When it comes to styling hair, no matter if it’s thick, thin, long, curly, or straight, we all need a reliable product to help us achieve our desired look. With so many options on the market, finding the right one can be overwhelming. But after testing a wide range of products, I’ve discovered that one of the most versatile and effective choices is hair pomade.
If you’re here, you’re probably already aware of pomade’s reputation and are looking for the best one to suit your hair. Well, you’re in luck! I’ve personally tried and tested several top brands and put together this guide to help you find the perfect pomade for your needs. But I didn’t stop there—I’ve also included some buying tips, an illustrated guide on how to apply pomade, and a breakdown of how pomade compares to other popular products like gels and waxes.
Let’s dive in!
Before you buy: 5 things to consider when purchasing pomade
1. The type of pomade
If you’re looking for a hairstyle that lasts all day, pomade is the way to go. Pomade is one of the oldest styling products, and while its formula has evolved over time, its ability to control hair remains unmatched. Today’s pomades come in two main types: oil-based and water-based. Both have their pros and cons, and after using both types, I’ve found them effective depending on the style and occasion.
Oil-based:
Traditional oil-based pomades are made with ingredients like petrolatum or mineral oil. I’ve found that they give an unbeatable shine and allow you to restyle your hair throughout the day without losing hold.
Pros:
- Doesn’t dry out, so you can restyle whenever you want.
- Provides a slick, shiny finish.
Cons:
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- They can feel greasy and are harder to wash out.
- May clog pores if used excessively and can strip natural oils from your hair.
Water-based:
Water-based pomades are a modern alternative that’s becoming increasingly popular. As the name suggests, they’re easier to rinse out and tend to feel less greasy on the hair.
Pros:
- Easy to wash out and less greasy.
- Less likely to cause acne or skin irritation.
Cons:
- Tends to dry quicker, making it a bit harder to restyle during the day.
- Generally more expensive due to the more complex formulations.
2. Hair type and hold
From my experience, choosing the right pomade also depends on your hair type and the amount of hold you need. Whether you’re looking for a slick, formal style or a more natural, textured look, pomades come in light, medium, and strong holds.
- Straight hair: You can usually get away with any hold, but the length of your hair will guide your choice.
- Curly hair: If you’re aiming to straighten your curls, a strong-hold pomade is your best bet. For maintaining your natural curls with more structure, go for a lighter hold.
- Short hair: A lightweight, low-hold pomade usually works well for achieving a clean, polished look.
- Long hair: The longer your hair, the stronger the hold you’ll need to keep it in place.
- Thick hair: Be cautious not to apply too much product; a medium hold typically works best to avoid a greasy or sticky feel.
3. The scent
Scent is an important factor to consider. If you wear cologne regularly, I recommend going with an unscented or lightly scented pomade to avoid clashing. Some pomades contain synthetic fragrances, while others rely on natural ingredients to produce their scent. For those with sensitive skin or scalps, a pomade with natural fragrances or an unscented option is the way to go.
4. Shine
Unlike gels, pomades give your hair a sleek, shiny finish without leaving it feeling crunchy or hard. Depending on the style you’re after, you can choose pomades that offer varying levels of shine—from a high-gloss finish to a more matte, natural look.
If you prefer a subtle shine, go for a product that offers medium shine. If you want your hair to really stand out, opt for a high-shine pomade. On the other hand, if you’re looking for something more understated, a matte-finish pomade will give you that textured, low-shine look.
5. Price
Lastly, price is always a consideration. Pomades come in a wide range of prices depending on the ingredients and formulation. Oil-based pomades are usually more affordable, but water-based versions tend to be more expensive due to their complex ingredients. Some pomades are even versatile enough to be used on both your hair and beard, which can save you money if you’re looking for multi-use products.
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 looking for a versatile matte pomade that works for both hair and beard.
Overview:
Topping the list is Jack Black’s Clay Pomade, and it’s not hard to see why. Jack Black is renowned for its commitment to high-quality skincare and haircare products for men, and this pomade is a perfect example of their excellence. It’s a water-based pomade, formulated with natural ingredients, which not only styles hair but can also be used for beard grooming.
The key ingredients include tea tree leaf oil, sage leaf extract, basil, and green tea extract, all of which promote healthier hair. Tea tree oil and green tea extract moisturize the scalp, reducing dandruff and dead skin buildup, which is important for hair growth. Sage leaf extract helps boost circulation to the scalp, encouraging new hair follicles, while basil’s antibacterial properties combat scalp irritation and flakiness.
