Mia Boykin
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These past few weeks, we’ve covered the best retwist for locs for men and women during these months of summer heat. But for the best retwist, you need the best Black hair retwist gels to keep your style in place. We’ve reviewed a list of 5 locking gels that are sure to keep your hair tight and neat, while also moisturizing and protecting it from the elements.
1. African Pride Locking Gel
This gel is a powerhouse for retwisting locs, especially when the heat is cranking up. Its black castor oil and coconut oil blend not only provides a strong hold but also nourishes your hair. When summer hits and you need your locs to stay tight, this gel has got your back. But don’t box it in – it’s great for slicking down edges on braids or adding definition to faux locs too.
2. Jamaican Mango and Lime Locking Gel
When the temperature rises, you need a gel that can stand up to the heat. This Jamaican Mango and Lime gel is known for its industrial-strength hold. It’ll keep your locs neat even when you’re sweating it out. The tropical scent is a bonus, making you feel even more fresh when you get your hair done. The consistency is thinner, meaning build-up is unlikely, but still has a strong hold for even those with the most unruly locs.
3. Murray’s Loc Gel
Murray’s has been in the game for ages, with their edge was a staple in many Black haircare routines. A more unknown section of their braid is their haircare dedicated to locs. It offers a firm hold that laughs in the face of summer humidity. Murray’s advertises no flaking or buildup, keeping your locs protected by keeping them clean even if you sweat the gel out. Murray’s is quite thick, which guarantees a strong hold but may worry some for build-up, but the oils and within the gel make the buildup unlikely.
4. Lockology – Peppermint and Tea Tree Oil Loc & Twist Butter
This wax-based option is perfect for those who want a softer hold with added moisture. When the heat threatens to dry out your locs, this product steps in to seal in that precious moisture. It’s great for maintaining locs in hot weather, but don’t stop there. Use it to add shine to braids or faux locs after a few weeks after installation. In addition, the line features different smells and active ingredients, the versatility giving a customer options over smells and effects of the gel on their hair. We recommended the Peppermint and Tea Tree option because the tea tree is known for helping itchy scalps, which are common in the summer with heat, while the peppermint adds a cooling effect.
5. Lion Locks Locking Moisturizer
Lion Locks brings moisture to the forefront, which is crucial when the sun is blazing. This product is a tall drink of water for your locs, keeping them hydrated and healthy. Some reviews describe how the hold isn’t particularly firm compared to others on the list, but this makes it perfect for touch-ups on braids or locs weeks after the hair appointment. It works wonders for retwisting and works to moisturize the roots of your locs as well, keeping them healthier in the long run.
Remember, while these products are marketed for locs, they’re secret weapons for all sorts of natural hairstyles. Whether you’re rocking locs, braids or faux locs, or just need some support for your edges, these gels and creams can help you keep your style on point, even when the thermometer is pushing triple digits.
