Pomade vs. Hair Gel: Which One Is Best for You?

Pomade vs. Hair Gel: Which One Fits Your Style?

We break down hold, finish, restyling, and washability so you can choose—and use—the right product for your look.

What’s the Difference?

Pomade: Flexible hold with texture and finish options—matte, low shine, or glossy. Ideal for re-styling during the day.

Hair Gel: Firm hold designed to lock hair in place. Often dries hard with a glossy “wet look.” Minimal restyling once set.

Water-based pomades rinse clean. Oil-based pomades require deeper washing. Hair gel is generally water-soluble and easy to rinse.

Quick Comparison

When to Choose Each

• Choose gel for structured styles that don’t move—like spikes, slicked-down parts, or sculpted edges.
• Choose pomade for flexible control, touchable texture, and the ability to re-shape throughout the day.
• Need easy rinse? Go with a Water-Soluble Pomade or Styling Gel Pomade.
• Need matte texture? Try the Clay Pomade.
• Want soft control? Go with Cream Pomade.

Explore the Wolf’s Head Line

Pick the hold and finish that match your cut. Start light, then layer.

• 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: Work through towel-dried hair for natural movement.
• Styling Gel Pomade — strong hold, high shine.
  How to use: Apply to damp hair, comb clean lines, and let it set.
• Water-Soluble Pomade — strong hold, classic shine.
  How to use: Distribute through damp hair and comb into place.

Shop All Pomades

Keep Learning

• Pomade Comparison Guide
• Which Pomade Is Right for You?
• A Guy’s Guide to Pomades
• Best Water-Based Pomades
• Need matte texture? Try the Clay Pomade.
• Want soft control? Go with Cream Pomade.