7 Best Hair Gels for Men: Maximum Hold and Shine

Finding the right hair gel for your specific texture and style can be a challenge, especially when there are so many to choose from. Luckily, we’ve narrowed your search to seven of the best hair gels that will give you the maximum hold and shine that your style needs and deserves.

#1: Dove Men+Care Hair Styling, Controlling Gel

Ever since it has begun to target younger generations, Dove has excelled in making quality beauty and hygiene products, including some of the best hair gels for men. Their controlling gel is perfect for the trending wet look. Embracing the “just-stepped-out-of-the-shower” look doesn’t mean you have to deal with a greasy mess. Dove’s Control Gel will leave your hair smooth and soft to the touch. In addition to the sleek, wet hair effect, the alcohol-free formula will give your hair hold that will last the entire day. This gel is also infused with caffeine to promote healthy, thick hair. So if you want to step outside with a fortified style while naturally improving the strength of your hair, give Dove’s controlling gel a try.

Photo: Dove

#2: Axe Styling Cream: Natural, Understated Look

If you prefer a thicker hair treatment, use AXE’s Understated Cream for light, dry control. AXE is known for the irresistible scent of their products and this cream is no exception. Infused with tea tree extract, this styling cream will leave your hair smelling fresh and woodsy. This cream leaves your hair looking very natural, so it’s perfect for effortless, wake-up-and-go styles. The light hold maintains your hair’s manageability and soft texture. If you’re looking for the hold of a gel with the softness of a cream, AXE’s understated styling product is the one for you.

Photo: AXE

#3: Bumble and Bumble Sumogel

A brand known for making organic and all-natural products, Bumble and Bumble has created a line of men’s hair styling products like Sumogel. If you need maximum hold for your unruly locks, give this “hi-hold” gel a try. This unique mixture of waxes and gels has a satin-like finish, with maximum-hold as well as texture. It works well for all hair types, so whether you have thin, straight, thick, or curly hair, Bumble and Bumble’s sumogel will hold. Sumogel has gained fans with women too, who report using sumogel on their own hair for tamed and manageable locks.

Photo: @salonmogano

#4: AXE Spiked-Up Look Hair Gel, Extreme Hold

Need something with a super-strong hold? Look no further than AXE’s Spiked-Up Look in Extreme Hold. This gel is perfect for those with short or long hair, because it’s straightening formula will give you an enviable spiked-up look no matter the length. This gel is also completely sweat-proof, so you won’t have to worry about your style falling when working out or on hot summer days. The shiny finish will leave you looking dapper and polished throughout your day. A little goes a long way with this product. A small amount on your fingertips—depending on the length of your hair — will give you sky-high hair for the entire day.

Photo: AXE

#5: got2b Spiked-Up Max-Control Styling Gel

For the strongest hold and highest spikes imaginable, pick up got2b’s Spiked-Up Gel. This gel feels watery when working it through your hair, but it will quickly harden to create tons of volume and intense spikes. This product makes your hair extra-stiff, so use sparingly if you want to maintain some softness to your look. With this stiffening gel, not a strand will be out of place while you tackle your day.

Photo: Schwarzkopf

#6: American Crew Firm Hold Styling Gel

Try American Crew’s top-rated Firm Hold Styling Gel for a classic look. The gel’s black-tinted bottle looks sleek and stylish, as will your hair. This gel’s alcohol-free formula has a firm hold without drying out your hair and natural extracts help improve hair’s thickness and overall volume and shine. It works well on all hair types and doesn’t leave hair looking or feeling crunchy.

Photo: @americancrewoz

#7: Paul Mitchell Super Clean Sculpting Gel

Do you have sensitive scalp or hair? Paul Mitchell’s Super Clean Sculpting Gel is gentle on hair without sacrificing maximum hold and control. This salon-trusted product may be on the pricey side, however, a little goes a long way. Best for those with thick, curly hair, it will keep curls in place without causing frizz or breakage and leave hair soft enough that you can comb through it after using. This gel also rinses out easily, so you won’t have to deal with any residue after your shower.

Photo: Paul Mitchell

With the help of any one of these top hair gels, you can have complete confidence in your style. No matter your hair texture or personal style, we know you’ll find a gel that you can stick with!