This review dives into the Shea Moisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil + Flaxseed Strengthening Styling Gel, offering an honest assessment of its performance and overall value. We explore the product's texture, scent, and ease of application, detailing the experience from initial impression to the final result and how it held up over time. This in-depth analysis will help you determine if this styling gel is the right choice for your hair type and desired hold.Our examination covers various aspects, from the packaging and initial texture observations to the application process, drying time, and final look and feel. We'll discuss the level of hold achieved, the presence of any residue, and the long-term effects on hair volume and definition. Ultimately, we aim to provide a balanced perspective, highlighting both the strengths and weaknesses of this popular styling gel to aid your purchasing decision.
Pros And Cons
- Affordable ($8 at Walmart)
- Pleasant Jamaican Black Castor Oil scent
- Jelly-like consistency, easy to apply
- Provides more hold than the reviewer's previous coconut and hibiscus gel
- Gives hair body and bounce
- Light hold (rated 3/5)
- Slight product residue
- Felt stiff and lacked movement the next day
- Some white particles were visible during heat styling
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First Impressions and Packaging
Upon receiving the Shea Moisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil and Flaxseed Strengthening Styling Gel, my initial impression was positive. The packaging, a classic Shea Moisture design, is visually appealing and immediately communicates the product's natural ingredients.
The gel itself appeared to have a slightly lighter color than I anticipated, with a less dense consistency. It resembled a jelly-like substance rather than a thick, sticky gel, which raised curiosity about its performance on my hair.
The texture is less sticky than expected, which is promising, potentially suggesting easier application and distribution within my hair. A squeeze tube packaging might be more practical for this consistency.
Application and Initial Feel
After clarifying my hair, I applied the gel to damp hair, working it through section by section. The application process was smooth; the gel easily spread throughout my hair without excessive stickiness.
The scent is subtly reminiscent of Jamaican Black Castor Oil, a pleasant, natural fragrance. I used a generous amount to ensure even coverage and moisture.
Initially, the gel felt light and didn't weigh my hair down, which is always a plus. I anticipated a fluffy and voluminous result, given the flaxseed ingredient.
Drying Process and Final Results
I allowed my hair to air dry mostly, then used a blow dryer to fully dry it. A heat protectant spray was used before heat styling.
The final result revealed a nice amount of body and bounce. The gel provided significantly more hold than the Shea Moisture Coconut & Hibiscus Styling Gel I had previously reviewed.
There was a noticeable amount of hold, but it wasn't overly stiff. While there was a slight residue, overall the look was quite satisfactory with significant volume and definition.
Overall Review and Rating
The next day, my hair was still relatively well-defined, however, it felt slightly stiff, and the style didn't retain as much bounce. This stiffness might deter some users.
Considering the pros and cons, including the manageable hold, pleasant scent, and ease of application, a three-star rating seems fair. The slight stiffness is the biggest drawback.
Would I repurchase? Perhaps. I would consider it a decent option for those seeking a styling gel with a moderate hold and a natural feel, but not if extreme hold is required. For a stronger hold and less stiffness, I would explore other alternatives.