Store-bought hair gels often contain harsh chemicals that damage hair over time.
Most products contain alcohol that dries out hair. Synthetic polymers build up over time. Preservatives cause scalp irritation for many people.
Plus, good gel costs a fortune.
Making a homemade gel solves this problem perfectly. This blog shows how to make hair gel using simple kitchen ingredients.
No special equipment is needed. Just a few natural ingredients and ten minutes of time.
Benefits of Using a Homemade Hair Gel
The following are a few reasons for you to switch from a store-bought hair gel to a homemade one.
No Harmful Chemicals
Commercial gels often include parabens, sulfates, and artificial fragrances. These ingredients can irritate the scalp and weaken hair strands over time.
Homemade versions use natural ingredients like seeds, aloe vera, or gelatin.
The scalp stays healthier. Hair grows stronger without exposure to harsh additives that strip away natural oils.
Customizable for Hair Type
Store-bought gels come in limited formulas. They might work for some hair types but not others.
Homemade recipes can be adjusted easily. Add more thickening agent for a stronger hold.
Include oils for dry hair. Mix in aloe for extra moisture. Each person creates the perfect gel for their specific needs and preferences.
Environmentally Friendly
Plastic gel containers pile up in landfills every year. Commercial production uses energy and creates pollution.
Making gel at home reduces packaging waste significantly. Many ingredients come in recyclable or reusable containers.
The process itself has a smaller carbon footprint.
Gentle on Sensitive Scalps
People with sensitive skin often struggle to find hair products that don’t cause reactions.
Homemade gel contains only known, natural ingredients. There are no mystery chemicals or potential allergens.
The scalp remains calm and healthy. Redness and itching become things of the past. It’s perfect for anyone prone to irritation or allergies.
Fresh and Preservative-Free
Commercial gels need preservatives to sit on store shelves for months. These chemicals extend shelf life but aren’t always good for hair.
Homemade gel is made fresh in small batches. It stays good for several weeks when stored properly.
The ingredients remain pure and effective without unnecessary additives that compromise quality.
Top Homemade Hair Gel Recipes
Making hair gel at home is easier than most people think.
These five recipes use simple ingredients found in any kitchen or grocery store. Each one offers excellent hold and keeps hair looking great all day.
Recipe 1: Flaxseed Hair Gel
Flaxseed gel is one of the most popular natural options. It provides a strong hold and adds shine to hair.
The gel works well for all hair types and textures.
Benefits of Flaxseed Gel
- Provides natural hold without making hair stiff or crunchy
- Rich in omega-3 fatty acids that nourish dry hair strands
- Reduces frizz and adds shine to dull hair
- Soothes scalp irritation and promotes healthy hair growth
- Works well for defining curls naturally
Steps to Make Flaxseed Gel
Step 1: Gather Ingredients
Collect two tablespoons of whole flaxseeds and two cups of water. Use filtered water if possible for better results.
Having a fine mesh strainer ready will make the straining process much easier. A small saucepan is needed for boiling.
Keep a clean container nearby for storage purposes.
Step 2: Boil the Mixture
Pour the water into the saucepan and add the flaxseeds. Place the pan on medium-high heat and bring it to a boil.
Stir occasionally to prevent seeds from sticking to the bottom.
Watch carefully as the mixture heats up. The process takes about five to seven minutes total.
Step 3: Simmer Until Thickened
Once boiling starts, reduce the heat to medium-low immediately. Let the mixture simmer gently while stirring frequently.
The liquid will start becoming thicker and more gel-like. This process takes approximately five to eight minutes.
The consistency should coat the back of a spoon when ready.
Step 4: Strain the Gel
Remove the pan from the heat when the mixture reaches the right thickness. Place the strainer over a clean bowl or container.
Pour the mixture through carefully, pressing the seeds gently with a spoon. The gel will flow through while the seeds stay behind.
Work quickly before it cools and thickens further.
Step 5: Cool and Store
Let the strained gel cool down to room temperature completely. It will thicken more as it cools naturally.
Pour the gel into a clean, airtight container once cooled. Store it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh longer.
The gel stays good for up to two weeks when refrigerated properly.
