9 Best Men Hair Pomades for Every Hair Type in 2024
Looking to elevate your hairstyle game? The right pomade can transform your look, giving you that perfect blend of hold, shine, and texture. Whether you’re aiming for a classic slick-back, a modern quiff, or something in between, choosing the best men’s hair pomade is key to achieving your desired style.
With so many options on the market, finding the ideal pomade can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve curated a list of the 9 best men’s hair pomades to help you make an informed decision. From high-hold formulas to lightweight finishes, there’s something for every hair type and style preference. Dive in and discover which pomade will become your go-to for effortless, stylish hair.
What to Consider Before Buying Hair Pomade
Choosing the right pomade can elevate your hairstyle game. Here are a few key factors to consider before making your purchase:
Hair Type Suitability
Identify your hair type. Different pomades work better on various hair types. For instance, if you have thin hair, opt for a lightweight pomade that won’t weigh it down. Thick hair benefits from a heavier formula that provides more control. Curly hair may require a pomade with stronger hold and moisture.
Desired Hold and Shine
Determine your desired hold. Pomades offer a range of holds from light to strong. Light hold is ideal for natural, flexible styles, while strong hold is perfect for structured, immobile looks. Decide on the level of shine you want. High-shine pomades give a glossy finish, while matte options provide a more natural look.
Ingredients and Hair Health
Check the ingredients list. Some pomades contain natural oils and vitamins that nourish your hair, while others may have harsh chemicals that could damage it. If you have sensitive skin or scalp, look for pomades with hypoallergenic or organic ingredients. Avoid products with alcohol, as it can dry out your hair.
Review of the 9 Best Men’s Hair Pomade
Our selection of the top men’s hair pomades is based on thorough evaluations tailored to suit various hair types and styling preferences. We’ve identified the best options by focusing on key ranking factors and evaluation criteria.
Ranking Factors and Evaluation Criteria
Hold Strength
The hold strength of a pomade dictates how well it keeps your hair in place throughout the day. We’ve considered options that include everything from light to extra-strong holds, ensuring you can achieve your desired style, whether it’s a relaxed, tousled look or a sleek, polished finish.
Shine Level
Shine level is crucial for the final appearance of your hairstyle. This list includes pomades that range from matte to high-gloss finishes, allowing you to select one that complements your personal style and occasion.
Ingredients
Healthy hair and scalp are priorities. We preferred pomades containing natural oils, vitamins, and minerals which nourish your hair. Harsh chemicals and alcohols can cause damage, so we’ve avoided products with these ingredients, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Ease of Application
We assessed how easy each pomade is to apply and distribute through your hair. A great pomade should be easy to work with and provide even coverage without requiring extensive effort.
Washability
Having a product that’s easy to wash out is essential for maintaining healthy hair. We’ve focused on water-based pomades, which are generally easier to rinse out compared to their oil-based counterparts, preventing product buildup.
Scent
The scent plays a significant role in the overall experience of using a pomade. We evaluated the fragrance of each product, prioritizing those with pleasant and subtle scents that aren’t overpowering.
Price and Value
Cost-effectiveness was a fundamental aspect of our evaluation. We ensured the selected pomades offer great value, balancing high-quality ingredients and performance with reasonable pricing.
Our comprehensive review covers the best men’s hair pomades, considering these essential factors to help you find the perfect product tailored to your needs and preferences.
Top 3 Water-Based Pomades
Water-based pomades offer great flexibility and are easier to wash out. Here are the top picks based on hold, shine, and user experience.
Featuring Light to Strong Hold Options
- Suavecito Original Hold Pomade
Suavecito delivers a medium hold that works for most hair types. It’s perfect for everyday styles like pompadours and slick backs. With a moderate shine, this pomade provides a natural look without feeling too greasy. - Layrite Super Hold Pomade
Providing a strong hold, Layrite is ideal for denser hair types or more structured styles like quiffs. It maintains your hairstyle throughout the day without hardness, making it easy to restyle as needed. - American Crew Pomade
American Crew brings a light hold with high shine, perfect for more relaxed, casual styles. It’s versatile enough for wavy or curly hair, offering control without stiffness. This pomade is also ideal for those who prefer a more natural, softer finish.
- Easy Washability
Water-based pomades like Suavecito, Layrite, and American Crew wash out effortlessly with water, unlike oil-based alternatives. This makes daily grooming hassle-free and prevents product buildup. - Flexible Styling
These pomades allow for restyling throughout the day. Suavecito’s medium hold, Layrite’s strong hold, and American Crew’s light hold products give you the flexibility to change your look as needed. - Hair Health
Formulated without harsh chemicals or alcohol, these pomades maintain hair health. They provide hold and shine while nourishing your hair, making them suitable for regular use without damage.
These water-based pomades cover a range of hold options from light to strong, ensuring you can find the right product for your styling needs.
Top 3 Oil-Based Pomades
Oil-based pomades are known for their exceptional hold and classic styling. Here’s a look at three of the best options available.
