How to Choose the Right Hair Product for Men

Walking down the hair product aisle can be overwhelming. Pomade, clay, wax, gel, cream, paste — what's the difference, and which one do you need? Here's a straightforward breakdown to help you find the perfect match for your style.

Pomade: Shine + Strong Hold

Best for: Slick backs, side parts, and classic pompadours.

Finish: High shine

Hold: Medium to strong

Pomade comes in water-based (easy to wash out) and oil-based (stronger hold, but harder to remove) formulas. For most men, a water-based pomade is the better choice — it provides excellent hold and shine without building up over time.

Clay: Matte + Strong Hold

Best for: Textured crops, messy styles, and adding volume.

Finish: Matte (no shine)

Hold: Strong

Clay is ideal when you want your hair to look natural but styled. It adds texture and volume without any visible product residue. It is especially great for fine or thin hair because it creates the appearance of thickness and fullness.

Wax: Flexible + Medium Hold

Best for: Piece-y texture, natural movement, and mid-length styles.

Finish: Low to medium shine

Hold: Medium

Wax provides a flexible hold that lets you restyle your hair throughout the day. It serves as an excellent middle ground between the high shine of pomade and the completely matte finish of clay.

Gel: Wet Look + Maximum Hold

Best for: Sharp slicked-back styles, highly defined curls, and formal looks.

Finish: Wet / high shine

Hold: Maximum / very strong

Gel provides the strongest hold available but can feel stiff or "crunchy" once it dries. While modern formulas have improved significantly, you should choose a pomade or cream instead if you prefer touchable flexibility.

Cream: Natural + Light Hold

Best for: Natural looks, longer hair, and effortless everyday styling.

Finish: Natural / low-to-no shine

Hold: Light to medium

Hair cream is the most versatile and forgiving styling product. It adds subtle moisture, tames stubborn frizz, and gives hair a healthy look without any stiffness. It is perfect for men who want to look groomed without looking like they used product.

Quick Decision Guide

• Want high shine? → Choose Pomade
• Want a natural, matte texture? → Choose Clay
• Want flexible, all-day movement? → Choose Wax or Cream
• Want maximum, unyielding hold? → Choose Gel
• Still not sure? → Start with a styling cream; it's the safest and most versatile choice.

For the best results, ask your barber for personalized product recommendations during your next visit. A skilled barber understands your unique hair type and can suggest exactly what works for your specific cut. Find a top-rated local professional on the Concierge Barber Registry.