Haarstyling used to be simple. There was little choice: a jar of gel or fat and ready. Everyone knew the blue and yellow gelblubber from the supermarket. But times change. Thanks to the rise of barbershops and specialized brands, a wide range of hairstyling products is available. From classic pomades to modern styling powders - the choice is huge.
But how do you choose the right product for your hair type and desired look? We put the most important differences and properties of Hairstyling products For you in a row. This way you prevent using the wrong product for years and you discover what really fits your hairstyle!
What is the difference between pomade, paste, clay, wax, gel and more?
There are now countless hair styling products on the market, each with unique properties. Pomades provide a smooth, shiny look, while clays and pastes offer a matte finish and a lot of volume. Wax and gel have other benefits. Below we explain which product best suits your hair type and style.
Pomad
Pomad is a classic product that is in three variants: on a water -based, oil -based and hybrid basis.
- Olie -Basis: Ensures a long -term, flexible hold and a shiny finish. More difficult to wash, but nourishing for the hair.
- Water basis: Slightly harder, but easier washable. Offers a sturdy hold and a nice shine.
- Hybrid pomade: A combination of oil and water-based, which offers the benefits of both: flexible hold and easy to wash.
Clay
Clay is a popular styling product because of the high hold and matte finish. It gives extra volume and texture to the hair, making it perfect for a natural and casual look.
- Ideal for thick and stiff hair, because it adds structure and firmness.
- Can feel rough when applying, making it less suitable for fine or thin hair.
Fitted
Fitted is a versatile product that is between cream and clay. It is flexible and easy to apply.
- Suitable for all hair types.
- Offers a light to high hold with a matte or shiny finish.
- Water -based, so easily washable.
Wax
Hairwax is a styling product that ensures a flexible hold and a natural finish. In contrast to Pomade, which often gives a shiny and smoother hold, wax usually offers a stronger fixation and a mattier or slightly shiny look.
- Usually on oil base, which ensures a strong hold but the hair can also make it feel greasier.
- Gets less hard than gel and remains restylable all day.
- Perfect for short and medium hairstyles that need structure.
- Suitable for a defined look with more control than pomade.
Gel
Hair gel is ideal for a sleek look with strong fixation. Please note: cheaper gels often contain chemicals that can flaking.
- Perfect for short hair and spines.
- Gives a wet look and strong hold.
Cream
Hair cream is ideal for a natural and casual look and an excellent choice for men with thin or fine hair.
- Offers flexibility and light to medium hold.
- Adds texture and volume without weighing the hair.
- Perfect for thin hair, because it is easy to apply without pulling or sticking.
Styling Powder
Styling Powder Is a lightweight powder that immediately adds volume and texture to the hair, without weighing it up.
- Apply it to the hair roots for extra lift.
- Gives the hair a matte finish without residue.
- Perfect for fine or lifeless hair that needs more volume.
- Can be used as a standalone product or in combination with wax or paste.
Styling Sprays: hair spray, Grooming Spray & Sea Salt Spray
Styling sprays are popular because of their versatility. They fix, give volume and ensure a natural beach look.
Hair spray
Hair spray is a finishing product that fixes your hairstyle and ensures that it stays in shape all day.
- Fixes your hairstyle for a long time.
- Do not aggravate the hair and retains a natural look.
- Available in various hold levels, from flexible to extra strong.
- Perfect as a finishing touch after wax, paste or pomade.
Grooming spray
A grooming spray is a versatile pre-styling product that gives your hair more volume and firmness before applying another styling product. This product is often used in combination with blow -drying for extra hold and structure.
- Ideal as a basis for further styling with wax, pomade or paste.
- Adds volume and helps to better model the hair.
- Offers protection against the heat of the hair dryer.
- Can also be used as a light fixation without feeling a heavy product in the hair.
Sea Salt Spray
Sea Salt Spray is a pre-styling product that gives her volume and texture, with a natural, matte beach look.
- Creates a loose, casual style.
- Adds volume and texture, ideal for fine or lifeless hair.
- Strengthens natural curls and waves.
- Ideal as a pre-styler in combination with wax or paste.
With this guide you have a better picture of which styling product suits you. Do you have any questions? Let us know or ask your Barber for advice. Lots of styling pleasure!
Your friends, The Alpha Men.