When it comes to rocking a standout mohawk, I know firsthand that the right hair gel isn’t just a suggestion—it’s absolutely essential. I’ve spent my fair share of mornings wrestling with my hair, trying to get that perfect, gravity-defying spike or a sharply sculpted fin that lasts all day. It’s not enough for a gel to just “hold”; it needs to battle humidity, resist flaking, and genuinely keep your mohawk looking sharp without feeling like a crunchy helmet. That’s why I’ve put together this comprehensive guide, drawing from personal insights and a deep dive into what makes a hair gel truly shine for mohawk styles. We’re diving into 10 of the best hair gels for mohawk styles on the market, exploring their unique features, pros, and cons, so you can confidently pick the one that’ll keep your ‘hawk standing tall.
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Fresh Monster Kids Hair Styling Gel, Medium Hold… |
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Moco de Gorila Punk, Hair Styling Gel, Gives your… |
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Got2B Glued Styling Spiking Hair Gel 2 – 6 oz… |
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Garnier Fructis Style Pure Clean Styling Gel 6.8 Fl Oz,… |
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T is for Tame Tame Taming Gel – Boys &… |
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LA Looks Styling Hair Gel – Extreme Sport – 20… |
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Eco Style Gel Olive Oil Styling – Adds Shine and… |
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SexyHair Style Hard Up Hard Holding Gel, Extreme Hold |… |
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Eco Style Ecoco Hair Gel – Curl And Wave -… |
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Eco Style Moroccan Argan Oil Styling Gel – Promotes… |
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Contents
- 1. Fresh Monster Kids Hair Styling Gel, Medium Hold
- 2. Moco de Gorila Punk, Hair Styling Gel, Gives your
- 3. Got2B Glued Styling Spiking Hair Gel 2 – 6 oz
- 4. Garnier Fructis Style Pure Clean Styling Gel 6.8 Fl Oz,
- 5. T is for Tame Tame Taming Gel – Boys &
- 6. LA Looks Styling Hair Gel – Extreme Sport – 20
- 7. Eco Style Gel Olive Oil Styling – Adds Shine and
- 8. SexyHair Style Hard Up Hard Holding Gel, Extreme Hold |
- 9. Eco Style Ecoco Hair Gel – Curl And Wave –
- 10. Eco Style Moroccan Argan Oil Styling Gel – Promotes
- Helpful Comparison Insights
- Final Verdict
- Comprehensive FAQ Section
1. Fresh Monster Kids Hair Styling Gel, Medium Hold
This isn’t just for kids, folks! While Fresh Monster is primarily marketed for younger ones, its gentle, no-nasties formula actually makes it a surprisingly good option for a lighter, more flexible hold, especially for those with finer hair or who prefer a less rigid mohawk. I appreciate that it’s designed to be kind to sensitive skin and hair, free from all those harsh chemicals you often find in super-strong gels. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for something that styles without feeling sticky or heavy, offering a natural finish that still keeps flyaways in check. Think of it as your everyday mohawk tamer rather than a battle-ready fortress.
Key Features:
– Kids’ Hair Styling Gel: Formulated for children’s hair, perfect for taming or light styling.
– No Nasties: Free from toxins, sulfates, dyes, synthetic fragrances, BPA, parabens, phthalates. PETA certified Cruelty-Free.
– Flexible Hold: Keeps style in place without feeling crunchy, sticky, or weighing hair down.
– Great for All Hair Types: Suitable for slicking back, spiking up, or taming flyaways.
– Dermatologist-Tested: Hypoallergenic and safe for sensitive skin.
Pros:
– Gentle, chemical-free formula
– Doesn’t leave hair crunchy or sticky
– Hypoallergenic and suitable for sensitive skin
– PETA certified Cruelty-Free
– Pleasant, subtle scent (or fragrance-free depending on variant)
Cons:
– Medium hold might not be strong enough for very stiff or large mohawks
– May require more product for adult-level hold
– Not designed for extreme weather conditions
Best for: Kids, adults with fine hair, or those desiring a natural, flexible hold for their mohawk.
User feedback summary: Parents love that this gel is gentle and effective for styling kids’ hair without harmful chemicals. Adults who’ve tried it for lighter holds appreciate its non-sticky feel and natural finish, though some note it’s not for a super rigid mohawk.
