The Difference Between Styling Glaze & Styling Gel
Confused about what products to use to get the hair style, shine and texture you want? With so many hair care products on the shelves, it can be hard to know which products are used to control frizz, promote curl, hold hair in place, improve body or add shine. Learn the differences between glazes and gels so you can shop the hair care aisle with confidence. Does this Spark an idea?
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Picking Hair Care Products
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The hair care aisle at any large retailer is filled with hair care products. These products are made for specific hair types: straight, frizzy, curly, wavy and oily or dry. When selecting any hair care product, you will be happier with the results if you choose a product appropriate for your hair type.
Types of Styling Glaze
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Styling glaze makes hair shiny. Shine in hair is caused by light bouncing off the hair; straight hair generally looks shinier because the hair shafts are smoother. Curly hair can look less shiny. Using a styling glaze can make any hair type look shiny. Glazes are available in pump bottles, sprays or liquids applied by hand and some have holding properties. A salon-applied product can last for up to two weeks and add semipermanent color to your hair.
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Types of Styling Gels
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According to stylist David Groshen’s Hair Products dictionary, styling gels are a “thickening styling additive, usually clear or transparent, that increases hold.” Styling gels are generally available in squeeze tubes and pump bottles. Gels can be lightweight or thick and are generally scented. Some gels have conditioning, nourishing or volumizing properties. Added ingredients such as protein, olive oil or essential oils deliver these results and impact the price of the product.
How to Use a Glaze
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Following the product maker's instructions will provide the best results. Some glazes are applied after the hair is styled and others are applied to wet hair before styling. Glazes can be a little oily, so use sparingly to avoid greasy-looking hair. Use slightly more on hair ends, particularly on dry or curly hair and if the product has conditioning properties.
Using Gels
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Use lightweight gels to create styles with flowing movement. If you’re using rollers, apply a little gel to a strand of hair before rolling for longer lasting curls. Sculpted styles, such as flip curls, up-dos or mohawks require a thicker gel with more holding power. Gels are available for athletes and dancers that keep hair in place during high levels of activity.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit long curly hair image by Frenk_Danielle Kaufmann from Fotolia.com
