The Pattern Beauty Strong Hold Gel has created quite a stir, and with its hefty price tag, I was skeptical. As a devoted natural hair user, I’ve learned to be cautious of celebrity-endorsed products that often inflate their prices. However, the elegant packaging is undeniably eye-catching. This review delves into whether this gel lives up to the hype, examining its performance, ease of use, and value for money. I tested the travel-sized version, a smart option for sampling before committing to a full-sized purchase.This review explores the gel's claims of a non-drying formula, focusing on its ability to provide long-lasting hold and curl definition without sacrificing hair health. We'll dissect the ingredient list, application process, and ultimately assess whether the Pattern Beauty Strong Hold Gel justifies its premium price point. From a natural hair enthusiast’s perspective, I’ll share my honest experience, addressing both the pros and cons to help you decide if this product is a worthwhile addition to your hair care routine.
Pros And Cons
- Nourishes and fortifies curls with CMOS aloe vera and chia seeds.
- Provides long-lasting hold without breaking hair or edges.
- Has a “glamorous luscious built-in slippage” for easy distribution.
- Good for slick looks and styles needing extra support.
- Light and refreshing smell.
- Changes curl pattern to longer, more defined curls for some users.
- Hydrating.
- Small 3-ounce size may run out quickly; full size recommended.
- Consistency is more jelly-like than expected for a “strong hold” gel.
- May not define curls evenly on all hair types; product may not take well to all parts of the hair.
- May not work as well for updo styles
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First Impressions and Price Point
The Pattern Beauty Strong Hold Gel has generated significant buzz, but its high price tag made me hesitant. As a natural hair enthusiast, I've always been wary of celebrity-branded products that often come with inflated prices. The sleek packaging, however, is undeniable; it's visually appealing and stands out.
The 3-ounce travel size is a good option for trying the product before committing to the full size. I appreciated the thoughtful packaging design which included an informative card showcasing Tracee Ellis Ross herself.
Product Details and Brand Philosophy
Pattern Beauty's website clearly targets curly, coily, and tight textures. The brand also offers convenient mini bundles, making it easier for consumers to sample products before making a larger investment. This is a smart business model, especially given the higher cost of natural hair products.
The Strong Hold Gel itself is described as a non-drying formula infused with CMOS aloe vera and chia seeds. This combination promises long-lasting hold without sacrificing hair health, a claim many natural hair products struggle to deliver. The ingredient list, prominently featuring water as the first ingredient, is transparent and encouraging.
Application and Results
Applying the gel was straightforward; I sectioned my hair and applied it to each curl, twirling it around my finger for definition. The gel has a light, refreshing scent and a jelly-like consistency, which was surprisingly light for a ‘strong hold’ gel.
The gel dramatically improved my curl definition and reduced frizz. It created longer, more defined curls than I typically achieve. However, the small size ran out quickly, and I didn’t have enough to cover my entire head.
Final Verdict
Overall, the Pattern Beauty Strong Hold Gel is a high-quality product that delivers on its promise of hold and hydration. However, the smaller size is likely insufficient for most hair types. Considering the price, purchasing the full-size bottle is recommended for a worthwhile experience.
While it's effective and moisturizing, its high cost remains a concern. The product's ability to provide long-lasting hold and definition is impressive, making it worthwhile for those willing to invest in premium natural hair care. I loved the enhanced curl definition and how it controlled frizz without being crunchy or stiff.