It goes without saying that it’s undeniably something stunning about a well-styled head of hair, whether it is a slick-back or a voluminous pompadour, polished hairstyles are coming in at a serious fast pace.
But behind every slick style, there is one not-so-secret weapon: pomade.
If you have ever stood just in front of a mirror, holding a pomade, and wondered, “How do I really use this stuff?” then rest assured, you are not alone.
In fact, learning how to use pomade is often the first step to unlocking next-level grooming.
Fortunately, once one learned the nuances of pommade usage, the latter becomes an essential styling medium for practically every style under the sun.
Whether for something clean-cut or casual and textured, mastering how to use pomade use can change the entire subject of grooming.
Let’s break it all down without the fluff, the jargon, or the trial-and-error headaches.
Table of Contents
What Exactly is Pomade?
Pomade is neither gel, wax, nor mousse-but it’s usually clumped in with those. What sets pomade apart is its ability to hold without drying out or flaking, not leaving that stiff look, but styled-but-not-stiff.
If you’re wondering how to use pomade to achieve the perfect balance, it starts with understanding its unique texture and finish.
Pomade is, simply put, the best-kept secret for hairstyles that require shape, control, and a little personality.
Water-Based vs Oil-Based: Which Pomade is Right for You?
Before you scoop and style, it’s important to know your pomade types. Yes, it matters a lot.
Water-Based Pomade
Best for novices or lazy people. It glides through hair easily, provides a good hold, and is washed out with water, a little bit like your gym buddy who shows up on time and never flakes.
Oil-Based Pomade
That’s old-school and always lasts long. It will hold everything for a whole day and a bit longer, delivers a complete wet-shine look, but has some nice warnings: it’s not that easy to wash. Great for classic styling, but not for those on the go.
Shine Levels: From Natural to Glossy
Pomades vary in shine, and choosing the right one depends on the vibe you’re going for.
- Low shine/matte: Ideal for a more natural, textured look.
- Medium shine: Balanced, clean, and versatile.
- High shine: Best for vintage styles or formal occasions, think red carpet or date night.
Pro tip: If you’ve got oily hair, go for low-shine pomade. It’ll keep things looking fresh, not greasy.
Hold Strength: Light, Medium, or Strong?
Your hair type plays a huge role in which pomade hold you should choose:
- Light Hold: Great for fine or thinning hair. It gives control without weighing things down.
- Medium Hold: The all-rounder. Works well for most hair types and everyday looks.
- Strong Hold: Built for thick, curly, or coarse hair and for styles that need to defy gravity.
Step-by-Step: How to Use Pomade the Right Way?
Ready to style? Follow these simple steps on how to use pomade to avoid the usual mistakes and get that fresh-from-the-barber look at home.
1. Start with Damp Hair
Towel-dry hair until just slightly damp– not dripping-without bone-dry hair, this helps pomade spread better and soak in better.
2. Scoop & Warm It Up
Start small, a dime to a quarter-sized amount is usually enough. Rub it between your palms to warm it up and make it easier to apply.
3. Apply at the Roots First
Instead of putting it on top, create roots first with the pomade into your hair. This way, your hair has structure and hold in the places that matter most.
4. Style with a Comb or Fingers
- Sleek look, nothing wrong with a comb (slick backs or side parts).
- Use your fingers for a messier, casual style (perfect for tousled or textured looks).
- Always follow the natural direction of your hair growth; it makes styling easier and more natural.
6. Set It with Heat or Air
- Blow dry for added volume, definition, and all-day hold.
- Air dry for a softer, more natural finish.
Pro Tips to Keep Your Look Fresh All Day
- Less is more: You can always add more product, but you can’t take it out once it’s in.
- Touch up with your fingers or a small comb: A quick swipe can fix any midday flyaways.
- Carry a travel tin: Because you never know when you’ll need a quick fix before a meeting or date.
Try These Popular Styles with Pomade
Need some inspiration? Here are a few styles that work great with pomade:
- Classic Slick-Back – Clean and timeless.
- Textured Side Part – Business up front, personality on the side.
- Modern Pompadour – Bold, voluminous, and full of swagger.
- Casual Tousled Look – Just-rolled-out-of-bed but make it fashion.
Avoid These Common Pomade Mistakes
Even the best products won’t work if you’re using them wrong. Here are a few pitfalls to dodge:
- Applying to soaking wet or completely dry hair: Slightly damp is key.
- At the beginning, there was too much product. Ends up with greasy, weighed-down hair.
- Ignoring hair type when choosing pomade; that something works well for your buddy might not work for you.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, styling with pomade is as much about confidence as it is about control. Don’t hesitate to experiment: Holds, finishes, and how one applies until one finds the winning combination.
Good hair is more than whether or not it looks good; it is when that hair is going to support you in feeling like your best, most put-together self.
So grab that tin, trust your hands, and style like you mean it.
