Hair Clay: The Ultimate Guide and Best Products for Men
When it comes to hair styling products, it can be tough to navigate the many options out there—gel, wax, pomade, cream—and let’s not forget about hair clay, one of the newer additions to the men’s grooming game. Over the past few years, I’ve tried all sorts of hair clays and styling products, so I get it—choosing the right one can be overwhelming.
That’s why I’ve put together this guide, which covers everything you need to know about hair clay, from how to choose the right one to how to apply it effectively. I’ll also be sharing my personal experience with some of the best hair clays on the market.
Before You Buy: 6 Things to Consider When Choosing Hair Clay
Finding the perfect hair clay is a bit of a journey, and trust me, not all clays are made equal. Some work better for different hair types, lengths, and styles, so it’s crucial to know what you’re looking for. Here’s a breakdown of what you should consider when purchasing hair clay:
1. Hairstyle/Length
Your hairstyle and hair length are two of the most important factors when choosing a hair clay. Hair clay is versatile and can be used on various hair lengths, but it’s especially effective for shorter to medium lengths. If you’re going for a casual, textured style, or if you have long hair but don’t need a super-firm hold, clay is perfect. For thicker, longer hair, though, you might need a clay with stronger hold to keep everything in place throughout the day.
2. Hold
When it comes to hold, hair clays generally offer a medium to strong grip. This is perfect if you want your hair to stay styled but still have the ability to move it around a bit during the day. Unlike gels, clays won’t give you that rock-hard finish, but they’ll give you enough hold to maintain a natural look without stiffness. Personally, I’ve found that the hold level can vary from product to product, so if you need something really strong, make sure to check the specifics on the label.
3. Finish
Most hair clays provide a matte (dry) finish, meaning your hair won’t look glossy or shiny after applying it. For me, this is a big plus because it gives a more natural, effortless appearance. If you’re someone who prefers a low-shine, textured look, hair clay is your go-to. On the other hand, if you like that slick, shiny style, you might want to try pomades or gels instead.
4. Ingredients
One of the main reasons I recommend hair clays is because many of them are packed with natural ingredients that are actually good for your hair. You’ll find clays that include beeswax, bentonite, lanolin, and a variety of carrier oils that nourish the scalp and add volume. As a rule of thumb, avoid products loaded with parabens and harsh chemicals. You want something that keeps your hair healthy while offering solid styling power.
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5. Clay Content
Since we’re talking about hair clay, it makes sense that the clay itself is a key ingredient. Bentonite clay is the most common type used, and it’s fantastic for adding volume, texture, and drawing out toxins from the scalp. It’s naturally sourced and often found in volcanic ash. Clays tend to work better for shorter hairstyles because they add thickness and body without weighing hair down. If you’ve got longer hair, you might want to stick with a wax or gel for a bit more control.
6. Price
The price range for hair clays can vary, but I’ve learned that you don’t always need to go for the most expensive product to get great results. That said, some premium clays with high-quality ingredients are worth the splurge, especially if you care about keeping your hair and scalp healthy.
The 9 Best Hair Clay Products for Men
Let’s dive into my top picks for hair clays. I’ve tried each one of these personally, so I can give you the inside scoop on how they perform in real-life situations.
1. Baxter of California Clay Pomade
Baxter of California is one of those brands that consistently delivers high-quality grooming products, and their Clay Pomade is no exception. It’s one of my favorites for a lot of reasons. For starters, it gives you a firm, long-lasting hold without making your hair feel rigid. This means you can still restyle it throughout the day if you need to, which is a big win in my book.
It’s packed with natural ingredients like bentonite clay and beeswax, but it also has fennel seed oil, lemon peel, and sage, which are great for hair health. Fennel seed oil, in particular, stimulates hair growth and adds much-needed moisture to your scalp. It also has antibacterial properties, which is a bonus.
One thing I appreciate about this clay is its matte finish. You won’t get any greasy shine here, just a natural, textured look. And if you’ve got unruly or frizzy hair, this product does a fantastic job taming it.
Pros
- Natural matte finish
- Strong, pliable hold
- Tames frizz and adds texture
Cons
- A bit thick, so it can be tough to apply evenly
Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a versatile, all-around great hair clay, Baxter of California’s Clay Pomade should be at the top of your list. It offers excellent hold, a natural finish, and is ideal for anyone dealing with frizz.
