The Best Loc Gels For Dreads 2024

The Best Loc Gels For Dreads

Red flags for locs would have “not using one of the best loc gels” at the very top of the list, as much as cleansing and conditioning your locs is important, applying gel to re-twist and style your locs is also very crucial to your healthy loc journey.

While some persons are comfortable and bask in the rough-looking nature of their dreadlocks, some persons would rather have neatly twisted locs with orderly and smooth roots and the perfect solution for that is the right loc gel.

After cleansing and conditioning your locs with the perfect shampoos, it’s ideal to have a loc gel that is best suited for your hair type to go in with to complete the process.

Organic and chemical-free gels are sure to keep your locs looking natural, healthy, and less prone to damage.

ImageProductFeaturesPrice
Cantu Moisturizing Twist & Lock Gel Cantu Moisturizing Twist & Lock Gel
  • Adds manageability to hair
  • For a silky smooth hold
  • Great for twists & braid-outs.
9.6
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Jamaican Mango & Lime Resistant Formula Locking Firm Wax Jamaican Mango & Lime Resistant Formula Locking Firm Wax
  • Resistant hair
  • Difficult to lock Hair
  • Extra Hold
  • Great for Gray Hair.
9.7
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Lion Locs Hair Locking Dreads Moisturizer Lion Locs Hair Locking Dreads Moisturizer
9.6
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Bronner Brothers Tropical Roots Firm Locking Gel Bronner Brothers Tropical Roots Firm Locking Gel
  • Extra firm hold for resistant hair.
  • Best Beauty product.
  • Lasting hold with no flaking.
  • Promotes healthy growth
9.6
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Murray's Gel Loc-Lock, 8 fl oz. Murray’s Gel Loc-Lock, 8 fl oz.
  • Keep them looking better longer.
9.5
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ORS Lock and Twist Gel 13 Ounce ORS Lock and Twist Gel 13 Ounce
  • Cream hair gel formula.
  • Natural hair care.
  • Perfect for all natural styles.
9.6
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African Formulas Super Grow Hair Gel African Formulas Super Grow Hair Gel
9.5
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Lion Locs Sea Salt Saltwater Locking and Styling Spray Lion Locs Sea Salt Saltwater Locking and Styling Spray
  • Faster Locking
  • Sea Salt Spray
  • Anti Frizz.
9.6
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What Are Loc Gels? 

Loc gels are a type of hair styling product that is used to make the re-twisting process much easier, trying to firmly re-twist your locs such that they appear uniform and neat is very difficult to achieve without a loc gel. 

No matter the type of locs you’re keeping, it is always a great idea to use loc gels whenever you’re ready to re-twist your locs. Especially if you’re a beginner on the loc journey, it is ideal to get a loc gel to help make the process easier and more enjoyable. 

The Best Loc Gels For Dreads 2024

Trust us to always deliver when it comes to ensuring that you’re hooked up with the very best products for your locs. And of course, we’ve brought you the best picks for loc gels, these products are all organic, residue-free, flake-free, and protect your locs from damage.

1. Jamaican Mango & Lime Resistant Formula Locking Firm Wax
9.7/10 Our Score
  • Resistant hair
  • Difficult to lock Hair
  • Extra Hold
  • Great for Gray Hair.

The best loc gel for damaged hair.

Dreadlocks might seem like a tough hairstyle but your hair is still fragile and prone to damage, if your locs have suffered any damage as a result of tight styling, product buildup, or bleaching and you’re still treating them, it shouldn’t stop you from styling your hair with a loc gel.

The Jamaican mango & lime resistant formula locking firm wax is sure to keep your damaged hair nourished.

What we like about this loc gel:

  • Made with nourishing natural ingredients
  • Does not contain toxic chemicals
  • Gives a long-lasting hold
  • Does not leave residue or build-up
  • Great for gray hair.

What we would change: 

  • None we can find.

Why we recommend this loc gel

The Jamaican mango & lime resistance formula locking firm wax is a loc gel that is made to cater to damaged locs or locs that are being treated. It is made with nourishing natural ingredients such as manuka honey and moringa seed oil which are ideal for damaged hair. It is also an amazing match for dreads that are hard to tighten or re-twist by providing a resistant formula for a proper and firm hold. 

2. ORS Lock and Twist Gel 13 Ounce
9.6/10 Our Score
  • Cream hair gel formula.
  • Natural hair care.
  • Perfect for all natural styles.

The best loc gel for oily hair.

Oily hair does not mean a moisturized scalp, it actually means that your hair is unhealthy and your scalp is blocked with grease.

An oily scalp could result in dandruff, an itchy scalp, and hair loss in extreme situations. If you’re battling with an oily scalp then the ORS lock and twist gel is a great gel for your locs.

What we like about this loc gel:

  • A great choice for loc beginners
  • The minimal product goes a long way
  • Made with organic ingredients
  • Does not leave behind flakes or buildup
  • Budget-friendly.

What we would change:

  • It May causes your hair to dry.

