Written byWesley Kang
As someone who recently permed their hair (going for that Korean haircut look), finding the best pomade for men can make all the difference in keeping it styled. I found that switching to the right pomade or upgrading to a better one gave me more control over my hairstyle.
Here's a list of the best pomades for men that cover all your styling needs—from strong hold to matte finishes, and everything in between. If you're ready for the next step, read our guides on looksmaxxing and manscaping!
O'Douds Matte Paste [Best Overall Pomade]
This matte paste provides a light clay feel after dry-down, offering an airy texture instead of a grippy one. It delivers a solid hold and great volume, making it ideal for various hair types.
Whether you have thinning hair or thick, full locks, this pomade ensures your hairstyle stays in place all day. It's revered by many Reddit users as one of the best hair pomades for men's hair and a great one to add to your pomade collection.
known for using natural ingredients. O'Douds Pomade prides itself on formulating products with natural ingredients like jojoba oil and bees wax, making it a great choice for those looking for a pomade with natural elements that are gentler on the hair--whether that's straight hair or long hair.
Blind Barber 90 Proof Pomade [Best Matte Pomade]
For a men's hair style with a clean, textured look, Blind Barber’s pomade delivers a strong hold with a matte finish. It works well for all hair types, especially those wanting a natural look with no shine.
Infused with hops, this product promotes hair health and reduces dandruff. It's perfect if you're looking for a high-quality, matte formula for a desired style that’s not too heavy.
Kevin Murphy Free Hold [Best Water-Based]
This pomade offers a re-stylable, natural hold, making it perfect for men who want flexibility in their hair products. It’s especially useful for those with perm-styled hair, providing a soft, supportive structure throughout the day.
While Kevin Murphy Free Hold adds essential oils for a pleasant scent, it is closer to a medium hold in the realm of hair pomades as it may not hold as well on second-day hair.
Shear Revival Northern Lights [Best for High Shine Hold]
If you need a pomade with more structure, Shear Revival Northern Lights has a waxy texture that proves toa. be a high shine pomade for those looking for style.
It’s re-styleable and ideal for those who want a balance between volume and sheen making it one of the best pomade for men. This best pomade is perfect for achieving a natural look while maintaining some shine.
Hanz de Fuko Claymation [Best for Hold Strength]
Hanz de Fuko Claymation is perfect for men looking for a strong hold pomade with excellent volume. This fibrous, slightly oily formula gives great structure and can handle a variety of styles, from messy looks to more polished, sleek finishes.
If you're aiming for a pomade that keeps your hair in place and adds volume, the Hanz de Fuko line has a collection of hair pomades that men love. I bought this one after I had my Korean perm done.
Arcadian Clay Pomade [Best for Light Hold]
For those who prefer a lightweight formula, Arcadian Clay Pomade offers a natural, flexible hold.
This pomade won’t weigh your hair down, making it perfect for men with thinning hair or fine hair looking for a product with medium hold without feeling weighed down. It provides good volume, though it might require a little more product for the desired level of control.
Layrite Superhold Pomade [Best for Curly Hair Men]
Designed to tackle thick, unruly hair, the Layrite pomade offers a firm hold and a light shine. It’s highly restylable, making it ideal for textured styles. The mild cream soda scent adds an extra touch of freshness to your grooming routine.
Best Pomade for Men Comparison Table
| Pomade Name | Best For | Price | Link to Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| O'Douds Matte Paste | Best Overall Pomade | $25 | Shop on Amazon |
| Blind Barber 90 Proof Pomade | Best Matte Pomade | $20 | Shop on Amazon |
| Kevin Murphy Free Hold | Best Water-Based | $35 | Shop on Amazon |
| Shear Revival Northern Lights | Best for High Shine Hold | $24 | Shop on Amazon |
| Hanz de Fuko Claymation | Best for Hold Strength | $24 | Shop on Amazon |
| Arcadian Clay Pomade | Best for Light Hold | $23 | Shop on Amazon |
| Layrite Superhold Pomade | Best for Curly Hair Men | $48 | Shop on Amazon |
FAQs about Best Pomades for Men
Which one is the best pomade for men?
The O'Douds Matte Paste is often considered the best pomade for men due to its versatile formula that offers a great balance of hold and volume. It works well for a variety of hair types, including thinning hair, and provides a light, airy feel without the weight of heavier pomades.
Is pomade healthy for the hair?
Pomade can be healthy for your hair when chosen carefully. Products that use natural ingredients like jojoba oil, beeswax, and essential oils can nourish your hair and scalp.
Is pomade better for straight hair or wax?
Pomade is generally better for straight hair if you're looking for hair products with a natural finish with flexible hold for men's hair. Wax tends to offer stronger, firmer hold and is often better suited for shorter, more structured styles.
Do you put pomade in wet or dry hair?
Pomade is typically applied to dry hair, but some products (especially water-based ones) can be applied to slightly damp hair for a softer finish. It's best to apply pomade to dry hair, as it allows the product to lock in place and maintain your style throughout the day.
