Pomade is a hairstyling product that offers a range of holds and shines. Learn how to apply pomade for the perfect hairstyle.
What’s pomade?
When you’re searching for a hair styling product, pomade is one of the most common ones aside from gel. While the two are similar, the former is a better option.
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The main difference between the two is that pomade won’t leave your hair hard and dry. Plus, it won’t leave flakes.
Pomade has a soft texture that’s similar to gel. It can be water or oil-based.
Depending on the brand and product, you’ll find light to an extra strong hold. You’ll also find different shine levels, from matte to shiny.
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It’s most commonly used for hairstyles, such as the pompadour, quiff, comb-over, and faux hawk.
You can use pomade for any hairstyle that needs to be slick, thick, or high-volume.
Choosing the right one
There are many different types of pomade. To find the right one, figure out the hairstyle you want to achieve.
First, determine whether you want to use a water-based or oil-based pomade.
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Water-based pomades are more popular because they can offer an excellent hold and easily be rinsed.
Oil-based pomades are an old-school product. They offer a long hold time but are hard to rinse out of your hair. So, the best choice is the water-based pomade.
Second, do you want your hair to be matte or shiny? It’s completely a personal preference. However, high-volume hairstyles tend to be matte and slick hairstyles generally have more shine.
The third thing to consider is how strong of a hold you need.
If you want a pomade that’ll keep your hair in the same position all day, clay pomades or extra-strong hold pomades are ideal. For a smooth hairstyle with a light hold, cream pomades work well.
There are also regular pomades that offer different strength levels when it comes to holds. Again, it’s a personal preference.
What you’ll need
Before you apply pomade to your hair, make sure you have the following items:
- Pomade.
- Towel or blow dryer.
- Comb or brush.
Using pomade doesn’t require much. However, the right tools will ensure you can style your hair the way you want to.
How to apply pomade
Take the following steps to apply pomade the right way.
1. Wash your hair
Before you apply pomade, wash your hair. You don’t need to use shampoo or conditioner.
You can take a quick shower or rinse it with water in the sink. Regardless of the method, washing your hair will give you a fresh slate.
2. Use a towel or blow dryer until your hair is slightly damp
After you’ve washed your hair, it’s time to dry it. However, use a towel or blow dryer and leave it slightly damp.
If it’s too wet, the pomade won’t work. If your hair is completely dry, it’ll still work, but it won’t fuse properly, and it’ll pull out some hairs.
The perfect dampness is when you can let your hair air dry, and it’ll be fully dry within five minutes.
3. Use your fingertips to rub a dime-sized amount of pomade
Next, take a dime-sized amount of pomade and warm it up by rubbing it in a circular motion using your fingertips. Be sure to spread it across your fingertips evenly.
Also, it’s important to start with a dime-sized amount. If you end up needing more pomade, you can add more a little at a time. By using too much pomade, you’ll end up with greasy-looking hair.
4. Apply the pomade starting at the roots of your hair
Once you’ve warmed up the pomade and it’s spread across your fingers evenly, you can apply it.
Start at the roots of your hair and work the pomade out towards the ends. It’ll ensure the pomade spreads evenly, and you’re able to style your hair well.
5. Style your hair with a comb or brush
After you’ve applied the pomade, use a comb or brush to style your hair to your liking. You can also use a blow dryer to add volume.
At this point, you may need more pomade, depending on the length of your hair. If so, add a small amount until you’ve achieved your desired hairstyle.
Frequently asked questions
Do you apply pomade to wet or dry hair?
Pomade is the most effective when you apply it to slightly damp hair. If your hair is wet, the pomade won’t stick. If your hair is dry, it won’t mix properly, and you may pull out some hair.
Is it bad to use pomade every day?
As long as you use a pomade without harmful chemicals and wash your hair at the end of the day, it’s safe to use every day. A water-based pomade will also wash out easier than an oil-based one.
Is pomade good for a messy hairstyle?
Yes, pomade is good for a messy hairstyle. However, make sure you use a pomade that gives your hair a matte look and offers a light hold.
Conclusion
Pomade is an excellent hair product because it allows you to style your hair any way that you’d like.
Before you apply pomade, make sure your hair is a little damp. It’ll give you the best results.
You can choose between a light or firm hold, and different pomades will give your hair a matte or shiny look.
Also, be sure to use a water-based pomade because it works well and is easy to rinse.
Featured image courtesy of Canva.
About David Em
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David Em is the founder of Next Level Gents, the ultimate destination for tips and advice about style, grooming, fitness, and success.