Are you looking for a way to keep your locks properly groomed? Then you are in need of locking gel for dreads. If you enjoy rocking the look, you do not want to wait until your locks become so thin that they’re about to snap. When your locks feel stiff and dry or sticky, is time to do something about it. As a result, today we’ll be telling you all about locking gel for dreads.
Dreadlocks, on the other hand, require a fair amount of attention and time to keep looking good. Most people use gel to make the outer layer of their locs appear smoother so if you want healthy locks, this is the way to go. Locking gels provide a firm hold and soft finish for re-twisting locks without flaking and causing a buildup of traditional gels.
Locking gels, additionally, do an exceptional job, these formulas keep your hair where you want it thanks to its exceptional hold. Besides preventing flakes and enhancing the moisture in your locks. Some of them also contain scalp health-enhancing benefits. Want to know more? For this result of course you need to know what you are looking for and sometimes it can feel like a daunting task.
Keep in mind, however, that locking gels are totally worth it so whether you are an experienced lock wearer or not, stick around as we share with you some of the best locking gels for dread, where to find them, and more. The best loc gel will give you the most beautiful locs possible.
Locking Gel for Dreads Reviewed In This Guide
Best Overall: Cantu Moisturizing Twist & Locking Gel For Dreads
⇣ Jump to ReviewBest On Amazon: Lion Locs Firm Hold Hair Locking Gel for Dreads
⇣ Jump to ReviewBest Affordable: African Pride Black Castor Miracle Extra Hold Locking Gel For Dreads
⇣ Jump to ReviewBest Firm Hold: Bronner Brothers Tropical Roots Firm Locking Gel for Dreads
⇣ Jump to ReviewBest Flake-Free: Jamaican Mango And Lime Locking Gel For Dreads
⇣ Jump to ReviewHow Choose The Perfect Locking Gel for Dreads For You?
When you are on the market for a locking gel for dreads, there are a few things to keep in mind before making that final decision. Your hair will thank you for using natural substances instead of chemicals. Hair products are full of hazardous chemicals that can cause damage over time, so it is wise to stay clear of them.
Focus on finding a natural moisturizer like shea butter, argan oil, or Aloe vera that can help nourish your hair. A healthy scalp and hair growth can be achieved by incorporating these substances.
Locking gels are known for their ability to keep your hair in place. Consider using a gel that has a good amount of holding strength. You may want to check out customer reviews to see what others have to say about the product’s ability to hold its weight. Mainly you should focus on the following:
Read Labels
Begin by turning over every product that you use, reading, AND understanding what each ingredient does. A few ingredients to be on the lookout for are: SD alcohol 40, denatured alcohol, ethanol, and isopropyl alcohol because they are alcohols that dry out the skin/scalp.
Formaldehyde products and their derivatives, DD hydration, Diazolidinyl Urea, Methanamin, and Quarterium-15; are known skin/scalp irritants and have been linked to cancer.
Very toxic phthalates such as DBP, DEHP, DMP, DEP, dibutyl/diethyl ester, and 2-benzene dicarboxylate are linked to cancer, birth defects, and other health issues.
Shop With Brands That Care
Look for brands that care about hair care and the science of hair. Brands with integrity often share facts about the ingredients of their products and the health benefits of the product formulations.
So before you go randomly choosing “natural products” at the general beauty supply store check out brands that will improve the health of your locks and body.
Types Of Locking Gel for Dreads
Strong Hold Locking Gel For Dreads
This product is specifically designed to form dreadlocks. It locks in moisture on your dreads and helps in re-twisting locks. You also do not have to worry about flakes, debris, or product buildup after using this locking gel. The product also guarantees a long-lasting hold.
Non-Flaky Locking Gel For Dreads
These are usually enriched with the goodness of olive oil and sweet almond oil. Olive oil is a great moisturizer for your hair. It penetrates deep into your hair shafts to retain moisture, make your hair shiny and aid in healthy hair growth. Sweet almond oil also has great hydration properties and reduces dryness and flaking of the scalp.
This locking gel is said to give a medium hold. You should expect the formula of this hair gel to be a bit watery. It has a pleasant smell that is soothing to your senses.
Oily Hair Locking Gel for Dreads
This is a great product for beginners who are looking forward to locking or twisting their hair. It has a white jelly-like consistency and a very mild smell. The locking gel absorbs quickly into your hair to give you good results. It is non-sticky.
So you do not have to worry about your hair appearing greasy. You do not have to worry about this product leaving and building up or flaking.
Medium Hold Locking Gel For Dreads
If you are looking for a locking gel with a firm hold that can tackle your stubborn hair, look no further. This product gives you a stronghold that lasts long.
