Nowadays, hair pomades are experiencing a second birth. This type of styling product, which was present in the arsenal of every fashionista in the middle of the last century and then lost its popularity, has returned to the shelves of stores and barbershops.
Hair pomade is an effective hair fixer that requires more care than, for example, gel, but also opens more opportunities for a variety of styles, including such haircuts as pompadour, voyage, ducktail, flattop, and any other creative options.
Today we will tell you about the history, types, and rules of hair pomade application, as well as make a list of the most popular brands of these styling products.
What is hair pomade
Hair pomade is a styling product for hair. The word Pomade refers to a substance based on oil, water, or wax, which makes hair more manageable and sleeker. And it comes from the French, standing for an ointment, a paste.
The hair pomade usually contains lanolin, beeswax, or petrolatum (Vaseline analog). In the beginning, various animal fats were used as fixatives, such as bear fats, and even earlier mashed apples. Now, neither the smell of fruit nor its presence in the composition can not be detected. A little later also appeared dyeing pomade for hair.
Such a cosmetic product is most often used for men’s styling, but then it began to gain popularity and girls. The best if you just want nothing to stick out and you don’t have to fix your hair during the day or to achieve a wet hair effect.
A bit of history
Pomade is one of the oldest hair styling products, dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Those times hair stylists made special ointments of bear grease and pig fat, which shaped and shined the hair, and at the same time, as it was believed at that time, contributed to the growth and health of the hair.
At the beginning of the 20th century, pomades appeared based on more accessible materials such as beeswax and petroleum jelly. In the 1920s, the production of styling products gained industrial scale and their popularity continued to grow.
Pomades were also used for the hair styling trends of the 1920s and 1930s, with pictures of movie stars like Cary Grant and Gary Cooper. That’s also when the first popular hair pomade brands appeared, such as Murray’s, Royal Crown Hair Dressing, Sweet Georgia Brown, and Lucky Tiger.
In the 1940s it was mostly short hair and military haircuts (e.g. ‘flattop’), but the youth of the 1950s made pomaded styles one of the main symbols of their new style. That’s when the culture of greasers (from grease – “briolin”) was born: these guys listened to rockabilly music, customized cars, and motorcycles, and wore high hairstyles “pompadour”, “jelly roll” and others.
The images of rock ‘n’ roll stars also contributed to the popularity of elaborate hairstyles. Fans tried to recognize the brands of hair pomades used by their idols and buy the same: for example, it is believed that Johnny Cash styled his hair with Royal Crown Men’s Pomade, while for the attention of Elvis Presley all the major manufacturers of hair styling products of that time fought for: Black & White, Royal Crown, Dixie Peach, Lovers Moon, Slick Black, Murray’s, Sweet Georgia Brown, etc.
In the 1970s and 1980s, hair pomades lost their popularity. Long hair became fashionable, and the most popular styling products were the novelties of the cosmetic industry – gel and hairspray.
Pomades were in oblivion until the 2000s when greased hairstyles became a thing of the past and were no longer associated with boring hairstyles of dads and grandfathers, but with cool vintage style. These days we are seeing a new wave of popularity of a variety of men’s hairstyles, and a resurgence of barbershops, and professional hair cosmetics. Today there are many brands of pomades, and modern technology allows you to control the degree of shine and fixation of your hair.
How to use
Pomade differs significantly from other styling products from strong fixation – gel and hairspray: it does not harden the hair and does not dry it out. And some pomades even have caring properties.
Externally, a hair pomade is a dense, waxy mass designed to texture hair, as well as to give it volume and shape. Classic pomades (oil-based) before using, you should slightly heat with a hair dryer or grind vigorously between the palms. Apply suchpomade should be before it cools. With such manipulation, the product will hold for the longest time.
Rules of Application
Men’s hair pomade is used in about the same way aswax or gel. This styling tool can create hairstyles of different lengths and under all types of haircuts.
Dry your hair with a hair dryer, shaping your future hairstyle with your hands. You can leave the hair slightly damp, and completely finish drying already after the application of the product. Take a little pomade, a ball a little bigger than a pea, rub it in your palms, and then carefully rub it through the hair, not forgetting the back of the head. If you run out of pomade, take a little more product, but never take a lot at once: it is not so easy to remove the excess of this product from your hair.If you’ve left your hair wet, blow-dry it, then apply a bit more pomade, putting the finishing touches on your style.