Recipe 2: Aloe Vera Homemade Hair Gel
Aloe vera gel is incredibly moisturizing and soothing for the scalp. It provides light to medium hold without any crunchiness.
This gel works particularly well for curly and wavy hair types.
Benefits of Aloe Vera Gel
- Deeply moisturizes dry hair and scalp instantly
- Contains enzymes that repair dead skin cells on the scalp
- Reduces dandruff and itching effectively
- Adds natural shine without weighing hair down
- Strengthens hair and prevents breakage over time
Instructions to make Aloe Vera Gel Mask
Step 1: Extract Aloe Vera Gel
Cut a fresh aloe vera leaf from the plant if available. Slice it lengthwise and scoop out the clear gel inside using a spoon.
If using store-bought gel, measure out half a cup. Make sure the gel is pure without added colors or fragrances.
Fresh aloe works best, but store-bought is acceptable too.
Step 2: Blend Until Smooth
Place the aloe gel in a blender or food processor. Blend on high speed for about thirty seconds to one minute.
The gel should become completely smooth without any lumps remaining. A hand blender works just as well for smaller batches.
Stop and scrape down the sides if needed during blending.
Step 3: Add Optional Ingredients
Consider adding a few drops of essential oil for fragrance if desired. Lavender or rosemary oil works well with aloe vera gel.
A teaspoon of vitamin E oil helps preserve the gel longer. Mix these additions in thoroughly using a spoon or whisk.
These extras are optional but improve the gel’s benefits significantly.
Step 4: Test the Consistency
Take a small amount and test it on hair to check hold. If the gel seems too thin, add a pinch of xanthan gum.
Blend again briefly to incorporate the thickener completely. The gel should hold its shape but remain spreadable.
Adjust the thickness based on personal preference and hair type needs.
Step 5: Store Properly
Transfer the finished gel into a clean jar or container with a lid. Keep it in the refrigerator for maximum freshness and longevity.
The gel lasts about one to two weeks when stored cold.
Always use clean fingers or a spoon when taking gel out. This prevents bacteria from contaminating the batch and spoiling it early.
Recipe 3: Gelatin Hair Gel
Gelatin gel provides excellent hold and adds protein to strengthen hair.
It’s perfect for creating structured styles that last all day. This recipe is budget-friendly and uses just two basic ingredients.
Benefits of Gelatin on Hair
- Packed with protein that strengthens weak hair strands
- Adds volume and thickness to thin, flat hair
- Creates a flexible hold that lasts all day long
- Improves hair texture and makes it smoother
Easy and Simplified Instructions
Step 1: Mix Gelatin with Water
Pour one cup of cold water into a small bowl first. Sprinkle one tablespoon of unflavored gelatin powder over the water’s surface.
Let it sit for about two to three minutes undisturbed. The gelatin will absorb water and become soft and spongy.
This step is called blooming and activates the gelatin properly for the best results.
Step 2: Heat the Mixture
Transfer the bloomed gelatin mixture into a small saucepan carefully. Place it on the stove over low heat settings only.
Stir constantly while the gelatin dissolves completely into the water. Do not let the mixture boil or get too hot.
The gelatin melts fully within three to five minutes of gentle heating.
Step 3: Add More Ingredients
Remove the pan from the heat once the gelatin dissolves fully and completely. Add a teaspoon of honey for extra moisture and shine benefits.
A few drops of essential oil provide a pleasant scent option. Stir everything together until well combined throughout the mixture.
These additions are optional but make the gel more pleasant to use.
Step 4: Cool Down
Pour the warm mixture into a clean container for storage purposes. Let it sit at room temperature until it cools completely.
The gel will thicken and solidify as the temperature drops naturally. This cooling process takes approximately thirty to forty-five minutes, depending on room temperature.
Don’t refrigerate immediately, or it will set too firm and hard.
Step 5: Store and Use
Once cooled, the gel should have a firm but scoopable consistency. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerator.
Cold storage makes it firmer, while room temperature keeps it softer. The gel lasts about one week at room temperature safely.
Refrigeration extends the shelf life to approximately two to three weeks maximum.
Recipe 4: Chia Seed Homemade Hair Gel
Chia seed gel is rich in omega fatty acids that nourish hair. It creates a light, flexible hold perfect for natural styles.