It absorbs easily and can be washed off easily, so you also do not have to worry about any build-up or residue that the product might leave. This product is made up of natural ingredients that are highly nutritious for your hair. It is free of harmful ingredients like artificial dye or artificial color.
Thinning Hair, Breakage Locking Gel for Dreads
The formula contains a unique combination of biotin and placenta extracts. Placenta extracts improve hair growth and density. Biotin is one of the most important proteins for hair growth.
It helps to tackle hair thinning, breakage, and hair loss. You will notice new hair growth after using this locking gel.
Best Locking Gel for Dreads List
Cantu Moisturizing Twist & Locking Gel For Dreads
What We Like:
What We Don’t Like:
Cantu Shea Butter for Natural hair moisturizing twist and lock hair gel, for natural hair, Controls frizz for a silky smooth hold, no sulfates, silicones, parabens, or mineral oil moisturizes, de-frizzes and adds manageability to hair revealing soft, shiny twists and locks, keeps frizz under control for a silky smooth hold.
This natural locking gel stands out for its moisturizing properties. If you read the list of ingredients, you will come across coconut extract, soybean oil, coconut oil, almond oil, olive oil, and peach oil, among so many other nourishing oils. Therefore, because it holds your hair together, the hair strands start to form, promoting hair growth.
What Our Testers Say
After I wash my hair I use a t-shirt to dry it a bit then add Cantu curl activator then add about a 2 quarter size amount of this Cantu gel to my hair then add a little more to the front of my hair and the back of my hair (cuz they tend to get very frizzy and lose its curl).
I scrunch my hair (but not too much or else it will get frizzy) then I air dry and bam!! I get so many compliments!! Highly recommend this product! (The photo doesn’t do my hair any justice, it’s way more curly and pretty in person lol)
Cantu- gel has a budget-friendly price and is a reputable brand. Cantu Shea Butter gives your hair a manageable hold. It is the best product for securing hair when starting your locks as it makes the twists firm.
Tips
I apply it after I take a shower and go to sleep with my hair wet. I used it with the silk cap I have and it was absolutely amazing. It was defined for the most part. I definitely have to play with it more but I think it’s a great step for my hair.
Find More About Cantu Moisturizing Twist & Locking Gel For Dreads Information And Reviews Here.
Lion Locs Firm Hold Hair Locking Gel for Dreads
What We Like:
What We Don’t Like:
With this loc gel, you can twist, style, hold, mold, and tame your locks, braids, and pipe cleaner curls with a little extra tackiness. This improved formula has more grip than locking moisturizer.
Improved hold with fewer stray hairs. Made from all-natural ingredients this twist and locking gel penetrates into hair and seals open hair cuticles to control frizz and tame stray flyaways.
Great for mature or starter locs, this loc-up gel has a stronger hold than the original locking moisturizer without damaging or drying out your hair.
You’ll be glad to know it is made from specific handpicked natural ingredients with a healthy conscious in mind. These loc products are cruelty-free and without harmful sulfates and other chemicals.
Organic loc care is made for all dreadlock styles whether mature or starter locs that are guaranteed to deliver results without debris, flake, or buildup.
What Our Testers Say
I love this product!!!!!!!! Leaves me locs looking sleek for days! If you’re good with wrapping your hair at night, this will last for at least 5 days!!! No white buildup either! The smell isn’t too harsh & it’s not too sticky on your fingers.
How To Use Lion Locs Firm Hold Hair Locking Gel For Dreads
- Take dime to nickel size amount and rub it into your palms
- Use fingers then apply to hair or palm roll
- Do not overapply
Tips
Begin twisting or palm-rolling hair in sections. If more is needed, add a little at a time and continue styling. It is very important to properly wash your dreads. For maximum results, apply lion locks advanced hair and scalp oil.
Find More About Lion Locs Firm Hold Hair Locking Gel For Dreads Information And Reviews Here.
African Pride Black Castor Miracle Extra Hold Locking Gel For Dreads
What We Like:
What We Don’t Like:
African Pride Black Castor Miracle Extra Hold Braid, Loc, & Twist Gel smooths frizz & flyaways while boosting shine for longer-lasting styles. This professional product leaves braids, locks & twists neat & controlled.
African Pride Black Castor Miracle products are designed to maintain & detangle natural hair while moisturizing, hydrating, & combating frizz. From protecting to sealing hair, our products were crafted with you in mind.
The loc gel nourishes the scalp and helps to promote hair growth; coconut oil: deeply conditions, hydrates and helps repair.
The ingredients within this natural locking gel are free of harmful components, including parabens, mineral oil, sulfates, & petrolatum. By utilizing natural ingredients, we are able to provide high-quality, safe products.