- For a good and proper effect, apply the pomade on clean hair.
- It is important not to go overboard with the amount of pomade. A small pea of medium or soft consistency will be enough. You can even take less, not all at once. Before applying the product it is necessary to grind it in your hands, thereby warming it up a little. Distribute it through the entire hair, from root to tip, running the strands through the fingers and covering the entire thickness. You can even make massaging movements, like when shampooing.
- You need to create the optimal shape of the hair, then comb through it carefully with a comb, gently laying it out and making a parting for styling.
- If you use a hard type of pomade, which can thickenthe hair instantly, you should use a hair dryer for styling. It comes in handy for warming up the product on your hair.
- To rinse the fixed hairstyle, it is necessary to use special shampoos. The usual shampoo from the store will not cope with this function.
- It is better for men to wash their hair before going to bed so that traces of pomade are not left on the pillowcase. Laundering it from the styling product will be very problematic.
What to choose
There are 2 basic types of hair pomades for men:
- Water-based products;
- Oil-based products.
The first type is considered a lightweight version, it is also matte. The product is suitable for creating complex, unusual, voluminous hairstyles. Also helps hair to add naturalness and neatness without greasy shine. It is much easier to apply than oil-based products. It is more like a wax consistency and fixes the hair better. Even thick, long, curly, and wavy hair is stacked with this type of pomade. And the hair after styling is characterized by a characteristic shine.
Men’s hair pomade is divided into 3 categories depending on the consistency:
- soft;
- medium;
- hard.
For beginners in this business, it is better to pay attention to the first two types. Experienced men or barbershop specialists can choose the latter option, which should be warmed up before application.
Pay attention! If the stunning shine, which gives the pomade, on dark and even blond hair looks excellent, in the case of blondes will look likehair, not of the first freshness. Therefore, men with blond hair need to pay attention tomatte pomade, which also performs well and looks great.
Uppercut Deluxe Pomade
Uppercut Deluxe Pomade is a hair-styling pomade that locks in place even when it’s water-based. The pomade holds all day and does not require correction. Gives your hair a noticeable, but not glossy and not greasy shine. Very economical: it requires a minimum amount of product for styling. Quick-drying on the hair. It has a pleasant caramel-coconut aroma. It is not recommended to change the style during the day. If necessary, use water and a comb. How to Use Uppercut Deluxe Pomade Use on dry hair. Shape hair beforehand. If you want volume, style with a hair dryer. Rub a small amount of pomade into the dry palms of your hands. Do not add water. Apply over the entire length and mass of the hair. It is important that the product is distributed evenly throughout the hair – this will ensure all-day styling durability. Style your hair quickly: Deluxe Pomade dries in seconds.
Layrite Original Pomade
This versatile water-based pomade has a medium hold and a delicate sheen. It lasts all day and rinses off easily with water. Waxes derived from Brazilian palm leaves and charcoal provide a naturally structured style. Ideal for fine hair.
This pomade can be used to create understated, elegant styles as well as bold and disheveled ones. Its texture is quite dense but supple. Pomade gives a slight fixing effect, so it is not suitable for long hair. The pomade can be applied with a comb or your hand.
Pomade is best applied to clean and dry hair. Depending on the length of your hair, take a small amount of pomade and rub it well until evenly distributed. Apply the pomade from the middle to the ends of the hair all over the head, while creating the desired style. For maximum effect, use a comb after applying the pomade.
American Crew Pomade For Hold and Shine
One of the best manufacturers of men’s hair pomade is a well-known company called American Crew. The brand produces quality formulations based on natural ingredients that you can safely use for everyday styling.
There are only five ingredients in the composition. They nourish, give volume and shine, and provide a medium hold. Oil base and glossy finish. Key components of the composition:
- Lanolin (animal wax, petroleum jelly analog) provides staying power and shine;
- sucrose moisturizes the hair.
