Quick answer
Need softness and Shape?
Start with curl cream.
Need Hold and frizz control?
Use gel.
Need Shape and Hold?
Use cream first, gel second.
Hair gets flat?
Use less cream or try mousse/light gel.
Hair gets crunchy?
Use less gel or scrunch after drying.
What curl cream does
Curl cream is mainly for Shape and softness. It can help curls clump, look smoother and feel less rough after washing. It is useful when hair feels dry, undefined or too fluffy.
This is not a full curl cream buying guide. For that, read Best Curl Cream for Men.
What gel does
Gel is mainly for Hold. It helps curl groups stay together while hair dries, which can reduce frizz and keep definition longer. Some gels dry with a light cast that softens when you scrunch it after the hair is fully dry.
Curl cream vs gel: side-by-side
Curl cream
Shape + softness
Best when curls feel dry, rough or undefined. It helps curl groups look smoother, but usually does not give strong hold by itself.
Gel
Hold + frizz control
Best when curls look good wet but expand, puff up or fall apart while drying. It can dry firm, then soften when scrunched.
When to use curl cream
- +Your hair feels dry or rough after washing.
- +Your curls need shape but not much hold.
- +You want a softer, more natural finish.
- +Your hair is medium, thick or dense enough to handle cream.
- +Gel alone makes your hair feel too firm.
When to use gel
- +Frizz appears as your curls dry.
- +Your curls look good wet but lose shape later.
- +You want longer-lasting definition.
- +Humidity makes your hair puff up.
- +Cream alone feels good but does not hold.
When to use both
Cream first, gel second
Use both when your curls need softness and hold. Start with a small amount of curl cream on damp hair, then add a thin layer of gel over the top. This keeps The Routine clear: cream supports Shape, gel supports Hold.
The Routine
01
Shape while damp
Cream and gel both spread better when hair is damp or wet enough to form curl groups.
02
Use cream first for Shape
Apply a small amount from mid-lengths to ends, then scrunch upward.
03
Layer gel if you need Hold
Glaze or scrunch a thin layer over the shaped curls so they stay together while drying.
04
Dry without touching
Let the shape set. If gel dries firm, scrunch after the hair is fully dry.
Common mistakes
- xUsing heavy cream when your waves already go flat.
- xExpecting cream to give strong hold by itself.
- xUsing too much gel, then touching curls before they dry.
- xApplying both products when hair is already too dry.
- xChanging every product before fixing the drying method.
FAQ
Should men use curl cream or gel?
Use curl cream when your hair needs softness and shape. Use gel when your curls need hold, frizz control or longer-lasting definition.
Can men use curl cream and gel together?
Yes. In The Routine, cream usually supports Shape first, then a thin layer of gel supports Hold.
Which goes first, curl cream or gel?
Curl cream usually goes first on damp or wet hair. Gel goes over it when you need more hold.
Why does gel make my curls crunchy?
Gel can dry with a cast. Let hair dry fully, then scrunch gently to soften the finish. If it still feels too stiff, use less gel next time.
Is curl cream better for wavy hair?
Sometimes, but loose waves often need very lightweight cream, mousse or light gel. Heavy cream can pull waves flat.