Quick comparison
| Product | Hold | Shine | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clay | Strong | Matte | Textured crops, messy styles, fine hair |
| Paste | Medium | Low | Everyday natural styles |
| Wax | Medium | Low to medium | Short styles, piecey texture |
| Pomade | Medium to strong | High | Slick backs, side parts, classic looks |
| Gel | Strong | High (wet look) | Firm hold, curls |
| Sea salt spray | Light | Matte | Volume and texture before blow drying |
How to apply
- Start with a small amount, about the size of a fingertip.
- Rub it between your palms until warm and spread thin.
- Work it in from the back to the front, through the roots first.
- Shape with your fingers, then add a little more only if needed.
Matching product to your cut
- Textured crop: matte clay
- Fade with length on top: clay or paste
- Side part or slick back: pomade
- Curly hair: curl cream or light gel (see our curly hair guide)
- Fine or flat hair: sea salt spray, then a little clay
Water-based or oil-based pomade?
Water-based pomades wash out easily and can be restyled with water. Oil-based pomades hold longer and give more shine but take more effort to wash out. For most people, water-based is the easier choice.
How much to use
| Hair length | Amount |
|---|---|
| Short (crop, short sides) | About the size of a pea |
| Medium (5 to 10 cm on top) | About the size of a fingertip |
| Longer or thick hair | Start with a fingertip and add more if needed |
It is always easier to add more than to take it out.