Hair turns chalky looking after using gel

[tal]

Why oh why does my hair turn chalky looking after I use gel? It looks just fine at home, but when I look in the work mirror, I can definitely see that something's going on. While this occurs with various brands, it does not occur when I use activator. I don't use activator all the time, because sometimes I need something with stayin power.

Thank you.

 

[pink_flower]

Have you tried mixing both together?

 

[tal]

Hi Pink.

Excellent idea, I hadn't even considered that. I use the gel on wet and dry hair, but the chalkiness is more prevalent when my hair is wet. I'm now wondering if I haven't removed enough water. Another thing, do you think it might have something to do with an alcohol-based gel?

Thanks for responding.

 

[pink_flower]

Yea, alcohol-based gels tend to dry my hair out the most. What kind of gel do you use? I like to make sure my edges are damp when I apply my gel but I also smooth it back with a boar brush. I think that helps me with flakiness since I'm rubbing it in, ya know? But I always mix my gel with something moisturizing (i.e. activator gel). HTH

 

[Peachtree]

DEFINITELY get rid of the alcohol based gel... there's sooo many non-alcohol based gels that have GREAT staying power. The only difference is the non alcohol based gels take a lil longer to dry (due to the high water content)

Also, try mixing the gel with a lil oil (in ur hand) before applying to ur hair. Helps to "soften" the hold a bit, but it keeps the hair shiny & residue free (from gel).

((( I use Fantasia, Isuplus and other gels... Hot 6 oil works best for me )))