Dapper Dan Heavy Hold Pomade
Innovative pomade for men’s hair styling comes with the addition of wax. Thanks to such a combination, hair is fixed at a more comfortable and effective level. With the help of such a pomade can simulate the styling of any complexity and with any hair length. The composition of the pomade is enriched with natural oils, which give hair a beautiful shine. The pomade does not stick to the hair and is easy to wash out with water and shampoo.
Reuzel Blue Strong Hold High Sheen Pomade
The pomade has a universal composition, which is suitable for short and medium hair. It can be used by men and women. The consistency of the pomade is medium thick and it fixes even frizzy hair well. The pomade gives a natural finish and barely noticeable shine. The pomade is water-based, which has increased its locking properties, but at the same time, it is easy to rinse off.
Redken Brews High Hold Pomade
The most powerful men’s hair pomade from the Redken Brews line can handle any styling challenge. Maximum hold combined with the easy application: just rub the product in your hands and distribute it on the strands. You may safely use the paste every day if glossy shine and gloss are your best friends. And you can be sure that your hair will hold its shape in all conditions.
Dear Barber Pomade
Pomade is specially created for the most unruly and stiff men’s hair. With a small amount, you can easily style even the most stubborn hair and enjoy perfect styling during the day. The pomade gives your hair a mirror-like shine that will make you irresistible in any woman’s eyes.Create your perfect look with Dear Barber Pomade from the famous British brand specializing in professional styling products. This hair-styling pomade is specially designed for men, because stiff strands need special care. The product helps to style hair with minimum effort and maintains the desired shape throughout the day. The pomade can tame even the most unruly hair of any type.
Perfomen Wild Series Champion Pomade
The pomade is suitable for hair styling of any length, which makes it versatile. American technologists worked out the unique formula of the pomade which is perfect for men’s hair, fixes it, and at the same time gives shine and doesn’t weigh hair down. The composition of the pomade is enriched with natural ingredients that take care of the hair, strengthening the hair follicle. Thanks to it, you will soon notice an improvement in hair structure and a healthy look.
Aveda Brilliant Humectant Pomade
Hair styling pomade has an increased moisturizing property. It will allow you to saturate the hair with the necessary moisture, which improves the structure of the hair. The pomade allows you to securely fix wavy or unruly hair, and at the same time makes it more healthy. The pomade has a light herbal fragrance and also facilitates subsequent combing.
Pacinos Pomade
Pacinos Pomade is water-based, so it is easy to apply to the hair and easy to wash off. It has enhanced locking properties and a pleasant masculine scent reminiscent of perfume. With the help of the pomade, several styles can be done: when the hair is wet it becomes flexible and when the hair is dry it becomes stronger and more resistant. The pomade gives you a glossy shine, which makes your hair more groomed.
Manly Crystal Pomade
The pomade is suitable for connoisseurs of matte “finish”, as well as giving a minimal natural shine. Once applied to hair up to medium length, the pomade has a decent hold for the whole day – hair remains elastic, does not stick together, and during the day it is possible to correct the style. Manly pomade is packed into a stylish glass jar with an aluminum lid, so it is not a shame to take it with you to work to fix or even change the style during the day. All you need to do is to slightly moisten the palm of your hand with water, moisturize it and correct the hairstyle with a comb, and if necessary, add a small amount of more product. The smell of the pomade is soft and unobtrusive, similar to caramel.
Density Material L’Oréal Professionnel
Those who have curly or wavy hair need a men’s hair pomade with texturizing properties. Density Material locks in the shape of the style and just accentuates the texture of the cut. Less frizz, more natural volume and disciplined frizz, moderate hold, natural look – an outstanding result for one can.
Hairkov Ranrous
This ultra-firm pomade helps to create the most fashionable and creative hairstyles. The bright red shade refreshes the everyday hairstyle, delicately tones the hair, and gives a healthy shine. The product provides a long-lasting effect, caring and not damaging the hair structure. The shade lasts until the first wash. The shampoo rinses out easily with water. Apply a small amount to the curls, distribute and comb.
HairKov Grape pomade is a good choice for hair styling. The product has a pleasant fruity scent. The product is suitable for long-lasting styling all day long.
