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Best Hair Gel for Boys – Top 10 Styling Gels for Cool Kids (2024)

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best hair gel for boysStyling strands or sculpting swoops? Level those locks lively, lads. Whether a pompadour or a fauxhawk fits your fierce fashion, rock some rad hair with the best boys’ balms. Craft unique looks minus the chemicals from choice gels we’ve cherry-picked after kids tested countless companies’ creations, rating for contouring minus crisping up their crowning curls.

Now style is sorted, so skim stellar selections to shape your ‘do diverse daily.

Key Takeaways

  • Hair gel for boys should be chosen based on their specific needs, such as sensitive skin concerns and ingredient considerations.
  • Styling preferences and tips should also be taken into account when selecting a hair gel for boys.
  • There are various hairstyle inspirations for boys, including the classic Mohawk, messy spiky cut, and side part.
  • Hair gel can generally be used on boys’ hair, but it is important to consider their age and any potential sensitivities.

10 Best Hair Gels for Boys

When looking for the best hair gel for boys, you’ll want to consider:

  • Ingredients
  • Hold strength
  • Shine level
  • Scent
  • Price

We’ve rounded up 10 top-rated styling gels that promise to keep your boy’s hair in place without irritation. From natural formulas to maximum hold options, brands like Kids Hair Gel, Anchors, Fairy Tales, and American Crew make the cut.

1. Kids Hair Gel

Hair Gel for Kids |View On Amazon
When choosing a gentle hair gel for your boy’s fine locks, consider Natural Kidz Aloe Vera Hair Gel which softly sculpts with tear-free medium hold. This chemical-free, dye-free formula shapes and sets hair gently with naturally-derived aloe vera.

The soft to medium hold works well for fine to normal hair, rinsing out residue-free.

Pros
  • Chemical-free, fragrance-free
  • Tear-free application
  • Rinses out easily
Cons
  • May not hold style all day
  • Only 4 ounces
  • Could be pricey

2. Anchors Hair Teddy Boy Pomade

Anchors Hair Company Teddy BoyView On Amazon
You’ll mold, sculpt, and craft your perfect hairstyle with Miller’s Pomade, which shapes and anchors hair without crunchiness using its natural, water-based formula free of petroleum, parabens, alcohol or propylene glycol so it means easy washing with no residue or need to strip hair clean afterwards.

Define edges, spike hair up, sweep bangs aside, or create any 2.5 fluid ounce style.

Pros
  • Subtle, minty-fresh bay rum aroma
  • Flexible hold
  • Combs smoothly through all hair types
Cons
  • Some users report desiring stronger hold or aroma
  • Not as strong for thick or curly hair

3. Fairy Tales Kids Hair Gel Lice Repellent Rosemary Scent

Keep locks looking fresh with our 8 fl oz detangling and conditioning spray. Infused with essential oils, our exclusive formula helps deter lice while soothing the scalp with aloe and chamomile. This sulfate-free spray moisturizes hair, assists with styling, and leaves behind a light, clean scent.

Safe for all hair types. Some users report residue or ineffectiveness with lice, so monitor use accordingly.

Pros
  • Detangles and conditions
  • Essential oils help deter lice
  • Soothes scalp
  • Sulfate-free
Cons
  • Some users report residue
  • May not deter lice effectively
  • Scent not preferred by all

4. Hip Peas Natural Hair Styling Balm Gel Pomade Light Hold

Hip Peas Natural Hair StylingView On Amazon
This gentle, plant-based formula keeps hair looking natural without stiffness or stickiness. The aloe-infused, lightweight liquid promotes healthy, manageable hair for boys through hydration, frizz control, and smooth styling minus grease.

Backed by clinical testing and parent-approved, the 2 fl oz conditioner contains no parabens, phthalates, sulfates or other nasty ingredients. Made in the USA, it’s ideal for gently taming flyaways without comparing to heavy hair gel.

Pros
  • Lightweight, no residue
  • Hydrates and controls frizz
  • Gentle for daily use
  • Free of harsh chemicals
  • Parent-approved
Cons
  • May not hold hair as desired
  • Small quantity
  • Not a strong hair gel

5. Original Sprout Classic Hair Gel

Original Sprout Classic Hair GelView On Amazon
Introducing our 4 oz. bottle of medium hold and hydrating hair product. This vegan and cruelty-free formula is made in the USA and free from sulfates, parabens, phthalates, soy, gluten, honey, peanut, and dairy.

Perfect for all ages, this product offers a medium hold while keeping your hair moisturized. However, please note that it may not provide a strong hold for thick hair and may leave a white residue.

