain your locs over time. We also noticed that it left our locs looking healthier and shinier than before, which was a nice bonus.
While we enjoyed the grape scent, we recognize that it may not be suitable for everyone. Additionally, it may take some experimentation to find the right amount for your hair type, as too much can lead to a white residue.
Overall, we highly recommend AllDay Locks Lock N Twist for anyone looking for a high-quality locking gel that provides a supreme hold and leaves your locs looking healthy and shiny.
Buying Guide
When it comes to selecting the best locking gel, there are a few important factors to consider. Here are some features to look for when choosing a locking gel:
Ingredients
It is important to check the ingredients of the locking gel before purchasing. Look for a product that is made with natural ingredients such as aloe vera, shea butter, or coconut oil. Avoid products that contain harmful chemicals such as sulfates, parabens, or phthalates.
Hold Strength
The hold strength of the locking gel is another important factor to consider. Some gels offer a light hold, while others provide a strong hold. Determine the level of hold that is best for your hair type and desired style.
Texture
The texture of the locking gel can also affect the overall result. A thicker gel may be better for thicker hair, while a thinner gel may work better for finer hair. Consider the texture of your hair when selecting a product.
Price
Price is also an important consideration when choosing a locking gel. Look for a product that fits within your budget while still meeting your desired criteria.
By taking these factors into consideration, you can select the best locking gel for your hair type and styling needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-rated locking gels for maintaining dreadlocks?
When it comes to maintaining dreadlocks, there are several top-rated locking gels available in the market. Some of the best locking gels for maintaining dreadlocks include Jamaican Mango & Lime Resistant Formula Locking Gel, Taliah Waajid Black Earth Products Lock It Up Tight Hold, and Knotty Boy LockSteady Dreadlock Tropical Tightening Gel. These products are known for their strong hold and ability to tame frizz, making them perfect for maintaining dreadlocks.
How does locking gel perform on soft hair types?
Locking gels can work well on soft hair types, but it’s important to choose the right product. Soft hair types require a locking gel that is lightweight and won’t weigh down the hair. Some of the best locking gels for soft hair types include Taliah Waajid Black Earth Products Lock It Up Tight Hold and Jamaican Mango & Lime Resistant Formula Locking Gel. These products are formulated to provide a strong hold without leaving any residue or buildup.
What are the recommended locking gels for thick hair to ensure strong holds?
Thick hair types require a locking gel that can provide a strong hold without weighing down the hair. Some of the best locking gels for thick hair include Knotty Boy LockSteady Dreadlock Tropical Tightening Gel, Jamaican Mango & Lime Resistant Formula Locking Gel, and Taliah Waajid Black Earth Products Lock It Up Tight Hold. These products are known for their ability to provide a strong hold, even on thick hair types.
Can you suggest a locking gel that prevents build-up and residue?
Build-up and residue can be a common problem when using locking gels, but there are products available that can help prevent this issue. Some of the best locking gels for preventing build-up and residue include Jamaican Mango & Lime Resistant Formula Locking Gel, Taliah Waajid Black Earth Products Lock It Up Tight Hold, and Knotty Boy LockSteady Dreadlock Tropical Tightening Gel. These products are formulated to provide a strong hold without leaving any residue or buildup.
What are the best natural locking gels for dreads?
If you are looking for a natural locking gel for dreads, there are several options available. Some of the best natural locking gels for dreads include Shea Moisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Grow Loc & Braid Butter, Carol’s Daughter Lisa’s Hair Elixir Fortifying Scalp Spray, and Taliah Waajid Black Earth Products Lock It Up Tight Hold. These products are formulated with natural ingredients and are free from harsh chemicals, making them perfect for those who prefer natural hair care products.
Is locking gel or wax more effective for achieving long-lasting locs?
Both locking gel and wax can be effective for achieving long-lasting locs, but it ultimately depends on personal preference. Locking gel is typically lighter and easier to apply, making it a popular choice for many. Wax, on the other hand, provides a stronger hold and can be more effective for those with thicker hair types. It’s important to choose a product that works best for your hair type and personal preferences.