2. Moco de Gorila Punk, Hair Styling Gel, Gives your
Alright, if you’re serious about your mohawk standing at attention no matter what, Moco de Gorila Punk, or “Gorilla Snot Punk” as it’s famously known, is probably already on your radar. This stuff is legendary for its indestructible, extra-strong hold. When I need my mohawk to defy gravity and stay put through a hurricane (okay, maybe just a windy day), this is my go-to. What’s really cool is its unique formula that allows you to reactivate your style with a little water, which is a lifesaver for mid-day touch-ups. Plus, it promises incredible shine without feeling greasy or leaving residue, and it smells surprisingly good with hints of fruit and caramel.
Key Features:
– Indestructible Hold: Unique gel-like formula for styles that won’t budge.
– Reactivatable Formula: Renew your hairstyle with a little water without needing more product.
– No Residue or Greasiness: Adds incredible shine without unwanted build-up.
– Pleasant Aroma: Features notes of peach, pineapple leaves, black tea, caramel, and honey.
– Anti-Frizz: Helps avoid frizzy hair and keeps styles firm.
Pros:
– Extremely strong, long-lasting hold
– Can be reactivated with water
– Adds incredible shine
– Pleasant scent
– Excellent for defying gravity and extreme styles
Cons:
– Can be very sticky during application
– Might feel stiff or crunchy if too much is used
– Not ideal for those seeking a natural, flexible feel
Best for: Extreme mohawk styles, gravity-defying spikes, and anyone needing an unshakeable hold.
User feedback summary: Users consistently rave about the unparalleled hold of Gorilla Snot, calling it the strongest gel they’ve ever used. They love that it can hold even the most aggressive mohawks in place all day, with many appreciating the ability to re-style with water.
3. Got2B Glued Styling Spiking Hair Gel 2 – 6 oz
Got2B Glued is another titan in the strong-hold category, a real contender for anyone aiming for those vertical, super-spiky mohawk styles. Its name says it all: “glued.” This gel is designed to keep your hair exactly where you put it, offering a no-joke hold that will last from morning till night. I’ve found it to be incredibly reliable for creating those sharp, architectural looks. It’s formulated to be non-sticky and flake-free, which is a huge bonus when you’re trying to achieve a clean, polished mohawk. And despite its iron grip, it surprisingly washes out easily with shampoo.
Key Features:
– No Joke Hold: Non-sticky, no-flake formula for crazy holds.
– Go All Night: Designed to hold styles for an extended period.
– Use for: Specifically recommended for vertical hair styles.
– Easy to “Un-Glue”: Washes out easily with shampoo.
Pros:
– Exceptional strong hold for vertical styles
– Non-sticky during application
– No flaking
– Washes out easily
– Affordable and widely available
Cons:
– Can make hair feel stiff or very hard
– Might be too strong for subtle styles
– Some users may find the scent a bit strong
Best for: Seriously spiky mohawks, gravity-defying updos, and extreme, long-lasting hold.
User feedback summary: This gel is a firm favorite for those needing serious hold, with many saying it lives up to its “glued” promise. Users frequently mention its ability to keep mohawks and spikes standing all day without flaking, and they appreciate that it doesn’t leave hair feeling sticky after drying.
4. Garnier Fructis Style Pure Clean Styling Gel 6.8 Fl Oz,
For those who want a strong hold without compromising on natural ingredients, the Garnier Fructis Style Pure Clean Styling Gel is a fantastic middle-ground. What immediately catches my eye is its 98% naturally derived formula, using Acacia Gum for its natural holding properties. This means you get a 24-hour extra-strong, clean hold without silicones, parabens, or dyes. I’ve found it provides a reliable hold for mohawks that aren’t overly extreme, keeping things in place cleanly and without residue. It feels lighter than some of the super-glues out there but still delivers impressive staying power.
Key Features:
– 24 Hour Clean Hold: Offers extra strong, clean hold for all-day performance.
– Natural Formula: 98% naturally derived, featuring Acacia Gum for holding properties.
– No Silicones, Parabens, or Dyes: A cleaner ingredient list for conscious styling.
– Non-Flaking with No Residue: Ensures a clean look without build-up.
