The 6 Best Pomades for Men You’ll Love Using Every Day

In a hurry? Here are our top picks:

 

No matter what type of hair you have, whether it is thin, thick, long, straight, curly, etc., you will definitely need to style it at some point.

Undoubtedly, there are many hair styling products on the market right now to help you do that. But, one of the best is hair pomade.

If you are reading this article, you probably know that and are looking for the best pomades for your hair.

Well, you are in luck!

We’ve researched some of the top pomade brands out there and come up with a list that will help you make your decision much easier.

But we didn’t stop there.

We also provide some buying tips to help you make your choice, give some illustrated guidance on how to apply pomade properly, and discuss how it differs from other products, such as hair gel and hair wax.

Let’s get started.

Quick summary

Before you buy: 5 Things to consider when purchasing pomade

1. The type of pomade

If you want a hairstyle that sticks around all day, pomade is the way to go. It’s the oldest hair product in history, but modern pomades are just as effective as they were in the past. The only difference is that today’s products have more ingredients that give you control over your hair.

Pomades come in two types: oil-based and water-based. Let’s take a look at their differences and why you should choose one over the other.

Oil-based

This type of pomade is the classical pomade that existed for a long time. Its main ingredient is either petrolatum, petroleum, soft paraffin, or mineral oil (Usually the first ingredient on their ingredient list).

• Advantages

The advantages of oil-based pomades are 1) the fact that they don’t get dry throughout the day and thus allow you to restyle your hair if needed, and 2) they provide unrivaled shininess if you are looking for a more shiny look.

• Disadvantages

The disadvantage of oil-based pomade is that they are often more greasy and are more difficult to rinse off.

Oil-based pomades are usually cheaper than water-based, but they can often clog your pores and strip your hair of natural oil.

Water-based

This type is considered the modern age pomade that is becoming more and more mainstream by the year. As the name suggests, their first and main ingredient is water.

• Advantages 

There are many advantages of water-soluble pomades. First of all, you can rinse it off a lot easier, and they are not as greasy.

Less greasiness means fewer chances of acne breakouts or irritations when using it, as well as fewer stains on your pillow.

• Disadvantages

Their most notable disadvantage is the fact that they are a bit more expensive because of their more complex formulations.

Additionally, water-based pomades tend to dry quicker in order to hold the desired hairstyle. This makes it a tad more difficult to restyle them during the day.

2. Hair type and hold

Before you pick out a pomade, it’s important to know that this type of hair product comes in different strengths: light, medium and heavy. Light pomades are good for maintaining your hair’s natural texture, while heavy pomades provide more control for creating formal hairstyles for special occasions.

Another important factor that you need to consider before deciding on your ideal pomade is the type of hold it provides. Pomades come in a variety of holds, such as light, medium, and strong. What you choose, depends on the style you are going for and the type of your hair.

Stronger holds will make your hair stay in place, but they might feel a bit crunchy. However, you won’t have to worry about your style if it’s windy outdoors.

Low to medium holds, on the other hand, might not provide the absolute stiffness that stronger holds provide, but give more flexibility when you are in need to restyle your hair. However, they are not as stiff as stronger holds.

Depending on your hair type, different pomade holds are advisable. However, these are not set in stone.

• Straight hair: If you have straight hair, you can probably use any type of hold. Your decision should be based merely on your hair length.
• Curly hair: If you are looking to straighten your curls, opt-in for a strong hold pomade in order to keep them in place. If you are just going for a curly look that is a bit more tidy and sophisticated, opt-in for a lesser in hold pomade.
• Short hair: If you have shorter hair, a more lightweight, low hold pomade is probably enough to achieve your desired style.
• Long hair: As a general rule of thumb, the longer the hair, the stronger the hold you will need to keep them in place.
• Thick hair: You want to be careful not to apply too much pomade if you have thick hair. Doing so will leave it looking – and feeling – a tad greasy and sticky. Usually, medium hold pomades work great on this type of hair.

3. The scent

Another thing to consider is the scent. You can find options that are unscented and scented. If you wear a cologne daily, it is recommended to choose an unscented or a lightly scented pomade in order to avoid any interference.

Additionally, some pomades have a scent that comes from their natural ingredients, while others include synthetic fragrances.