2. Layrite Cement Matte Hair Clay
Layrite is a brand that’s deeply rooted in the barbering world, and it shows in the quality of their products. Founded by a professional barber, Layrite’s lineup is crafted by experts who know exactly what men need to style their hair effectively. The Layrite Cement Matte Hair Clay is one of their standout products and has earned its spot on this list for many reasons.
What I love most about this clay is its strength. The hold it provides is powerful enough to keep your hair in place all day long, even through busy, active days. If you’re someone with long, thick hair or if you like to experiment with more extreme hairstyles, this clay will give you the structure you need without any flaking or stiffness.
The matte, natural-looking finish it delivers is another big plus. Unlike some other clays, which can leave behind residue, Layrite’s Cement Matte Hair Clay ensures that your hair looks clean and polished without looking overly styled. It’s ideal for men who want a natural, no-shine look while still maintaining a firm hold.
One thing to note: its texture is pretty thick, so you’ll need to rub it between your hands to warm it up before applying. This is especially true if you’re working with curly or coarse hair, as the clay can take a little extra effort to distribute evenly. However, once it’s in, it holds up against even the toughest styling challenges.
And as a bonus, it’s water-soluble, meaning it washes out easily at the end of the day. Plus, the light vanilla scent is just subtle enough to be pleasant without overwhelming your senses or clashing with any cologne you might wear.
Pros
- Strong, long-lasting hold
- Matte finish with no flakes
- Pleasant, light scent
Cons
- Thick texture requires some effort to apply
Bottom Line
Layrite’s Cement Matte Hair Clay is perfect for men who need a strong hold and a clean, natural look. It works well for thick, long, or difficult-to-manage hair, and the water-soluble formula makes it easy to wash out.
3. Smooth Viking Hair Styling Clay For Men
If you’re looking for a hair clay that’s easy to work with, offers great texture, and doesn’t leave a greasy or shiny residue, then the Smooth Viking Hair Styling Clay is a solid choice. While it doesn’t have the super-strong hold of some other clays, it’s perfect for those who need a lighter, more flexible option.
What stood out to me with this product is its ability to add texture and volume without weighing the hair down. It’s a great option if you have thin or flat hair and are looking to add some natural thickness. It also works well for a variety of hairstyles, whether you want something neat and combed or a messier, tousled look.
One thing I particularly appreciate is the matte finish. This clay gives you that natural, low-shine appearance that’s perfect for casual styles. Unlike creams or gels, there’s no risk of ending up with a slick, shiny finish that can sometimes feel too polished.
In terms of application, it’s incredibly easy to use. It breaks down quickly in your hands and spreads evenly throughout your hair. Plus, it’s easy to wash out, which is always a plus after a long day.
That said, if you’re looking for a maximum hold that will last you for more than 16 hours, this might not be the product for you. It’s better suited for those who want a medium hold that offers some flexibility throughout the day.
Pros
- Adds texture and volume without weighing hair down
- Easy to apply and wash out
- Natural matte finish
Cons
- The scent isn’t for everyone
- Hold may not last as long as stronger clays
Bottom Line
Smooth Viking Hair Styling Clay is a versatile and easy-to-use product that works well for most hair lengths. It’s particularly great for adding volume to thinner hair and provides a nice, natural matte finish.
4. Aveda Men’s Pure-Formance Grooming Clay
Aveda’s Pure-Formance Grooming Clay has earned its spot on many best-of lists, and for good reason. It’s a high-performing hair clay that gives you strong hold while still allowing for flexibility and movement in your hairstyle.
What I love about Aveda’s clay is its versatility. It works well for both short and long hair, and it provides just the right amount of texture without making your hair feel brittle or dry. You can use it to create more complex hairstyles that stay put throughout the day, but it won’t leave your hair feeling stiff or crunchy.
One of the key features is its natural matte finish. It’s perfect for guys who want their hair to look effortless and free of shine. I’ve found that it works particularly well on damp hair, and blow-drying after application can give you even more volume and control.
