Styling hair with pomade is an art that has been perfected over the years, with its roots tracing back to the early 20th century. Pomade, a styling product made from a mixture of wax, oil, and other ingredients, has been a staple in many men’s grooming routines, particularly among those who appreciate a sleek, polished look. In this article, we will delve into the world of pomade, exploring its different types, how to choose the right one, and most importantly, how to style your hair with it.
Understanding Pomade
Before we dive into the styling aspect, it’s essential to understand what pomade is and its various forms. Pomade is a hair styling product that provides hold, texture, and a sleek finish. It’s typically made from a combination of ingredients such as petroleum jelly, beeswax, and lanolin, which give it its unique properties. There are several types of pomade available, including water-based, oil-based, and clay-based pomades.
Types of Pomade
Each type of pomade has its own set of characteristics, making it suitable for specific hair types and styles.
- Water-based pomades are lightweight and easy to wash out, making them ideal for those with fine or thin hair. They provide a light to medium hold and are perfect for achieving a natural, effortless look.
- Oil-based pomades, on the other hand, offer a stronger hold and are more suitable for thicker hair. They can be more difficult to wash out but provide a sleek, polished finish.
- Clay-based pomades are a hybrid of water and oil-based pomades, offering a strong hold while being relatively easy to wash out. They are known for adding texture and volume to the hair.
Choosing the Right Pomade
Selecting the right pomade can be overwhelming, given the numerous options available. To make the right choice, consider your hair type, the style you’re aiming for, and your personal preferences regarding the ease of application and washout. For instance, if you have fine hair and are looking for a light hold, a water-based pomade would be an excellent choice. Conversely, if you have thick hair and want a strong hold, an oil-based pomade might be more suitable.
How to Style Your Hair with Pomade
Styling your hair with pomade involves a few simple steps that can be mastered with practice. The key to achieving a great look is understanding how to apply the pomade effectively and how to manipulate your hair to get the desired style.
Pre-Styling Preparations
Before applying pomade, ensure your hair is clean and towel-dried. This helps the pomade distribute evenly and prevents any dirt or oil from interfering with its hold. If you’re aiming for a more textured look, you can apply a small amount of sea salt spray or texture spray to your hair before the pomade.
Applying Pomade
To apply pomade, follow these steps:
1. Take a small amount of pomade and warm it up between your fingers. This makes the pomade more pliable and easier to apply.
2. Apply the pomade to your hair starting from the back, working your way up to the front. Focus on the roots and mid-lengths for added texture and hold.
3. Use your fingers or a comb to style your hair as desired. For a sleek look, use a comb to smooth out your hair, while for a more textured, undone look, use your fingers to mess up your hair slightly.
Tips for Achieving Different Styles
- For a classic slicked-back look, apply a generous amount of pomade and use a comb to pull your hair back tightly.
- For a side part, apply pomade to one side of your hair and use a comb or your fingers to part your hair to the side.
- For a quiff, apply pomade to the front section of your hair and use your fingers or a comb to style it upwards and to the side.
Maintenance and Removal
While pomade can provide a long-lasting hold, it’s crucial to know how to maintain your style throughout the day and how to remove the pomade at night.
Maintenance
To keep your style looking fresh, you can use a small amount of pomade to touch up any areas that start to lose their hold. Additionally, using a hairspray can help set your style and prevent it from falling out of place.
Removal
Removing pomade can be challenging, especially with oil-based products. Here are a few tips to make the process easier:
– Use a clarifying shampoo to help break down and remove the pomade.
– Apply a pre-shampoo treatment or coconut oil to your hair before washing to help loosen the pomade.
In conclusion, styling your hair with pomade is a skill that requires patience, practice, and the right techniques. By understanding the different types of pomade, choosing the right one for your hair, and mastering the application and styling process, you can achieve a variety of looks that are both stylish and sophisticated. Whether you’re aiming for a sleek, polished finish or a more textured, undone look, pomade can be your go-to styling product. With its ability to provide hold, texture, and a finish that lasts all day, it’s no wonder why pomade has remained a favorite among men for generations.
What is pomade and how does it differ from other styling products?
Pomade is a type of hairstyling product that is used to add hold, texture, and shine to hair. It is typically made from a mixture of oils, waxes, and other ingredients, and is available in a range of different formulas and textures. Unlike other styling products, such as gel or mousse, pomade is known for its ability to provide a strong hold without making hair feel stiff or crunchy. This makes it a popular choice among people who want to achieve a sleek, polished look without sacrificing movement or flexibility.
One of the key differences between pomade and other styling products is its unique texture and consistency. Pomade is typically thicker and more pliable than gel or mousse, and can be easily scooped out of a jar or tin and applied to the hair using the fingers or a comb. This makes it easy to style and restyle hair throughout the day, and allows for a high degree of control and precision. Additionally, pomade is often formulated with nourishing ingredients such as oils and vitamins, which can help to moisturize and protect the hair while providing hold and style.
