How to Make Ethnic Activator Gel

Activator hair gel is used as a styling aid to tame the hair, keep it in place for a desired style and provide curl definition to curly and texturized hair in ethnic cultures, primarily by African American women. Commercial hair activator gels tend to contain harsh chemicals, fillers, dyes and preservatives, which can be harmful, damaging and drying to the hair. A natural ethnic activator gel provides the benefits of conditioning, replenishment and retention of moisture to aid in nourishing the hair and preventing breakage. To get the benefits of an ethnic activator hair gel ,while using natural ingredients, a gelatin or flax seed hair gel can be made at home. Few ingredients are needed and the cost is very inexpensive.

Things You'll Need

• Gelatin Hair Gel:
• 1 teaspoon unflavored gelatin
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup pure aloe vera gel
• 3 to 5 drops of an essential oil
• Storage container with a lid
• Flax seed Hair Gel:
• Pan for boiling
• Cheesecloth or fine strainer
• 1 cup flax seeds
• 1/2 cup water

Instructions

Gelatin Hair Gel

1. Warm the water, either in the microwave or on the stovetop.

2. Add the gelatin to the warm water until the desired thickness is achieved, and stir until all the gelatin is dissolved.

3. Add the aloe vera gel and drops of an essential oil--rosemary or tea tree--to the mixture to act as a preservative, and mix well.

4. Transfer the prepared activator hair gel into a container with a lid. Store the gel in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Flax Seed Hair Gel

1. Put the flax seeds and water into a pan, and bring the water to a boil.

2. Strain the mixture, using cheesecloth or a fine strainer. Collect the gel into a bowl or container.

3. Add the aloe vera gel and drops of an essential oil--rosemary or tea tree--to the mixture to act as a preservative, and mix well.

4. Transfer the gel to a storage container and secure the lid. Store the flax seed activator gel in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Tips & Warnings

• Any excess portions of the gel, beyond what you will use in two weeks, may be kept in the freezer and thawed for future use.

• Do not use too much gel. Only a small amount of gel is necessary for each application.

References

• Woman Junction: Hair Gel
• I Love India: Make Your Own Hair Gel
• Long Locks: Hair Product Recipes
• Curl Activator Gel: Formulation Details
• Keystone Laboratories: Regular Hair Activator Gel