Vegan styling gels are revolutionizing the hair care industry. They offer eco-conscious consumers a cruelty-free alternative to traditional hair products. These plant-based formulas provide all the hold and shine of conventional gels without relying on animal-derived ingredients. As more people embrace veganism and seek ethical beauty options, the demand for these innovative styling solutions continues to grow.
When shopping for vegan styling gels, it’s essential to look beyond the “vegan” label. We recommend checking the ingredients list for natural, plant-based components like aloe vera, flaxseed, and agar agar. These botanical ingredients not only provide excellent hold but also nourish and protect your hair.
It’s also worth considering the level of hold you need, as vegan gels come in various strengths to suit different hair types and styles.
We’ve spent weeks testing and comparing numerous vegan styling gels to find the best options for various hair needs. Our goal was to identify products that offer great hold, nourish hair, and align with vegan values.
Best Vegan Styling Gels
We’ve rounded up the top vegan styling gels that’ll give your hair the perfect hold without any animal-derived ingredients. These cruelty-free options are packed with natural botanicals to nourish your locks while keeping your style in place. Let’s check out our favorite plant-based gels that’ll make your hair look fabulous.
Giovanni’s Natural Hold Gel
We think this eco-friendly styling gel is a game-changer for those seeking a strong hold without harsh chemicals.
- Impressive frizz control
- Vegan and cruelty-free formula
- Enhances curl definition
- May feel sticky if overused
- Scent might not appeal to everyone
- Can be drying for some hair types
We’ve been on the hunt for a styling gel that delivers salon-quality results without compromising on natural ingredients, and Giovanni’s L.A. Hold Styling Gel fits the bill perfectly. This vegan-friendly formula impressed us with its ability to tame our unruly locks while keeping our conscience clear.
When we worked this gel through our damp hair, we noticed how smoothly it applied without leaving any residue. The hold is no joke – our styles stayed put all day, even in humid conditions. It’s a blessing for those of us with curly hair, as it enhanced our natural texture and kept frizz at bay.
We appreciate that Giovanni has packed this gel with nourishing ingredients like aloe vera and vitamin E. However, we did find that using too much could leave our hair feeling a bit crunchy. A little goes a long way, so start with a small amount and build up as needed. While the scent is pleasant, it’s worth noting that it might not be everyone’s cup of tea.
Original Blends Natural Styler
We think this vegan styling gel is a game-changer for all hair types, offering versatile hold and nourishing ingredients.
- Nourishes hair with flaxseed and soy protein
- Suitable for all hair types
- Vegan and cruelty-free formula
- Jar packaging can be inconvenient
- May cause scalp irritation for some users
- Hold strength might not suit extremely unruly hair
We’ve been using this Original Blends styling gel for a while now, and it’s become our go-to for natural hair styling. The flaxseed and soy protein blend feels like a treat for our locks. It’s great to see a product that cares about hair health as much as styling.
The versatility of this gel really impressed us. Whether we’re enhancing curls or taming flyaways on straight hair, it delivers without leaving any flaky residue. We love that it works for both adults and kids in our family.
One thing we noticed is the jar packaging. While it’s not a deal-breaker, a squeeze bottle might be easier to use, especially when we’re in a rush. The hold is pretty good for most hair types, but if you’ve got super stubborn hair, you might need something stronger. We did hear from a friend that it caused some scalp irritation, so it’s worth doing a patch test first.
Jason’s Natural Flaxseed Gel
We believe this vegan styling gel is a solid choice for those seeking a natural, effective hair product with impressive hold and shine.
- Cruelty-free and made with natural ingredients
- Provides excellent shine and volume
- Suitable for all hair types, including color-treated
- May not provide enough hold for extremely unruly hair
- Some users might find the scent too strong
- Can leave hair slightly sticky if overused
We’ve been using Jason’s Flaxseed Hi-Shine Styling Gel for a while now, and we’re impressed with its performance. The gel has a pleasant, natural scent that isn’t overpowering. When we applied it to damp hair, we noticed it spread easily and didn’t leave any residue on our hands.
The hold is quite good for a natural product. Our styles lasted throughout the day without becoming crunchy or flaky. We particularly appreciated how it added volume and shine to our hair, making it look healthier and more vibrant.
One thing we loved about this gel is its versatility. It worked well on both straight and curly hair types in our tests. We found it especially effective for taming frizz and flyaways. The fact that it’s free from harsh chemicals like parabens and sulfates is a big plus in our book.
Biotera’s Curly Hair Miracle
We’re head over heels for this vegan styling gel that’s perfect for those seeking natural, bouncy curls without any harsh chemicals.
