As a classic hair styling product, hair pomade is used to achieve tons of different hairstyles; from a messy, lived-in look to a slick backed look (think the quiff and the pompadour) that we also happen to think is a must-have product for men. Typically greasy or waxy, hair pomade gives the appearance of a slicked-back hairstyle that can make your hair look shiny and well-coiffed. Plus, it has some serious staying power that won’t cause your hair to dry out! Awesome, right!? Read on to discover more about the best pomade for men’s hair and how it can work for your hair.
Hair Pomade for Men
Step 1: Start with dry hair.
After you wash and condition your hair, blow-dry or air-dry your hair until it is at least 80% dry. Brush or comb your hair to ensure that it’s smooth and knot-free.
Step 2: Figure out what style you are going for.
Do you want a slicked backed look or a messy bedhead? Figuring out your style will ensure that you are using the right pomade hair . Those that want a slick hair look, try some of the Bed Head for Men by TIGI Slick Trick Firm Hold Pomade. If you’re going for a messy (yet controlled) look, opt for the Dove Men+Care Defining Pomade. If you’re going for a combo style (think half quiff, half messy), the Axe Clean Cut Look: Classic Pomade is probably best for you.
Step 3: Apply the pomade.
Depending on the look, apply a dime-sized amount of the pomade to palms of the hands – it is always best to start with less and add more if needed (a little pomade really goes a long way). Rub the palms and the fingers together, making sure the product is evenly distributed onto your hands. Then, apply the pomade to your hair. As a rule of thumb, start by apply some of the pomade to the roots and move along the strands to the ends (try not to get the pomade on your scalp, unless you’re going for a greasy look!). Add some of the product to the sides of your head, and then mov on top of the head for a slicked back look. This will evenly distribute the product throughout the hair. Mess the tips of the hair using your fingertips for a more lived-in look.
Step 4: Use a comb.
Alternatively, you use a comb to make a super-slick side part. Opt for side you prefer as you use your comb to tame your hair (and hair frizz and flyaways). Ed’s tip: remember you can always use more hair pomade for men if needed, so don’t over do it.
Step 5: Wash and condition before you apply again.
When using hair pomade, you’ll find that you need to wash and condition your hair everyday. A nourishing shampoo and conditioner like some of the Dove Men+Care Oxygen Fresh & Clean Fortifying 2-in-1 Shampoo + Conditioner will give your hair a deep clean as it washes away dirt and grease.
Editors’ Picks: Best Pomades for Men
Shine and Control
Give the long top of your dapper undercut or your comb-over some control.Axe Clean Cut Look Classic Pomade may be the OG of pomades for many when it comes to creating structured styles in minutes. Music to your ears if you’re always mad-dashing out the door, right? Add this to your hair to give your style some shine and control. This classic pomade provides a medium hold that’s ideal for short to mid-length hair. Stay sharp, fellas!
Sleek and Shiny
Does your quiff need some shine? Grab this pomade for a neat finishing touch to your look. Ideal for short to medium-length hair, Axe Smooth Look Shine Pomade can add shine to straight and sleek hairstyles. This formula holds like their classic variation but also adds volume and the right amount of shine.
Active
Give your city slicker-inspired hairstyle some definition and smoothness. The Dove Men+Care Defining Pomade will help you define your style as it provides a light hold without leaving your locks looking or feeling greasy. This also keeps hair neat and in place all day. Perfect for the active guy on the go, and fits your routine well, from your morning workout straight to the office. Add a shiny finish to your hairstyle with this one!
Touchable Hold
If you’re channeling your old man these days with a nice, clean side part or a college contour, you may want to give it a finishing touch with a styler, like the Suave Classic Styling Pomade that provides some serious definition. From the Suave Heritage Edition, this pomade can give your hair some hold without that crunchy feeling. The soft consistency of this pomade gives you the ability to mold your style and create definition while also creating texture. Thick and curly hair types can benefit from its smooth finish due to its ability to define your hairstyle and texture.
Firm and Flexible Hold
If you’re rocking a long, pushed-back style or a faux hawk-inspired front fringe, the hold on those strands better be strong before your style gets blown with the wind. For a firm hold that still allows long-lasting malleability (in case you want to touch it up at some point in the day) in your hairstyle, this one may need to find its way into your medicine cabinet. Bed Head by TIGI for Men Slick Trick Firm Hold Pomade gives firm control and boosts shine. Formulated with a mix of semi-solid ingredients, it leaves the hair easy to manage and flexible enough to style. Finish off your hairstyle with a greaseless, polished and sleek feel with this styler. If you want some added panache, cocktail this bad boy with other stylers from Bed Head. Now you know all about the pomade hair for men. Looking for more stylers? Check out how to use men’s hair gel.