The texture of this pomade is light, making it easy to scoop, warm in your hands, and apply evenly. It’s smooth and doesn’t feel greasy or sticky after application. While the brand claims it offers strong hold, I found it to provide more of a medium hold, which is great for maintaining a natural style with flexibility for restyling throughout the day.
For those who prefer a matte look, this pomade delivers a subtle natural shine, though nothing too glossy. If you’re after something with more shine, Suavecito Oil Based Pomade (also on this list) might be more your speed. That one, however, does come with a bit of greasiness.
The scent of Jack Black’s pomade is incredibly light and comes from the natural ingredients. There are no synthetic fragrances here, making it ideal for sensitive skin or those who prefer a more neutral scent. As for washing it out, it’s as easy as using your regular shampoo.
This pomade also doubles as a beard styling product, which is a great bonus for those of us who want to save a little money on beard-specific balms.
However, if you have very long hair, you may want to consider a stronger hold product, such as Suavecito Firme Hold Pomade, since this one might not provide enough hold for extended styles.
The good:
- Easy to wash out
- Medium hold
- Matte look
- Light, unnoticeable citrus scent
The bad:
- Not as effective on longer hairstyles
- A bit on the pricier side
Our scores:
- Consistency: 4/5
- Application: 4/5
- Greasiness: 2/5
- Hold: 3/5
- Restyling: 4/5
- Shine: 2/5
- Scent: 5/5
- Rinsing ease: 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 looking for a vegan, cruelty-free pomade with natural ingredients.
Overview:
If you’re someone who values natural, ethical grooming products, Seven Potions Hair Styling Pomade is definitely worth your attention. It’s a water-based pomade made from all-natural ingredients like shea butter, Carnauba wax, sweet almond oil, and avocado oil.
These ingredients offer great benefits for your hair. Shea butter provides hydration and shine, Carnauba wax adds thickness and protection, and both sweet almond oil and avocado oil promote hair growth and help reduce breakage. The result is a pomade that’s non-greasy, easy to apply, and leaves hair looking healthy.
The consistency of Seven Potions is lightweight, almost like a hand cream, which made it very easy to spread evenly through the hair. I found the hold to be between medium and strong, making it suitable for most hair types, including thicker and longer hair. However, while the brand claims it offers high shine, I found it to be more of a medium shine.
Restyling is possible, but you may need a comb to restore your style to its original volume. One drawback I noticed was the scent. While derived from natural ingredients, the fragrance is a bit strong and has a citrusy lotion-like quality that might not appeal to everyone. It also doesn’t mix well with cologne, so keep that in mind if you wear one regularly.
Rinsing this pomade out isn’t too difficult, though it does require a bit more effort than Jack Black’s Clay Pomade. Make sure to massage your scalp thoroughly with shampoo to remove all residue.
The good:
- Medium to strong hold
- Lightweight, non-greasy texture
- Provides a medium shine
The bad:
- Scent can be too strong for some
Our scores:
- Consistency: 5/5
- Application: 5/5
- Greasiness: 2/5
- Hold: 4/5
- Restyling: 3/5
- Shine: 3/5
- Scent: 2/5
- Rinsing ease: 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 with longer hair who need an affordable pomade with a very strong hold.
Overview:
Suavecito Pomade Firme (Strong) Hold is one of the most popular pomades on the market, and for good reason. It offers a strong hold that works for a variety of hairstyles—from slick backs and side parts to pompadours and combovers. After testing it, I can confidently say that it holds up under all-day wear.
Its main ingredients include glycerin, castor oil, and beeswax. Glycerin helps retain moisture in your hair, which is key to preventing flakiness and dryness, especially during colder months. Castor oil is widely known for its potential to reduce hair loss and promote hair growth, though results may vary. Beeswax locks in moisture, helping to strengthen hair and protect it from frizz.
Suavecito Firme’s consistency is thick like honey but surprisingly easy to spread through your hair. It has a smooth, creamy texture that isn’t too sticky, though it does leave a slightly greasy feel, especially if you overapply. Once in the hair, though, it combs easily and offers maximum styling control.
This is one of the strongest-hold pomades I’ve tested, making it ideal if you need your hairstyle to stay put all day. However, this strong hold means that restyling your hair is almost impossible once it sets, and your hair may feel stiff as a result.
Shine-wise, Suavecito Firme provides a moderate shine that looks healthy and natural, but it does fade to a more matte finish over the course of the day. The scent is another talking point—it has a masculine cologne-like aroma that’s woodsy and floral, which I found invigorating. However, if you’re sensitive to strong scents, it may be a bit much.
