My Asian Hair

Hello, I have a question. I have asian hair that doesn't seem to stick out or anything, is straight, but fine and very dry (and theres alot of it). Whenever it drys it's just sooo soft and i can't really control it. However when I add gel it just looks so much better and controls so much better. I was wondering, is this a typical problem for asian hair? will it get any easier if I grow it longer? What kind of products should I use because I really don't like putting stuff like gel in my hair. Thanks!

Shea butter (100% pure stuff, nothing added) also works really great for making your hair nice and 'smooth'. I've used it on my hair, which was super-damaged into a big poofball by bleach and color, after applying I would run my cheapo straightener over it really quickly and in 5 minutes you'd never know how bad off my hair was, it made it super-smooth!
It only takes a very tiny amount, just rub it to liquefy on your palms and fingertips then run your fingers through your hair concentrating on the ends, then brush afterwards to distribute more evenly. A pea-sized amount should be enough to start out with, and you could add a little more if you think you need it. It isn't damaging to your hair at all either. :)