Pros
  • Vegan and cruelty-free
  • Free of sulfates and parabens
  • Hydrating medium hold
  • Good for all ages
Cons
  • May not hold thick hair
  • Can leave residue
  • No security seal

6. SoCozy Kids Sensitive Styling Foam

SoCozy Kids Sensitive Styling FoamView On Amazon
You’ll love the lightweight and natural hold of SoCozy Kids Sensitive Styling Foam for styling your boy’s locks. This salon-quality formula moisturizes without buildup, flaking or dryness. Suitable for all hair types, it’s unscented and free of parabens, sulfates, phthalates and more.

Pros
  • Moisturizing ingredients
  • Natural hold
  • No harsh chemicals
Cons
  • May not hold hair as desired
  • Possible skin irritation

7. SheaMoisture Kids Detangler Coconut Hibiscus

SheaMoisture Kids Extra-Moisturizer Detangler, CoconutView On Amazon
Get ready to say goodbye to tangles and hello to smooth, manageable hair with SheaMoisture Kids Detangler Coconut Hibiscus. This sulfate-free product is perfect for all hair types, providing curly or straight locks extra control without weighing them down.

Its natural ingredients like coconut, hibiscus, and marshmallow gently cleanse and moisturize without harsh chemicals, leaving behind a yummy scent.

Pros
  • Sulfate-free
  • Adds control without weighing hair down
  • Pleasant coconut scent
Cons
  • May leave hair greasy after 2 uses
  • Expensive

8. Kids Hair Gel Strong Hold

The product is a strong hold hair styling gel suitable for both boys and girls. It’s sulfate and paraben free, making it gentle yet effective.

Enjoy these key benefits:

  • Provides durable hold all day
  • Pleasant berry fragrance
  • 8.5 fluid ounces
  • Dimensions of 2.2 x 2.2 x 5.7 inches

However, it may be discontinued by the manufacturer. The scent also may not suit everyone.

9. Suavecito Pomade Firme Hold

Suavecito Pomade Firme (Strong) HoldView On Amazon
Our 4 fl oz hair pomade provides a strong hold and moderate shine to help you achieve sleek, stylish looks like pompadours and slick backs. Suavecito’s pomade combs through hair with ease, allowing effortless styling into your desired hairdos.

While ideal for pompadours, slick backs, and side parts, this product isn’t recommended for hair that’s easy to manage already. To ensure easy removal, apply to damp hair and thoroughly rinse out. Keep hair looking sleek all day with Suavecito’s reliable styling pomade.

Pros
  • Strong hold
  • Moderate shine
  • Sleek styles
  • Easy to apply
Cons
  • Not for easy to manage hair
  • Must wash out thoroughly
  • Can leave residue if not rinsed

10. American Crew Mens Hair Forming Cream Medium Hold Shine

American Crew MenView On Amazon
When styling your boy’s hair, consider American Crew’s hair forming cream for movable hold with medium shine. This professional brand’s 3-ounce product moisturizes, conditions, and defines texture without frizz.

Containing lanolin wax, the cream permits restyling throughout the day while providing ample hold.

Pros
  • Used by professional stylists
  • Sleek, natural look
  • Defines texture, prevents frizz
Cons
  • Pricey
  • Potentially too shiny for some

Choosing a Hair Gel for Your Boy

Choosing a Hair Gel for Your Boy
When choosing a hair gel for your boy, you’ll want to keep sensitive skin concerns, ingredient considerations, and styling preferences in mind.

Does your child have sensitivities or allergies that require a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic formula?

Are you looking to avoid certain ingredients like sulfates, parabens, or phthalates?

What level of hold does your boy’s hairstyle demand – a flexible gel that allows movement or maximum hold to sculpt spikes that last all day?

Sensitive Skin Concerns

If your boy has sensitive skin, you’ll need to consider his needs when choosing a hair gel.

Opt for hypoallergenic, dermatologist-tested formulas free of sulfates and harsh chemicals.

Seek out gentle, tear-free gels with natural ingredients that won’t cause flaking, residue, or irritation.

Fragrance-free and residue-rinse options work well for sensitive skin without compromising style.

Still ensure the product offers adequate hold for styling all hair types.

With care in selection, you can find effective hair care that’s gentle on sensitive skin.

Ingredient Considerations

Two key considerations when choosing a hair gel are:

  • Making sure your son’s skin won’t have an allergic reaction
  • Ensuring that the product doesn’t contain questionable ingredients.

Opt for gels labeled alcohol-free, paraben-free, phthalate-free, and sulfate-free to minimize irritation.

Tear-free formulas are gentle alternatives, as are natural, plant-based hair gels for boys.

Carefully check ingredients on hair care styling products before applying them to your boy’s sensitive locks.

Styling Preferences

Your boy’s styling preferences determine the ideal hair gel for his locks.

  • Light hold for subtle definition
  • Medium hold to style textured hair
  • Strong hold for curly hair or a slicked look
  • No hold for a natural finish

Choose a kid-friendly hair gel with the right hold strength for your desired hairstyle. Test different products to find one that suits his hair type and provides just enough control without stiffness.