Gunslingers Clay Wax
The pomade contains a small amount of clay in its composition, which increases its elasticity. The pomade allows you to make elastic hair styling, without the effect of “wooden” strands. The pomade is very economical because of its elastic consistency, so one jar is enough for a long time. The pomade is suitable for styling only dry hair and fixes it reliably for the whole day.
Baxter of California Clay Pomade
Thanks to a special paste of the Italian brand Baxter Professional, your curls will become manageable and get the desired shape. The formula of the product is developed based on water, which makes it easy to apply and wash away. It contains special fibers that fix the strands in the desired direction while maintaining mobility. The product’s consistency dries instantly, leaving no stickiness or white residue on the curls.
Baxter of California Clay Pomade is easy to apply to your hair, has a medium hold, keeps your locks firmly in place while maintaining the flexibility of your style, and gives your hair a luxurious matte finish.
Suavecito Pomade Original Hold
Suavecito is a hairdressing pomade from the USA. It is a water-based styling product with a unique scent that is designed to keep your hair in place all day long. Its creamy consistency makes it easy to absorb into your hair and provides a firm hold for a smooth back, pompadour, side parting, or any hairstyle you rock. This pomade is water-soluble and rinses off easily with water, leaving your hair intact. No special shampoos or soaps are required for removal. It dries with medium hardness and medium shine. No flakes or harsh chemicals.
Johnny’s Chop Shop Original Sheen Men’s Hair Pomade
A water-based hardening pomade with a glossy effect. Suitable for all hair types. Makes you look like a real rock star. The water base of the fondant makes it easy to wash away. Contains a blend of active ingredients including jojoba oil, provitamin B5, and glycerin to ensure long-lasting hydration and shine, as well as to prevent hair damage. The caffeine in the pomade will keep you energized for a long time. And how this product has incredibly Cool packaging.
Hairgum Classic Hair Styling Pomade
The flagship product of the HAIRGUM brand. Hairgum Classic styling pomade with coconut flavor allows you to create hairstyles of any complexity. Perfect for the finishing touches to your hair. The formula, which moisturizes the fiber, does not dry the hair and leaves no residue. Gives your hair texture and shine. Hairgum Classic coconut-scented styling pomade is perfect for short hair and Cascade hairstyles. The hair will maintain a structured look throughout the day. Hairgum Classic Styling Pomade is suitable for daily use.
Davines More Inside Forming Pomade
A flawless look depends not only onperfect makeup and well-chosen clothes but also on the hair. Before you leave the house, it’s a good idea to get your hair in order and style it. Depending on whether it will be a trip to the nearest supermarket ora cool party, you can choose the most appropriate version of styling, and use mousse, wax, or hairspray.
For natural styling of short and medium-length strands, the specialists of the Italian brand Davines prepared the shaping pomade for hair More Inside. Invisible product provides medium fixation. It has the effect of memory, thanks to which you can change the style after application. It doesn’t leave a sticky and is visible after application and doesn’t mess up your hair.
Tigi Bed Head For Men Slick Trick
For modern men who love to experiment with the image, a great helper would be Bed Head For Men Slick Trick Hair Gel Pomade from the famous brand Tigi. With this styling product, hair styling becomes a simple process with remarkable results that can last for a long time. Hair is visually transformed, making it soft and manageable, taking the desired shape and gaining an incredible shine.
The compact bottle contains a gel-like product that is very economical despite its small volume. The special formula is based on beeswax and carnauba wax, which guarantees the easy and clear separation of hair, quality, and long-lasting fixation without sticking. The composition is enriched with polymer gloss enhancers, thanks to which a flawlessly glossy finish is possible.
Lavish Care Brown Beard And Hair Shader Pomade
Brown Beard And Hair Shader Pomade is a practical beauty product from the Lavish Care brand. The product allows you to perform medium-hold styling and also gives your hair a rich brown hue. Due to the camouflaging properties of the product, you can effectively mask the gray hair and provide an even tone to the hair.
Apply a small amount of the pomade on your fingers and spread it evenly over the area of hair that needs to be highlighted and fixed. Do not use a large amount of pomade at once, but add as needed. Wash your hands thoroughly after use.