Perfect to use as part of the regimen or even on its own, this professional product leaves braids, locks & twists neat, concise, & controlled.
This stuff is the lick! For locking, it’s the best product I’ve used so far and I think this is gonna be my go-to from now on. It’s the best!
Smells so good, works great, and lasts long. It’s not sticky or unpleasant. Just right for braiding and styling. Did I say smells really good and softens hair too?
How To Use African Pride Black Castor Miracle Extra Hold Locking Gel for Dreads
- Use on damp or dry hair
- Apply a small amount of gel to hair roots or hairline
- Braid, twist, and style as desired
- Air dry or sit under a hooded dryer to set the style
Bronner Brothers Tropical Roots Firm Locking Gel for Dreads
What We Like:
What We Don’t Like:
The Tropical roots’ firm locking gel gives you a feeling of being on a tropical island. It is enriched with the goodness of pineapple and guava.
If you are looking for a locking gel with a firm hold that can tackle your stubborn hair, look no further. This product gives you a stronghold that lasts long.
It absorbs easily and can be washed off easily, so you also do not have to worry about any build-up or residue that the product might leave.
This product is made up of natural ingredients that are highly nutritious for your hair. It is free of harmful ingredients like artificial dye or artificial color.
This is a great product if you are looking to maintain braids, locks, and twists. It also encourages hair growth.
What Our Testers Say
I absolutely love the smell and how it’s not over-greasy when dried but just right gives your hair that extra healthiness
Xanthan gum and also sucrose are utilized to maintain the hair in position, while hemp seed, vitamin E, and also lime oils, and peach oils are made used to maintain the hair nurtured and hydrated.
Unlike many locking gels, it gives you hold for a more extended period. So you can quickly get some before going on a special occasion.
Tips
I noticed if you use too much you will see flaking so try not to use a whole lot and you won’t get any flakes.
Jamaican Mango And Lime Locking Gel For Dreads
What We Like:
What We Don’t Like:
This Jamaican Mango and lime locking gel for dreads provide a firm hold and soft finish for re-twisting locs without flaking and causing a buildup of traditional gels.
Formulated without petrolatum, mineral oil, sulfates, or parabens. Enhanced with Manuka Honey and Moringa Seed Oil. Excellent for fine hair.
If you were looking for the best gel for dreadlocks, this specially designed item is something that you can consider as one of your first choices. It has a natural hold and twist that gives you the manageability you want in your dread.
Another advantage is the flake-free formula. You get the hold you want without the irritating flakes and expect this loc gel for dreads to work on your hair for quite some time.
This is a great product! I’ve been using this for about 3 months on my husband’s locs. The product smells fantastic and holds the locs well with minimal frizz.
We love that there is little to no product build-up from this gel. We’ve tried other products that had horrible product build-up, dried his scalp, and gave tons of flakes so to find this product was a win!
How To Use Jamaican Mango and Lime Locking Gel for Dreads
- After shampooing, towel dry
- Apply to root or new growth and twist with fingers or a small comb
- Also, the palm roll technique can be used on more advanced locks.
- Apply a generous amount to the root and new growth and twist with fingers or palm roll.
Locking Gel for Dreads Buying Guide
What Is A Locking Gel for Dreads?
These formulas are specifically formulated to provide an extra firm hold for hard-to-lock, resistant hair without flaking and causing a build-up of traditional gels. Perfect for locking color-treated or gray hair.
Locking gel is great for twists or braids. Two-strand twist, palm twist, braid, section the hair and apply the twist and lock gel to the section. Twist the hair with a comb or fingers. To re-touch the twists or locs in between shampoos, section hair and apply the twist & lock gel to the new growth and twist.
Locking gels help in encouraging your hair to lock together and form beautiful dreadlocks. It also gives a natural look to your hair and makes it shiny.
How Does A Locking Gel for Dreads Work?
There are a lot of people who use gel to start or create dreadlocks because it helps them make them more malleable. This, in turn, makes the whole process of creating dreads a lot easier than if you were to try it on dry hair.
However, keep in mind that gel should not be used for every method out there, just for the ones that require it.
As a formula, the gel is based on water. Therefore, it’s a lot easier to wash out. You only need to shampoo once and the gel you have previously used is gone. This is why a lot of people with dreads prefer gel to wax.
Features To Look For In A Locking Gel for Dreads
Natural Ingredients
Natural ingredients are so much better for your hair than chemical ingredients. Many components in our hair products are harmful in the long lasting.
Look for a natural moisturizing ingredient like shea butter, argan oil, olive oil, aloe vera, etc., which can nourish your hair. These ingredients can fight hair loss and promote a healthy scalp.