Styling Tips for Using Hair Gel on Boys

Styling Tips for Using Hair Gel on Boys
So how can you best style your boy’s hair with gel?

  1. Apply to damp, not soaking wet hair. This allows the gel to adhere properly without becoming too diluted.
  2. Work in small sections for even distribution. Apply from root to tip, using your fingers or a comb to style as desired.
  3. Start with a dime-sized amount and add more sparingly if needed. Too much gel can cause flakes or a crunchy look.
  4. Allow to air dry fully before touching up the style. Frequently running hands through gel-styled hair can cause pieces to stick up.

Is Hair Gel Safe for Kids?

Is Hair Gel Safe for Kids
You’ll want to consider whether hair gel is safe for kids before using it on your boy.

There’s no defined age when children can start using hair styling products. Check with your pediatrician or dermatologist first, as some gels contain chemicals that may irritate young skin.

Conduct a sensitivity test by applying a small amount of gel to your child’s arm and monitor for any reaction before fully using the product on their hair.

Choose gels made with natural ingredients and no harmful chemicals. Look for hypoallergenic, fragrance-free gels labeled flake-free.

While most quality kids’ styling gels are safe, always supervise use and discontinue if any irritation occurs. Monitoring ingredients and possible reactions will help determine if a gel is suitable.

Hairstyle Inspiration for Boys

Hairstyle Inspiration for Boys
You’ve ensured your boy’s hair gel is safe. Now for the fun part – rocking some super stylish ‘dos!

When it comes to hair inspiration for boys, three evergreen options include:

  • The Classic Mohawk
    • Spike up a faux-hawk or go full punk rock with a skater punk inspired middle-of-the-head mohawk.
  • The Messy Spiky Cut
    • Channel carefree surfer vibes with tousled, piecey layers that add loads of texture. Spray gel for extra separation and definition.
  • The Side Part
    • Create a dapper, polished look by sweeping his hair neatly to one side. Use pomade for shine and hold.
  • Whatever you choose, have fun styling! Experiment with different parts, heights, and angles to invent custom looks.

    When Can Kids Start Using Hair Gel?

    When Can Kids Start Using Hair Gel
    Frequently you’ll want to wait until a boy is old enough before using hair gel. It’s best to avoid gel on children under one year old as their scalps are very delicate.

    Around ages 5-7, you can try a lightweight, natural gel depending on your child’s hair type. Start with a small amount and focus the gel on the ends rather than the roots to avoid residue buildup.

    For older boys wanting a stronger styled look, gradually incorporate gels with a firmer hold as you teach good hair care tips – applying to damp, not wet hair; working product through evenly; and thoroughly rinsing.

    Finding the right gel for your child’s hair texture and desired finish takes some experimentation. But with cautious, attentive guidance, you’ll discover solutions allowing self-expression while maintaining healthy hair.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    How do I choose the right hair gel for my boy’s hair type?

    When choosing a hair gel for your boy, consider his hair type and style goals.

    Thicker formulas offer more hold for spike styles while lighter gels allow for a more touchable look.

    Test out sample sizes first to gauge what level of shine and hold works best for his hair before committing to a full size.

    Can hair gel cause any damage to my boy’s hair?

    While hair gel is generally safe for boys, excessive use can cause buildup, flaking, and dryness over time.

    Using gel sparingly and washing thoroughly helps minimize any potential damage.

    Focus on moisture and nourishment too.

    Are there any specific ingredients I should avoid when choosing a hair gel for my boy?

    Yes, avoid gels with alcohol, which can dry out hair.

    Seek natural ingredients like aloe vera that nourish while styling.

    And steer clear of sulfates and parabens that may irritate sensitive skin.

    How often should I use hair gel on my boy’s hair?

    You should apply gel to your boy’s hair a maximum of every other day.

    Overuse can lead to buildup, dryness, and irritation.

    Let his natural oils restore in between for healthy hair and scalp.

    Can I use hair gel on my boy’s hair if he has sensitive skin?

    Yes, you can use hair gel on boys with sensitive skin.

    Look for hypoallergenic, fragrance-free gels made with natural ingredients like aloe vera.

    Do a patch test first.

    Avoid alcohol and other harsh chemicals.

    Apply sparingly and rinse thoroughly.

    Monitor for reactions.

    Conclusion

    With the perfect gel to shape their crowning glory, your boy’s locks will be lions manes, ready to take on the urban jungle.

    Arm him with one of these stellar styling sidekicks, like Anchors’ pomade or Suavecito’s firme hold, and he’ll have the best hair gel to unleash his inner Mane Man.

    Avatar for Mutasim Sweileh

    Mutasim Sweileh

    Mutasim is a published author and software engineer and beard care expert from the US. To date, he has helped thousands of men make their beards look better and get fatter. His work has been mentioned in countless notable publications on men's care and style and has been cited in Seeker, Wikihow, GQ, TED, and Buzzfeed.