The hold is definitely strong, but it’s not unyielding. This means you can restyle your hair throughout the day if necessary without worrying about losing shape. While it’s a bit on the pricier side, the quality of the product speaks for itself.
Pros
- Strong hold with a natural matte finish
- Ideal for creating textured styles
- Works well on a variety of hair lengths
Cons
- On the expensive side compared to other clays
Bottom Line
Aveda’s Pure-Formance Grooming Clay delivers in all the key areas—strong hold, natural finish, and versatility. If you’re willing to invest a bit more, it’s worth every penny for the quality it provides.
5. Jack Black Clay Pomade
Jack Black has built a strong reputation for producing high-quality grooming products, and their Clay Pomade is no exception. This product is all about combining a medium hold with a natural, matte finish, making it a great choice for guys who want a more laid-back, natural style.
What sets this pomade apart is its blend of natural ingredients. You’ve got tea tree oil to help soothe the scalp, lavender oil to soften brittle ends, and sage leaf oil to fight scalp irritation. These ingredients not only help style your hair but also promote healthier hair and scalp.
One of the things I noticed right away was the smooth application. The creamy texture of the pomade makes it easy to distribute evenly, and it works well on both damp and dry hair. It doesn’t clump or leave any sticky residue, and it washes out with ease at the end of the day.
While the hold is medium to strong, it’s not as stiff as some other clays. It’s perfect for guys who like to restyle their hair throughout the day. Plus, the scent is subtle and natural, derived from the essential oils used in the formula.
Pros
- Great natural ingredients for scalp health
- Medium hold with a natural matte finish
- Easy to apply and wash out
Cons
- Doesn’t provide as strong a hold as some other clays
Bottom Line
Jack Black’s Clay Pomade is a solid option if you’re looking for a medium hold with a natural finish. The added benefit of healthy ingredients makes it a great choice for guys who care about their hair’s overall health as much as the style.
6. Pete & Pedro Clay
The founders of Pete & Pedro—Aaron Marino and Stephen Posta—have set out with a simple but powerful mission: to help men achieve “good” hair. And believe me, their Pete & Pedro Clay is one of those products that lives up to this high standard.
What makes this clay stand out for me is its ability to add volume and thickness, which is perfect for men with fine or thinning hair. Unlike some other clays that can feel heavy, Pete & Pedro’s product has a lightweight, non-gritty texture that makes it incredibly easy to apply. Even if you’re not a pro at using hair products, this one will glide on smoothly without clumping.
The hold is solid enough to last you through the day but isn’t so stiff that you can’t restyle it if needed. It gives you a matte finish that looks natural, so your hair will have that effortless style without looking overly styled or greasy.
Another plus? It’s paraben-free and formulated with bentonite clay, mineral oil, beeswax, and lanolin—ingredients that help maintain your hair’s health while delivering the style you want. The scent is also something to write home about—it has a masculine, earthy fragrance that makes your hair smell fresh without being overpowering.
This is a great option for guys with shorter to medium-length hair who want an all-day hold with some flexibility. While it might not be the best choice for men with really thick or long hair, it’s a reliable go-to for those looking to enhance their hair’s volume.
Pros
- Salon-quality clay
- Ideal for men with thinning hair
- Lightweight and easy to apply
Cons
- Might not provide enough hold for thicker hair
Bottom Line
Pete & Pedro Clay is a great choice for men with fine or thinning hair. It provides volume, a matte finish, and is easy to work with throughout the day.
7. Krieger + Söhne Premium Styling Clay For Men
Krieger + Söhne, with their warrior ethos, create products designed to meet the high standards of strength and resilience. Their Premium Styling Clay lives up to that warrior mentality by offering a strong, flexible hold with all-natural ingredients.
This clay is formulated with beeswax, which helps deliver the firm hold you need for creating structured hairstyles while still allowing flexibility. Whether you’re aiming for a more relaxed look or something with a bit more edge, this clay makes it easy to mold your hair without stiffening it.
One of the standout features is that it’s infused with natural ingredients and free from parabens and other harmful chemicals, meaning it won’t damage your hair or scalp. This is a great benefit for those with sensitive skin who still want a styling product that performs well.
