I never used styling gel before, I actually never cared much for it because I felt it would weigh my hair down and mostly saw people with really short hair use it. I bought it mainly to keep fly aways at bay when I wear my hair up as in an upstyle so it looks more sophisticated. It keeps every strand in place without feeling heavy or sticky as I presume some gels do. It doesn't make my hair feel coarse either. Washes off easily too and smells good. It really is an amazing gel.