4 Methods For Applying Gel That All Curly-Haired Girls Need To Know

Whether you're a curly hair veteran or just beginning to learn how to style your textured strands, there are several essential skills and techniques that all curly girlies should know. Unlike with straight hair, styling wavy, curly, and coily strands involves a much more intricate routine, which can feel overwhelming if you don't find the right technique. At its core, a successful styling day comes down to the hair products you use and the manner in which you apply them, which is why it's so vital to learn the best way to apply your gel — a curly girl's best friend.

A curly hair routine is not a one-size-fits-all situation, but every routine does contain the same styling foundation. As such, Glam reached out to red carpet hairstylist and makeup artist Luna Viola, who gave us her exclusive breakdown of all the must-try methods. From scrunching to shingling, she recommends four amazing techniques to help you achieve juicy-looking curls.

Whether you're a curly hair veteran or just beginning to learn how to style your textured strands, these first two styling methods make up the foundation of the hair-styling process. According to hairstylist and makeup artist Luna Viola, the scrunch method is the "quickest and easiest way" to gel your curls. "Start with wet hair, apply leave-in conditioner for moisture, then the gel on your hands and gently scrunch the excess water with a soft towel," Viola tells Glam exclusively. Scrunching and plopping your curly hair with a microfiber towel or cotton T-shirt helps prevent frizz by reducing friction. Additionally, Viola recommends using Not Your Mother's Curl Talk Sculpting Gel or the Curls Blueberry Bliss Control Jelly.

What's more, you can also try the praying method — another easy styling trick for curls and coils. "This technique is great to smooth the cuticles of your hair and relaxing the curls for a more natural result," says Viola. Here, the key is to emulsify the gel in your hands with water before applying it to your hair, which will provide "even distribution of the product," she explains. Once you've emulsified the gel, "take the section of hair and clasp it between your palms at the roots, moving towards the end in [a] praying motion."

If you're open to a more advanced styling method — or if your curls require a bit more care — hairstylist Luna Viola recommends the twist and shingling methods. The twist method reduces frizz and produces a "more defined curl," Viola exclusively shares with Glam. For this technique,  she recommends applying "a cream formula first as a primer then go over with the gel to lock in the moisture, twisting each curl with your fingers."

For coily hair textures, Viola suggests the shingling method, which requires "separating the hair in small sections when wet, combing the section" and then going in with your gel. The key to perfect curls here involves "separating the hair with your fingers and gently smoothing it down and letting the natural curl bounce back," Viola tells Glam. "This method ensures every single strand is coated with the product being used, defining the coils and adding shine to the hair," she adds. Diffuse your hair for maximum results, break your curl cast with your preferred hair oil, and enjoy your freshly styled locks.