Hair By Sam McKnight Self Control Gel Review and How to Use

As a beauty editor, people don’t believe me when I say that I’m pretty lazy about many parts of my routine. But there are certain things that I just don’t feel like doing – or that I just don’t have time for. One of them is styling my hair every day. Not only do I want to avoid the constant heat of straighteners or curlers, I also travel a lot in areas where there’s a lot of humidity, so turning the device down is somewhat taboo (both because I get too hot and because my… Hair tends to frizz. For this reason, I now usually tie it into a tight, slicked-back bun, which keeps my hair out of my face and requires less effort.

When I started this I chose popular wax sticks, such as the now viral one which you can buy on Amazon for £6.99. But I simply had difficulty continuing with them for a number of reasons, including the residue they often left behind. Then I turned to gels instead, especially Sam McKnight’s. For this reason, I consider it to be the best hair gel in the industry.

Sam McKnight hair gel

Hair by Sam McKnight self-control gel

Why is Sam McKnight Self Control Gel so good?

I’m fully aware that paying £22 for a hair gel is unremarkable and outlandish when there are plenty of options on the street under £10, but I’ve always found it difficult to find formulas that work for my pretty hair Fine hair does not feel extremely sticky. This is probably the main reason I love Sam McKnights so much. Obviously it has some “stickiness” (which is essential for holding hair in place), but if you’re in a hurry you could probably get away with it without leaving any residue. It feels light and moisturizing (FYI, it’s water-based) rather than sticky or heavy.

I’m more biased since I love pretty much everything in the Hair By Sam McKnight line (Cool Girl Texture Spray, you have my heart forever), but I really think this is a great product that’s worth the extra cost . The finish is not overly sticky but also has a high shine without feeling dry or looking crusty due to residue. Although the brand recommends washing it out at the end of the day after using it, I don’t feel like this is necessary and may as well do it a few days before.

The packaging makes it very easy to use even on busy mornings when you have little time. Unlike many gels that come in a large container that requires you to scoop out the gel, this one has a convenient pump that dispenses just the right amount every time.

The product is suitable for all hair types and textures and you can use it to create a range of different styles, from slicked-back buns or ponytails to downy, wet-look hairstyles.

How to use Sam McKnight’s gel

As mentioned, this has become my go-to product when putting my hair up. As someone with relatively frizz-prone strands, I love that it not only smooths the strands back but also tames flyaways.

I usually use it after I’ve brushed my hair with a soft-bristled brush (like this one from Hershesons) and started styling it into the shape that suits my updo. I usually then apply a few pumps into my hands and straighten the whole thing, focusing mainly on the top part of my hair (which needs the most “straightening”) and applying any residue to the ends (which then disappear). into the bun). Once I’ve secured my bun, I use a little more to smooth out any baby hairs on top. Afterwards, I like to apply some hairspray to seal the deal.

It is suitable not only for updos but also for styles such as retro waves and down hairstyles with a wet look. The Hair By Sam McKnight Instagram account continues to show off new uses and proves how versatile it is for all hair types and styles.

As mentioned, at £22 it’s not the cheapest gel you can buy, but I firmly believe it’s worth the money and will last forever too.