The 14 Best Hair Products Every Man Needs

Men’s grooming has come a long way. Gone are the days when we only had a handful of options, and today, there are hundreds of products tailored to our specific needs. But when it comes to hair, the abundance of options can feel overwhelming. How do you even begin choosing the right product?

That’s where I come in. After testing a variety of hair products and getting a real sense of what works in different scenarios, I’m here to help guide you through the process. In this review, I’m going to share the 14 best hair products for men, breaking them down by type and helping you find the best option for your specific hair type and style.

And there’s more—I’ll also give you tips on what to look for when purchasing hair products, so you can confidently pick what’s best for your needs. Ready to dive in?

Before You Buy: 9 Things to Consider When Purchasing Hair Products

Choosing the right hair product can be tricky, especially with all the options available. Some guys go for trial and error, while others grab whatever’s cheapest. But I’ve found there’s a better way to make informed decisions, and here are nine key factors to consider when shopping for hair products:

1. The Type of Product

One of the first things I learned is that knowing the difference between pomades, waxes, clays, and pastes can make all the difference. Each product serves a unique purpose and will help you achieve specific results. Knowing what you’re buying is key to getting the style you want.

2. Your Hair Type

Understanding your hair type—whether it’s thick, thin, curly, or straight—will help you choose the right product. For example, I have thicker hair, so I tend to go for clays and pomades that give me strong hold and volume. Knowing your hair’s texture will narrow down your options dramatically.

3. What Style You Want

Whether you’re looking to spike up your hair or keep it sleek and smooth, knowing your desired style helps a ton. This will direct you toward products that offer the right hold, texture, and finish to achieve your look.

4. Hold and Shine

Hold refers to how firm your hair stays in place after applying the product, while shine is how glossy your hair looks. If you’re going for a messy, natural look, you’ll want a low-hold, matte finish product. If you prefer slicked-back, shiny hair, opt for something with high hold and gloss.

5. Ingredients

The ingredients in hair products matter more than you might think. I always look for products with natural, nourishing ingredients—things like beeswax, shea butter, or essential oils. Avoid parabens and sulfates if possible, as they can dry out or damage your hair.

6. Scent

Personally, I like products that have a subtle scent that complements my cologne. But if you prefer fragrance-free, that’s totally valid too. It’s all about finding what works for you.

7. Application and Maintenance

Some products are easier to apply and maintain than others. Pomades and gels are usually easier to wash out than clays and waxes. If you want something quick and easy for everyday use, consider how much effort the product requires to apply and remove.

8. Brand

Brand reputation can be a good indicator of quality, but I’ve found that sometimes lesser-known brands offer amazing results. Still, brands like Jack Black or Seven Potions have a reputation for consistency, so you’re less likely to be disappointed.

9. Cost and Value

Cost is always a factor, but value is what really matters. I’m willing to spend a little more on a product that lasts longer and gives better results. However, there are plenty of affordable options that perform just as well.

The 14 Best Hair Products for Men

Let’s get into the specific products I’ve tested and loved. Here are my top picks across different categories.

1. Pomade – Seven Potions Hair Styling Pomade

I’ve tried a lot of pomades, but Seven Potions’ Hair Styling Pomade stands out for its natural ingredients and versatile hold. With shea butter, sweet almond oil, and sandalwood essential oil, it’s a pomade that not only styles but also nourishes your hair. I love the warm, subtle scent, and the fact that it gives my hair a sleek, retro look without appearing greasy.

It offers a great balance of high hold and natural shine, which is perfect for a polished look. Plus, it’s water-soluble, so it washes out easily without leaving your hair feeling sticky or dry. If you’re looking for an all-around fantastic pomade that’s vegan-friendly and free from parabens, this is a top choice.

2. Wax – Perfect Example: SexyHair Style Control Maniac Styling Wax

Finding a good hair wax that provides great hold and shine without leaving your hair looking oily or stiff can be tricky. After trying several waxes, I found that SexyHair Style Control Maniac Styling Wax stands out. It offers firm hold while still keeping your hair flexible, meaning you can restyle throughout the day without any hassle.

One of the key benefits I noticed is that it adds just the right amount of shine—enough to make your hair look well-styled, but not so much that it looks greasy. Plus, it has moisturizing ingredients like safflower seed oil and panthenol, so it hydrates your hair while also being humidity-resistant for up to 72 hours. This wax doesn’t weigh your hair down and washes out easily at the end of the day. If you’re after a wax that checks all the boxes, this is a solid pick.