Why we recommend this loc gel

The ORS lock and twist gel is an amazing loc gel for persons with oily or greasy hair. With just a little product, you can get a firm hold and a long-lasting style because of its creamy consistency. Unlike many gels, it does not leave behind residue or cause white flakes to appear on your hair after use. It is moist and gentle on the hair which makes it great for loc beginners who need to style or re-twist their locs.

3. Bronner Brothers Tropical Roots Firm Locking Gel
9.6/10 Our Score
  • Extra firm hold for resistant hair.
  • Best Beauty product.
  • Lasting hold with no flaking.
  • Promotes healthy growth

The best loc gel for firm edges.

Sleek edges are a stylish way to make your hair go from 0 to 100 in a few minutes, we’re used to seeing edges are done on braided hair and frontal wigs but even on locs, it’s a way to beautify them without doing too much.

You just need a loc gel-like the Bronner brothers tropical roots firm locking gel for firm edges.

What we like about this loc gel:

  • Gives your edges a firm hold.
  • Does not leave residue.
  • Stimulates hair growth.
  • Made with organic ingredients.
  • Has a tropical fragrance.
  • Budget-friendly 

What we would change:

  • None we can find. 

Why we recommend this loc gel

The Bronner brothers tropical roots firm locking gel is a show stopper when used to create sleek edges for your locs. It is made with natural ingredients that ensure that your locs stay healthy and damage-free when you use it. It can also be used to re-twist your locs, and by applying it to the roots of your hair during a re-twist the active ingredients present stimulate new hair growth.

4. Murray's Gel Loc-Lock, 8 fl oz.
/10 Our Score
  • Keep them looking better longer
  • The cream formula containing Olive Oil.

The best loc gel for dry hair.

Even with dreadlocks, moisture is very important for healthy growth.

When your hair is dry, your locs become weak and prone to breakage and dullness. For a smooth and healthy loc growth, you would also need moisturizing loc gel for your styling and re-twists and that’s where Murray’s gel loc-lock comes in handy.

What we like about this gel:

  • Has moisturizing natural oils
  • Has a lovely fragrance
  • Does not leave flakes.

What we would change:

  • Does not have a firm hold.

Why we recommend this loc gel

The Murray’s gel loc- lock is a reliable formula for getting rid of dry or brittle locs, this is evident in the olive oil present in its ingredients that provides moisture for your locs with every use. Its creamy consistency makes it flexible and easy to use for re-twists. It does not leave behind flakes after use and has your hair feeling smooth and refreshed with extra moisture.

The best loc gel for thinning hair.

You might not have naturally thinning hair, but when you begin your loc journey and neglect some necessary hair care tips your dreads are likely to begin to thin.

This could be a result of twisting your locs too tightly, pulling your hair into tight high buns, or putting your hair in a tight ponytail. Simply, as long as you over-manipulate your locs, they are bound to begin thinning. But with the African formulas super gro hair gel, you can care for your thinning locs.

What we like about this loc gel:

  • Reduces hair loss or breakage
  • Has a firm hold
  • Stimulates better hair growth
  • Nourishes the hair with proteins
  • Suitable for all hair types.

What we would change:

  • It does not have a pleasant scent.

Why we recommend this loc gel

The African formula super gro hair gel is a proven remedy for thinning locs owing to the biotin, rosemary oil, shea butter, coconut oil, wild bee honey, olive oil, and other herbal extracts that provide moisture and stimulate healthy growth while replacing lost hair follicles and preventing further hair breakage. It also does not leave build-up, instead, it gives a firm yet flexible hold when used.

6. Lion Locs Sea Salt Saltwater Locking and Styling Hair Spray for Dreadlocks
9.6/10 Our Score
  • Faster Locking
  • Sea Salt Spray
  • Anti Frizz.

The best loc tightening gel spray.

Tightening gel sprays are definitely a peek into the future, they make keeping your locs neat and in place a whole lot easier. Your cream-based gels might not be suitable for day-to-day use because, after a long period, it may result in an unhealthy build-up.

If you’re a person that needs to be up and about daily and would love your locs to have a natural shine and look in place, a tightening spray like the lion locs sea saltwater locking and styling hair spray.

What we like about this loc gel:

  • Can be used daily
  • Promotes healthy hair growth
  • Does not leave residue
  • No flaky stains
  • 100% organic and cruelty-free
  • Suitable for all hair types.

What we would change:

  • None we can find.

Why we recommend this loc gel

The lion locs sea saltwater locking and styling hair spray is an incredible tightening gel for your locs. It adds moisture as it tightens your locs while allowing breathing space for your scalp. It is infused with saltwater and aloe vera which are known to prevent hair breakage and boost healthy hair growth. It has an appealing scent and makes your locs feel rejuvenated and lightweight with every use.

7. Cantu Moisturizing Twist & Lock Gel with Shea Butter for Natural Hair
9.6/10 Our Score
  • Adds manageability to hair
  • For a silky smooth hold
  • Great for twists & braid-outs.

The best moisturizing loc gel for natural hair.

All hair types need moisture, but natural hair has an overwhelming need for moisture at all times which when neglected could result in hair damage.

