Hair Care Products Soft Hold Gel Vs. Medium Hold Gel By Marilyn Atkins Posted on August 17, 2023 0 You’re in the mood for a new hairstyle and you’ve decided to experiment with gel. But with so many options available, how do you choose between soft hold gel and medium hold gel? In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between these two types of hair gels, helping you make an informed decision that will leave you with the perfect hold for your desired look. Whether you’re aiming for a relaxed and natural style or a more structured and defined appearance, read on to discover which gel will best suit your needs. Definition of Soft Hold Gel What is soft hold gel? Soft hold gel is a hair styling product that offers light hold to your hair, allowing for natural movement and flexibility. It is specifically designed for those who prefer a more subtle and natural-looking hairstyle. Soft hold gel typically provides a lightweight and non-sticky feel, making it ideal for daily use. Characteristics of soft hold gel Soft hold gel is formulated with a lower concentration of holding agents compared to medium hold gel. This means that it provides a more gentle grip on your hair, allowing for easy restyling throughout the day. The texture of soft hold gel is usually lighter and more fluid, making it easier to distribute evenly through your hair. Soft hold gel also offers a natural shine to your hair, giving it a healthy and vibrant look. Its lightweight formula ensures that your hair remains soft and touchable, without any stiffness or residue. Definition of Medium Hold Gel What is medium hold gel? Medium hold gel is a hair styling product that offers a balance between hold and flexibility. It is designed to provide a firmer grip on your hair, ensuring that your hairstyle stays in place for an extended period of time. Medium hold gel is suitable for various hair lengths and styles, allowing for versatility in your everyday look. Characteristics of medium hold gel Medium hold gel contains a higher concentration of holding agents compared to soft hold gel. This provides a stronger hold on your hair, keeping your hairstyle intact throughout the day. The texture of medium hold gel is usually thicker and slightly sticky, allowing it to create more defined and structured hairstyles. Medium hold gel also adds a subtle shine to your hair, giving it a polished and groomed appearance. Despite its stronger hold, it still allows for some natural movement and flexibility, avoiding a stiff and unnatural look. Application How to apply soft hold gel To apply soft hold gel, start with damp or towel-dried hair. Take a small amount of gel onto your palms and rub your hands together to distribute the product evenly. Then, run your hands through your hair, starting from the roots and working your way to the ends. Ensure that the gel is evenly applied throughout your hair for uniform styling results. Style your hair as desired using your fingers or a comb. How to apply medium hold gel Applying medium hold gel follows a similar process to soft hold gel. Begin with damp or towel-dried hair. Take a moderate amount of gel onto your palms and spread it evenly by rubbing your hands together. Then, work the gel through your hair, focusing on the desired style. Use your fingers or a comb to achieve the desired look and ensure that the gel is evenly distributed. Hold Strength Difference in hold strength between soft hold gel and medium hold gel The main difference between soft hold gel and medium hold gel lies in their hold strength. Soft hold gel provides a more relaxed hold, allowing for natural movement and easy restyling. It is perfect for those who prefer a more casual and effortless hairstyle. On the other hand, medium hold gel offers a firmer grip on your hair, ensuring that your desired hairstyle stays intact throughout the day. It is suitable for those who want a more structured and defined look that can withstand external factors such as wind or humidity. When to use soft hold gel Soft hold gel is best suited for everyday use and for those who prefer a more natural and subtle hairstyle. It is particularly suitable for individuals with fine or thin hair, as it adds volume and texture without weighing the hair down. Soft hold gel is also recommended for casual occasions or when you want a relaxed, effortless look. When to use medium hold gel Medium hold gel is ideal for occasions where you need your hairstyle to last longer. It is perfect for events, parties, or any situation where you want a more polished and defined look. Medium hold gel is particularly beneficial for individuals with thicker or coarser hair, as it provides the necessary hold and structure to achieve the desired hairstyle. Hair Types Best for which hair types: soft hold gel Soft hold gel is suitable for various hair types, including fine, thin, or easily weighed down hair. Its lightweight formula adds volume and texture without making your hair look flat or greasy. Soft hold gel is also beneficial for individuals with naturally wavy or curly hair, as it enhances the natural texture and allows for easier styling. Best for which hair types: medium hold gel Medium hold gel is recommended for individuals with thicker or coarser hair, as it provides the necessary hold and structure for these hair types. It helps to tame frizz and flyaways, creating a smoother and more polished appearance. Medium hold gel is also suitable for individuals with straight hair who want to achieve more defined and structured hairstyles. Texture and Finish Texture and finish provided by soft hold gel Soft hold gel typically has a lightweight and fluid texture, making it easy to distribute through your hair. It leaves your hair feeling soft and touchable, without any stiffness or stickiness. The finish provided by soft hold gel is natural and shiny, giving your hair a healthy and vibrant look. Texture and finish provided by medium hold gel Medium hold gel has a slightly thicker and stickier texture than soft hold gel. It allows for better control and manipulation of your hair, making it easier to achieve defined and structured hairstyles. The finish provided by medium hold gel is polished and groomed, adding a subtle shine to your hair. Residue and Build-Up Residue and build-up with soft hold gel Soft hold gel typically does not leave behind residue or build-up on your hair. Its lightweight formula ensures that your hair remains clean and airy, minimizing the need for frequent washing. However, it is important to use the appropriate amount of product to avoid any potential residue or greasiness. Residue and build-up with medium hold gel Medium hold gel may occasionally leave behind some residue or build-up on your hair, especially if used excessively. It is important to strike a balance and avoid using too much gel to prevent any unwanted build-up. Regular hair cleansing and proper product removal techniques will help minimize any potential residue. Natural Ingredients Presence of natural ingredients in soft hold gel Many soft hold gels are formulated with natural ingredients that nourish and protect your hair. These ingredients may include botanical extracts, essential oils, or vitamins, which provide additional benefits to your hair and scalp. Soft hold gels with natural ingredients are a great choice for those who prefer more organic and eco-friendly haircare products. Presence of natural ingredients in medium hold gel Some medium hold gels also incorporate natural ingredients in their formulations. These ingredients help to nourish and moisturize your hair while providing the necessary hold and structure. Medium hold gels with natural ingredients offer a balance between effective styling and the benefits of natural haircare. Styling Versatility Different styles achievable with soft hold gel Soft hold gel allows for various styling options, particularly when it comes to creating effortless and natural-looking hairstyles. It is great for adding texture and enhancing the volume of your hair. Soft hold gel works well for tousled beach waves, messy buns, or casual updos. Different styles achievable with medium hold gel Medium hold gel offers more versatility in achieving structured and defined hairstyles. It is perfect for creating sleek and polished looks, such as slicked-back ponytails, pompadours, or sculpted updos. Medium hold gel provides the necessary hold and control to ensure your hairstyle stays intact for the desired duration. Longevity and Durability Longevity and durability of soft hold gel Soft hold gel provides a less long-lasting hold compared to medium hold gel. It is designed for a more relaxed and casual look, allowing for easy restyling throughout the day. While it may not withstand more extreme conditions, it provides a lightweight and comfortable hold that is suitable for most everyday activities. Longevity and durability of medium hold gel Medium hold gel offers a longer-lasting hold that can withstand various external factors. It provides a firm grip on your hair, ensuring that your hairstyle remains intact for an extended period of time. Medium hold gel is durable and can withstand elements such as wind, humidity, or physical activity. It is suitable for occasions where you need a more long-lasting and structured hairstyle.