Guys, let’s be honest, who doesn’t want to look his best? When this is the topic of discussion, aside from clothes a man’s hair is likewise a crucial aspect to look into. In a word, men have been using hair products since time immemorial.
Though pomade is one of the options to use, however, it is not exactly marketed under that name. If you are searching for pomade for your locks, inspect the listed ingredients of the product you are eyeing and see if it consists of paste, wax, cream or oil-based product.
What is Pomade?
You may be asking yourself that very question. It’s a hair product that has been created to form that greased up look. It isn’t really new in fact, it is used to be made out of bear fat. Today, there are basically four types of pomades that are available.
The petroleum-based, lanolin, beeswax, and the water-based. Pomade is not just for hair, it can also be used as mustache wax, and has different consistencies for different types of hair and uses, such as protection for curly hair that has problems drying out and getting frizzy.
After bear fat was discontinued, the original drugstore pomade is made from a petroleum jelly base and may contain added fragrances to enhance the product’s marketable attractiveness. The petroleum-based pomade is challenging to wash out, and make take a couple of washes to accomplish that task, making it less desirable for those who like a faster method of cleaning their hair. The other type is water-based and is healthier for the scalp. Some people just prefer the original kind and stick with the petroleum-based product.
The Best Pomade Reviews
Over the years we have used and tested many pomades on our customers and ourselves, below our list of favorite pomades for men’s hair that will stay strong and give you a professional modeled look.
1. American Crew Hair Styling
American Crew Hair Styling Pomade – Get it via Amazon
The American Crew Hair Styling provides excellent hold, shine, and control. This is perfect for controlling straight or curly hair. It has a 4.3 rating on Amazon.
2. Suavecito
Suavecito Pomade – Get it via Amazon
Suavecito is water-soluble but still has a tough grip. If you are one of those looking for a pomade with a distinct and mild scent, then you should definitely check Suavecito Pomade. Alternately, you can achieve the wet look shine by adding water to the product. Based on Amazon users gave it a rating of 4.4.
3. Jax
Jax Pomade – Get it via Amazon
In like manner, Jax provides medium hold with a high shine on your hair but can still hold well. You will find that this product is concentrated, thus you will just need a modest amount to apply on your hair. It has a rating of 4.7 on Amazon.
4. Imperial Classic
Imperial Classic Pomade – Get it via Amazon
Imperial Classic is the strongest water-based pomade in America. If you want a lighter hold then apply it with water. If you want to have the strongest hold then apply more on dry hair. This classic one is also water reactivatable which can let you re-style with a little amount of water. The best part is you can enjoy an amazing hold by rinsing it out. It has a rating of 4.4 on Amazon.
5. Layrite Super Hold Pomade
Layrite Super Hold Pomade – Get it via Amazon
Users deem the Layrite Super Hold Pomade as a premium product. Though the pomade washes out similar to a gel, yet you will notice that it is able to style similar to wax. Some products in the market have the inability to hold curly or thick hair, however, with Layrite Pomade this issue is not a problem. Regardless of your hair type, this pomade will make sure your locks will stay in place. With its versatility, users give it a 4.5 rating on Amazon.
6. Uppercut Deluxe
Uppercut Deluxe Pomade – Get it via Amazon
Uppercut Deluxe gives you medium/strong hold with medium shine. This product is water-soluble which is perfect for different styles. You will love the light coconut scent combined with vanilla. It can wash out easily and does not leave any residue. It gives you the ability to control. Uppercut Deluxe Pomade is made in Australia. This product has a 4.2 rating on Amazon.
7. Old Spice Spiffy
Old Spice Spiffy Pomade – Get it via Amazon
The Old Spice Spiffy gives you moderate hold with a matte finish. This product can give you a clean-cut look. If you are a smooth talker then you need a smooth style. If you have a clean-cut and polished look then you are ready to talk to the ladies. This pomade will give you perfectly controlled hair. It has a 4.2 rating on Amazon.
