Hair gel {which has been around since the ancient Egyptians–they’ve even found it keeping many a mummy’s hair looking awesome after all these years} works by the power of polymers. When applied to the hair, the water in the gel evaporates, leaving a thin layer of polymer on the hair strands, making them stay more or less in place. Today, hair gel is readily available all over the place–in discount stores, at the hair dresser’s shop, and online.

So…why bother making your own? Well, as usual, the answer lies on the back of the bottle {maybe–they aren’t required to disclose their ingredients}. Among the myriad of {often mysterious} ingredients in hair gel are synthetic {man-made and often toxic} polymers, mysterious scents, and unnecessary colorants. Each of these have their own unique problems which contribute poor health. Hence the reason for making your own.

Another reason to make your own hair gel is because, well, it’s ridiculously EASY! The recipe that I am sharing today contains a minimum of only TWO ingredients and a maximum of a mere FOUR.

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients I selected for my hair gel recipe and why:

• Water. This is what makes the hair gel flow and, therefore, uh, “spreadable” {can’t think of a better description at the moment}.
• Gelatin. This is the gel of the gel–the stuff that makes it viscous. I’m using the example found in the mummy’s tombs by using this all-natural, fat-based polymer.
• Vitamin E oil. This is an optional ingredient, but does three things. First, it nourishes your hair. Second, it helps to reduce frizz. And third, it extends the “life” of the hair gel.
• Essential oils. Another optional ingredient. The oil I selected for my homemade hair gel was tangerine, so chosen simply because it smells good. Choose an oil that you love the smell of, or, if you want, choose oils that are beneficial to the hair.

The Hold

You’ve probably noticed that commercially sold hair gels don several levels of “hold.” This gel is no different. The more gelatin that you add, the stronger the hold; the less the gelatin, the weaker the hold. So, if you like that “xtreme” hold that makes your hair feel crunchy and immobile even in 80 mph winds, then double the maximum amount of gelatin called for. If, like me, you prefer a softer consistency to your hair, stick to the minimum 1/4 teaspoon called for.

To Use

Using this hair gel is pretty much not complicated at all. Scoop some up with your hand, apply to your damp hair, and style away. Same as the store bought stuff.

Storage

The storage is probably the only downfall with this hair gel. It keeps best in the refrigerator for 1 to 4 weeks {exactly how long depends on humidity, temperature, etc.}. So you must fetch it from the fridge when getting ready in the morning. And possibly put a label to warn your significant other and the kids not to eat it.

That said, I’ve taken it with me on trips for a few days {like 4 or 5–nothing too extended} and it has done just fine. Keep it out of the heat and away from anything hot {if you’re staying in a hotel with a mini fridge–perfect!} and it should be good.

Styling Hair Gel

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Ingredients

  

• 1/2 c. purified water
• 1/4 tsp. to 1 tsp. powdered gelatin {1/4 tsp. for gentle hold, 1/2 tsp. for firm hold, or 1 tsp. for extreme hold}
• 1/4 tsp. vitamin E oil, optional
• 6 drops Young Living essential oil{s}, optional

Instructions

 

• Bring water to a simmer over high heat. Remove from the heat and stir in the gelatin until completely dissolved. Allow to cool completely in the refrigerator.
• Once the gel has gelled, mix in the vitamin E oil and essential oil. Store in a glass, airtight container in the refrigerator for 1 to 4 weeks.
• To use, work into your damp hair just as you would regular hair gel.