– Active Fruit Protein: Formulated with citrus protein, Vitamins B3 and B6, and fruit/plant extracts.
Pros:
– Strong hold with a natural, clean feel
– Contains 98% naturally derived ingredients
– Free from silicones, parabens, and dyes
– Non-flaking and leaves no residue
– Pleasant, fresh scent
Cons:
– May not be strong enough for the most extreme, gravity-defying mohawks
– Can take a bit longer to dry compared to heavier gels
– Hold might weaken slightly in very high humidity
Best for: Mohawks needing a strong yet clean hold, individuals preferring natural ingredients, and everyday reliable styling.
User feedback summary: Many users appreciate this gel for its strong hold without the heavy, sticky feeling of other gels. They love its natural ingredient list and the fact that it doesn’t flake or leave residue, making it a great choice for a clean, long-lasting mohawk.
5. T is for Tame Tame Taming Gel – Boys &
Similar to Fresh Monster, T is for Tame offers a kid-friendly, organic solution for styling, but it’s equally effective for adults seeking a softer, more natural hold for their mohawk. I’m impressed by its commitment to natural, vegan, and cruelty-free ingredients, strengthened with vitamin E to nourish hair. This gel is excellent for taming frizz, laying down flyaways, and holding a mohawk in place with a soft, natural touch rather than a stiff, hardened feel. If you’re looking for a gel that styles your mohawk while also caring for your hair, this is a compassionate choice. It allows for movement but still keeps your style neat.
Key Features:
– Tame Frizz and Style: Smooths frizz and provides easy styling with a soft hold.
– Easy to Use: Non-sticky formula, applies to wet or dry hair without greasiness.
– Natural Ingredients: Made with kid-friendly, organic ingredients and strengthened with vitamin E.
– Smooth & Style: Helps keep hairstyles neat and cared for, even after active days.
– Baby Safe Hair Care: Vegan, cruelty-free, no parabens or sulfates, made in the USA.
Pros:
– Made with gentle, organic, and vegan ingredients
– Nourishes hair with Vitamin E
– Non-sticky and non-greasy
– Provides a soft, natural hold
– Great for sensitive scalps and kids
Cons:
– Soft hold may not be sufficient for very rigid or large mohawks
– Not designed for extreme hold in challenging conditions
– Higher price point due to natural/organic ingredients
Best for: Kids’ mohawks, adults wanting a natural-looking mohawk with a softer hold, and those with sensitive skin or hair.
User feedback summary: Parents consistently praise this gel for its gentle yet effective styling, noting how well it tames frizz and holds hair without any irritation. Adults looking for a lightweight, natural hold appreciate that it doesn’t leave a crunchy feeling and is good for sensitive hair.
6. LA Looks Styling Hair Gel – Extreme Sport – 20
LA Looks Extreme Sport Gel is a classic for a reason: it delivers a non-stop, x-treme level hold that’s built for high-performance activity and even humidity. I’ve turned to this gel countless times when I needed my mohawk to survive a busy day, a workout, or even just a particularly humid summer afternoon. Its advanced Tri-Active Hold formula promises absolute fixation, resistance, and durability, all while being alcohol-free and non-sticky. For a budget-friendly option that truly holds up to its name, this 20 oz bottle offers incredible value and reliable performance for bold mohawk styles.
Key Features:
– X-Treme Level Hold: Provides non-stop hold for high-performance activity and humidity.
– Advanced Tri-Active Hold Formula: Alcohol-free, non-sticky formula for absolute fixation, resistance, and durability.
– Safe for Color-Treated Hair: Gentle enough for colored hair.
– Achieve Any Look: Known for styling performance to maintain looks all day long.
– 20 oz Bottle: Large size offers great value.
Pros:
– Very strong, durable hold
– Resistant to humidity
– Alcohol-free and non-sticky
– Safe for color-treated hair
– Excellent value for money with a large bottle
Cons:
– Can make hair feel very stiff
– Might leave a slight residue if too much product is used
– Scent might be perceived as strong by some
Best for: Active individuals, extreme mohawk styles, and those needing a reliable, budget-friendly strong hold that withstands humidity.