While the packaging is simple, featuring a cool skeleton graphic, it doesn’t feel particularly premium. That said, it’s extremely affordable, which more than makes up for the basic packaging. The only real downside I found is that, even though it’s water-based, it takes a little more effort to wash out compared to other pomades.
The good:
- Affordable and effective for strong hold
- Easy to comb for maximum styling control
- Provides a healthy, natural shine
- Doesn’t leave hair overly greasy
The bad:
- Strong scent may not appeal to everyone
- Hair becomes stiff after setting, making restyling difficult
- Contains parabens
Our scores:
- Consistency: 4/5
- Application: 4/5
- Greasiness: 2/5
- Hold: 5/5
- Restyling: 1/5
- Shine: 3/5
- Scent: 3/5
- Rinsing ease: 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 want a pomade that smells incredible while providing a reliable hold.
Overview:
Billy Jealousy Devil’s Delight Matte Pomade is well-known for its standout fragrance, and after using it, I can say it lives up to the hype. Formulated with beeswax, lanolin wax, and glycerin, it provides a healthy hold while leaving hair soft and moisturized.
The beeswax locks in moisture and prevents split ends, keeping hairstyles in place. Lanolin wax and glycerin also work to soften hair, reducing dandruff and flaking caused by dryness. Despite its initial hard texture, once you warm it in your hands, the pomade spreads fairly easily through your hair. It doesn’t leave a greasy residue, which is a plus.
This pomade offers a hold that ranges from medium to strong, depending on how much you apply. A small amount allows for flexible, restylable hair, while a larger amount locks your style in place. If you’re after a shiny look, however, this won’t be the right choice—Devil’s Delight has a matte finish that looks natural and non-greasy.
Now, onto its best feature: the scent. This pomade has an incredible black pepper and sandalwood aroma that is both masculine and refreshing. It’s noticeable without being overpowering and adds a unique touch to your grooming routine.
Even though it’s a bit harder to apply than others, it washes out relatively easily with just a regular shampoo wash. The eco-friendly packaging is another highlight, as it minimizes waste while still looking and feeling premium.
The good:
- Consistent hold for various styles
- Non-greasy, natural matte look
- Adds volume and control
- Amazing black pepper & sandalwood scent
The bad:
- A bit harder to apply due to its thicker texture
Our scores:
- Consistency: 3/5
- Application: 3/5
- Greasiness: 3/5
- Hold: 4/5
- Restyling: 3/5
- Shine: 2/5
- Scent: 5/5
- Rinsing ease: 4/5
- Packaging: 5/5
5. Best oil-based: Suavecito Oil Based Pomade
What stands out about this pomade:
- Oil-based
- High shine
- Affordable price
The best pomade for:
Men looking for a high-shine, oil-based pomade that’s effective and affordable.
Overview:
Suavecito strikes again with their Oil-Based Pomade, a strong contender for anyone who prefers oil-based products. The main ingredient here is petrolatum, a highly effective sealant that locks in moisture and prevents dryness, resulting in a shiny, polished finish.
While petrolatum can clog pores for some, it’s a widely used ingredient in hair products for its hydrating and protective qualities. However, it does give hair a heavier, greasy feel if you use too much. Its thicker consistency is easy enough to scoop out of the jar and spread through your hair, but it’s greasier than water-based options, so you’ll need to be careful not to overapply.
Suavecito’s oil-based formula delivers a medium hold that’s versatile enough for most hair types, allowing you to restyle throughout the day without stiffness. And if you love a shiny hairstyle, this pomade gives unparalleled gloss.
It has a masculine scent that’s appealing but can be a little too strong for some. The biggest downside is that, as with many oil-based products, washing it out requires some extra effort—expect to shampoo your hair at least a couple of times to get it all out.
The good:
- Medium hold suitable for most hair types
- High shine for a polished look
- Affordable price point
- Classic masculine scent
The bad:
- Greasy texture if overapplied
- Can be difficult to rinse out
- Strong scent may be overpowering for some
Our scores:
- Consistency: 3/5
- Application: 3/5
- Greasiness: 5/5
- Hold: 3/5
- Restyling: 4/5
- Shine: 5/5
- Scent: 3/5
- Rinsing ease: 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:
Men looking for a pomade that offers a light hold with a natural, effortless shine.
Overview:
Baxter of California is a highly respected name in men’s grooming, and their Cream Pomade for Men continues to uphold that reputation. This pomade is light, smooth, and formulated with beneficial ingredients like glycerin, beeswax, and candelilla wax. These components ensure your hair gets the moisture it needs while also keeping it styled.