3. Gel – Perfect Example: American Crew Firm Hold Styling Gel

American Crew Firm Hold Styling Gel is a game-changer, especially if you’re like me and prefer a classic, firm hold without your hair feeling stiff or crunchy. The first thing that caught my attention was its retro-cool packaging, but it was the performance that really won me over.

This gel provides a firm hold that lasts all day, but what I love most is how it works for nearly any hair type or style. It’s especially great for guys with thicker hair. The gel includes Vitamin B5, which promotes healthier hair growth, so it’s a win for guys dealing with thinning hair too. Plus, it doesn’t dry out your hair like many gels do. If you need a reliable, firm hold with a sleek finish, this is the gel for you.

4. Hair Spray – Perfect Example: SEXYHAIR Big Spray & Play Volumizing Hairspray

When you want to go bold with your hairstyle—think faux hawks or spikes—SEXYHAIR Big Spray & Play Volumizing Hairspray is your go-to. This spray offers not only volume but also a solid hold without making your hair feel crunchy or weighed down.

It’s humidity-resistant for up to 72 hours and gives your hair a noticeable shine, making it perfect for styles that need that extra lift. What stood out for me was how well it tamed frizz, even in more humid environments. While this hairspray might not be for everyone, especially if you prefer subtle styles, it’s a fantastic option if you’re after bold, voluminous hair that lasts.

5. Clay – Perfect Example: Baxter of California Men’s Clay Pomade

When it comes to clay, Baxter of California Men’s Clay Pomade is hard to beat. It offers a combination of clay and beeswax, providing a strong hold without making your hair feel rigid. The hold is firm enough to last throughout the day, but it’s still flexible enough to allow for some restyling if needed.

What I really appreciate is its natural-looking matte finish, which gives your hair texture and volume without looking over-styled or greasy. It’s also a great option if you struggle with unruly hair, as it helps tame and shape your hair without looking like you’ve used a heavy product. Plus, the fact that it’s vegan-friendly and has won multiple awards makes it a standout product for anyone looking for a reliable hair clay.

6. Sea Salt Spray – Perfect Example: Davines Sea Salt Spray

Sea salt sprays can be hit or miss, especially if they dry out your hair. But after testing Davines Sea Salt Spray, I found it offers a perfect balance of texture and hydration. Made with natural ingredients, this spray not only gives you that beachy, textured look but also leaves your hair feeling soft and healthy.

It has a light, matte finish that adds volume and shine without looking greasy. This spray works particularly well for men with fine or thinning hair, giving it the volume it needs to look fuller. Plus, the gentle, natural scent is a refreshing change from the harsh chemical smells you often find in other products. If you’re looking for a sea salt spray that delivers texture without sacrificing hair health, this is it.

7. Shampoo – Perfect Example: Krieger + Söhne Shampoo

Shampoo is often overlooked in the grooming routine, but after trying Krieger + Söhne Shampoo, I realized it can be a game-changer. Infused with tea tree oil, this shampoo goes beyond just cleaning your hair—it gives your scalp a refreshing, invigorating boost that makes you feel energized, whether you’re starting your day or winding down after a workout.

It helps combat dandruff and dry scalp while being gentle enough for everyday use. What I really love about it is how it leaves my hair feeling soft and hydrated without weighing it down, which is rare for a shampoo that’s this effective. If you’re looking for a shampoo that delivers more than just basic cleansing, this one is worth a try.

8. Conditioner – Perfect Example: Jack Black – Nourishing Hair and Scalp Conditioner

Jack Black’s Nourishing Hair and Scalp Conditioner is a product I didn’t know I needed until I tried it. It gives your hair a light, energized feel while providing the nourishment your scalp craves. What’s great about this conditioner is that it doesn’t weigh down your hair, which is a common issue with many conditioners.

The natural ingredients like tea tree leaf oil, silk protein, and green tea extract leave your hair soft, manageable, and full of life. For men with fine hair or frizz issues, this conditioner works wonders without feeling heavy. It’s another stellar product from Jack Black, delivering real results for your hair and scalp.

