Why Choose Hair Gels and Pomades?
Hair gels and pomades offer versatility in styling. Gels provide strong hold and can create defined, sleek looks ideal for formal settings or when you need long-lasting structure. Pomades, on the other hand, offer more flexibility with a range of finishes from matte to shiny. They’re perfect for casual, tousled styles as well as vintage slicked-back looks.
Using these products, men can control their hairstyle throughout the day. For those with unruly hair, hair gels keep everything in place, while pomades tame flyaways and add definition. The choice between gel and pomade depends largely on hair type and desired finish.
Gels work best for thicker hair as they provide firm hold and manageability. Examples include Jack Black – Body-Building Hair Gel and American Crew – Firm Hold Styling Gel. Pomades are better for finer hair, allowing easy restyling without the crunchiness of gels. Examples include Suavecito – Original Hold Pomade and Baxter of California – Clay Pomade.
Ultimately, hair gels and pomades enhance your grooming routine with simple yet effective styling solutions. They let you experiment with different looks without compromising the health or quality of your hair.
Factors to Consider When Selecting Hair Products
Choosing the right hair products can significantly impact your hairstyle and overall appearance. Consider the following factors to ensure you pick the best gel or pomade for your needs.
Hair Type
Your hair type should guide your product choice. For thicker hair, gels offer a strong hold, keeping strands in place throughout the day. Thinner hair benefits from pomades, which provide lift without weighing it down. Curly hair needs flexible products, while straight hair does well with lightweight gels or pomades.
Desired Hold
The hold level determines how structured or relaxed your hairstyle appears. Strong hold gels lock your style in place, perfect for formal looks. Medium hold pomades offer versatility, letting you restyle throughout the day. Light hold pomades are ideal for more relaxed, tousled looks.
Shine Level
Shine level impacts the overall finish of your hairstyle. High-shine products give a sleek, polished look, suitable for formal occasions. Medium-shine products offer a balanced, natural appearance. Matte finish gels or pomades create a low-shine, textured look, enhancing casual styles.
Ingredients
Ingredients play a crucial role in hair health. Avoid products with alcohol if you have dry hair, as they can cause brittleness. Natural ingredients, like beeswax and essential oils, nourish and protect the hair. Paraben-free and sulfate-free products cater to sensitive scalps, preventing irritation.
Top Hair Gels for Men
Choosing the best hair gel depends on your specific hair type and styling needs. Here, I highlight three top hair gels renowned for their performance and effectiveness.
Product 1 Overview
American Crew Firm Hold Styling Gel delivers strong hold and high shine, making it ideal for structured hairstyles. This alcohol-free formula helps avoid flakiness and provides excellent curl retention for various hair types. With added natural extracts like Vitamin B5, it enhances hair thickness and conditioning. For best results, apply to towel-dried hair.
Product 2 Overview
Garnier Fructis Style Pure Clean Styling Gel offers an eco-friendly option with its 98% naturally derived formula. It provides a 24-hour extra-strong hold without leaving residue. Free from parabens, silicones, and dyes, it’s suitable for those seeking a natural approach to hair styling. Spread evenly on damp or dry hair to achieve the desired look.
Product 3 Overview
Eco Styler Professional Styling Gel with Olive Oil combines superior hold with moisture. Containing 100% pure olive oil, it helps scalp health while maintaining frizz-free styles. Ideal for all hair textures, this gel offers maximum hold and is free from alcohol, ensuring both style and care. Use on wet or dry hair for versatile styling options.
Top Pomades for Men
Choosing the best pomade for styling needs depends on factors like hair type and desired finish. Here are some top picks.
Product 1 Overview
Suavecito Pomade Original Hold
Suavecito Pomade is known for its medium hold and moderate shine. This water-based pomade provides all-day hold that doesn’t stiffen or flake, making it ideal for various styles, from slick backs to pompadours. It’s easy to wash out, leaving no greasy residue, which is perfect for everyday use and those with normal to oily hair types.
Product 2 Overview
Layrite Deluxe Original Pomade
Layrite Deluxe Original Pomade offers a versatile medium hold with a high shine finish. This pomade holds like a wax but washes out like a gel, thanks to its water-based formula. It works well on both fine and thick hair, providing control without weighing hair down. It’s ideal for classic styles like side parts and pomps, and its pleasant vanilla scent adds an extra touch of sophistication.
Product 3 Overview
Baxter of California Clay Pomade
Baxter of California Clay Pomade delivers a strong hold with a matte finish, perfect for those seeking texture and definition. Its paraben-free formula includes natural ingredients like clay and beeswax, offering a pliable yet firm hold that’s suitable for short to medium-length hair. This pomade excels in creating messy, tousled looks or more structured styles without adding unwanted shine.
How to Apply Hair Gels and Pomades
Applying hair gels and pomades correctly enhances styling and ensures long-lasting results. Different techniques and tips can optimize their effectiveness.
Application Techniques
- Start with Damp or Dry Hair: Clean hair in better condition absorbs and retains product. Apply gels to slightly damp hair and pomades to dry hair for best results.
- Use a Small Amount: Begin with a dime-sized amount to prevent build-up and add more if needed. Too much product can weigh hair down.
- Evenly Distribute: Rub the product between your hands, then run your hands through your hair, distributing the product from roots to tips.
- Style Immediately: Style hair immediately after application for better control. Using a comb or fingers, shape hair as desired before the product sets.
- Know Your Hair Type: Fine hair benefits from lightweight gels while thicker hair can handle stronger formulations. Choose pomades according to desired texture and hold.
- Avoid Overuse: Excessive product both on hair and scalp can cause build-up. Maintain a good balance to keep hair healthy.
- Wash Out Properly: Thorough cleansing prevents residue. Use a clarifying shampoo to remove product thoroughly, especially if using pomades.
- Experiment with Combinations: Mixing products can enhance styling. For example, layering a gel with a pomade can provide both strong hold and flexibility.
Understanding the correct application of hair gels and pomades maximizes their benefits, catering to different styling needs and ensuring optimal hair health.
Men’s Hair Care Specialist & Author
Araceline is a unique and valuable contributor, bringing her expert knowledge of men’s hair care and grooming trends. As an experienced author, she shares her deep understanding of hair painting, coloring techniques, and the specific needs of men’s hair. Araceline’s articles are both informative and engaging, offering men practical advice on maintaining stylish, healthy hair.
