Hair Clay vs Pomade

The Pros and Cons of Hair Clay vs Pomade

Alright, let’s be real. We’ve all been there, staring at the endless rows of hair products. Hair clay? Pomade? What even IS the difference? You just want your hair to look good, not get a PhD in hairstyling.


Trust me, I get it. As someone who’s spent countless hours experimenting with different products and hairstyles… I’ve learned a thing or two about navigating this hair product jungle.
So, consider this your ultimate guide to hair clay and pomade. We’re going to break it all down in plain English. You will finally understand what each product does. And most importantly, how to choose the right one for your hair goals.


Whether you’re aiming for a textured, messy look or a sleek, polished style, we’ve got you covered. By the end of this, you’ll be armed with the knowledge to confidently walk into any store. And pick the perfect product to achieve that hairstyle you’ve been dreaming of. I also recommend Sea Salt Spray as a pre-styler for your hair. You can read more about sea salt spray here

A male model with stylish hair

What we’ll cover in today’s article:

  1. The differences between hair clay and pomade
  2. Hair Clay and all it’s pros and cons
  3. Pomade and all it’s pros and cons
  4. How to choose between Hair Clay or Pomade depending on your hairstyle

Alright, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive deeper into all things clay and pomade. We’ll explore the unique characteristics, benefits, and drawbacks of each product. And help you make an informed decision for your hair styling. So, let’s get started!

A shirtless man showing off his hairstyle

Hair Clay vs Pomade: It’s Not Just About the Look, It’s About Your Hair


Think of it like this: you wouldn’t wear a tuxedo to the beach or flip-flops to a gala, right? The same goes for your hair products. It’s about finding the perfect fit for your unique hair type and the style you’re aiming for.


Hair Clay: The Textured Maestro


What it is: Imagine a pliable, almost clay-like substance. This gives your hair a matte finish and a firm, flexible hold.
Who it’s for: If you’re into textured, messy, or “bedhead” styles, hair clay is your best friend. It’s particularly great for guys with thicker or wavy hair. Guys who want to add definition and control without looking too “done.”

The Pros:

  1. Strong Hold: Hair clay is known for its impressive hold. Hair clay keeps your style in place even on windy days or after a workout.
  2. Matte Finish: It gives your hair a natural, non-shiny look.
  3. Adds Volume: Hair clay can help create the illusion of thicker hair. Making it a good option for those with finer strands.


The Cons:

  1. Can Be Drying: Some clays contain ingredients that can strip moisture from your hair. So look for ones with hydrating ingredients or use a leave-in conditioner beforehand.
  2. Not Easy to Restyle: Once it sets, it’s difficult to rework your hair without adding more product.
A man holding up a container of hair product

Pomade: The Smooth Operator


What it is: Pomade is typically a creamier, more emollient product. Pomade gives your hair a sleek, polished look with varying degrees of shine.
Who it’s for: If you want a classic, slicked-back style or a more refined look, pomade is your go-to. It’s ideal for those with straight or fine hair who want to add shine and control.


The Pros:

  1. Shine & Control: Pomade offers a range of shine levels. From subtle to high-gloss, and provides good control over your hair.
  2. Easy to Restyle: You can easily change your style at any time throughout the day. Simply run your fingers through your hair until you have your desired look.
  3. Conditions Hair: Many pomades contain nourishing ingredients. This will leave your hair feeling soft and healthy.

The Cons:

  1. Can Weigh Hair Down: Some pomades can make your hair feel heavy and greasy if you use too much.
  2. Can Be Difficult to Wash Out: You may need to use a good shampoo to remove completely
Source: Joost Nusselder

So, Which One is Right for You?


It all comes down to your personal preferences and hair type. Consider:
Your Hair Type: Thick hair can handle the heavier hold of clay. While finer hair might benefit from the lighter touch of pomade.
Your Desired Style: Go for clay if you want a textured, natural look. Choose pomade for a sleek, polished finish.
Your Lifestyle: If you need to restyle your hair throughout the day, pomade might be a better option.

Conclusion:

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The best way to find your perfect match is to experiment and have fun with it! A good barber or hairstylist can offer personalized recommendations based on your specific needs.

A clay I personally use and recommend is from Pete and Pedro. You can get yours from amazon at: https://amzn.to/3Xm1fMu

I’d also recommend the pomade from Pete and Pedro. You can get yours from amazon at: https://amzn.to/3Xyr65o

Disclaimer: The links above are affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no additional cost to you, if you decide to make a purchase through one of our recommended partners.  I only recommend products and services I believe will be beneficial to my readers.  This helps support my efforts in bringing you valuable content. Thank you for your support!

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