9. Hair Growth Shampoo – Perfect Example: Revita High-Performance Hair Stimulating Shampoo

If you’re dealing with thinning hair, Revita High-Performance Hair Stimulating Shampoo by DS Labs is one of the most effective products I’ve tried. Formulated with DHT blockers, caffeine, and ketoconazole, it stimulates hair growth while making your existing hair look and feel healthier.

What sets Revita apart from other hair growth shampoos is how quickly it starts working. You’ll notice an improvement in hair texture and thickness after just a few uses. Plus, it’s packed with biotin and other natural ingredients that nourish your scalp. If you’re looking for a shampoo that combats hair thinning and promotes new growth, this is the one to try.

10. Hair Growth Treatment – Perfect Example: Men’s Rogaine

Sometimes, using just a hair growth shampoo isn’t enough to tackle thinning hair. That’s where a treatment like Men’s Rogaine comes in. As someone who’s dealt with the frustration of thinning hair, I found this to be a go-to solution. Clinically proven to deliver results, Rogaine has been a trusted name for those dealing with male pattern baldness for years.

The key ingredient here is Minoxidil, which has been shown to regrow up to 25% more hair. It’s simple to use, too—just a quick application as part of your daily grooming routine. Within 12 weeks, I noticed visible improvements, and the botanical extracts and emollients included in the formula kept my scalp feeling healthy. It also exfoliates your scalp to keep your follicles clean, creating the perfect environment for regrowth. If you’re serious about battling hair loss, Men’s Rogaine is worth trying.

11. Hair Clipper – Perfect Example: Xtava Pro Cordless Hair Clippers and Beard Trimmer

Not all hair clippers are made equal, and after trying xtava Pro Cordless Hair Clippers and Beard Trimmer, I can confidently say that these stand above the rest. What really impressed me were the ceramic and titanium blades—these glide through hair effortlessly, giving a precise cut without pulling or snagging.

With 4 length settings, I found it super easy to get the exact trim I wanted. Plus, the battery life is fantastic, lasting up to 3 hours on a single charge. The lightweight, ergonomic design means you can cut your own hair without feeling fatigued. This clipper comes with all the accessories you need—cleaning brush, storage kit, lubrication oil—and it’s low maintenance. Whether you’re doing a quick trim or a full cut, xtava Pro is a tool that gets the job done smoothly.

12. Hair Comb – Perfect Example: Seven Potions Hair Comb

Finding a high-quality comb can be a challenge, but Seven Potions Hair Comb is everything you want in a styling tool. It’s handcrafted, giving it a sturdy, premium feel from the moment you pick it up. The saw-cut teeth glide through hair without causing any tugging, making it incredibly gentle to use, whether your hair is thick, thin, wavy, or straight.

What really stood out to me was how durable it is. Made from cellulose acetate, this comb is built to last and won’t snap or bend like cheap plastic combs. It’s also anti-static, which means no annoying frizz after use. The slim design and waterproof build make it the perfect travel companion. If you need a reliable, long-lasting comb, this is the one to grab.

13. Hair Dye – Perfect Example: Just For Men Easy Comb-In Color

Hair dye can feel intimidating, but Just For Men Easy Comb-In Color takes all the stress out of the process. I was a bit skeptical at first, but the easy application method won me over. Just comb the product into your hair, wait 10 minutes, and rinse—it’s really that simple. It comes in 11 different shades, so you can easily find a color that matches your natural tone.

The best part? It doesn’t contain harsh chemicals like ammonia or peroxide, which can damage hair. And it’s designed with built-in safeguards against over-coloring. Even if you forget it’s on, the dye stops working after 10 minutes, preventing any mishaps. The results last up to 8 weeks, giving you a natural, grey-free look without much effort. This is perfect for men looking for a quick, easy way to manage grey hair.

14. Hair Cream – Perfect Example: Tea Tree Shaping Cream

Rounding out the list is Tea Tree Shaping Cream, one of my personal favorites for adding texture and shape to hair. This product from Tea Tree Botanicals has a lightweight formula, making it super easy to apply and leaving your hair with a strong hold but without stiffness. The cream has a matte finish, which gives a natural look while still providing the control you need.

The tea tree oil scent is refreshing, with a hint of citrus that lasts throughout the day. What’s even better is that the cream is enriched with botanical ingredients that help invigorate and heal your hair. It’s suitable for all hair types, offering flexibility and texture without weighing your hair down. Whether you need something for everyday styling or just want to add some volume and hold, this shaping cream is a fantastic option to have on hand.

