I’ve been standing in front of the mirror, figuring out which hair product to use. Pomade and clay both claim to be the best, but they work differently. Pomade gives a sleek, shiny look, while clay adds volume with a matte finish. Choosing the wrong one can leave your hair greasy or stiff. So, how do you decide?
The good news is that picking the right product isn’t as hard as it seems. It all comes down to your hair type, the style you want, and how much hold you need. Once you understand the key differences, you can easily make the best choice.
In this guide, I’ll break down everything you need to know about pomade and clay. Keep reading to find out which one suits your hair best.
What is Pomade?
Pomade is a hair styling product that gives your hair a smooth, sleek, and shiny look. It works by coating the hair strands, keeping them in place without making them too stiff. Unlike hair gel, pomade doesn’t dry out or leave flakes, so you can restyle your hair throughout the day. It’s a favorite for classic hairstyles that need a polished finish.
Types of Pomade
There are two main types of pomade: oil-based and water-based. Each has its own benefits and drawbacks.
Oil-Based Pomade:
- Made with petroleum or wax.
- Provides a strong hold that lasts all day.
- Gives a high shine, making hair look slick and polished.
- Harder to wash out and may cause buildup over time.
Water-Based Pomade:
- Made with water and some added wax or polymers.
- Offers a medium to strong hold but is more flexible than oil-based pomade.
- Easy to rinse out with water, making it low-maintenance.
- Less greasy and won’t cause as much buildup.
Best for These Hairstyles
Pomade is perfect for styles that require control, shine, and a polished look. Some of the best hairstyles to use pomade for include:
- Slicked-back hair – A smooth, shiny look that stays in place.
- Side part – A clean, classic hairstyle with sharp definition.
- Pompadour – Adds volume in the front while keeping the rest of the hair slick.
- Comb-over – Neat, professional, and stylish.
What is Hair Clay?
Hair clay is a styling product that gives hair a natural, textured look with a matte finish. Unlike pomade, clay doesn’t add shine—it absorbs excess oil and adds volume, making hair appear thicker and fuller. It also has a lightweight feel, so your hair stays flexible rather than stiff.
Key Ingredients
Most hair clays contain natural minerals that help with styling and hair health. The two most common ingredients are:
- Kaolin Clay – A soft, fine clay that absorbs oil, adds texture and makes hair feel thicker.
- Bentonite Clay – A stronger, more absorbent clay that provides a firm hold and helps with volume.
These ingredients not only help with styling but also nourish the hair and scalp, making clay a great choice for people with oily hair or sensitive scalps.
Best for These Hairstyles
Hair clay is ideal for styles that need texture, volume, and a natural finish. Some of the best styles include:
- Messy, tousled looks – Perfect for casual, effortless styling.
- Textured quiff – Adds volume in the front with a natural feel.
- Modern undercut – Keeps the top textured while the sides stay short.
- Short, spiky styles – Holds hair up without making it look too stiff.
Pomade vs Clay – Key Differences
Both pomade and clay help style your hair, but they work in different ways. Pomade is best for sleek, controlled looks, while clay adds volume and texture with a natural finish. Let’s break down the key differences so you can decide which one suits you best.
1. Hold Strength
- Pomade: Provides a medium to strong hold, keeping hair in place while still allowing some flexibility. Best for neat, well-groomed styles.
- Clay: Offers a stronghold that keeps hair lifted and adds volume. Unlike pomade, it doesn’t make hair feel stiff or greasy.
2. Shine Level
- Pomade: Adds shine, giving a wet or glossy look (especially oil-based pomade). Water-based pomade has a milder shine.
- Clay: Has a matte finish, meaning it won’t make hair look shiny. It creates a more natural, textured style.
3. Texture & Feel
- Pomade: Has a smooth, creamy texture. Oil-based pomade feels slightly greasy, while water-based pomade is lighter.
- Clay: Feels dry and lightweight, with a slightly gritty texture. It absorbs oil, giving hair a thicker appearance.
4. Hair Type Suitability
- Pomade: Works best for straight or wavy hair and is ideal for medium to thick hair.
- Clay: Suitable for thin, thick, curly, or wavy hair. It’s especially useful for adding volume to fine or limp hair.
5. Ease of Washout
- Pomade: Water-based pomade is easy to wash out with shampoo, while oil-based pomade can be difficult to remove and may require multiple washes.
- Clay: Easy to wash out because it’s water-soluble and doesn’t leave buildup. It also helps absorb excess oil.
Pros and Cons of Pomade vs Clay
Both pomade and clay have their benefits and drawbacks. Here’s a quick look at what each offers.
Pros of Pomade
- Adds shine and sleekness to hair
- Great for classic, polished hairstyles
- Water-based pomade is easy to wash out
Cons of Pomade
- Oil-based pomade can feel greasy and is harder to remove
- Doesn’t add much volume, so it’s not ideal for thin or fine hair
Pros of Hair Clay
- Adds volume and texture, making hair look fuller
- The matte finish gives a natural, effortless look
- Helps control oily hair by absorbing excess oil
Cons of Hair Clay
- Can make hair feel dry or stiff if too much is used
- Might be harder to spread evenly through thick hair
Which One Should You Choose? (Pomade vs Clay for Different Hair Needs)
Not sure which product is right for you? Here’s a simple guide to help you decide:
- For a slick, polished look → Choose pomade
- For a natural, voluminous style → Choose clay
- For thin or fine hair → Clay is better because it adds thickness
- For thick hair → Pomade works well to keep it controlled and sleek
How to Apply Pomade and Clay for Best Results
Applying these products the right way makes a big difference in how your hair looks and holds throughout the day. Here’s how to use each one properly.
How to Use Pomade
- Start with damp or dry hair – Damp hair gives a slicker look, while dry hair provides more hold.
- Take a small amount – A dime-sized amount is enough for most hair types.
- Rub it between your palms – This warms up the pomade and makes it easier to apply.
- Spread it evenly through your hair – Start from the roots and work toward the tips.
- Use a comb for a sleek finish – If you want a polished look, style with a comb for even distribution.
How to Use Hair Clay
- Start with dry or slightly damp hair – Clay works best when applied to dry or towel-dried hair.
- Take a small amount – A little goes a long way. Use a pea-sized amount and add more if needed.
- Warm it up between your hands – This softens the clay and makes it easier to spread.
- Apply it evenly using your fingers – Focus on the roots for volume and texture.
- Style as desired – Use your hands for a natural, messy look or a comb for a more defined shape.
Conclusion
Choosing between pomade and clay depends on your hairstyle goals and hair type. If you want a sleek, shiny, and controlled look, pomade is your best bet. It’s great for classic styles like slicked-back hair and side parts. On the other hand, if you prefer a natural, voluminous, and textured style, hair clay is the way to go. It’s perfect for messy, tousled looks and adding thickness to fine hair.
No matter which product you choose, applying it correctly will make a big difference in your hairstyle. Experiment with both to see what works best for you!
Not sure which product suits your hair? Visit The Barber’s Cafe for a professional consultation! Our expert barbers will help you find the best styling product and give you the perfect haircut to match. Walk in today and leave with a fresh look and expert styling tips!