User feedback summary: Many long-time users vouch for the consistent, strong hold of LA Looks Extreme Sport, especially for spiky and standing-up styles. They love its affordability and how well it combats humidity, though some advise using it sparingly to avoid stiffness.
7. Eco Style Gel Olive Oil Styling – Adds Shine and
Eco Style Gel with Olive Oil is a popular choice among those who want strong hold without sacrificing hair health. This gel is a personal favorite for me when I want my mohawk to have superior hold AND a healthy, long-lasting luster. The 100% pure olive oil in its formula is fantastic for smoothing the hair cuticle, locking in moisture, and adding shine, which is a major win. It helps reduce split ends and damage, meaning your hair stays supple and moisturized instead of dry and crunchy. It’s a great option for defining your mohawk while keeping it looking nourished and vibrant.
Key Features:
– 100% Pure Olive Oil: Smooths hair, locks in moisture, adds shine, and helps reduce split ends.
– Long-Lasting Luster: Keeps styles shining without wax or grease.
– Superior Hold: Provides strong staying power while moisturizing hair with natural ingredients.
– Conditioning as You Style: Designed to condition, maximize hold, frizz, and moisture control.
– Made in the USA: Quality product.
Pros:
– Strong, reliable hold
– Adds brilliant shine and moisture to hair
– Enriched with 100% pure olive oil
– Helps reduce frizz and split ends
– Alcohol-free and non-flaking
Cons:
– Can feel slightly heavy if too much is applied
– Might not provide the absolute “concrete” hold of some other extreme gels
– Some might prefer a different scent
Best for: Mohawks needing a strong hold with added shine, moisture, and hair health benefits, especially for those with dry or frizzy hair.
User feedback summary: Users consistently praise this gel for its excellent hold and the added benefit of moisturizing their hair, preventing the typical dryness associated with strong hold products. Many love the shine it imparts and that it doesn’t flake, making it a staple for their mohawk styles.
8. SexyHair Style Hard Up Hard Holding Gel, Extreme Hold |
When “hard up” is in the name, you know what you’re getting into. SexyHair Style Hard Up Hard Holding Gel truly lives up to its extreme hold (level 10/10) promise, keeping your mohawk sculpted or molded into place for up to 72 hours. This is the kind of commitment I look for when I need my style to be absolutely unbudgeable, even against humidity. It boasts a clear-drying, vegan formula that tames frizz and flyaways, ensuring a polished finish without any white residue. For those demanding the highest level of control and durability for their mohawk, this gel is a serious contender.
Key Features:
– Extreme Hold (Level 10/10): Provides maximum hold for up to 72 hours.
– High Shine Finish: Delivers a noticeable sheen to your style.
– Humidity Resistance: Lasts up to 72 hours in high humidity conditions.
– Clear-Drying Formula: No white residue or flakes.
– Vegan Formula: Made without animal-derived ingredients.
Pros:
– Unrivaled extreme hold
– Excellent humidity resistance
– Clear-drying, no flakes or residue
– Adds a high-shine finish
– Vegan formula
Cons:
– Can make hair very stiff and hard
– Higher price point compared to some drugstore options
– May be difficult to restyle without washing
Best for: Ultra-strong, long-lasting mohawks, highly sculpted styles, and maintaining hold in humid conditions.
User feedback summary: Users consider this a top-tier gel for extreme hold, confirming it keeps their hair exactly where they want it for extended periods, even in challenging weather. They particularly like its clear-drying nature and the high-shine finish it provides for their mohawk.
9. Eco Style Ecoco Hair Gel – Curl And Wave –
Another excellent offering from Eco Style, the Curl and Wave gel, while designed for defining curls, also proves to be a fantastic option for mohawk styles needing strong edge control and definition. What I particularly appreciate about this one is its flake-free formula and extreme hold that doesn’t leave any unwanted residue. It’s brilliant for creating high-definition looks that last all day, ensuring those crucial edges of your mohawk are perfectly sculpted. Like its Olive Oil counterpart, it’s alcohol-free and focuses on conditioning as you style, preventing hair from becoming dry or brittle.
Key Features:
– Flake-Free: Non-flaking formula for clean, high-definition looks.
– Control Edges, Strays, and Fly-Aways: Delivers strongest edge control with extreme hold.