The gel also helps reduce frizz and adds beautiful shine.
Benefits of Chia Seed as a Hair Mask
- Loaded with omega-3s that combat hair dryness
- Provides light to medium hold for styling
- Promotes hair growth and prevents hair loss
- Rich in antioxidants that protect hair from damage
- Keeps scalp hydrated and healthy
How to Make a Chia Seed Hair Mask
Step 1: Soak Chia Seeds
Measure two tablespoons of chia seeds into a bowl or jar. Add two cups of water and stir the mixture well initially.
Let the seeds soak for at least two hours or overnight. The seeds will absorb water and release their natural gel coating.
Stir occasionally during soaking to prevent clumping and ensure even gel formation throughout.
Step 2: Blend the Mixture
Pour the soaked seeds and water into a blender after the soaking completes. Blend on high speed for about one to two minutes.
The mixture will become frothy and gel-like with small seed pieces. Don’t worry about making it completely smooth at this stage.
The blending helps release more gel from the seed coatings effectively and thoroughly.
Step 3: Strain Out Seeds
Set a fine mesh strainer over a clean bowl or container. Pour the blended mixture through the strainer slowly and carefully.
Use a spoon to press and squeeze the seeds gently. This extracts all the gel while leaving seeds behind completely.
The resulting gel should be smooth and clear without any seed particles remaining.
Step 4: Adjust Thickness
Check the gel’s consistency by taking a small amount between fingers. If it’s too thin, add half a teaspoon of xanthan gum.
Whisk it in thoroughly until the gel thickens to the desired consistency. For a thinner gel, simply add a bit more water gradually.
The thickness depends on personal preference and the hairstyle being created today.
Step 5: Store in the Refrigerator
Transfer the finished chia gel into a clean, airtight container immediately. Store it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and usable.
The gel stays good for up to ten days when refrigerated. Always smell the gel before using it to check for freshness.
NOTE: Discard it if there’s any odd smell or visible mold growth anywhere.
Recipe 5: Cornstarch Hair Gel
Cornstarch gel is the quickest and easiest option to make at home. It provides light hold and works well for fine or thin hair.
This gel is completely clear when applied to hair.
Benefits of Using Cornstarch as a Hair Mask
- Absorbs excess oil from roots between washes
- Adds volume and texture to limp hair
- Creates a matte finish without shine
- Easy to wash out completely with water
- Budget-friendly option that works quickly
Steps to Make Cornstarch Hair Mask
Step 1: Mix Cornstarch and Water
Combine two tablespoons of cornstarch with one cup of cold water. Mix them in a bowl using a whisk or spoon.
Make sure there are no lumps in the mixture before heating. The cornstarch should dissolve completely into the water evenly.
A smooth mixture prevents clumps from forming in the final gel product.
Step 2: Heat the Mixture
Pour the cornstarch mixture into a small saucepan on the stove. Turn the heat to medium and stir constantly while heating.
The mixture will start to thicken as the temperature increases gradually. Keep stirring to prevent burning or sticking to the pan bottom.
The gel forms within three to five minutes of continuous heating and stirring.
Step 3: Watch for Thickening
Continue stirring as the mixture transforms from milky to translucent. It will thicken quickly once it reaches the right temperature.
Remove from heat when it coats the spoon back thickly. The gel should be clear and glossy in appearance now.
Don’t overcook it, or it will become too thick and paste-like instead.
Step 4: Add Optional Extras
Take the pan off the heat source completely before adding extras. A few drops of essential oil provide a nice scent option.
Add a teaspoon of aloe vera gel for extra moisture benefits. Stir these additions in thoroughly while the mixture is still warm.
These optional ingredients improve the gel’s performance and make it more pleasant.
Step 5: Cool and Store
Pour the hot gel into a clean container with a tight lid. Let it cool to room temperature before using on hair.
The gel will thicken more as it cools down naturally overnight. Store at room temperature for up to one week safely.
To Wrap Up
Making homemade hair gel is simpler than most people realize.
These five recipes prove that natural ingredients work just as well as commercial products.
Homemade gel keeps hair healthy without exposing it to harsh chemicals. It reduces plastic waste and helps the environment, too.
Which mask are you trying first? Share your results in the comments!