If you have sensitivity to scents or have an easily irritated scalp, it is preferable to go with pomades that have naturally derived fragrances or are unscented.

4. Shine

Unlike gel, pomade doesn’t leave your locks looking hard and crunchy. Instead, it gives your hair a sleek and shiny finish. If you want to switch up your hairstyle every now and then, pomade is great because there are so many different ways you can use it.

This depends on the style you are going for. If you don’t like a shiny hair look, go for a more matte-looking pomade. If you are looking for a balance, go for pomades that provide a more natural medium shine appearance.

It all depends on your preference.

5. Price

The price is another factor that you need to consider. Pomades are usually priced depending on their type – oil-based or water-based – but also the complexity of their formulation and qualities.
For example, some pomades are versatile and can also be used on beards. While they might be a bit more expensive, you are saving money in the long run as you don’t have to buy a separate beard balm.

Now that we’ve covered some important considerations to keep in mind before you buy, let’s dive into our best pomade for men reviews.

The 6 best pomades for men

1.  Best overall, medium hold, matte: Jack Black – Clay Pomade

What stands out about this pomade

• Matte look
• Unscented
• Medium to strong hold

The best pomade for

People who are looking for the best matte pomade that is versatile.

Overview

Jack Black is on top of our list and not without a reason. It is a brand that is known for its quality and ethos when it comes to skincare and haircare products for men.

Their Jack Black Clay Pomade is evidence of that. It is a water-based hair pomade that is not only formulated with natural ingredients but also is very versatile as it can be also used to style your beard.

Let’s discuss a bit more about its main ingredients: Tea tree leaf oil, sage leaf extract, basil, and green tea extract.

Tea tree oil and green tea extract are great ingredients for your hair and scalp. They moisturize, reducing the build-up of dandruff and dead skin. This helps the hair to grow healthily, preventing it from falling out.

Sage leaf extract is another miracle plant for your hair. It has been used since ancient times for treating hair loss due to its high levels of beta-sitosterol. Additionally, it also helps with hair growth, as it improves the circulation of blood to the scalp which, aids in the regeneration of new hair follicles.

Lastly, Basil is rich in antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it effective when it comes to reducing scalp irritation, itchiness, and flaking. It is rich in nutrients that help strengthen the hair and reduce breakage.

The consistency of this pomade is light and not very heavy. You can easily take out the desired amount, warm it up in your hand, and then apply it easily to your hair. It is smooth and very easy to evenly spread without any issues. It doesn’t feel greasy or sticky after application.

While the manufacturer claims its hold is strong, we believe it is more of a medium hold. However, this isn’t necessarily bad. It can easily hold throughout the day with no issues while also having the flexibility to restyle if needed.

As for the shininess it provides, this pomade gives a matte look that has a subtle natural shine to it. If you are looking for a more shiny look, consider Suavecito Oil Based Pomade in our list. It is an oil-based pomade that gives your hair unrivaled shine. It is important to note that it is a bit greasy, however.

As for the scent, it is almost non-existent. It has a wonderful light citrus scent that comes purely from its natural formulation and can go even unnoticeable. It is free from any synthetic fragrances that might cause irritation which is always a plus for sensitive skin types.

By now, you might be wondering. Is it easy to wash off?

The short answer is yes!

Frankly, you do not need to do anything else other than washing your hair with your regular shampoo like you always do, which is a huge plus.

Lastly, the packaging feels premium, and it keeps the minimalist design that every man loves.

As said previously, an additional benefit of this pomade is that it can be used to style your beard as well. We found it to do a great job, saving you the money from buying an additional beard balm.

Lastly, we’ve found this pomade not to be very effective on very long hair types as it doesn’t provide an absolute strong hold. If you have very long hair, consider getting a pomade that has a superior strong hold, such as the Suavecito Pomade Firme (Strong) Hold.

Our scores

• Consistency: 4/5
• Application: 4/5
• Greasiness: 2/5
• Hold: 3/5
• Restyling: 4/5
• Shine: 2/5
• Scent: 5/5
• Rinsing easiness: 4/5
• Packaging: 5/5

2. Best natural: Seven Potions Hair Styling Pomade

What stands out about this pomade

• All-natural ingredients
• Vegan
• Medium shine

The best pomade for

Men who are looking for the best natural hair pomade that is vegan and cruelty-free.

