You can find flaxseeds at most grocery stores in the baking aisle or health food aisle. It’s fine if you need to leave the solution in the fridge for longer. Soaking the flaxseeds first isn’t absolutely necessary, but it will increase how much gel you get. Distilled or filtered water has fewer additives, meaning your hair gel will likely last longer if you use one of these types of water. However, tap water will also work.
Aim for a pot that’s 2 to 3 US quarts (1,900 to 2,800 mL).
If it looks like it’s about to overflow, take it off the heat for a few seconds to let it cool.
If you don’t have cheesecloth or pantyhose, a fine mesh strainer will suffice to get out most of the flaxseed bits. Rinse the pot immediately, as the gel is difficult to remove once it dries.
At this point, you can also add 1 tablespoon (15 mL) of olive oil, shea butter, or aloe vera gel, which will create a thicker consistency. [7] X Research source Tea tree oil or lavender oil are good options, as they can extend the life of the gel from 2 weeks to 1-2 months. When the gel goes bad, it will smell rancid. Clove and cinnamon oils may dry out your skin and hair.
If you make a lot at once, you can store some in the freezer for up to 6 months.
Plus, if you forget and leave this jar out, you’ve only wasted a little gel.
If you find you can’t use all the gel before it goes bad, try making it in smaller batches. [10] X Research source It can last as long as 2 months.
You may need to use a touch more gel then you would with a commercial product, as flaxseed may not have quite as much hold.
This gel has good, natural hold, but if you need a bit more definition, you may want to add a pomade or another product.
Flip your head back up and adjust your hair as needed.