Method to the Madness: How We Chose These Products

Creating a list like this isn’t a simple task, but it’s one I take seriously because I understand how important it is to get the right grooming products for your hair. We sift through numerous products, testing each and every one to ensure that what makes it onto the list truly deserves to be there.

To start, I compile a huge shortlist based on reviews and recommendations from both trade magazines and customer feedback. From there, it’s all about testing each product in real-world conditions. We focus on performance, value, and versatility to ensure we’re giving you the absolute best.

I know it’s impossible to test every product on the market, but this approach allows me to distill my experience into recommendations you can trust. That said, I’m always open to your feedback—so if you feel a great product got left out, let me know in the comments!

What Hair Product is Best for My Hair?

Your hair type plays a big role in which product will work best for you. I’ve learned through trial and error that the right product can make all the difference. For example, if you have thin hair, you might want something that adds volume, like a sea salt spray. On the other hand, if your hair tends to get out of control, you may need a stronger hold, such as a wax or gel.

If your hair is thinning, steer clear of heavy, oil-based products that can weigh it down even more. And if you have oily hair, choose products that won’t add to the greasiness.

It’s also important to consider your style goals—whether you want something sleek and shiny or more casual and textured. Don’t be afraid to experiment a bit. Once you figure out what works best for your hair type and desired look, you’ll be able to build a reliable grooming routine.

Knowing the Difference: The Many Types of Hair Products

Understanding the difference between all the various types of hair products can save you time and money. Here’s a breakdown of the most common categories to help you make a more informed decision.

1. Pomade
   • Best for short and medium-length styles, especially if you want a retro, slicked-back look. Pomades give a high shine but tend to have a lighter hold than waxes.
2. Wax
   • Wax is usually oil-based and offers a low shine, which makes it ideal for men who want a natural, matte finish. It’s great for control but can be harder to wash out than gels or creams.
3. Gel
   • Gel is a classic styling product for men. It provides a strong hold and a shiny finish but can dry out your hair over time if used excessively. Many gels are water-soluble, making them easy to wash out.
4. Hairspray
   • Hairspray is an excellent choice for adding volume to thin hair or holding a particular style in place all day. It’s especially useful for men with longer hair looking for a firmer hold.
5. Clay
   • Clay is perfect for creating a textured, matte look with a dry finish. It’s great for adding volume and thickness, especially if you have shorter hair.
6. Sea Salt Spray
   • Ideal for achieving that beachy, tousled look. Sea salt spray works wonders for thin or fine hair, adding texture and volume with a matte finish.
7. Shampoo
   • A basic yet essential product in every man’s grooming kit. A good shampoo does more than just clean your hair—it nourishes your scalp and promotes healthy hair growth.
8. Conditioner
   • Conditioner helps reduce friction between strands of hair, making it easier to manage and healthier-looking. It’s a must if you want to style your hair while keeping it soft and strong.
9. Hair Growth Shampoo
   • Specifically formulated to encourage hair growth, this type of shampoo often includes ingredients like biotin or caffeine to stimulate your follicles.
10. Hair Growth Treatment
    • For men with more serious hair loss, treatments like Minoxidil (found in Rogaine) are proven to promote hair regrowth and improve follicle health.
11. Hair Clippers
    • Whether you’re maintaining a buzz cut or trimming up a longer style, high-quality clippers allow you to achieve a professional-grade cut at home.
12. Hair Comb
    • A good comb makes all the difference when it comes to styling. Look for one with saw-cut teeth to avoid snagging or damaging your hair.
13. Hair Dye
    • Hair dye can help you cover grey or change your look entirely. Modern formulas are much gentler on your hair and look more natural than older products.
14. Hair Cream
    • Hair cream offers a natural-looking shine and low to medium hold. It’s ideal for taming frizz without leaving your hair looking overly styled.

Conclusion

Now that you’ve got the inside scoop on the best hair products for men, the next step is to try them out for yourself. Whether you’re looking for the best pomade, a great styling cream, or the perfect shampoo, I hope you find what you need to take your hair game to the next level.

I’d love to hear your thoughts—have you tried any of these products? Which one are you most excited about? Let me know in the comments below!