– Alcohol-Free: One of the first alcohol-free styling products on the market.
– Conditions as You Style: Designed to condition while maximizing hold and frizz control.
– Made in the USA: Committed to environmental consciousness.
Pros:
– Exceptional strong hold, especially for edges
– Absolutely flake-free and no residue
– Alcohol-free formula
– Great for high-definition mohawk styling
– Helps control frizz
Cons:
– Can make hair stiff, similar to other strong-hold gels
– Might be too specialized if you don’t need intense edge control
– May not add as much shine as the Olive Oil variant
Best for: Mohawks requiring strong edge control, crisp definition, and a completely flake-free finish.
User feedback summary: Users love this Eco Style gel for its ability to deliver extreme hold without any flaking or stickiness. They frequently highlight its effectiveness in laying down edges and creating sharply defined mohawk styles that last throughout the day.
10. Eco Style Moroccan Argan Oil Styling Gel – Promotes
Rounding out our Eco Style trio is the Moroccan Argan Oil Styling Gel. This gel is a real gem if you’re looking for a product that doesn’t just hold your mohawk, but actively nourishes and protects your hair. Infused with natural argan oil, it helps to seal the hair shaft, maintain moisture, and tame frizz, all while adding brilliant, long-lasting shine. I find this especially valuable for preventing the dryness that often comes with frequent styling. It offers a superior hold that ensures your mohawk stays put, but with the added benefit of promoting healthy, supple hair. It’s a fantastic blend of styling power and hair care.
Key Features:
– Natural Argan Oil: Seals hair shaft, maintains moisture, tames frizz, and adds brilliant shine.
– Long-Lasting Luster: Keeps styles shining without wax or grease.
– Superior Hold: Provides strong staying power while keeping hair moisturized.
– Conditions as You Style: Designed to condition, maximize hold duration, frizz, and moisture control.
– Made in the USA: Quality product.
Pros:
– Strong, reliable hold
– Enriched with nourishing argan oil
– Adds brilliant, long-lasting shine
– Tames frizz and maintains moisture
– Alcohol-free and non-flaking
Cons:
– Can feel slightly heavier than other gels if over-applied
– May not achieve the absolute stiffest hold compared to products like Got2B Glued
– Scent might not appeal to everyone
Best for: Mohawks needing strong hold combined with intense hair nourishment, shine, and frizz control, particularly beneficial for drier hair types.
User feedback summary: Many users rave about the moisturizing and shine-enhancing properties of this gel, noting that it holds their mohawks well without drying out their hair. They appreciate the frizz control and the healthy look it gives, making it a favorite for strong hold with added hair benefits.
Helpful Comparison Insights
Navigating the world of hair gels for mohawk styles can feel overwhelming, but understanding the differences can make your choice much clearer.
When it comes to raw hold strength, Moco de Gorila Punk and Got2B Glued Styling Spiking Hair Gel are the undisputed champions. If your mohawk needs to defy gravity with an almost concrete-like stiffness, these are your heavy-hitters. SexyHair Style Hard Up Hard Holding Gel also falls into this extreme hold category, with the added benefit of up to 72-hour humidity resistance.
However, if you’re concerned about hair health and natural ingredients, the Eco Style gels (Olive Oil, Curl & Wave, Moroccan Argan Oil) and Garnier Fructis Style Pure Clean Styling Gel truly shine. These options offer strong hold while also moisturizing, adding shine, and avoiding harsh chemicals like alcohol, parabens, and silicones. The Eco Style Moroccan Argan Oil and Olive Oil variants specifically nourish the hair, making them ideal for those who style frequently and want to prevent dryness.
For sensitive skin or children’s mohawks, Fresh Monster Kids Hair Styling Gel and T is for Tame Taming Gel are the clear winners. They boast gentle, “no nasties” formulas, making them hypoallergenic and safe, though their hold is more flexible and natural, better for lighter mohawks.
The unique ability to reactivate your style with water is a standout feature of Moco de Gorila Punk, offering convenience for on-the-go touch-ups. For those who prioritize a flake-free and residue-free finish, almost all the strong-hold gels listed here claim to deliver, but Garnier Fructis Pure Clean and the Eco Style gels are particularly praised for their clean application.