8. Reuzel
Reuzel Pomade – Get it via Amazon
The Reuzel is water-based. It has a subtle scent of cola and gives you a high shine. It holds like super glue and it can shine like a fresh coat of paint on your car. It can be rinsed out easily. For a stronger hold, be sure to dry your hair before applying the pomade to your hair. For a lighter hold, just towel dry your hair and apply the pomade. This pomade has a rating of 4.4 on Amazon.
9. Dapper Dan Deluxe
Dapper Dan Deluxe Pomade – Get it via Amazon
The Dapper Dan Deluxe gives you a medium hold. It is water-based and very flexible. It has a clean and fresh scent. It can hold your hair all day and you can restyle whenever you want. This product has a 4.5 rating on Amazon.
10. Gentlemen Republic Stiff
Gentlemen Republic Stiff Pomade – Get it via Amazon
The Gentlemen Republic Stiff can give you a 24-hour hold and shine. It is made from a professional formula with a humidity resistant. This pomade is 100% alcohol-free and it has no flakes at all. This product is made in the U.S.A. This is one of the best-rated products on Amazon with a perfect rating of 5.
11. Shiner Gold
Shiner Gold Pomade – Get it via Amazon
Shiner Gold gives you a heavy hold. It is packed in an aluminum screw-top container. This pomade is water-soluble. Although this pomade is created specifically for those who have thick and wavy hair, it is also perfect for any other types of hair. You will love its coconut scent. This product is made in the U.S.A.
12. Steadfast
Steadfast Pomade – Get it via Amazon
The Steadfast gives you a medium to firm hold plus a good shine. It can wash out easily with water. You will truly enjoy its subtle rugged scent. This pomade can let you do the style that you want on your hair. You can re-style whenever you want while maintaining a nice hold. It has an Amazon rating of 4.3.
13. Axe Classic
Axe Classic Pomade – Get it via Amazon
Axe Classic gives you a medium hold and a shiny finish. It is perfect for short hair as well as medium length hair. It can make onlookers turn their heads. You will only need a little amount and it can go a long way. It can perfectly control your day throughout the day. This pomade can make your hair look polish and not wet. This product has a 4.5 rating on Amazon.
Pomades, Hair Gels & Wax: What’s the Difference?
With the many options, a guy has, choosing the right hair product can be overwhelming. We have tested and reviewed most of them to give you the best insights on how to style your hair best.
Pomade vs Gel
At the present time, the gel is the popular choice of men. It is lightweight in contrast to products like pomades or waxes. Besides that, a gel is more compatible with bald or men with thin hair. Unfortunately, while it is the popular choice of men it does dry your hair and makes it look and feel like plastic until removed. You will find it simple to wash, however, it also means those who live in areas with humid climates or applying gel during rainy days is not advisable. In either case, it is wise then to choose a solid product like pomade.
Pomade vs Wax
Wax is another viable option in hair care products for men. Wax tends to be thicker, which is great for thin hair but at the same time also heavier and tacky feeling. However, a wax is not shiny like pomade and is even harder to wash out. Historically, the difference between pomade and wax is that while pomade gives hair a shiny, slick, wet look and wax does not. Both wax and pomade can be restyled, which is a plus for both products, however, pomade is easier to work with.
Pomade vs Paste
Hair paste is the next option to look at. Essentially, a paste is the same as wax as far as thickness, heavy feeling, and tackiness, but it is easier to wash out and won’t feel stiff like gel. A paste is also one of the words that pomade is marketed by. The difference is in the ingredient list.
How to use Pomade on your Hair
Using a hair product on our hair to groom or style it is one of the most gratifying routines for us men. Applying hair product is a fairly simple and uncomplicated task, but there are some who have no clue whatsoever how to do it. If you’re one of them, maybe you never actually wanted to learn how to do it, for you see it as a definitely easy to follow grooming process, since there isn’t much to learn about applying pomade to your hair. But it’s just you, a fairly novice one when it comes to hairstyling who’s thinking that. You may be surprised to know that there is an order on how to apply pomade. To get the best and full benefit of styling with the help of this important hair product.
Step 1: Shampoo your hair before styling with pomade
The pomade will work best when applied to a clean and freshly washed damp hair. Wash your hair with shampoo before trying to style it with pomade.
