What Are Pomades? | Uses, Benefits & Styling Guide – Wolf’s Head
What Are Pomades and What Are They Used For?
If you’ve ever asked yourself “what are pomades?” or “what are pomades used for?” you’re not alone. Pomade is one of the oldest and most trusted men’s grooming products—designed to give hair control, shine, and style that lasts.
What Are Pomades?
Pomade is a hairstyling product that adds hold and finish to men’s and women’s hairstyles. Unlike gels or mousses, pomades don’t flake or dry stiff. Instead, they keep hair flexible while offering either a natural matte texture or a polished shine.
Pomades come in different forms—from water-based pomades that wash out easily to clay or cream pomades that create a more natural look. No matter the type, pomades are all about shaping hair with control.
What Are Pomades for Hair?
Pomades for hair are styling products designed to give men and women control over their hairstyle without the crunch or dryness of hairspray or gel. Unlike mousses or waxes, pomades provide a balance of hold, flexibility, and finish, making them a go-to choice for barbers and stylists worldwide.
What Can You Do With Pomade?
Pomade is one of the most versatile grooming tools. With the right product, you can:
- Style classic looks such as slick backs, side parts, and pompadours.
- Enhance natural texture in wavy, curly, or textured hair.
- Add definition to short or medium hairstyles without stiffness.
- Tame frizz and flyaways for a polished, put-together appearance.
- Customize your finish — from a natural matte look to a high-shine polish.
What Types of Pomades Are There?
Not all pomades are the same. Choosing the right one depends on your hair type and style goals:
- Clay Pomade: Ideal for textured, messy, or “lived-in” styles. Provides a strong hold with a matte finish. Perfect for fine hair that needs volume.
- Cream Pomade: A medium-hold, matte option that works best for looser, natural looks.
- Water-Soluble Pomade: High hold with a polished shine that rinses out easily. Great for slick backs and side parts.
- Styling Gel Pomade: A hybrid with strong hold and high shine — perfect for clean, structured looks that last all day.
Why Choose Pomade Over Other Hair Products?
Pomade gives you more control and flexibility than traditional gels, sprays, or mousses. It doesn’t flake, it rinses out easier (especially water-based pomades), and it allows you to re-style your hair throughout the day.
FAQs About Pomade
Q: Can pomade be used on curly hair?
A: Yes. Pomades — especially cream and clay formulas — define curls, reduce frizz, and add moisture without weighing curls down.
Q: Is pomade bad for your hair?
A: No. High-quality pomades (like paraben-free, sulfate-free options made in California) are safe for daily use and rinse out cleanly.
Q: What’s better — clay or pomade?
A: Clay pomade is best for a natural, textured matte look. Traditional water-based pomades are better for slick, polished styles with shine. Many people keep both to switch up their style.
Q: Can I travel with pomade?
A: Yes. Most pomades come in TSA-friendly 2oz sizes (like Wolf’s Head Clay Pomade), making them perfect for carry-ons and travel grooming kits.
Barbers often recommend pomade because it works across different hair types—from straight to curly—and it’s easy to re-style throughout the day.
What Are Pomades Used For?
Pomades are used to style a wide range of classic and modern looks, such as:
- Textured quiffs or crops → best with a clay pomade (matte finish).
- Slick-backs or side parts → best with a water-based pomade (shine finish).
- Casual messy looks → best with a cream pomade (lightweight, matte).
- Curly hair definition → works well with styling gel pomade (strong hold + shine).
Whether you want a clean professional look or a casual weekend style, pomade gives you the versatility to achieve it.
How to Apply Pomade (Step-by-Step)
- Prep: Start with dry or towel-dried hair (damp hair = more shine; dry hair = more texture).
- Use less than you think: Start with a pea to dime-sized amount.
- Emulsify: Warm thoroughly between palms until smooth for even distribution.
- Back to front: Apply through mid-lengths first, then the top and hairline to avoid overload up front.
- Tool choice: Use a Kent fine-tooth pocket comb for clean lines, or fingers for natural texture.
- Finish: Add a tiny topcoat only where extra hold or shine is needed.
Choosing the Right Pomade
At Wolf’s Head, we make four pomades designed for different finishes and holds. Pick the one that matches your cut and your daily routine:
- Clay Pomade – Strong hold, matte finish. Ideal for textured crops, natural breakup, and fuller-looking styles.
- Cream Pomade – Medium hold, matte finish. Soft, everyday control with movement.
- Water-Soluble Pomade – Strong hold, shine finish. Clean, classic polish with an easy rinse.
- Styling Gel Pomade – Strong hold, high shine. Crisp parts and structured, glossy looks.
Pomade FAQ
Is pomade bad for your hair?
Used correctly, pomade is simply a styling aid. Apply modest amounts, avoid heavy buildup, and wash out regularly. Wolf’s Head water-based formulas are designed to rinse clean with shampoo and warm water.
Does pomade work on curly or wavy hair?
Yes. For definition without crunch, work a small amount of Styling Gel Pomade through curls, then shape with fingers. For a drier, matte curl with separation, try a light pass of Clay Pomade.
Can I use pomade every day?
Many people do. Use less product than you think you need and rinse thoroughly at night. Alternate between Cream or Water-Soluble for day-to-day, and Clay or Styling Gel for days that need extra hold.
What’s the difference between pomade and wax?
Wax tends to feel tackier and can be harder to wash out. Pomade (especially water-based) gives control and finish with easier restyling and a cleaner rinse.
How do I make styles look fuller on thinning hair?
Blow-dry for lift, then use Clay Pomade sparingly through mid-lengths. Pinch and separate for texture; avoid heavy product at the scalp.
Final Word
So, what are pomades? They’re more than just hair products—they’re tools for control, confidence, and self-expression. Whether you’re heading into the office, out for the night, or keeping it casual, pomade helps your hair look the way you want it to—all day long.
Explore the Wolf’s Head Line
Choose a clean, water-based pomade that matches your cut and finish goals. All formulas are designed for performance and an easy rinse.
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Styling Gel Pomade — strong hold, high shine.
How to use: Apply to damp hair, comb clean lines, let it set. -
Water-Soluble Pomade — strong hold, classic shine.
How to use: Distribute through damp hair and comb into place. -
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.
