TRIED IT: The Potion Studio’s Control Potion Styling Gel Is A Gem For Natural Hair

Finding a styling gel that defines your curls without leaving behind white flakes, crunchy strands, or heavy buildup can be a challenge. As someone with 4C hair, I’m always looking for products that provide the hold and hydration my strands need. I was excited to see whether The Potion Studio’s Control Potion Styling Gel ($12+, Ulta.com) could deliver on both.

Founded in 2021 by Aziza El Wanni, the clean luxury brand was created to simplify the textured haircare experience with effective products that strengthen and support natural hair. Growing up in Suriname with a Caribbean mother and Palestinian father, El Wanni recognized the need for inclusive natural hair products that make haircare easier and help people feel confident in their texture. The Control Potion Styling Gel is designed with that mission in mind.

Inside the formula

The Control Potion Styling Gel is described as a climate-adaptive formula designed to keep hair soft, defined, and hydrated. It features plant-based ingredients, including olive oil, flaxseed, rosemary, and aloe vera, to help maintain moisture, improve manageability, and provide hold without leaving hair feeling hard. The gel also has a light floral scent that isn’t overpowering.

The styling process

Starting on freshly washed and dried hair, I created two straight parts extending from the middle of my crown to my hairline, then clipped the rest of my hair out of the way. I applied Kiss Colors & Care Flex Styling + Hold Mousse ($6.99, Amazon.com) from the mid-length to the ends of the section. Next, I applied a dollop of the Control Potion Styling Gel and followed up with a small amount of Blue Magic Indian Hemp ($7.99, Amazon.com). 

Right away, I noticed that the gel didn’t feel sticky and layered well with my other products. Starting at the center of my head, I braided my hair toward the front. Once I reached the ends, I applied a little more mousse and secured the section around a flexi-rod.

I repeated the process throughout my hair to complete the braid-and-curl set. I love this style because it gives my hair the volume I want while stretching my strands for a more elongated look.

The results

After letting my hair set for a day, it was time for the takedown. I added a few drops of Aunt Jackie’s Curls and Coils Hair and Scalp Oil in Saw Palmetto, Jamaican Black Castor & Grapeseed Oil ($8.43, Amazon.com) to my hands to help minimize frizz and reduce friction. Once I finished separating the curls, I used my coveted hair pick to lift my hair at the roots without ruining my curl pattern. 

Compared to my previous braid-and-curl sets, I felt that the styling gel made a difference. My curls usually look soft and defined, but this time, they had an especially fluffy, full-bodied finish. The ends of my hair also tend to lose their curl pattern rather quickly. With this set, however, my style lasted a full week, right in time for my next wash day.

My hair moved naturally, remained soft, and had a noticeable shine without feeling stiff. Considering how well the gel worked alongside the other products in my routine, I was pleased with the results.

I’m excited to see how it elevates my low tension styles. Finding a gel that provides lasting definition without leaving your hair feeling crunchy can be difficult, especially when you’re also looking for moisture. If you’re looking to expand your styling gel collection or ready to try something new, this find from The Potion Studio is worth the investment. Plus, it’s available in two sizes—a 3 oz and an 8oz. Bottle—perfect for trying the smaller bottle before committing to the larger one. Plus, the small bottle is TSA-friendly.