If you locked your natural hair and it is coily, curly, or kinky then you will need to make sure that every product you use is a source of extra nourishing moisture. With the Cantu moisturizing twist & loc gel, your natural locked hair will stay happy and healthy.

What we like about this loc gel:

  • Moisturizes the scalp
  • Makes hair soft and shiny
  • Budget-friendly
  • Prevents frizz
  • Compatible with all hair types.

What we would change:

  • Does not have a firm hold.

Why we recommend this loc gel

The Cantu moisturizing twist & loc gel is best known for its ability to add extra nourishing moisture to your hair because of the presence of shea butter in its composition. It makes your hair feel soft, and gives it a natural shine, and a smooth appearance as well. It does not have any toxic chemicals which makes it suitable for all hair types. It is especially great for re-twisting natural locs and it prevents frizziness and brittle hair.

The best residue and build-up free loc gel.

You might think that buildup or residue in your locs is not a big deal, but it is one of the commonest ways that locs get damaged.

When residue is left behind in your hair by-products, it stops the free flow of moisture in your hair and cuts off proper air circulation which makes it difficult for your loss to dry properly, this in turn results in hair damage. The lion locs locking dread moisturizer is a zero residue gel that would be perfect for all loc heads.

What we like about this loc gel:

  • Zero residues and no buildup
  • No flaking
  • Prevents hair breakage
  • Made with 100% organic ingredients.

What we would change:

  • None we can find.

Why we recommend this loc gel

The lion locs locking dreads moisturizer is an all-time lifesaver for its ability to moisturize and tighten one’s locs without leaving behind residue or causing buildup. It is suitable for all hair types because it has no chemical ingredients. It keeps your locs healthy, fresh, and shiny by providing moisture and preventing hair damage. With a small amount, you can re-twist your locs and tame the appearance of stray or fly-away hairs.

Choosing A Loc Gel For Your Hair – Buying Guide

It’s exciting and relieving to be in search of products and come across an informed list with price tags just as this, but the reason there are multiple options is because you need to find which of the loc gels is best suited for your hair. We can help with that if you follow the following instructions 

1. Choose a loc gel that is compatible with your hair type

The most important thing to consider when choosing a loc gel is the product’s compatibility with your hair type. When you pick out a loc gel that is best suited for your hair type, nothing could possibly go wrong, we have provided loc gels for damaged hair, oily hair, thinning hair, and natural hair, all you need to do is pick which loc gel suits your hair type.

2. Pick a loc gel that does not leave flakes

Flaky edges or roots are unattractive and will eventually cause your hair to itch and break, this is why you must avoid purchasing loc gels that have the tendency to flake and leave white residue behind in your hair. 

3. Go for loc gels with a firm hold and a natural shine

Locs are naturally rough, so the only way you can be sure that your locs are being gelled to perception is not when they are firmly held in place and give off a healthy shine after using a loc gel. Always go for loc gels that provide extra hold and gives your hair a shiny look.

4. Choose a loc gel that is made with nourishing ingredients 

Your locs are fragile and are always in need of proper care and attention, this means that all the products used to cater to them must add extra nourishment and be void of dangerous chemicals. Ensure that the loc gel you choose is made with naturally nourishing and moisturizing ingredients that keep your locs healthy.

What Is The Best Gel For Your Locs? 

The best gel for your locs would be the Jamaican mango and lime resistant formula locking firm wax because it ticks all the boxes of the points mentioned above in our buying guide.

1. Jamaican Mango & Lime Resistant Formula Locking Firm Wax
9.7/10 Our Score
  • Resistant hair
  • Difficult to lock Hair
  • Extra Hold
  • Great for Gray Hair.

This loc gel is made to care for all hair types while also being an ideal loc gel for damaged hair. It also does not leave behind build-up or residue after use, nor does it cause flakiness on your roots and edges when used for re-twists. It is also made with nourishing and conditioning organic ingredients and it has a firm, long-lasting hold when used.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is locking gel used for? 

Locking gels are used to create a firm hold on the roots of your locks while re-twisting, they give your locs a smooth and soft finish, and they are also meant to groom your locs and keep them looking healthy and nourished.

When should I use locking gel? 

As a beginner whose locs are still a little loose, you should apply a locking gel every time you wet your hair but make sure that your locs are completely dry before applying your loc gel. When your dreads are 3 – 6 months old, you can choose when you feel the need to apply a loc gel as your locs are tighter at that point.

How long do loc gels last? 

A quality loc gel would last in your hair for as long as a month and more in some cases, depending on how well you take care of your locs after re-twisting them. As long as you choose an organic and long-lasting gel and take care of your locs with organic products, your re-twists should last up to 6 weeks. 

Summary

All of the products recommended above are tested, trusted, and proven to be outstanding choices of loc gels for styling your dreadlocks.

We’ve also provided you with a simple buying guide to aid you in making the best choice of a loc gel for your hair, so you’re certain that whichever loc gel you purchase is worth every dime.

Your dreadlock journey is definitely going to be a lot easier and twice the fun once you have a loc gel that makes styling go smoothly while nourishing and moisturizing your locs as well. It’s one of the comfort products you never knew you needed for your love that would turn out to be a favorite with time.

So, go for it!

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