Holding Power
While we do care about the health outlook, the main reason you might want to use the gel loc lock in the first place is because of it. The locking gels ensure that your dreadlocks stay in place.
So if you’re going to design and keep your hair the way you want, you must have strong gel.
Try to make sure that the gel loc lock you buy is not something soft or limp, and that it is solid and durable in terms of hold. It will offer edge management and keep unruly hair in one spot.
Easy to wash out
Many hair products leave residue or a product buildup in your head. This is especially true for dreadlocks products.
If there is product residue on your head, your hair follicles will become blocked and cause rashes and irritation on your scalp. Therefore, it is essential to look for a product that is easy to wash.
Moisturization
The best locking gel for dreads should be nourishing and moisturizing hair and not just locking dreads in.
Flaking
The locking gel on your dreads shouldn’t flake or leave residue behind.
Harmful Chemicals
Avoid destructive scalp chemicals such as parabens, sulfates, petroleum, and mineral oils. Having them in the formulation can be detrimental to your hair. That is why you need to make sure that your gel loc lock is free from these chemicals.
Common Questions About Locking Gel for Dreads
What does locking gel do to your hair?
Long-lasting hold, no build-up, locking gel provides a firm hold and soft finish that aids the locking process without the fuss or flakes of traditional gels. Maintain healthy, well-groomed locks and twists.
What is the difference between locking gel and locking wax?
Unlike gel which is water-based, wax is very heavy as a product and can easily weigh down your hair. Therefore, your locks will lose their natural volume, freshness, and that beautiful bounce they have. This might put you off wax as a styling formula for good.
What is needed to start locs?
Locks can be started with two-strand twists with as little as 4 inches of hair, and it is often the go-to method for longer hair or highly textured hair. Starting locks with two-strand twists will give the locks a solid internal foundation and create thicker locks, depending on the size of the two-strand twists.
What products to avoid using on locs?
- Wax. Products that contain wax, including beeswax, are detrimental to the entire loc over a period of continued use because they are very hard to wash away, especially from within the locs. Over time, the wax builds up and can make the locs unnaturally heavy, leading to breakage and thinning as the hair grows longer; the hair will be dry because the wax prevents moisture from penetrating the cortex of the hair.
- Brown Gel. Sure “brown gel” may give you a lasting hold but it is full of parabens, artificial colors, and excessive protein. Overuse of protein can cause breakage and weakness in your locks by making your hair hard and brittle.
- Heavy Cremes. Products that are creme-based are often too heavy and thick to allow your hair to intertwine and form into locks. Using creme-based products can slow down the locking process and lead to heavy build-up.
- Unhealthy ingredients. Products with tons of ingredients listed on the container, many of which are hard to pronounce, are often filled with cancer-causing parabens, formaldehyde, phthalates, and/or irritating preservatives that damage your scalp and health.
How can I lock my dreads fast?
Roll your dread with your palms. Then, roll the dreads with your palm moving upwards against the hair. Your dread should roll along with your hand. Make sure you hold the dread in place with your thumb as you roll it. This will help to roll and twist it so it forms a lock.
What are the key benefits of using locking gel for dreads?
- Using a locking gel will help you get freeform dreadlocks. Starting fresh dreads and re-twisting can both be accomplished with locking gel.
- As your hair grows, you’ll need to twist it more frequently to keep your dreadlocks looking their best. Re-twisting is a difficult task to perform on your own, hence locking gels are commonly used.
Are there any side effects to using locking gel daily?
When it comes to locking your Dreadlocks, this is the best and most common product. To assist your Dreads, get tighter, simply spray it on your Dreads and if necessary, on your scalp. The spray can be used daily, but 1-3 times per week is sufficient.
Is it possible to use a locking gel on newly dreadlocked hair?
Using locking gel is an excellent way to start a new lock. One advantage of natural-looking gel is that it is water-resistant. Once you have locked up for two weeks, you can wash your hair and the Wax’s impact will assist keep those knots in place.
Enjoy Your New Locking Gel for Dreads
Locking gel for dreads can truly work wonders for lock wearers. Your dreadlocks will seem much more polished because of using this method. Using the appropriate locking gel will help keep your hair in place and prevent flyaways. The advice is to always look for the most natural ingredients.
We are glad you stopped by and that we were able to help you in making your final decision about the best loc gel for your hair’s needs.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us. We’d be happy to help.
Disclosure: The Hair Products recommended in this article are our top favorites because they have a great combination of quality, features, and affordability. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases made through the links as a way to support this site. If you buy a qualifying product, you’re not charged anything extra, but I’ll get a small commission to help pay for my expenses. I hope you find our advice helpful and discover the Best Hair Products for your needs on this list.
