What Is Pomade Used For? Differences of Pomade vs. Wax vs. Clay

Selecting the right hair product is like finding the perfect tool for a task — it needs to be effective, suitable for your needs, and specifically designed to help you achieve your desired results. That's the role pomade can play in your hair care routine.

Pomade has been a staple in the world of hair styling for decades. It's a classic product that holds your hair in place while offering the flexibility to sculpt a wide range of styles. It also has the endurance to maintain these styles all day long. Using pomade can yield impressive results provided you know how to use it correctly.

However, the realm of hair products isn't limited to pomade. You have other options like gel and wax, so you need to discern which is the most suitable for you. What distinguishes these products from each other? And maybe most crucially, what benefits can they offer you and your hair?

Let’s explore the world of pomade, from the fundamentals and advantages, to its differences from other hair products. 

What Is Pomade for Hair?

Let's start with a short history lesson. Pomade is a hair styling product that’s been used since the 19th century. It's a beloved choice among professional barbers and style-savvy individuals due to its adaptability and long-lasting effect.

Historically, pomade was oil-based, made of greasy ingredients like lard or petroleum jelly. These ingredients delivered a high shine and robust hold, ideal for sleek styles and vintage pompadours.

Much like any product that evolves with time, modern versions of pomade have improved significantly. You can now find water-based pomades that offer similar hold and shine but are much simpler to wash off.

One of the most significant advantages of using pomade is its flexibility. Unlike some hair products that harden your hair, pomade allows you to modify your style throughout the day. It's an adaptable and convenient tool for your hair care kit.

So, whether you're maintaining a timeless quiff or merely looking to add some control and shine to your everyday style, pomade could be the ideal hair product for you. Let's take a closer look at what pomade can do.

What Does Pomade Do?

Pomade is a versatile styling product that allows you to craft a wide array of hairstyles, from sleek pompadours to tousled waves. The unique formulation offers a sturdy hold comparable to hair gel or wax but with a pliability that those products often lack.

One of the key advantages of pomade is that it doesn't dry out or harden the hair. This means you can adjust your hairstyle throughout the day without adding more product or water. It's a quintessential tool for those who value the ability to change their look or refresh their style at a moment's notice.

Beyond styling, pomade also enhances the overall appearance of your hair. It adds a glossy sheen, making your hair look healthy and vibrant. Plus, it helps tame frizz and flyaways, ensuring your hair looks smooth and well-groomed. No matter your hair type or style preference, pomade can be an excellent addition to your hair care routine.

Pomade vs. Wax vs. Clay vs. Gel

With so many styling products on the market, it helps to know what sets each one apart. Here's how pomade stacks up against the other heavy hitters. Let's break down the differences between each of these hair styling products based on their finish, hold, and washability. 

Finish

Pomade delivers the shiniest finish of the four, giving hair a sleek, polished look that's ideal for classic and formal styles. Wax sits in the middle — it adds a subtle sheen without going full glossy. Clay produces a natural, low-shine finish that works well for textured or casual looks. Gel typically dries matte (though some formulas add shine), making it a good pick for understated, no-fuss styles.

Hold

All four products offer solid hold, but they work differently. Pomade stays pliable throughout the day, so you can restyle without adding more product. Wax offers a flexible hold as well, though it's generally lighter than pomade. 

Clay gives a firm, workable hold that builds well with layering. Gel delivers the strongest hold of the group, but once it dries, it locks your hair in place, making mid-day adjustments tricky.

Which to Use for Your Hair Style & Type

• Pomade: Slicked-back styles, pompadours, side parts, and any look that benefits from shine and all-day workability
• Wax: Shorter styles, textured cuts, and anyone who wants light control without heaviness
• Clay: Natural, matte looks with volume and definition; especially good for thicker hair
• Gel: Styles that need to stay put all day, like spikes or structured shapes

Washability

Traditional oil-based pomades can take a few shampoos to fully remove. Modern water-based pomades, along with most waxes, clays, and gels, rinse out much more easily, making them all solid options for daily use.

What Type of Hair Is Pomade Good For?

Lucky for you, pomade can complement different hair types and styles. The trick is to use the right amount and apply it correctly.

If you have thick or curly hair, pomade can be your best friend. These hair types often require a product with a strong hold to maintain styling, and pomade fits the bill perfectly. It can help tame unruliness, reduce frizz, and add definition to your curls. Plus, the added shine can enhance the appearance of your hair's natural texture.

For those with thin or fine hair, pomade can also be a solid addition to your routine. It can add volume and fullness to your hair, giving the illusion of more density. However, it's important to use a lighter hand when applying pomade to fine hair, as too much product can weigh your hair down and make it look greasy.

Pomade is also ideal for medium to long hairstyles. Its strong hold can keep longer hair in place, and its shine can add a touch of sophistication to your look.

What Is the Best Pomade for Thick Hair?

For those with thick hair, a stronger hold pomade is typically the best choice. Thick hair can be harder to control and style, so a pomade with a stronger grip can help keep your hair in place throughout the day.

The Beard Club's hair pomade offers a firm hold that's perfect for managing and styling thick hair. It provides necessary control without making your hair feel heavy or sticky. Plus, it adds a healthy shine that can make your thick hair look even more vibrant.

What Is the Best Pomade for Fine Hair?

When it comes to fine or thin hair, a lighter hold pomade is best. Too much hold can weigh down fine hair, making it look flat. Lighter pomade lifts your hair, adding volume and fullness without overwhelming your strands.

If you’re rocking our pomade and have fine hair, using a smaller amount in damp hair gives just the right amount of hold and shine to enhance your hair's natural beauty without making it look greasy or overloaded.

Can You Use Hair Pomade on a Beard?

While you might be tempted to use pomade on your beard, we don’t recommend it. Hair pomade is specifically designed for the texture and needs of head hair and may not provide the same benefits for facial hair.

Instead, consider using a product specifically designed for beards, like our Beard Balm. This beard-specific product holds and softens your beard, keeping it looking neat and styled throughout the day.

Holding It All Together

Whether you have thick, fine, or medium hair, our men's hair pomade can help you achieve your desired look with ease. Remember, the key is to experiment and find the right amount and application method for your specific hair type and style. And remember, for facial hair, consider using a beard-specific products for the best results. You’ll have perfectly groomed hair (and a luscious beard) in no time! 

Sources:

Pomade, The New Old Grooming Product for Manly Men | NPR

How To Identify and Maintain Different Types of Men's Hair | Keeps

Hair Type: Everything You Need to Know | Avenue Five Institute

55 Best Medium Length Hairstyles for Men | Men Hairstyles WORLD

Guide On Understanding The Best Hair Products For Men | London School of Barbering