How do I choose the right type of pomade for my hair type and style?
Choosing the right type of pomade depends on a number of factors, including your hair type, style, and personal preferences. For example, if you have fine or thin hair, you may want to look for a lightweight, water-based pomade that won’t weigh your hair down or make it look greasy. On the other hand, if you have thick or curly hair, you may prefer a richer, more intense pomade that provides extra hold and moisture. You should also consider the level of hold and shine you want to achieve, as well as any specific styling needs you may have, such as added texture or volume.
When selecting a pomade, it’s a good idea to read reviews and do some research to find out what other users with similar hair types and styles have to say about the product. You may also want to try out a small sample or test the product on a discreet area of your hair before committing to a full-size purchase. This will give you a sense of how the pomade performs and whether it’s a good fit for your hair and styling needs. Additionally, consider consulting with a professional stylist or barber who can provide personalized recommendations and advice on choosing the right pomade for your unique hair type and style.
What are the different types of pomades available, and how do they vary in terms of texture and hold?
There are several different types of pomades available, each with its own unique texture and level of hold. Water-based pomades are lightweight and easy to apply, and provide a medium to light hold that is ideal for everyday styling. Oil-based pomades, on the other hand, are richer and more intense, and provide a strong hold that is well-suited to thicker or more unruly hair. There are also hybrid pomades that combine the benefits of water-based and oil-based formulas, and offer a balance of hold and moisture.
In terms of texture, pomades can range from thin and runny to thick and sticky. Some pomades have a smooth, creamy texture that is easy to apply and style, while others have a more coarse, waxy texture that provides added hold and texture. The level of hold provided by a pomade can also vary, from a light, flexible hold to a strong, rigid hold that is suitable for more extreme styles. When choosing a pomade, consider your hair type, style, and personal preferences, and select a product that offers the right balance of texture and hold to meet your needs.
How do I apply pomade to my hair for the best results?
Applying pomade to your hair can be a bit tricky, but with a few tips and tricks, you can achieve a great look. First, start by washing and towel-drying your hair, and then apply a small amount of pomade to your fingers or a comb. Work the pomade into your hair, starting at the roots and working your way down to the ends. Use a gentle, massaging motion to distribute the pomade evenly, and be sure to avoid using too much product, as this can make your hair look greasy or weighed down.
To get the best results from your pomade, try using a comb or brush to style and shape your hair after application. This will help to distribute the pomade evenly and create a sleek, polished look. You can also use a blow dryer or other heat styling tool to help set the pomade and add extra hold and texture. When using a heat styling tool, be sure to use a low or medium heat setting, as high heat can damage the hair or cause the pomade to become too sticky or tacky. Additionally, consider using a small amount of pomade to start, and then adding more as needed to achieve the desired level of hold and style.
Can I use pomade on all types of hair, or are there certain hair types that are more suitable for pomade?
Pomade can be used on a wide range of hair types, but it’s not suitable for all hair. For example, if you have very fine or damaged hair, you may want to avoid using pomade, as it can be too heavy or drying. On the other hand, if you have thick or curly hair, pomade can be a great way to add hold and definition, and to help tame frizz and flyaways. Pomade is also a good choice for people with medium to coarse hair, as it provides a moderate level of hold and texture without weighing the hair down.
When using pomade on different hair types, it’s a good idea to start with a small amount and gradually add more as needed. This will help to prevent over-styling or weighing the hair down, and will also give you a sense of how the pomade performs on your hair. Additionally, consider using a pomade that is specifically formulated for your hair type, as this will help to ensure that you get the best results. For example, if you have dry or damaged hair, look for a pomade that is moisturizing and nourishing, while if you have oily hair, look for a pomade that is lightweight and oil-absorbing.
How do I remove pomade from my hair, and what are some tips for preventing buildup?
Removing pomade from your hair can be a bit challenging, but there are a few tips and tricks that can make the process easier. One of the best ways to remove pomade is to use a clarifying shampoo, which is specifically formulated to break down and remove product buildup. You can also try using a warm water and shampoo mixture, and massaging the shampoo into your scalp to help loosen the pomade. Be sure to rinse your hair thoroughly, and consider using a conditioner or moisturizing mask to help restore moisture and balance to your hair.
To prevent buildup and make it easier to remove pomade from your hair, try to use a small amount of product, and avoid applying it to the same area of hair multiple times. You should also try to wash your hair regularly, using a gentle shampoo and conditioner, and consider using a dry shampoo or other oil-absorbing product to help keep your hair clean and fresh between washings. Additionally, consider using a pomade that is water-soluble, as this will make it easier to remove and reduce the risk of buildup. By following these tips, you can enjoy the benefits of pomade while keeping your hair clean and healthy.