In the past, Hair Styling was simple. There was little choice: a jar of Hair Gel or grease and you were done. Everyone knew the blue and yellow gel goo from the supermarket. But times change. Thanks to the rise of barbershops and specialized Brands, there is a wide range of hairstyling products available. From classic Pomades to modern Styling powders – the choice is enormous.
But how do you choose the right product for your Hair Type and desired look? We list the most important differences and properties of hairstyling products for you. This way, you can avoid using the wrong product for years and discover what really suits your hairstyle!
What is the difference between Pomade, Hair Paste, Hair Clay, Hair Wax, Hair Gel and more?
There are now countless Hair Styling products on the market, each with unique properties. Pomades provides a smooth, shiny look, while Hair Clays and Hair Pastes offer a matte finish and lots of volume. Hair Wax and Hair Gel have other benefits. Below we explain which product best suits your Hair Type and style.
Pomade
Pomade is a classic product available in three variants: water-based, oil-based, and hybrid-based.
- Oil-based: Provides a long-lasting, flexible Hold and a shiny finish. Harder to wash out, but nourishing for the Hair.
- Water-based: Slightly harder, but easier to wash out. Offers a firm Hold and a nice shine.
- Hybrid Pomade: A combination of oil and water base, offering the benefits of both: flexible Hold and easy to wash out.
Hair Clay
Hair Clay is a popular styling product due to its high Hold and matte finish. It adds extra volume and texture to the Hair, making it perfect for a natural and casual look.
- Ideal for thick and coarse Hair, as it adds structure and firmness.
- Can feel rough when applied, making it less suitable for fine or thin Hair.
Hair Paste
Hair Paste is a versatile product that sits between Hair Cream and Hair 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 easy to wash out.
Hair Wax
Hairwax is a styling product that provides flexible Hold and a natural finish. Unlike Pomade, which often gives a shiny and smoother Hold, Hair Wax usually offers a stronger hold and a matte or slightly shiny look.
- Usually oil-based, providing a firm Hold but can make the Hair feel greasier.
- Does not harden as much as Hair Gel and remains restylable all day.
- Perfect for short and medium-length hairstyles that need structure.
- Suitable for a defined look with more control than Pomade.
Hair Gel
Hair gel is ideal for a sleek look with strong hold. Note: cheaper Hair Gels often contain chemicals that can flake.
- Perfect for short Hair and spikes.
- Gives a wet look and strong Hold.
Hair 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 down the Hair.
- Perfect for thin Hair, as it is easy to apply without pulling or sticking.
Styling powder
Styling powder is a lightweight powder that instantly adds volume and texture to the Hair without weighing it down.
- Apply at the 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 Hair Wax or Hair Paste.
Styling Sprays: Finishing Spray, Grooming Spray & Sea Salt Spray
Styling Sprays are popular for their versatility. They fix, add volume, and provide a natural beach look.
Finishing Spray
Finishing Spray is a finishing product that fixes your hairstyle and ensures it stays in shape all day.
- Fixes your hairstyle for a long time.
- Does not weigh down the Hair and maintains a natural look.
- Available in various Hold levels, from flexible to extra strong.
- Perfect as a finishing touch after Hair Wax, Hair 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 base for further Styling with Hair Wax, Pomade, or Hair Paste.
- Adds volume and helps shape the Hair better.
- Offers protection against heat from the Hair Dryer.
- Can also be used as a light hold without feeling a heavy product in the Hair.
Sea Salt Spray
Sea Salt Spray is a pre-Styling product that gives your Hair volume and texture, with a natural, matte beach look.
- Creates a loose, casual style.
- Adds volume and texture, ideal for fine or lifeless Hair.
- Enhances natural curls and waves.
- Ideal as a pre-styler in combination with Hair Wax or Hair Paste.
With this guide, you will have a better idea of which styling product suits you. Do you have any questions? Let us know or ask your barber for advice. Enjoy styling!
Your friends, The Alpha Men.