Hairstyling is not as straightforward as it might seem. For proof of this, head to a crowded area and do some people-watching. You’re going to notice some unfortunate hair situations on lots of guys.
Part of this is because men, in general, don’t talk much about their hair, their hairstyling methods, or the hair care products they use. But if you don’t talk about it, you’re doomed to ignorance.
We are decidedly anti-ignorance at Brickell, so we’re here to help with this simple guide on how to use pomade. Pomade is one of the easiest, most versatile hair styling products for men. Maybe you have some in your bathroom cabinet right now but aren’t 100% sure if you’re using it right.
Let's change that. Read on.
Step 1 - Choose Pomade with the Right Hold and Shine
Pomade is not a single hairstyling product anymore. It can be used to describe a wide variety of both oil and water-based products. Knowing how to use pomade means understanding that its effect on your hair can range widely too.
All pomades are designed to give your hair a specific level of hold and shine. But in practice, what does that mean?
Hold
Hold refers to how effectively the product keeps your hair in place. It ranges from a light hold that allows for natural movement to a stronger hold that maintains a more rigid style. The right hold depends on your hair texture, length, and desired style.
Coarser hair textures often require a stronger hold, while fine hair may benefit from a lighter hold to avoid looking weighed down.
Shine
A pomade formula can leave your hair with a matte finish so you hardly notice it’s there, all the way up to a high shine that looks like a well-polished pair of shoes.
The right pomade for you all depends on your hair type, length, and style. That’s why we offer a variety of pomades with different holds and shines. Use this chart to identify the best pomade product for you.
- Classic Firm Hold Gel Pomade: Natural classic water-based pomade that provides a powerful, lasting hold with a high shine finish
- Flexible Hold Wax Pomade: A natural oil-based pomade that conditions your hair while providing a flexible, natural shine hold
- Shaping Paste Pomade: This natural paste pomade for men adds definition and texture with a flexible hold and low shine. Water soluble and ideal for daily use.
- Strong Hold Texturizing Pomade: Natural fiber pomade for men that adds texture with a high, pliable hold and a low shine finish
- Styling Clay Pomade: This water-based natural clay pomade for men provides all-day hold with a matte finish
Step 2 - Use Pomade with Slightly Damp Hair
While you can apply pomade to dry hair, we don’t recommend it. Pomade works best with slightly damp hair; it’s easier to spread the pomade all throughout your hair and to style it properly when your hair is still a bit damp.
After wetting your hair, pat it gently with a towel. Avoid rubbing your hair aggressively, as this can weaken the strands.
Step 3 - Warm It Up in Your Hands
Scoop some pomade out of the container with your finger and rub it around your palms and fingertips. This warms up the product and makes it easier to spread through your hair.
How much pomade should I use?
The amount of pomade you should use depends on your hair length, texture, and style. For guys with short to medium-length hair, start with about a dime to quarter-size amount of pomade. If you have longer hair, you may need to use more.
Remember, it's always easier to add more product than to remove excess pomade. For oil-based pomades, adding more product will increase the level of shine.
Step 4 - Apply Pomade, Starting at the Hair Roots
Work the pomade into your hair roots first. This is important because if you skip the roots your hair isn’t going to stay as well-styled. The direction your hair sits is determined by the root, not the ends.
To do this effectively, make sure the pomade is on your fingertips. Reach down to the hair roots and then spread the pomade from the base of your hair out to the ends.
Step 5 - Comb Your Hair
Now that you’ve got your pomade down at your hair roots, use a comb to finish spreading the pomade and start styling your hair. This ensures that the product is spread evenly and doesn’t glob up anywhere.
If you find that you haven't used enough product to cover your hair properly, add more and repeat steps 3 and 4. But remember that less is more—applying too much pomade can weigh down your hair and make styling difficult.
Step 6 - Dry Your Hair
With your pomade applied and your hair combed, now it’s time to dry your hair. You have two options here:
Blow Dry
Use a blow dryer on the cool setting to set your styled hair in place and increase the strength of your pomade’s hold. Blow drying helps add volume and lift to your hair. This is helpful if you have especially thick hair since even a lightweight pomade will add some thickness and weight to it.
Air Dry
You’re all done if you decide to air dry. This is better for guys with normal to thin hair. Air drying helps create volume and increases the thickening effect of using pomade. This method is recommended when using an oil-based pomade since it results in a more natural look and deeper shine.
Use Pomade to Create Your Perfect Look
Once you learn how to use pomade, its ease and versatility make it an essential hairstyling tool for every guy and hair type. Try experimenting with different holds and shines to find a variety of ways to style your hair—there's no need to start every day with the exact same look!
