My 15 year old son has been using gel in his hair for years. I must point out that he uses a lot of gel, in fact when dry his hair should be considered a weapon! Anyway, he complains that his hair is frizzy, dry and damaged (when gel less). So I'm guessing that his hair is damaged from the alcohol or whatever in the gel. His hair is naturally very thick,dense and normally soft. I should also say that he uses not expensive gel, dep or dippity doo. I don't mind to splurge a bit on better gel, however with the amount that he goes through I would'nt want to spend over $10. Also, is there a shampoo and conditioner that would help protect his hair or repair some damage. He gets his hair cut frequently, about every three weeks. Thanks in advance.

Hi Diana,

Thanks for the great question. From what you have described, it certainly sounds like your son is drying out his hair. I am not sure how often he washes it, but I would recommend a stronger conditioner at this time of the year. If he is looking for a "manly" brand, L'Oreal has a line for men that is a good price http://www.drugstore.com/products/prod.asp?pid=... If he already uses conditioner and it is still dry, I would get a stronger one, this is a good one available everywhere http://www.drugstore.com/products/prod.asp?pid=... I wouldn't worry about his hair being permanently damaged as he gets it cut often. But it definitely should be healthier.

You are correct, most gels do contain alcohol especially lines like Dippity Do. You may want suggest he try a pomade or putty, they offer the same control as gel, but it is a softer feel and sometimes add a nice shine. It may take him some time to get used to it, but he won't have to worry about poking his classmates eyes out. An example of a pomade is here: http://www.drugstore.com/products/prod.asp?pid=... you can find them in any drugstore.

Please keep me posted! Anyone else have any recommendations for Diana?

My hairdresser somehow fried my hair, am now repairing it with the costly Joicico (spelling?) repair treatment and shampoo, conditioners. I love them! Makes my hair much softer and happier.

i think you're reffering to Joico.. I love their products too :)
And one of my secrets for the smoothest, most hydrated and healthy hair is the olive oil. Besides my normal hair masks that I use on a weekly basis, once a month.. or whenever I feel that my hair needs a little boost, I use extra-virgin olive oil as a mask. As much as my hair needs, so the quantity varies from person to person.. And I also mix it with a spoon of rum, brandy.. anything that has alcohol, to make the rinsing go easier.
I know there are lots of products, professional products for the hair care that can help you out, but I always turn to the natural stuff from time to time. And I love olive oil :)