Step 2: Towel dry hair
The pomade will make your hairstyle look its best when applied to hair that is slightly damp. Towel dry your hair to achieve the right dampness. Just slightly damp and not dripping wet. This will help your hair absorb the pomade well and make it look great when it dries.
Especially when you want to use a matte pomade or stronghold pomade, as these kinds will not work well with dry hair. You must have your pomade ready, before deciding as the procedure will depend largely on your choice of pomade.
Step 3: Choose your pomade
You are starting on a new route in life. Yikes! This is a new adventure for you and your hair. So you have extensively prepared your resources. Including reading how-to guides and tips and tricks on how to correctly apply or use pomade.
Water-based and Oil-based Pomade
You already picked your choice between oil-based or water-based pomade. Traditional users like our fathers and grandparents go for the oil-based variety, but the younger generation of pomade users are more inclined to use the more popular water-based concoctions. However, the hairstyle you want to achieve will somewhat dictate your choice. Oil-based are a bit cheaper than water-based pomades, and give a much greasier and shinier look but typically provide a much stronger hold.
The downside is oil-based pomades are water-insoluble. Shampoo cannot remove it either. You will need a degreasing shampoo to clean your hair and totally get rid of oil-based pomades residue but may also strip your hair of its natural oils.
Water-based pomades may be a little bit expensive but it can give you the same look which you can achieve with oil-based pomades. This type will easily wash out with water because it will not cling to your hair. the reason why its hold is not as strong as the oil-based ones. The water-based can keep the hold, as well as its oil-based contemporaries, at the same time let you enjoy the flexibility to restyle your look throughout the day which the oil-based ones will not let you.
Matte vs Sheen Pomade
You can choose to use a sheen pomade, a matte pomade, or a mix of the two. Whichever your preference. When you go with the sheen pomade your hair will look shiny. You can pick the pomade based on the look you want to achieve or on the type of hair you have.
When you choose a matte pomade, your preference is more on the less shiny look. If your hair with pomade tends to get greasy quickly as the day progresses then the matte pomade is the best one for you. Sheen pomade is best for those with dry hair because it has more shine. You can mix the two though if you want to have a balance of shine and matte, to allow you more flexibility when styling.
You also have to decide what strength of hold you need. Pomades come in different strengths which will give you different amounts of hold. Research first the different brands to find out which brand gives a light, medium, or stronghold.
Step 4: Apply the pomade to your hair
Get a small amount, about the size of a dime, which is the recommended amount using your fingers then distribute the pomade on your fingers by rubbing your fingers together. This is recommended so it will be easy for you to evenly distribute it around. Run your fingers around and through your hair, until you’re satisfied all your hair has all the pomade you need for your styling it.
Step 5: Blow-dry your hair
If you are using a strong hold pomade you should lightly blow dry your hair to give it a shape or to draw it towards where you want it to follow before you style. Stronghold pomades tend to be hard and will only let you style your hair after you have softened it. To soften hard or stronghold pomade you need to blow warm air into it, to heat it up it a little since it is oil-based.
Step 6: Style your hair
Now you can style your hair by running a comb through it to draw it up and back for a pompadour or you draw it up then forward a little for a quiff. You can also just run your fingers through your hair and fluff it here and pinch it there to give it a spiky rugged look. You can also comb it backward and sleek it to achieve a mafioso vibe. You can be a punk or a sexy rugged long-haired urbane yuppie, with the help of pomades you can definitely achieve the look you want to portray.
How to style short hair with pomade
Buying your Pomade
Maintaining your image and hairstyle works best when you likewise choose the optimal hair product for you. In the past, pomade was the go-to product of men, though its popularity lessened over the years, however, it surely is making a comeback with the males. Qualities such as being non-sticky, flakey, plus not easily get washed out in the rain are a few reasons for its fame.
While you will encounter challenges in removing it, you can use shampoo for oily hair or use olive oil to get rid of it. At any rate, always remember whatever product you choose it is best you select the one you are most satisfied with.