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Wax or gel: Which is best for the occasion?
Not sure whether to use wax or gel? We're sure you've seen a hairstyle you like and when you've tried to replicate it at home... you don't even know where to start. The dilemma is clear: wax for a natural, moldable finish (matte or medium shine) or gel for high shine and long-lasting hold.
It all depends on the style you're looking for, your hair type, and the occasion. If you want to explore your options, check out our selection of professional hair waxes.
Below you'll find a clear comparison and a practical guide to applying them correctly without getting confused.
What is styling wax or hair gel?
Styling wax is a moldable product with a matte or medium shine finish, ideal for hairstyles with texture, control, and movement. It does not leave hair stiff and allows for re-styling throughout the day.
Hair gel, on the other hand, offers strong hold and intense shine. It is used for polished hairstyles such as slick backs or wet looks. It leaves hair fixed and defined, perfect for events or when you need maximum hold.
What is styling wax?
- Textures: can provide a matte finish, medium shine, or come in clay/clay and pomade formats.
- Typical ingredients: natural and synthetic waxes, powdered clays or ingredients that add body, and aqueous polymers for hold.
- Advantages: control, texture, and the glory of re-styling. Ideal for casual looks, with movement, without stiffness.
What is hair gel?
- Composition: mainly water-based with fixing polymers—and usually alcohol-free—which helps keep hair shiny and defined.
- Advantages: high shine, clean definition, and long-lasting hold without reviving.
- When to choose it: for polished finishes (slick back, wet look) or events that require presence.
Which is better, hair gel or wax? It depends on the look.
Want a hairstyle with volume and movement, with a casual, tousled look? Use a good wax to give it texture and touch it up throughout the day. Prefer something more polished, like a well-defined slicked-back style? Hair gel is perfect for that. And if you're looking for something in between, with control but without looking stiff, wax is also great for those natural looks that look good without looking like you've spent hours in front of the mirror.
- Natural finish and texture → Wax (matte or low shine), for movement and naturalness.
- High shine and polished hairstyles (slick back, wet look) → Hair gel, no question.
- Work, gym, or marathon days → Go for a medium-high hold wax or a humidity-resistant hair gel.
- Events and photos → Hair gel wins for shine and definition; if you're looking for shine with a more flexible touch, a shiny pomade works wonders.
¿Qué es mejor la cera o la gomina según tipo de pelo?
- Fine, straight hair → matte wax or clay is best, as it adds body without weighing hair down. Avoid heavy gels, which tend to flatten and grease hair.
- Thick or unruly hair → go for a strong wax or high-hold hair gel to tame unruly hair.
- Curly or wavy hair → a flexible wax or pomade helps define without frizz; if shine is your thing, a soft hair gel works well. Although for curly hair we have our Curl Booster, a specific product to make the most of your curls without losing moisture.
- Hair length:
- Short → strong gel or wax provides structure.
- Medium → wax offers versatile texture.
- Long → flexible pomades or hair gels provide control without stiffness.
How to apply wax or gel
WITH WAX
- Take a small amount (about the size of a hazelnut) and rub between your palms to emulsify.
- Apply to dry (or almost dry) hair from mid-lengths to ends.
- Texturize, shape, and correct as you go. That's the beauty of it.
WITH HAIR GEL
- Use an amount equivalent to a 1–2€ coin.
- Apply to damp hair, from roots to ends, for total control.
- Comb through and let air dry or use a cool diffuser. Ready to look flawless!
COMMON MISTAKES
- Using too much product (results in stiffness or a sticky effect).
- Mixing too many styling products (confuses the finish).
- Applying wax to wet hair (it all washes away).
- Using gels with alcohol, which dry out the hair and leave residue.
Recommendations and products
- For a matte finish with volume, go for Matt-Clay Wax.
- If you're looking for classic shine, choose hair gel or Extra Wax.
- Need extreme hold? Go for hair gel or Strong Wax.
Want barber-style results at home? Explore our professional hair waxes and find the perfect one for your style. (comparative image of waxes)
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Conclusion: choose wax or gel depending on style and occasion
In summary: if you want naturalness and texture, wax is your ally. If you're looking for polish, shine, and control, pomade is your go-to. Still undecided? Try and compare at home with our professional hair waxes—a perfect match for every look.
Frequently asked questions
Wax or gel for fine hair?
Matte wax or clay adds body without flattening, while gel can leave hair limp and lifeless.
Which is better for long-lasting hairstyles, hair gel or wax?
Strong hold hair gel stays in place longer, but a strong wax applied correctly can also last if you touch up the texture.
Can I mix styling wax or hair gel?
Yes, you can use wax to add texture, and finish with a light layer of gel for shine and hold—but use it sparingly, so it doesn't become a battle of styling products.
Does hair wax or gel leave residue?
Waxes usually rinse out well and do not weigh hair down; alcohol-free gels clean well, but some strong-hold versions may need to be washed out twice.
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