- Alcohol-free formula
- Provides flexible hold
- Adds shine without stickiness
- May be too light for very thick hair
- Scent might not appeal to everyone
- Can be a bit pricey
We’ve been on the hunt for a styling gel that doesn’t leave our curls crunchy or weighed down, and this Biotera gem has answered our prayers. The alcohol-free formula is a game-changer, giving us the hold we need without drying out our locks.
When we applied it to damp hair, we noticed how smoothly it glided through our strands. It didn’t leave any sticky residue on our hands, which is always a plus. As our curls dried, they took on a beautiful shape with a natural-looking shine.
We love that it’s color-safe and free from parabens. The bamboo and coconut scent is subtle and pleasant, not overpowering like some other products we’ve tried. While it works wonders on most curl types, those with very thick or coarse hair might need something a bit stronger. Additionally, it’s perfect for daily use, leaving curls looking defined without the crunch. We appreciate that it’s part of the growing trend of parabenfree hair styling products, ensuring that our hair stays healthy while still being beautifully styled. For anyone looking to enhance their natural texture, this product is definitely worth a try!
Max Green Alchemy Organic Sculpting Gel
We think this vegan sculpting gel is a game-changer for those seeking strong hold and natural ingredients.
- Powerful, long-lasting hold
- Enhances natural hair texture
- Safe for sensitive scalps
- May leave white residue
- Pricier than some alternatives
- Scent might not appeal to everyone
When we tried this Max Green Alchemy gel, we were impressed by its strong hold. It kept our styles in place all day, even in humid weather. The gel worked wonders on frizzy and unruly hair, taming flyaways with ease.
We loved how it enhanced our hair’s natural texture without leaving it sticky or stringy. The plant-based formula felt gentle on our scalps, which is great for those with sensitivities or conditions like dandruff.
One thing to note: we noticed a bit of white residue when using too much product. A little goes a long way, so start with a small amount and adjust as needed. The herb and citrus scent is fresh, but it might not be everyone’s cup of tea. Despite these minor drawbacks, we think this gel is a solid choice for those seeking a natural, vegan styling option.
Buying Guide
When shopping for vegan styling gels, we’ve got a few key things to keep in mind. Let’s explore what to look for to find the perfect product for your hair.
Ingredients
First up, let’s talk ingredients. We want to make sure our gel is free from animal-derived components.
| Look for | Avoid |
|---|---|
| Aloe vera | Gelatin |
| Plant-based proteins | Keratin |
| Natural oils | Beeswax |
Hold Factor
The strength of hold is crucial. We need to consider our hair type and desired style.
- Light hold: Great for loose, natural looks
- Medium hold: Ideal for everyday styles
- Strong hold: Perfect for intricate or long-lasting styles
Texture and Consistency
We should think about how the gel feels in our hands and hair. Some prefer a lighter, more liquid consistency, while others like a thicker gel.
Scent
Many vegan gels use natural fragrances. We can choose from unscented options or those with plant-based essential oils.
Packaging
We ought to consider eco-friendly packaging options. Look for recyclable or biodegradable containers to minimize environmental impact.
Frequently Asked Questions
Vegan styling gels are becoming increasingly popular among eco-conscious consumers. Let’s address some common questions about these plant-based hair products.
What are the best vegan styling gels currently on the market?
We love Andalou Naturals Argan Stem Cell Styling Tuft. It’s made with organic ingredients and provides excellent hold. Another top pick is Giovanni LA Natural Styling Gel, which uses aloe vera for a soft, flexible finish.
Can I find a vegan styling gel suitable for fine hair?
Absolutely! We recommend trying out Innersense I Create Volume. It’s lightweight yet provides body and lift for fine strands. Another great option is Briogeo Curl Charisma Rice Amino + Quinoa Frizz Control Gel.
Are there any recommended vegan styling options for black hair types?
Yes! We love Camille Rose Curl Maker. It’s packed with marshmallow and agave extracts to define and moisturize coils. Mielle Organics Honey & Ginger Styling Gel is another fantastic choice for type 4 hair.
Which vegan styling gels work best for curly hair?
For curly locks, we can’t get enough of Bouclème Curl Defining Gel. It’s made with linseed and seaweed extracts for frizz-free definition. DevaCurl Ultra Defining Gel is another curl-enhancing favorite among our curly-haired friends.
How can I make homemade vegan hair gel without using gelatin?
We love whipping up DIY vegan hair gel! Mix 1/4 cup flaxseeds with 1 cup water, boil for 5 minutes, then strain. Add a few drops of your favorite essential oil for scent. Cool before use.
Are all Eco Styler Gel products vegan and cruelty-free?
Many Eco Styler Gels are vegan, but not all. Always check the ingredients list. Their Olive Oil, Argan Oil, and Coconut Oil gels are vegan-friendly options. However, some contain lanolin, which isn’t vegan.