Overview

You need grooming products that really work, and if they include truly all-natural ingredients, they deserve two thumbs up.

Well, Seven Potions’ Hair Styling Pomade gets both thumbs, as well as a place on our list of best pomades for men.

It is a water-based pomade that contains only natural ingredients such as shea butter, Carnauba wax, sweet almond oil, and avocado oil.

Let’s dive in a bit deeper into its formulation.

Shea butter contains vitamins A, E, and several fatty acids that are vital in providing hydration and shine to the hair. It is a non-greasy ingredient, which softens the hair and repairs split ends.

Carnauba wax protects the skin and adds shine. It has emulsifying, thickening, and softening qualities while also assisting in lengthening the effective duration of many skincare and haircare products.

Sweet almond oil not only helps with hydrating but also promotes hair growth. It contains biotin, also known as vitamin H, which is one of the most important factors for hair thickening.

Avocado oil is also rich in biotin and other vital nutrients, antioxidants, fatty acids, and minerals. Except in helping with hair loss, it assists prevent hair from breaking, as it seals the cuticle cells.

The above ingredients create a light in texture pomade that is by no means greasy. It has a lightweight consistency and feels almost like a hand cream when applied. Because of that, we found it very easy to apply evenly through the hair.

As for the hold, it is somewhere between medium and strong. This means that it is suitable for most hair types, including thicker and longer.

While the manufacturer suggests that it provides high shine, it is more of a medium shine. Nevertheless, this is not a deal-breaker as it is a personal preference.

Restyling with this pomade is doable, but you will find yourself needing a comb if you want to restore the exact volume you achieved before.

One drawback we should mention is the fact that the scent might not be for everyone. While it is not derived from artificial fragrance, it is a bit strong and smells like a cheap citrus lotion. Definitely, the scent is not one that can coexist with your favorite cologne.

While not as easy to rinse off as the previously mentioned Jack Black pomade, it is definitely not that hard. Make sure to thoroughly massage your scalp with your shampoo to completely remove it.

Our scores

• Consistency: 5/5
• Application: 5/5
• Greasiness: 2/5
• Hold: 4/5
• Restyling: 3/5
• Shine: 3/5
• Scent: 2/5
• Rinsing easiness: 4/5
• Packaging: 4/5

 

3. Best strong hold, affordable: Suavecito Pomade Firme (Strong) Hold

What stands out about this pomade

• Medium shine
• Strong hold
• Water-based

The best pomade for

Men who have long hair types and are looking for an affordable pomade that provides a very strong hold.

Overview

Suavecito Pomade is perhaps one of the most, if not the most popular pomade for men.

Suavetico walks the walk with its high-strength pomade that truly works with every hairstyle. Whether you have a slick back, side part, a pompadour, or even a combover, Sauvetico’s Pomade Firme will keep your style in place.

Its main ingredients are glycerin, castor oil, and beeswax.

Glycerin is one of the most effective humectants out there. It prevents moisture from leaving the hair follicles, reducing the chances of flaking and dryness, especially during the winter period.

Castor oil is considered a miracle ingredient when it comes to hair benefits. It is believed to help reduce hair loss while also increasing the blood flow on the scalp promoting hair growth. While there is not enough scientific evidence to support that, a lot of people have used it and are certain about its effectiveness.

Lastly, beeswax soothes the scalp while also moisturizing it. It strengthens the hair while also assisting in keeping your hairstyles intact.

Suavecito Pomade Firme Hold has a thick honey gel texture, but it isn’t overly sticky. Its consistency is smooth and creamy. One thing to point out, however, is that we found it to be a little bit greasy.

Nevertheless, it does come out of the jar easily and spreads evenly in the palms and hair. Generally, we found the application fairly easy.

But what about its hold?

This is undeniably one of the strongest holding pomades you will find. You’ll love the control it provides for sure.

While it does provide a very strong hold, it does make the hair stiff. This means that if you are in need to restyle your hair during the day, you are out of luck.

As for shininess, Suavecito Pomade Firme (Strong) Hold provides a moderate shine that looks healthy and not contrived. It does change to a more matte look throughout the day, however.

