Curl Creams Vs. Styling Gels

Which One Is Right For Your Hair?

When it comes to styling curls, finding the perfect product can feel like a never-ending quest. 

Should you reach for a curl cream? 

Or..

Is a styling gel the better choice? 

At LOHY., we understand the struggle! Some days, you just want to use that ONE product that you know works really well for your hair!

If you’re curious about the key differences between curl creams and styling gels keep reading! We're breaking it all down to help you find the perfect match for YOUR unique hair type and texture.

Plus, we’ll share how to use LOHY.’s Cruise Control Curl Cream, Oomph Hydrating Gel, and POW Strong Hold Gel for truly stunning results.

Curl Creams

Curl creams are all about hydration and definition. 

Formulated with nourishing ingredients, they work to moisturise, smooth frizz, and enhance curl patterns without weighing hair down. They’re a bit like a primer for your hair. LOHY.’s Cruise Control Curl Cream is lightweight and packed with hydrating goodness. 

Perfect for:

• Fine Hair: Adds moisture and subtle definition without feeling heavy (a little goes a long way!).
• Thick Hair: Enhances curl shape while keeping hair soft and touchable.
• Coarse Hair: Provides a dose of hydration for softer, more manageable curls (coarse hair is thirsty, so don't be afraid to be more liberal with the amount). 
• Hair Types: Best for Type 2 (Wavy) and Type 3 (Curly) hair looking for a natural, touchable finish.
• Curl creams are also good to use in combination with a styling gel for coarser hair types like Type 4 (Coily/Afro)

Styling Gels

Styling gels, like LOHY.’s Oomph Hydrating Gel and POW Strong Hold Gel, are designed to define and hold curls in place. While some gels have a reputation for leaving curls crunchy, LOHY. gels are crafted to provide hold without stiffness. The trick is in allowing the curls to dry, then scrunching out that crunchy cast. The result- soft, touchable curls that will give you more longevity in your definition. 

Styling gels are ideal for:

• Fine Hair: Use sparingly to avoid weighing down delicate strands.
• Thick Hair: Helps define curls and provides long-lasting hold.
• Coarse Hair: Tames and shapes even the most unruly curls.
• Hair Types: Works really well for Type 3 (Curly) and Type 4 (Afro) hair that needs definition and hold. (We recommend always using Cruise Control as a hydrating primer for Type 4 Curls, and some Type 3 textures). 

If you're unsure of your curl type (remember, it's normal to have multiple hair types) take our Curl Type Quiz.

Curl Cream + Styling Gel Combo

The Perfect Combo For Coarser Hair Textures

Why choose one when you can have the best of both worlds? Combining curl cream and gel can give you the hydration and softness of a cream with the definition and hold of a gel. Coarser hair types are typically much thirstier than fine hair types (like Type 1c or Type 2 Wavy Hair) so this combo of cream and gel is perfect for adding hydration while getting the definition you want. 

Here’s How To Layer Them For The Best Results:

For lazy days: In the palm of your hand, mix a dollop of Cruise Control Curl Cream with a dollop of your preferred gel, adding a few drops of water. Rub your hands together to emulsify the products - this step ensures the products are awakened and spread more evenly. Glide your hands over damp hair to coat the strands, then rake your fingers through to distribute the products thoroughly. Finish by gently scrunching your curls from ends to roots to encourage clumping and enhance your curl pattern. Diffuse until dry, scrunch out the crunch and you’re all set with gorgeous, defined curls!

If you’re time poor, this is a simple solution to a quick styling session. 

When you’ve got time: Start by applying Cruise Control Curl Cream to damp hair, concentrating on the mid-lengths and ends where your curls need the most moisture and definition. Next, layer on Oomph Hydrating Gel or POW Strong Hold Gel to lock in hydration and enhance your curl shape with added hold and shine. Use a Flexi Brush to distribute the products evenly through your strands, ensuring every curl is coated. Gently scrunch your curls from ends to roots to encourage clumping and bring out your natural curl pattern. Finally, diffuse your hair until dry to set the style and increase volume. Once fully dry you're ready to scrunch out the crunch. This combination works beautifully for all curl types and textures however it is particularly good for Type 3 and Type 4/Afro Hair Types, delivering long-lasting, touchable curls perfect for special occasions.

Pros + Cons

LOHY. Curl Cream

Pros:

• Enhances natural curl definition.
• Provides hydration and softness.
• Great for reducing frizz.
• Best for soft, touchable styles.

Cons:

• Limited hold compared to gels.
• May weigh down fine hair if overused.

LOHY. Styling Gels

Pros:

• Offers strong hold for long-lasting styles.
• Great for defining and maintaining curls in humid conditions.
• Suitable for slicked-back or structured looks.

Cons:

• Can feel crunchy if not scrunched out.
• Less hydrating compared to creams.

FAQs About Curl Creams Vs. Gels

Which one offers a better hold? Styling gels, especially LOHY.'s POW Strong Hold Gel, provide a stronger hold compared to curl creams.

Which one is better for “soft, touchable curls”? Curl creams like LOHY.'s Cruise Control are perfect for soft, natural-looking curls.

When should I use a combo of both? Use a cream-and-gel combo when you want hydrated, defined curls with a long-lasting hold - perfect for humid weather or big events.

Will a gel always dry crunchy? Not with LOHY.! Our gels are designed to avoid that dreaded crunch. Simply scrunch out any cast after your hair dries to reveal soft, bouncy curls.

Can I use gel on fine hair? Yes! Just use a small amount to avoid weighing down your strands.

What’s the best product for frizz control? Both creams and gels are designed to hydrate your hair and help combat frizz. For extra humid days, a combo of Cruise Control and Oomph Hydrating Gel works wonders.

Whether you’re a curly who loves the results of a soft curl cream, or a fan of the definition provided by a strong hold gel, or somewhere in between, there’s no right or wrong - just what works best for your hair. 

Whichever you choose as your ‘daily dollop of definition’, you’re well on your way to achieving gorgeous, frizz-free curls every day with LOHY. Products. 

Love & Hydration Xx