Ideal for Thick Hair and Firm Hold
- Murray’s Superior Hair Dressing Pomade
Known for its firm hold and timeless appeal, Murray’s is excellent for managing thick hair. Its formula, largely unchanged since 1926, ensures that your styles stay in place all day. It’s best suited to classic, high-shine looks. - DAX Wave & Groom
DAX offers a robust hold that tames even the curliest and coarsest of hair. Perfect for pompadours and slick backs, it delivers high shine and year-round control, making it a staple for thicker hair types. - High Life Heavy Pomade
High Life Heavy Pomade delivers incredible hold without weighing hair down. Its unique blend of ingredients, including emu oil, promotes healthy hair growth and adds a touch of shine. Ideal for those seeking both strength and nourishment.
How to Wash Out Oil-Based Pomade
Oil-based pomades can be tricky to wash out, often requiring a few steps:
- Use a Degreasing Shampoo
Start with a degreasing shampoo specifically designed to break down oils. Apply it to dry hair for maximum effectiveness before rinsing thoroughly. - Apply Dish Soap
For stubborn pomade, use a small amount of dish soap, which is excellent for cutting through grease. Massage it in and rinse well. - Condition Afterward
Always follow with a nourishing conditioner to restore moisture to your hair and scalp. This ensures your hair remains healthy despite the rigorous cleaning process.
These steps should help you efficiently remove oil-based pomades, keeping your hair fresh and ready for your next style.
Top 3 Clay-Based Pomades
Transitioning from oil-based pomades, let’s explore the top clay-based pomades. Perfect for those who crave a natural, matte finish, these products offer excellent hold and texture.
Benefits for Matte Finish Lovers
If you love a matte finish, clay-based pomades are your best bet. These products provide a natural look without any shine. They’re perfect for classic styles like the quiff or modern, textured looks. Clay pomades are easy to wash out and often contain ingredients that nourish and protect your hair.
Best for Fine Hair and Texture Enhancement
Clay-based pomades work wonders on fine hair. They add volume and enhance texture, making your hair appear thicker and fuller. Products like Baxter of California Clay Pomade, Hanz de Fuko Claymation, and Uppercut Deluxe Clay are top choices. They offer a strong hold without weighing your hair down, ideal for achieving that perfect messy look with a natural finish.
How to Apply and Style With Pomade
Preparing Your Hair
Start with clean, towel-dried hair. Wash your hair with a mild shampoo to remove dirt and excess oil. Pat your hair with a towel until it’s damp but not dripping wet.
Choose the right amount of pomade. For a light hold or natural look, use a dime-sized amount. For stronger hold or thicker hair, use a nickel-sized amount or more.
Warm the pomade in your hands. Rub your palms together to evenly distribute the product, making it easier to apply.
Techniques for Different Hairstyles
For a slicked-back look. Apply the pomade from the front to the back. Use a comb to evenly distribute it through your hair, ensuring a smooth finish.
For a quiff or pompadour. Focus the pomade on your hair’s roots and mid-lengths. Use a comb to lift the hair upwards and back, creating volume at the front.
For a textured, messy style. Scrunch the pomade into your hair using your fingers. Focus on the ends and mid-lengths to create a natural, tousled look.
For a side part. Apply the pomade to your entire hair. Use a comb to define a part and comb the hair to each side, ensuring a sleek, polished finish.
Adjust the amount of pomade based on your hair’s length and thickness. Experiment with different techniques to find the style that suits you best.
Maintenance Tips for Using Pomade
Keeping your hair healthy while using pomade is essential. Here are some tips to make sure your hair stays in top condition.
Daily Care
Wash hair every night to remove pomade build-up and prevent scalp issues. Use a sulfate-free shampoo to keep your hair moisturized. Follow up with a lightweight conditioner to detangle and nourish your hair without weighing it down.
Comb hair properly to distribute natural oils evenly. Avoid using too much pomade; a pea-sized amount is usually enough for short to medium lengths.
Avoid heat styling tools as they can dry out your hair. If you must use a blow-dryer, always use a heat protectant spray.
Periodic Hair Treatment Recommendations
Deep condition hair weekly to restore moisture and repair any damage caused by daily styling. Look for masks rich in proteins and essential oils.
Clarify hair once a month to remove stubborn pomade residue. Use a clarifying shampoo for this purpose to deep clean your scalp and hair.
Get regular trims to eliminate split ends and maintain your hairstyle. Trimming every 4-6 weeks can significantly improve your hair’s health and appearance.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Choosing the right pomade can transform your hairstyle from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you prefer a water-based, oil-based, or clay-based pomade, there’s something out there that suits your needs. Remember to consider your hair type, desired hold, and shine when making your selection.
Daily maintenance is key to keeping your hair looking its best. Regular washing, conditioning, and proper combing can make a significant difference. Avoid heat styling tools and incorporate deep conditioning and clarifying treatments into your routine.
With the right pomade and a solid hair care regimen, you’ll achieve the perfect style while maintaining healthy hair.