Now, let’s discuss the scent.

It has a distinctive masculine cologne-type scent that is invigorating and unique. While it is a bit strong, it is by no means unpleasant, such as Seven Potions. If I could characterize it, I would say it is a combination of woodsy and floral aroma. It is artificially derived, however, so bear that in mind.

If you are sensitive to strong scents, I suggest avoiding this product. You can check out Jack Black Clay Pomade in our list that is almost completely unscented.

The packaging is made of plastic and is decent. What makes it cool is the great skeleton graphic design, but other than that, it just looks like your regular drugstore product. Nevertheless, it makes up for that as it is very affordable.

One thing to note, however, despite it being a water-based pomade, we have found it a bit more difficult to rinse off in comparison to the previously reviewed products.

Our scores

• Consistency: 4/5
• Application: 4/5
• Greasiness: 2/5
• Hold: 5/5
• Restyling: 1/5
• Shine: 3/5
• Scent: 3/5
• Rinsing easiness: 3/5
• Packaging: 3/5

4. Best smelling: Billy Jealousy Devil’s Delight Matte Pomade

What stands out about this pomade

• Amazing scent
• Medium to strong hold
• Water-based

The best pomade for

People who are looking for the best smelling pomade out there.

Overview

Billy Jealousy is a brand that is well-known for the unique aromas in its products. Billy Jealousy Devil’s Delight Matte Pomade is a product that has an amazing scent and is formulated with beeswax, lanolin wax, and glycerin.

As always, let’s discuss its ingredients.

Beeswax, as said earlier, is an ingredient that has a lot of benefits to the hair. It locks in the moisture preventing split ends and, keeps your hairstyle intact. It also strengthens the hair and protects against frizz.

Lanolin wax and glycerin also keep the hair moisturized and soft, reducing dandruff and flaking occurring from dryness.

The texture and consistency of this pomade feel hard at first. Rubbing it in your hands feels like a thicker cream (candle-like). Definitely, Jack Black’s and Seven Potion’s Pomades were easier to spread evenly and apply.

Upon using it, we didn’t find it to leave any greasy residue behind and didn’t produce any unwanted flakes.

The hold it provides sits between medium and strong. If you apply a small amount, you get a medium hold that allows restyling throughout the day. If you use a larger amount, you will get a stronger hold that will make your hair appear stiff and controlled.

But…

If you are looking for shininess, this product is not for you as it provides a solid matte look that doesn’t appear unnatural. If you are looking for more shine, consider Seven Potions Hair Styling Pomade (for medium shine) or Suavecito Oil Based Pomade (for high shine).

Now, let’s discuss the elephant in the room. Its scent.

Billy Jealousy Devil’s Delight Matte Pomade has undeniably the best fragrance you will find in a hair styling product. While it is artificially derived, it is balanced and not overpowering to the nose. It has Billy Jealousy’s signature black pepper & sandalwood aroma, which is not only pleasing but also masculine and refreshing.

Even though it is a bit difficult to apply, to our surprise it washed away fairly easily. Just your regular shampoo wash will do the trick.

As for the packaging, it looks premium and is eco-friendly. Billy Jealousy manages to remove excess air and water from their products, as a result, they have less packaging and weight less. This means less waste and more carbon emission reductions.

Our scores

• Consistency: 3/5
• Application: 3/5
• Greasiness: 3/5
• Hold: 4/5
• Restyling: 3/5
• Shine: 2/5
• Scent: 5/5
• Rinsing easiness: 4/5
• Packaging: 5/5

 5. Best oil-based: Suavecito Oil Based Pomade 

What stands out about this pomade

• Oil-based
• High shine
• Great price

The best pomade for

Men looking for the best oil-based pomade on the market.

Overview

Back to Suavetico again and not without a reason. Their Suavecito Oil Based Pomade is definitely one of the best oil-based pomades you can find right now. Its main ingredient is petrolatum.

While petrolatum is one of the main ingredients in most oil-based pomades, it is a very controversial ingredient in the skincare and haircare industry. It is a highly effective sealant that is proven to prevent water from leaving the hair and scalp. This means it extends hydration and prevents dryness. Additionally, it prevents split ends and makes the hair look shinier.