You’ll also like the versatility. Whether you want a light, natural hold or something firmer, you can adjust the amount of clay you apply to suit your needs. It’s particularly effective for shorter hairstyles but works well for longer hair if you’re going for a natural, textured look.
Overall, the lightweight formula won’t weigh your hair down, which is especially important if you have thinner or flat hair. And it doesn’t leave any sticky residue behind, making it easy to wash out at the end of the day.
Pros
- Strong but flexible hold
- Made with natural ingredients
- Great for various hairstyles
Cons
- Might not provide enough control for very thick hair
Bottom Line
Krieger + Söhne’s Premium Styling Clay is a versatile option for men who want a natural look with plenty of hold. It works especially well for shorter styles and adds movement and volume to your hair.
8. V76 by Vaughn Texture Clay
If you’re like me and prefer a more relaxed, matte finish for your hair, V76 by Vaughn Texture Clay is an excellent option. This clay is particularly great for fine to medium-thin hair, adding texture without weighing your hair down.
What I love about this product is how light it feels in your hair. While it provides just enough hold to keep your hair in place, it still allows your hair to breathe and move naturally. The matte finish gives a natural, clean look, making it perfect if you don’t want your hair to look too styled.
The texture it provides is excellent, making your hair manageable throughout the day without making it stiff. Plus, it doesn’t make your hair look shiny or greasy, which is always a concern with some other styling products. Instead, you get a subtle, matte finish that looks effortlessly cool.
The only drawback I’d mention is the scent. While it has a masculine, woody fragrance, it can be a little strong if you’re used to wearing cologne or other scented products. Additionally, this clay is priced a little higher than other options, but if you have thin hair, it’s definitely worth the investment.
Pros
- Lightweight and won’t weigh down hair
- Great matte finish
- Adds texture and volume
Cons
- Scent may be too strong for some
- Higher price point
Bottom Line
V76 by Vaughn Texture Clay is perfect for men with fine to medium-thin hair who want a natural, matte look. It’s light on the hair, adds volume, and provides excellent manageability.
9. Verb Sculpting Clay
If you’re looking for a clay that strikes a perfect balance between shine, hold, and flexibility, Verb Sculpting Clay is a fantastic choice. What sets it apart from other products is its blend of natural ingredients that not only style your hair but also nourish it.
Verb Sculpting Clay contains argan oil, avocado oil, and sunflower seed extract—ingredients that are known for their moisturizing properties. Argan oil, in particular, is great for protecting your hair from everyday damage while keeping it soft and shiny. Avocado oil adds hydration, and the sunflower seed extract is rich in antioxidants that promote healthy scalp conditions.
In terms of performance, this clay gives you a medium hold with a subtle shine—just enough to look polished without being too glossy. It’s great for shorter to medium-length hairstyles and is easy to apply once warmed between your hands.
While the hold isn’t as strong as some other clays on this list, it’s definitely enough for men with medium to short hair who want a clean, natural finish. Just be sure to blow-dry the product for a few seconds before applying, as it’s a bit on the thicker side.
Pros
- Natural ingredients that benefit hair health
- Subtle shine and medium hold
- Provides great texture and hydration
Cons
- Thick texture requires blow-drying before application
- Not suitable for thicker, longer hairstyles
Bottom Line
Verb Sculpting Clay is a great option for men who want a product that not only styles but also nourishes their hair. Its blend of natural ingredients makes it perfect for those looking for healthier hair with a polished, subtle shine.
Applying Hair Clay for Men (A Simple, Illustrated Guide)
Getting the basics right can make all the difference, and that’s especially true when it comes to applying hair clay. If you’ve ever felt like your hair didn’t quite turn out as planned, following a few simple tips can elevate your style.
Here’s a quick guide on how to properly apply hair clay for the best results:
1. A Little Goes a Long Way
One of the great things about hair clay is that you don’t need a lot to get a strong hold. Start with a small amount (about a pea size) and only add more if necessary. This ensures you don’t overload your hair, which could lead to an undesirable heavy, greasy look.
2. Warm It Up
Hair clay is thick, so you need to warm it up before applying it to your hair. Rub the clay between your palms for a few seconds to soften it and make it easier to distribute through your hair. This step is crucial—don’t skip it!
