This is untrue, actually. The only major disadvantage to gel is it's tendency to look like wicked dandruff after about three hours. It has so much weight to it that when you are doing really complicated things with hair, even if the hold is extra strong, sometimes it is just to heavy to physically stand on its own.
A good alternative to gel, and one that keeps your hair looking like natural hair while still retaining the desired style is to get out of the shower, dry your hair with a hair dryer until there is no water in it. Then, flip your head upside down (like bend over so that all of your hair is pulled towards the ground).
It helps at this stage if you have somebody to help you.
Put a generous amount of extra hold hairspray in your hair and style as desired. Then, holding hair in the position of your choice, grab your hairdryer and blow dry the hairsprayed section. It will dry super fast and hold better than most any gels you can find.
Right yourself slowly, examine in the mirror or have a friend judge the outcome. Repeat the process as needed until your hair resembles the character of choice.
I've done this process many times to create wicked awesome two feet mowhawks. Mowhawks that make you have to duck when you are walking through doorways. And I swear the hair stood completely straight like some freaky anti-grav wig!
Excellent alternative to gel if you don't want that stiff, shiny, and somewhat dandruffy look.