However, there are some disadvantages to it. It leaves a heavy fill over hair, making it appear greasy and overly wet. Because of this heavy fill, it can also clog pores which, might lead to blemishes and acne. Nevertheless, many have been using it without any of these side effects.

While its consistency is not the softest, it is fairly easy to take out of the can and spread evenly. As it is oil-based, it is a little bit greasy, so make sure you don’t overapply.

If you are a person who likes excessive shininess for your hairstyle, then this pomade is for you. It provides shininess that doesn’t compare with any other option on our list.

The hold is around medium levels and allows you to style your hair as desired. It doesn’t make your hair appear very stiff like the Suavecito Pomade Firme (Strong) Hold which, allows for restyling during the day, if needed.

Some other things to consider.

It has a masculine scent that smells great, but it is a bit overpowering and artificially derived. If you are sensitive to scents, you should probably avoid this one.

Unfortunately, we found that you need to wash your hair at least three times in order to completely get it off. If you don’t get it off completely, you will definitely see some stains on your pillow the following morning.

Additionally, its ingredients don’t offer any benefits to the hair compared to other water-based pomades that contain ingredients such as essential oils or botanical extracts. So bear that in mind.

Our scores

• Consistency: 3/5
• Application: 3/5
• Greasiness: 5/5
• Hold: 3/5
• Restyling: 4/5
• Shine: 5/5
• Scent: 3/5
• Rinsing easiness: 1/5
• Packaging: 4/5

6. Best light hold: Baxter of California Cream Pomade for Men 

What stands out about this pomade

• Light to medium hold
• Natural finish
• Provides great hydration

The best pomade for

People who are looking for a pomade that provides light hold with natural shine.

Overview

Baxter of California is another great brand in men’s skincare and haircare. Its Baxter of California Cream Pomade for Men is a great example of a pomade done right. It is light and formulated with ingredients, such as glycerin, beeswax, and candelilla wax.

Glycerin and beeswax are two great ingredients that their benefits were explained in detail in the review of previous pomades in our list, so we won’t be discussing them again here.

Candelila wax, however, is a vegetable-derived wax that is full of nutrients and is easily absorbed by the skin and hair. It adds natural shine, while also preventing the loss of hydration. Also, it adds thickness and volume.

The consistency of this pomade is light (almost similar to a lotion cream). Honestly, this has the best texture of any other pomades in our review. It doesn’t feel greasy and doesn’t make your hair very stiff. Plus, you can wash it away easily.

Its hold is around light to medium. As it is light, it doesn’t last all day, which is something we expected. If you apply in the morning, it wears off by the late afternoon, and you most probably need to reapply if you are not going home after work.

But as the hold is light, you can restyle your hair easily. As for the shine, it provides a natural finish that is desirable by a lot of men.

Its scent is very subtle but refreshing. It has a masculine citrus aroma that is pleasant and not overpowering.

The only drawback of this pomade is that it is a bit expensive. If you are looking for a more affordable pomade then consider other options. such as Suavecito Oil Based Pomade.

Our scores

• Consistency: 5/5
• Application: 5/5
• Greasiness: 1/5
• Hold: 2/5
• Restyling: 5/5
• Shine: 2/5
• Scent: 3/5
• Rinsing easiness: 5/5
• Packaging: 5/5

Choosing the best pomades

Undeniably, there are a lot of pomades to choose from out there.

While it was impossible to test every single one of them, we tried to provide a list that includes pomades that feature different characteristics when it comes to price, hold, ingredients, etc.

We have also considered their reviews ratings in order to identify issues that we might have missed in our testing.

How to apply a pomade, the right way (A simple, illustrated guide)

Applying shampoo or a conditioner on your hair is easy but applying a pomade… let’s just say that there’s a bit more technique involved.

Not like performing brain surgery kind of technique, mind you, but just enough to make sure the job gets done the right way.

1. Wash your hair

Pomade does adhere best when the hair is clean. If you have time make sure to wash your hair before applying it. Besides, most of us are showering in the morning, anyway.

2. Leave your hair damp

After you’ve washed your hair, pat it dry with a towel before you style it.

Pomade looks best when it’s applied to slightly damp hair. However, you don’t want your hair to be dripping wet.