While we’ve already touched on the benefits of glycerin and beeswax earlier in this list, it’s worth highlighting candelilla wax here. Derived from plants, candelilla wax is packed with nutrients that nourish your hair. It’s easily absorbed, helps retain moisture, and adds natural shine and thickness without greasiness.
The consistency of this pomade is fantastic—it’s lightweight, almost like a lotion, and easily spreads through the hair without leaving any residue. I found it to be the easiest pomade to apply among the products I’ve tested, and it washes out effortlessly. It doesn’t leave your hair stiff, allowing for easy restyling throughout the day.
As for the hold, it’s definitely on the lighter side, which means it’s best for those who want a more natural, flexible style. It lasts for several hours but tends to wear off by the late afternoon, so you may need to reapply if you’re going out after work. This light hold also makes it great for men who prefer a more casual, laid-back look.
The finish it provides is subtle, with a natural shine that many men prefer. It’s perfect if you want your hair to look styled without appearing overdone. The scent is equally subtle, offering a pleasant citrus aroma that’s refreshing but not overpowering.
The only downside is the price—it’s on the more expensive side compared to other pomades. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, Suavecito Oil-Based Pomade could be a better fit, though it offers a very different styling experience.
The good:
- Non-greasy, lightweight formula
- Natural finish with a light hold
- Creamy texture makes it easy to apply and rinse out
The bad:
- On the expensive side
Our scores:
- Consistency: 5/5
- Application: 5/5
- Greasiness: 1/5
- Hold: 2/5
- Restyling: 5/5
- Shine: 2/5
- Scent: 3/5
- Rinsing ease: 5/5
- Packaging: 5/5
Choosing the best pomades
With so many pomades on the market, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. Our goal was to create a well-rounded list featuring products that cater to different preferences—whether you need a strong hold, a natural look, or something budget-friendly.
We selected these pomades based on several factors: the ingredients used, the quality of the hold and shine, price, and, of course, user reviews. We also took into account any potential issues that may arise with each product, so you can be fully informed before making a choice.
How to apply pomade the right way (A simple, illustrated guide)
Applying pomade correctly can make all the difference in achieving your desired hairstyle. It’s not rocket science, but there’s a bit of technique involved to ensure you get the best results.
1. Wash your hair
For the best results, always apply pomade to clean hair. If you have time, make sure to wash your hair before applying. This will help the pomade adhere better and ensure your hair looks its best.
2. Leave your hair damp
After washing, pat your hair dry with a towel, but leave it slightly damp. Pomade spreads more evenly on damp hair, giving you better control and avoiding clumps. However, avoid applying it to soaking wet hair.
3. Start applying
Rub a dime-sized amount of pomade between your palms to distribute it evenly. Start at the back of your head and work your way forward. This helps prevent using too much product on the thinner parts of your hair, like the front and sides. You can also use both hands to massage the pomade into your hair, ensuring even distribution.
4. Adjust the amount based on hair density
If you have thick or curly hair, you may need to use a little more pomade. However, if your hair is fine or thin, start with a small amount and add more if needed. The goal is to avoid overapplying, which can make your hair look greasy.
5. Style as desired
Once the pomade is applied, you can style your hair however you like. For a spiked look, apply a bit more pomade to your fingertips and work it into the tips of your hair. For a slicked-back style, comb your hair to remove knots, then apply the pomade while smoothing it back with your palms.
Pomade vs. gel vs. wax vs. hairspray
Choosing the right product to style your hair can be tricky with so many options available. Pomade, gel, wax, and hairspray each offer different benefits depending on your hair type and the style you’re trying to achieve.
1. Pomade
Pomades, whether oil- or water-based, are ideal for styles that require flexibility and shine. They don’t stiffen your hair like gel does, making them a great choice for sleek, polished looks. Pomade works well for most hair types and lengths.
2. Gel
Gel offers an unbeatable hold but at the cost of flexibility. It hardens quickly after application, giving your hair a shiny, stiff finish. Gel is a great option if you need your hairstyle to stay in place all day, but it’s not ideal for restyling.
3. Wax, clay, paste
Wax-based products are thicker and provide a more textured look with less shine. They’re ideal for dry, matte styles and can be restyled throughout the day. Wax is good for all hair lengths and offers a lot of versatility.
4. Hairspray
Hairspray is perfect for adding volume and extra shine. It’s usually applied after styling to lock everything in place, but it doesn’t offer the same flexibility as pomade or wax.
Conclusion
Do you have a favorite pomade that wasn’t featured in this list? Or, do you have thoughts on any of the products we reviewed? We always appreciate your feedback and love hearing about new products or experiences you’ve had. Feel free to share your thoughts with us—we’d love to hear from you!
