A Guy’s Guide to Pomades and What They Do
A Guy’s Guide to Pomades and What They Do
Your go-to resource for understanding pomades, how they work, and which one to choose—barbershop-tested in Santa Barbara and crafted in California with clean, water-based formulas.
Mastering Men’s Hair with the Right Pomade
When it comes to men’s hair styling products, few tools are as versatile and reliable as a quality water-based pomade. At Wolf’s Head, every formula is paraben-free, sulfate-free, and made in California—giving you professional-grade performance without compromise. Whether you want a matte, textured finish or a high-shine, slick look, this guide breaks down exactly which pomade to choose, how to use it, and the styles you can achieve. All of these are barbershop-tested daily at our Santa Barbara location, so you can trust they work in the real world, not just in the jar.
Why Pomade Still Wins
Pomade remains a top choice for men because it offers the one-two punch of control and finish. Unlike gels or hairsprays, pomade gives you the ability to set your shape, keep it consistent all day, and adjust if you need to. Whether you want a matte, natural look or a polished, high-shine style, there’s a pomade that delivers.
Our barbers often note that pomade is one of the few styling products that works equally well across different climates. In dry weather, it locks in texture without frizz. In humid weather, it keeps shape while still allowing movement. This adaptability is why professionals continue to trust it over newer, trendier products.
Understanding the Main Types
Pomades aren’t one-size-fits-all. Each type has a different finish, hold, and best-use scenario. Here’s how to match your style to the right product:
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Clay Pomade — Strong hold, matte finish.
Best for: Textured crops, modern quiffs, and styles that need volume without shine.
Pro tip: Apply to dry hair for maximum grip and separation. -
Cream Pomade — Medium hold, soft matte.
Best for: Natural, flowing looks where movement matters.
Pro tip: Works well on fine-to-medium hair to add body without stiffness. -
Styling Gel Pomade — Strong hold, high shine.
Best for: Slick backs, side parts, or any style that calls for a clean, glossy finish.
Pro tip: Use a fine-tooth comb to lock in sharp lines. -
Water-Soluble Pomade — Strong hold, classic shine.
Best for: Traditional polished looks that rinse out easily.
Pro tip: Perfect for humid climates where oil-based pomades can feel heavy.
Each pomade in the Wolf’s Head lineup was crafted with specific looks in mind, but they can also be layered or alternated depending on your daily needs. For example, you can use Clay Pomade for a foundation of texture and then finish with a touch of Water-Soluble Pomade for subtle shine. This flexibility is what makes pomades a cornerstone of modern grooming.
Quick Pomade Comparison
Choose the finish, hold, and use-case that fits your style. Every Wolf’s Head pomade is water-based for easy washout.
| Pomade | Finish | Hold | Best For | How to Apply | Washout |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Styling Gel Pomade | High shine | Extra strong | Slick backs, side parts, long-lasting polished looks | Apply to damp hair, comb into place; reactivates with water | Water-based; rinses clean in one wash |
| Water-Soluble Pomade | Classic barbershop shine | Strong | Traditional parts, tidy silhouettes, quick mid-day refresh | Work through damp hair, comb clean lines | Water-based; zero residue |
| Clay Pomade | Matte / natural | Strong | Textured crops, volume without shine, flyaway control | Apply to dry hair, emulsify well, pinch for separation | Water-based; no waxy buildup |
| Cream Pomade | Soft matte | Medium | Natural movement, lightweight control | Apply to towel-dried hair for soft structure | Water-based; quick rinse |
How to Apply Pomade Like a Pro
- Start clean. Wash or rinse, then towel-dry until slightly damp for shine or completely dry for matte looks.
- Use less than you think. Start with a fingertip amount—you can always add more.
- Emulsify. Rub between your palms until the product is smooth.
- Apply with intent. Work through the mid-lengths first, then detail the top and hairline.
- Shape and set. Comb for structure or use fingers for texture; blow-dry for extra lift.
Barbershop Pro Tips
- Layer Clay and Cream Pomades for texture with flexibility.
- For mid-day touch-ups, re-activate product with a bit of water and re-style.
- Apply in two light passes instead of one heavy coat to avoid weight.
Another professional trick is to use pomade as a pre-styler. Work a very small amount into damp hair before blow-drying. This creates a base layer of control, making it easier to style once dry. After blow-drying, you can apply your chosen pomade for final shaping.
Common Styling Mistakes to Avoid
- Using too much product. This can weigh down hair and create unwanted shine.
- Skipping emulsification. Uneven application leads to clumps and poor hold.
- Only applying to the top layer. Work from roots to ends for full control.
Pomade FAQs
Which pomade gives the longest-lasting hold?
Styling Gel Pomade provides our strongest, all-day hold with a clean, high-shine finish.
What’s best if I want texture without shine?
Clay Pomade delivers strong, matte control for separation, volume, and flyaway taming.
I want classic shine but easy washout—is there a middle ground?
Water-Soluble Pomade gives a traditional barbershop sheen with strong control and rinses out instantly.
How much product should I use?
Start with a fingertip (pea-size). Emulsify fully, apply evenly, and add more only where needed.
Can I mix products?
Yes. Build foundations with Styling Gel Pomade on damp hair, then detail texture with a touch of Clay Pomade. For light sheen over texture, finish with Water-Soluble Pomade.
Will these wash out easily?
All Wolf’s Head pomades are water-based and rinse clean with warm water and a light shampoo.
Explore the Wolf’s Head Line
Each of our pomades is barbershop-tested, California-made, and designed to give you the right balance of hold and finish for your style:
- Clay Pomade — Strong hold, matte finish. How to use: Apply to dry hair for maximum texture and separation.
- Cream Pomade — Medium hold, soft matte. How to use: Apply to towel-dried hair for a natural look with movement.
- Styling Gel Pomade — Strong hold, high shine. How to use: Apply to damp hair and comb into place for polished lines.
- Water-Soluble Pomade — Strong hold, classic shine. How to use: Distribute through damp hair, comb clean lines, and let set.