• What about blow-drying?

Blow drying your hair after applying pomade isn’t required, and the number of guys who don’t probably far exceeds those who do.

A little heat after you’ve applied pomade, on the other hand, may offer volume and extra grip. However, it is not required.

• What about using it on your hair after it’s dry?

No rule says you have to use pomade on damp hair. You can apply it to dry hair as well. However, to get an equal application, rub your fingers through your hair many times.

3. Getting started

Many people recommend starting at the back of your head and working your way forward. Why? Because when you get to the thinner parts of your hair, like the front and sides, you’ll have less pomade on your hands.

Others advise using both hands and massaging the pomade into both sides of your hands as if you were shampooing.

4. How much to apply?

The amount of pomade you apply is determined by your hair’s density. Your hair might absorb more product if it’s thick, curly, or coarse. It should be used sparingly by men with thinner hair types.

As a general rule of thumb, a dime-size amount is usually enough. Make sure you rub it with your palms evenly before you apply.

5. Massaging it into your hair

Concentrate your application of the pomade on the regions of your hair that require the greatest attention. Pull the hair from the root all the way up to the tips with your fingers.

6. Spiking it, slicking it back, etc.

Pomade can be used to achieve a variety of looks.

Put a tiny amount of pomade on your fingertips and apply it only to the tips of your hair if you desire the ‘’spiked up’’ look. Gently tug the tips of your hair in the desired direction using your thumbs and fingers.

If you prefer a slicked-back look, then start combing your hair to remove any knots. Apply the pomade to your hair gently while dragging it to the back of your head. Repeat this process until all of your hair is pointing to the back, and then finish the job by using your palm to smooth your hair back.

Pomade vs. gel vs. wax vs. hairspray

It’s difficult enough to choose the correct shampoo and conditioner for your hair; selecting what type of product you need to hold your hair in place is even more difficult as there are so many options.

Pomade is certainly one extremely solid alternative when it comes to holding, as we’ve explored extensively (and styling). Gels, wax, hairspray, and other products are also available.

Here’s a quick comparison:

1. Pomade

As previously stated, there are two types of pomade: oil-based and water-based.

Oil-based pomade is the original type and made with grease and fatty ingredients to produce shine and hold.

Water-based pomades (also known as modern pomades) are water-soluble, easier to wash out than oil-based pomades, and in general better for your scalp’s health. This is because they typically contain ingredients like beeswax, essential oils, etc., that are more natural.

Pomade is an ideal option for almost all hair types and styles.

If you want a slick and shiny hairstyle, you won’t go wrong with pomade. Moreover, if you’re looking for a stronger hold, pomade is always a good option.

2. Gel

Hair gel is a water-based styling product that is usually not the most natural in terms of formulation. They often contain synthetic polymers, chemicals, etc. Nevertheless, that is not to say that there aren’t some exceptions that use more natural ingredients.

Hair gel is suitable for people who are looking for absolute hold. However, gels dry quickly after application and harden the hair, providing an extremely stiff sensation along with a shiny, wet look.

Gels have a thinner consistency from pomade and waxes, however, they are distinguished as ‘’lightweight’’ or ‘’heavyweight’’ depending on their hold.

While you’ll have to deal with their stiffness, you will surely enjoy the hold they provide. Plus, they can be washed away easily.

Lightweight gels are greater for hair that is thin, while heavier gels are best for thick, curly, or wavy hair.

3. Wax, clay, paste

Wax, pastes, and clays – they’re basically one and the same – have a thicker consistency than other styling products.

When it comes to pomade vs. wax, waxes generally have a less shiny finish that’s ideal for a dry look. Like pomade, waxes don’t flake and are easy to restyle if your hair gets out of place during the day.

Wax is different from gel and pomade, is that it doesn’t stiffen in the hair. It’s also good for any hair length.

4. Hairspray

Hairspray is sprayed onto the hair with a pump or aerosol can. It provides extra shine to your hair and may add volume.

Conclusion

Is there a pomade that you like that we didn’t include in our reviews? Or, do you have comments about any of the products listed here? As always, we welcome your feedback – whether it’s about pomade or any other men’s grooming product.

We’d love to hear from you!