Finally, in terms of value and volume, LA Looks Styling Hair Gel – Extreme Sport offers a massive 20 oz bottle at an incredibly competitive price, providing a durable, strong hold that’s hard to beat on a budget.
Final Verdict
Choosing the best hair gel for your mohawk really boils down to your specific needs and the look you’re aiming for.
If you’re after an unshakeable, gravity-defying hold that ensures your mohawk stands at attention through anything, Moco de Gorila Punk or Got2B Glued Styling Spiking Hair Gel are my top recommendations. They’re legendary for a reason.
For those who prioritize hair health and natural ingredients without sacrificing strong hold, I’d steer you towards the Eco Style gels, especially the Moroccan Argan Oil or Olive Oil versions. They offer the perfect balance of styling power and nourishment, leaving your mohawk looking vibrant and healthy.
If you need a reliable, strong hold that also offers impressive humidity resistance for those challenging weather days, SexyHair Style Hard Up Hard Holding Gel is an excellent, albeit pricier, choice that delivers on its promises. For a budget-friendly alternative with great humidity control, LA Looks Styling Hair Gel – Extreme Sport is a solid pick.
And for parents or individuals with sensitive scalps looking for a gentle, natural hold for a less rigid mohawk, Fresh Monster Kids Hair Styling Gel or T is for Tame Taming Gel will give you a clean style without any harsh chemicals.
Ultimately, the best hair gel for mohawk styles is the one that gives you the confidence to rock your look all day long, whatever the challenge.
Comprehensive FAQ Section
Q1: What’s the most important factor to consider when choosing a hair gel for mohawk styles?
The most crucial factor is hold strength. Mohawk styles, especially spiky or tall ones, require a gel that can defy gravity and maintain its shape throughout the day, often in various conditions. Look for labels like “extreme hold,” “spiking gel,” or “indestructible hold” for the best results.
Q2: Will strong hold gels damage my hair or cause flaking?
While strong hold gels can make hair feel stiff, many modern formulas are designed to be less damaging. Look for gels that are alcohol-free and contain moisturizing ingredients like natural oils (e.g., olive oil, argan oil) to help prevent dryness. Flaking is often a sign of using too much product, a low-quality gel, or applying it to hair that isn’t clean. Many of the gels reviewed here specifically state they are flake-free.
Q3: How do I properly apply hair gel for a mohawk to ensure maximum hold?
For the best hold for your mohawk styles, start with clean, slightly damp hair. Squeeze a generous amount of gel into your palms and rub them together. Work the gel evenly through your hair, focusing on the roots and working upwards to the tips. Use your fingers or a comb to sculpt your hair into the desired mohawk shape, lifting and separating sections to create height and definition. Allow it to air dry or use a blow dryer on a cool setting for faster, firmer setting.
Q4: Can I reactivate my mohawk style with water if it starts to fall?
Some gels, like Moco de Gorila Punk, specifically boast reactivatable formulas with water. For other strong hold gels, a slight mist of water might help to reactivate some hold, but it’s not guaranteed to be as effective as a product designed for it. For the most reliable touch-ups, it’s best to stick with gels that explicitly state this feature.
Q5: Are kid-friendly gels strong enough for an adult mohawk?
Kid-friendly gels like Fresh Monster or T is for Tame are formulated to be gentle and usually offer a medium or flexible hold. While they might work for a softer, more natural adult mohawk or taming flyaways, they typically won’t provide the extreme, gravity-defying hold required for a stiff or tall adult mohawk. For those styles, you’ll need a dedicated strong hold product.
Q6: How do I remove strong hold hair gel from my mohawk?
Strong hold hair gels, especially those designed for extreme styles, can be quite stubborn. The best way to remove them is by shampooing your hair thoroughly, often requiring two washes. Using a clarifying shampoo can be particularly effective. Following up with a conditioner will help rehydrate your hair, which can become dry after using strong hold products.
Q7: Which gel is best for mohawk styles in humid weather?
For combating humidity, look for gels that explicitly mention humidity resistance in their features. SexyHair Style Hard Up Hard Holding Gel is a great option, promising up to 72 hours of humidity resistance. LA Looks Styling Hair Gel – Extreme Sport is another budget-friendly choice known for performing well in humid conditions.
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