Pomade is a hairstyling product known for its ability to provide a sleek, polished finish with long-lasting hold. Unlike gels or hairsprays that can leave hair feeling stiff or crunchy, pomade offers a more flexible, re-workable hold that keeps hair in place without sacrificing natural movement. It’s often favored for classic styles like pompadours, slick-backs, and side parts, but modern formulations also cater to textured, messy, or matte looks. Whether oil-based for a high-shine, vintage vibe or water-based for easier washout and versatility, pomade is a staple in both traditional barbershops and modern grooming routines alike.
Types of Pomade
| Pomade Type | Hold | Shine | Best For Hair Type | Style Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oil-Based | Strong | High | Thick/Coarse/Curly | Slick backs, pompadours |
| Water-Based | Varies | Medium–High | All hair types | Structured modern looks |
| Wax-Based | Medium | Low–Medium | Medium to Thick | Textured, casual looks |
| Matte | Light–Med | None | Fine or Thinning | Natural, messy styles |
| Clay | Medium–High | Matte | Oily or Fine | Voluminous textured looks |
What are Oil Based Pomades?
An oil-based pomade is a classic hairstyling product made primarily from ingredients like petroleum, beeswax, or lanolin, giving it a thick, greasy consistency and a long-lasting hold. Unlike water-based pomades, it doesn’t dry out or harden, allowing the style to remain flexible and reworkable throughout the day. Barbers often reach for oil-based pomade when crafting traditional, high-shine styles like pompadours, slick-backs, or side parts, especially for clients with thick or coarse hair that needs taming.
In the shop, our barbers will warm the pomade between their hands to soften it before evenly distributing it through slightly damp or dry hair, then use a comb to sculpt the shape with precision. The result is a smooth, polished finish that looks sharp and stays put, even in humid conditions. Just be prepared, it can take a couple of washes to fully rinse out, but the style and hold are worth it.
Best For:
- Hair Type: Thick, coarse, or curly hair that needs heavy control
- Styles: Pompadours, slick backs, side parts, vintage or greaser looks
Pros:
- Strong, long-lasting hold
- High-gloss, classic shine
- Can be restyled throughout the day
Cons:
- Difficult to wash out (requires multiple washes or degreasers)
- Can cause buildup over time
What is a Water-Based Pomade?
Water-based pomade is a modern alternative to traditional oil-based formulas, offering a similar level of control and shine but with the convenience of easy washout. It’s typically gel-like in texture and dries with a firm hold, though some “unorthodox” water-based pomades maintain flexibility and a softer finish. Barbers often prefer water-based pomades for creating clean, structured styles like hard parts, slick-backs, and modern fades because they set firmly and maintain their shape throughout the day. During a cut and style, your barber will usually apply the pomade to towel-dried or dry hair, working it in evenly from roots to ends before combing the hair into the desired shape. It allows for precise styling with a polished appearance, making it ideal for clients who want a sharp look with minimal maintenance. Plus, at the end of the day, it rinses out easily with just water, no heavy scrubbing required.
Best For:
- Hair Type: All hair types, especially fine to medium
- Styles: Structured or modern styles needing a clean look
Pros:
- Easy to wash out
- Wide range of hold levels
- Great for everyday use
Cons:
- Gel types can harden and flake (similar to hair gel)
- May require reapplication throughout the day for hold
What is a Wax-Based Pomade?
Wax-based pomade is a versatile styling product that offers a strong, pliable hold with a low to medium shine, making it perfect for textured, natural-looking hairstyles. Unlike oil-based pomades, wax-based formulas are less greasy and typically lighter, allowing for more movement and re-styling throughout the day. Your barber may choose a wax-based pomade when aiming for styles that require control without stiffness, such as quiffs, messy crops, or layered cuts that benefit from definition and separation. In the barber chair, the product is warmed between the hands to ensure smooth application, then worked through dry or slightly damp hair to add grip and shape. Because it doesn’t harden like gel or some water-based pomades, your barber can easily mold and refine your hairstyle as needed, giving you a polished yet flexible finish. While it might take a bit more effort to wash out than water-based options, its hold and reusability make it a favorite for both barbers and clients alike.
Best For:
- Hair Type: Medium to thick hair
- Styles: Textured, messy looks or natural volume styles
Pros:
- Excellent for restyling throughout the day
- Flexible and lightweight
- Doesn’t harden like gel-based products
Cons:
- Can be tough to wash out
- May not provide the same sleek shine as traditional pomades
What is a Matte Pomade?
Matte pomade is a styling product designed to give hair texture and hold without adding any shine, resulting in a natural, effortless finish. It’s ideal for modern, casual styles where a “product-free” look is desired, especially for clients who want volume and definition without the glossy or greasy appearance of traditional pomades. At the Fade District barbers might reach for a matte pomade when crafting loose, tousled styles like messy quiffs, textured crops, or modern fades that benefit from a dry, clean aesthetic. Typically applied to dry or towel-dried hair, matte pomade is worked through with the fingers or a comb to shape and separate strands while maintaining a lightweight feel. It’s especially useful for fine or thinning hair, as it adds volume and structure without weighing it down. With a strong but touchable hold, matte pomade helps create styles that look relaxed yet intentional, and it washes out easily at the end of the day.
Best For:
- Hair Type: Fine or thinning hair (adds appearance of volume)
- Styles: Casual, messy, tousled styles with low sheen
Pros:
- Natural, dry finish
- Ideal for modern, understated looks
- Lightweight feel
Cons:
- May require layering with other products for strong hold
- Less sculpting ability compared to traditional pomades
What are Clay Pomades?
Clay pomade is a styling product infused with natural clays like bentonite or kaolin, known for delivering a strong, textured hold with a matte or low-shine finish. It adds body and thickness to the hair, making it especially useful for clients with fine, limp, or oily hair that needs volume and grip. Clay pomade has a gritty, dry texture that gives hairstyles a rugged, lived-in look while keeping them firmly in place. When your barber uses a clay pomade, they typically apply it to dry or slightly damp hair, emulsifying a small amount between their hands before working it through the hair to create separation, volume, and definition. It’s a go-to choice for styles that need structure without stiffness, such as messy quiffs, spiked looks, or disconnected crops. Clay pomade also absorbs excess oil from the scalp, helping the style last longer throughout the day. With its natural feel and easy washout, it’s a favorite for both low-maintenance and fashion-forward clients.
Best For:
- Hair Type: Oily, fine, or limp hair needing volume and grip
- Styles: Spiked, volumized, or messy looks
Pros:
- Absorbs excess oil
- Adds body and volume
- Textured, touchable finish
Cons:
- Can tug on dry hair when applying
- Slightly gritty texture for some users
Learn The Right Pomade For Your Hair at The Fade District
At The Fade District, we pride ourselves on using only the highest-end grooming products to deliver unmatched quality and style with every cut. From premium pomades and clays to nourishing shampoos and conditioners, every product we use is carefully selected to enhance your hair’s health, texture, and finish. But our commitment to your look doesn’t stop at the chair—we take the time to walk you through the styling process, demonstrating how to apply product and recreate your style at home. Whether you’re maintaining a fresh fade, perfecting a pompadour, or dialing in a messy, textured look, our barbers ensure you leave confident and equipped to keep your hair looking its best between appointments.