The Bluebeards Revenge Pomade
Many men have difficulty caring for, unruly hair that is difficult to manage. So most men opt for a short haircut and bid farewell to their dreams of sporting beautiful, stylish looks. Thanks to products from the masters of British brand The Bluebeards Revenge, you have the opportunity to create the style you want, while maintaining as masculine a look as before. Special pomade for men’s hair is designed with its structure and all the nuances.Apply a small amount in the palm of your hand, rub until the pomade becomes soft, and then apply it to towel-dried or blow-dried hair, starting from the back of the head. Apply the product to all the hair, so that it is covered evenly. Manage as desired.
Gunslingers Classic Pomade
The British love their traditions. It is important for them to inherit the best from their ancestors and create something entirely new. Gunslingers is the first brand registered by The Vegan Society as 100% vegan. It was created by experienced barbers who set themselves the goal of developing only quality products. And, given their wide range of styling products, they’re pretty good at making it happen. If you prefer the always-current classics,this hair-styling pomade is your choice.
Captain Fawcett Hair Pomade Classic
This delightful hair-styling pomade gives extraordinary shine and lightness to fine, medium, and curly hair without weighing it down. Very versatile, it can be used for a variety of styles, from elegantly slicked back to edgy undercuts. Brilliant with old-school dapper and vintage glamour, this classic pomade is great for adding a daring shine to pin-up kissing curls.
With your index fingers, scoop a small spoonful of Captain Fawcett’s patented pomade from the jar. Warm it by rubbing it quickly between your palms before smoothing out clean, towel-dried hair. To avoid greasiness, start with a small amount of pomade and experiment to find what works best for you. Depending on how thick your hair is and the style you want, you can start at the bottom of your strands. Comb and style to your liking.
Tenax Hair Pomade Strong Hold
If you know how important hair is in shaping a man’s look, then you’ll probably have a good styling product in your arsenal. And no, it’s not just any hairspray that’s used by girls. The Italian brand Tenax has created a special strong-holding, water-based pomade that’s designed specifically for men. Apply Tenax pomade to the palms of your hands and evenly distribute it on slightly damp or dry hair. Use a comb to shape the hair as desired. Wash it off with shampoo.
REF Pomade N°550
The pomades are often thought of as being the province of men. But that’s not the case. If your hair is porous, frizzy, or has a lot of short stray hair, it is possible to pacify them with just a styling product. For example, using pomade can easily make a perfectly smooth ponytail or create a wet effect on curls. Pomade for hair styling from REF will be an excellent solution for creating a strong long-lasting fixation with shining shine when creating classic smooth hairstyles with a glossy look.
Conclusion
Men’s hair and beard pomade is a unique styling product with which you can create complex and creative hairstyles. This cosmetic product is experiencing its second peak in popularity. It was already in demand in the middle of the last century among fashionistas. Now, this fixative is back on the shelves of stores and barbershops.
Unlike gels, pastes, and sprays for styling and fixing hair, pomade does not dry or hardenthe hair or dry it out. Some pomade varieties even care for them gently and produce a toning effect. Its texture is somewhat reminiscent of wax. It can give both shape and volume to your hair.
This styling product is very popular around the world. And here’s why:
- It can help create both perfect styling and thoughtfully sloppy styles.
- Gives your hair a delicate, natural shine.
- Can be used to hold it in place for a long time.
- Gives volume without weighing the hair.
- The natural ingredients in the composition make the hair more manageable.
FAQ
HOW OFTEN CAN I USE HAIR POMADE?
All pomades can be used daily. When applying pomade, focus on your hair while avoiding your scalp where it can stick. After all, you are styling your hair, not lubricating your scalp. Your hair can be healthier if you can take a break from oil pomades or all hair styling products in general.
HOW MUCH POMADE IS NEEDED FOR STYLING?
There are various recommendations for using pomade, and no one-size-fits-all amount that works for all styles. Start with a small amount and add more as needed. It’s much easier to add more pomade than it is to wash your hair to remove it. The main advantage: a small amount of pomade is enough. Main disadvantage: if there is a lot of product, your hair will look greasy and unkempt. Sometimes you may need to wash your hair several times to wash it off completely.