3. Dig Deep
Unlike some other hair products, hair clay can (and should) be worked into the roots of your hair. Applying it from root to tip gives you a long-lasting hold and helps ensure even coverage for maximum volume and texture.
4. Spread It All Over
Once the clay is warmed up and ready to go, run your hands through your hair to distribute it evenly. Be sure to cover all of your hair strands, from root to tip, for uniform texture and volume. If you’re looking for more lift, try pushing your hair back while spreading the clay.
5. When to Apply
You can apply hair clay either before or after styling your hair. If you want extra volume, some people prefer using a blow dryer after applying clay to lock in moisture and shape. Others choose to blow dry first and apply clay on dry hair to finalize the style.
6. The Finishing Touches
Once your hair clay is applied, you can either use a hairdryer or simply style your hair with your hands. A blow dryer can help set your hair and add structure, while using your fingers can create that perfect, messy texture. If you want a structured look—like a side part—use a comb to put it in place. For an even firmer hold, feel free to add a bit more clay or finish off with hairspray.
Tale of the Tape: Hair Clay vs. Other Styling Products
There are so many styling products on the market, it can be hard to know which one is right for you. Let’s break down the differences between hair clay and other popular products, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs.
Hair Clay
Hair clay is all about volume and texture. The clay—usually bentonite or ozocerite—helps thicken individual hair strands, making your hair look fuller and more voluminous. It typically gives a matte, natural finish and works well for achieving the tousled, messy look that’s popular today.
Clay provides a medium to strong hold that is flexible enough to allow restyling during the day. Most clays contain beeswax, which retains moisture without making your hair greasy, leaving it pliable and touchable all day.
Pomade
Pomade has a long history, especially popular for creating slick, polished hairstyles like pompadours, quiffs, and side parts. Pomades come in two types—oil-based and water-based—with oil-based offering stronger shine and hold. While it offers a sleek finish, oil-based pomades may not be ideal for men with acne-prone skin, as it can clog pores.
If you want a slick, shiny finish and the ability to restyle throughout the day, pomade is a solid choice.
Hair Wax
Hair wax is similar to clay in terms of texture and function. It’s excellent for adding volume and works for medium to strong hold without the shine. Wax is great for the messy, tousled look and offers versatility for various hair lengths.
One key benefit of hair wax is that it usually includes natural ingredients like beeswax and essential oils, making it a good option for those with sensitive skin.
Hair Gel
Hair gel offers a firmer hold than clay or wax and is often used to create stiff, structured hairstyles that last all day. However, gel tends to harden as it dries, and it can leave your hair feeling crunchy or sticky. It’s also not very forgiving if you want to restyle during the day.
If you want a rock-solid style that won’t budge, hair gel is a classic option.
Hair Cream
Hair cream is a good choice for men with fine or thin hair who want a natural look without a heavy hold. Creams provide lightweight moisture and shine without feeling greasy, making them a good option for frizzy or flyaway hair.
Paste
Paste has a medium hold and works well for adding texture and volume. It’s great for men looking for a messy or tousled style. Paste is typically thicker than pomade but provides a lighter hold than clay, making it easy to wash out.
Balm
Balm offers a softer hold than most products and is ideal for taming frizz. However, it can make your hair look greasy if over-applied, so it’s best to use sparingly.
Sea Salt Spray
Sea salt spray is a newer styling product that has gained popularity for creating beachy, textured looks. It adds volume and texture without weighing down your hair or leaving it sticky. Sea salt spray offers a light hold and can be used on wet or dry hair.
How We Compiled Our List of Best Hair Clays for Men
We understand that there are countless hair clay products on the market, which is why we’ve focused on selecting products that work for a wide range of hair types and styles. Our main criteria? Performance. If a product does what it promises—adds volume, texture, and hold—then it’s made our list.
We also looked at real user reviews, ingredient lists, and price points to make sure the products we recommend offer good value and won’t harm your hair or scalp. Additionally, we took into account factors like scent, consistency, and ease of use, because after all, a product should be enjoyable to use.
Conclusion
I’d love to hear your thoughts! Do you have a favorite hair clay? Have you tried any from the list above? Share your experiences or suggestions in the comments below—I always appreciate hearing from you!
