What Does Hair Pomade Do?

Hair pomade is a versatile and timeless hair styling product that has been a staple in men's grooming for decades. Its unique properties and benefits make it a go-to choice for achieving a variety of hairstyles, from sleek and polished to textured and voluminous. In this comprehensive article, we will explore what hair pomade does, its different types, how to use it, and why it remains a popular choice among men and women alike.

What is Hair Pomade?

Hair pomade is a styling product that typically has a base of water or petroleum jelly, with added oils and waxes. It is designed to provide hold, shine, and manageability to the hair, making it easier to achieve and maintain various hairstyles throughout the day. Unlike gels that harden and waxes that provide a matte finish, pomade offers a flexible hold and a signature sheen that sets it apart from other styling products.

Types of Hair Pomade

There are primarily two types of hair pomade: oil-based and water-based.

1. Oil-Based Pomades: These are the traditional form of pomade, made primarily from petroleum jelly. They offer the highest shine and the strongest hold, making them ideal for classic, slicked-back styles. However, they can be difficult to wash out and may require a change in your hair care routine.
2. Water-Based Pomades: These are the modern version of pomade, designed to be easier to wash out while still providing a strong hold and varying levels of shine. They are more suitable for beginners and those who prefer a product that is less sticky and more manageable.

Benefits of Using Hair Pomade

Hair pomade offers several benefits that make it a valuable addition to your grooming routine:

1. Versatile Styling: Pomade puts endless styling possibilities at your fingertips. It controls, shapes, and holds your hair in place, allowing you to achieve a well-groomed look with minimal effort.
2. Long-Lasting Hold: Pomade delivers a long-lasting hold that keeps your hairstyle intact throughout the day without making your hair sticky or hard.
3. Adds Shine and Definition: Pomade enhances the natural shine of your hair, giving it a healthy and vibrant appearance. It also adds definition to your hairstyle, making it look more polished and refined.
4. Tames Unruly Hair: If you struggle with flyaways or frizz, pomade acts as a smoothing agent, taming those pesky strands and giving you a sleek finish.
5. Suitable for All Hair Types: Pomade works great on most hair types, including straight, wavy, curly, kinky, and Afro-textured hair.

How to Use Hair Pomade

Using hair pomade is simple, but a little finesse goes a long way. Here are some steps to help you apply pomade like a pro:

1. Start with Clean, Damp Hair: Pomade adheres best to clean hair. It's also easier to spread the pomade throughout your hair and style it properly when your hair is still a bit damp.
2. Warm It Up: Scoop a small amount of pomade out of the container with your finger and rub it between your palms and fingertips. This warms up the product and makes it easier to spread through your hair.
3. Apply Evenly: Start by applying the pomade to the roots of your hair and gently massage it in with your fingertips. Then, distribute the pomade through the lengths of your hair using your palms.
4. Style as Desired: Use a comb for a more polished look or your fingers for a more textured style. For a more relaxed and natural look, opt for your fingers instead of a comb.
5. Set Your Style: Use a blow dryer on the cool setting to set your hairstyle in place and increase the strength of your pomade's hold.

The key to maximizing pomade's potential lies in choosing the right type for your hair type and desired style. Here are some tips to help you make the right choice:

1. Oil-Based Pomades: These are ideal for slicked-back looks, pompadours, and taming thick, coarse hair. They provide the strongest hold and highest shine but require more effort to wash out.
2. Water-Based Pomades: These are perfect for achieving textured styles like quiffs, messy looks, and adding definition to curls. They wash out easily and are suitable for most hair types.
3. Clay Pomades: These provide a matte finish and a medium hold, making them ideal for creating textured, bed-head styles. They work best for short to medium-length hairstyles and help add texture and volume to the hair.
4. Cream Pomades: These have a lighter hold and add volume to the hair. They are suitable for men with thinner hair that doesn't hold styles well.
5. Wax Pomades: These offer a medium hold and a matte finish, making them ideal for casual, easy-going styles.

Hair pomade is a versatile and essential styling product that offers numerous benefits for achieving and maintaining various hairstyles. Whether you prefer a sleek and polished look or a more textured and voluminous style, pomade provides the hold, shine, and manageability you need. By understanding the different types of pomade and how to use them effectively, you can elevate your hair game and enjoy the confidence that comes with a perfectly styled mane. So, embrace the shine, experiment with different styles, and make hair pomade a staple in your grooming arsenal. With its timeless appeal and versatility, hair pomade is sure to keep you looking sharp and well-groomed every day.