As a curly girl, I cannot really live without hair gel.
I require it because it keeps my hair in place and I always use it while it is still damp, right after my curly hair cream.
I absolutely adore my hair gel, but getting it out is a pain in the hair.
Maybe you’re in a hurry and don’t have time for a full wash or you’re just tired and like me don’t want to schedule a hair wash every time you use hair gel.
Whatever the reason, fear not!
There are plenty of ways to remove hair gel from your hair without washing it.
These are all tried and tested by me. So, if it doesn’t work for you, please let me know so I can update the post.
Let’s dive in!
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1. Comb it out
It sounds easy and it really is.
Grab a comb with really wide teeth (especially if you have wavy or curly hair) and gently run it through your hair, starting at the roots and working your way down to the tops.
This is going to loosen the gel a bit and help it slide out of your hair.
This method does take a few minutes since you’re not using water.
Please be gentle and patient, you don’t want to tug or pull because it is going to cause frizz or breakage.
So, be extremely gentle.
2. Use baby powder or cornstarch
If you’ve got some baby powder or cornstarch lying around, then this method will work well.
Sprinkle a little amount on your hair and focus on the areas where the gel is most concentrated.
You’ll know where the gel is most concentrated because those areas will feel extra hard and crunchy.
Massage the powder into your hair gently with your fingers and use a clean towel or cloth to wipe away the excess.
The powder is going to absorb the hair gel and leave your hair fresh and clean.
3. Use Oil
Now, another option to remove hair gel from your hair without washing is to use a little bit of oil to break up the gel.
You can use coconut oil, olive oil, jojoba oil, or argan oil – the choice is up to you.
Just use an oil you regularly use on your hair and don’t use too much.
Take a little bit and massage a small amount into your hair.
This will help loosen up the gel and make it easier to comb or brush out – it’s also going to reduce the dryness and hydrate your hair a bit.
Just don’t use too much, otherwise, your hair is going to look oily and greasy – and you definitely don’t want that!
4. Use apple cider vinegar
I know, I know.
It’s unconventional and it sounds a little weird – but hey, it works.
Mix equal parts of vinegar and water in a spray bottle (this is to dilute the smell and the strength) and spritz it onto your hair.
Let it work its magic for 2 minutes and go in with a wide-toothed comb or brush to work out the gel.
The acidity of the vinegar will help break down the gel and make it easier to remove.
Since you’ve diluted the apple cider vinegar with water, it shouldn’t smell or leave behind an acidic smell.
On a side note, apple cider vinegar is actually really good for your hair – so use it liberally.
5. Use dry shampoo
Dry shampoo is a type of spray you can use to not only refresh your hair but take out the excess gel.
Simply spray the dry shampoo onto your hair focusing on the areas where the gel is very concentrated and finally use a brush to comb it out.
The dry shampoo will absorb the excess oil and hair gel in your hair and leave your hair clean and refreshed.
The added perfumey smell is a bonus.
6. Use a blowdryer
Now, a blow dryer is going to break down the gel with heat.
Simply aim the blow dryer at your hair using a low or medium heat setting (don’t use a high setting, because it can damage your hair) and use your fingers from the other hand to work the gel out of your hair.
The heat should soften the gel and make it easier to remove.
I do not use this method because I avoid heat as much as possible – since my hair is curly and sensitive.
But you can use this method as a last resort if you don’t have other options available.
7. Use baking soda
Baking soda can also be used to remove harsh, pungent smells from hair.
I always have baking soda in my home because it’s a miracle product that has many versatile uses.
Now, you’re going to want to mix the baking soda with a little bit of water to create a paste.
Apply the paste to your hair and of course, you’re going to want to focus on the areas that have more gel.
The baking soda is going to absorb the excess product and leave your hair very clean.
Use a comb or brush to work it out.
8. Just use a paper tower
If you’re really in a pinch, just use a regular paper towel to blot the gel out.
Simply fold the paper towel or tissue into a small square and start pressing it against your hair gently focusing on the areas where your hair is most crunchy.
The paper towel will absorb a lot of product and your hair should be pretty much gel-free.
This method doesn’t work extremely well but again, it can be used to remove excess gel.
9. Just use water
I understand that hair wash is out of the question.
And no, I am not asking you to dunk your head in the water.
Just use a water spray and spritz your hair with water or wet your hair with some water from the faucet.
Use your fingers to work out the gel.
Then use a towel to dry your hair or simply air dry and style it as required.
You’ll be good to go!
Conclusion
I hope these methods helped you remove the hair gel from your hair without washing it.
Please remember that everyone’s hair is different and so it may take a few tries to find what works best for you. Good luck!
