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Clay, Pomade, or Paste? Finally Understanding Which Hair Product is Right for You

Pomade for your beard

Walking into the hair product aisle can feel overwhelming. The tubs, jars, and tubes all promise perfect style, but what’s the real difference between them? Using the wrong product can leave your hair greasy, stiff, or flat.

This is one of our favorite topics in the Grooming Education Boot Camp because the right product changes everything. It works with your hair, not against it. Let’s demystify the options so you can choose with confidence.


First, Understand Hold and Shine


Every styling product can be judged on two key factors:

  • Hold: This is the product's ability to keep your hair in place. It ranges from light (flexible, natural movement) to strong (stiff, locked-in style).

  • Shine: This is the amount of gloss the product adds. It ranges from matte (no shine, natural look) to high shine (wet, glossy finish).


Here’s a breakdown of the three most versatile products and when to use them.


1. The Product: Pomade

  • What it is: The classic styling product, now with modern formulas. Water-based pomades are the most popular, offering good hold that still washes out easily.

  • Best For: Creating sleek, classic, high-definition styles like a pompadour or a sharp side part.

  • Hold & Shine: Typically offers a Medium to High Hold and a Medium to High Shine. It's perfect for anyone wanting a polished, well-put-together look.

  • Pro Tip: Apply to towel-dried or completely dry hair. The drier the hair, the stronger the hold you’ll get.


2. The Product: Clay

  • What it is: A styling product that often contains natural clays like bentonite. It adds texture and thickness to hair, making it feel fuller.

  • Best For: Creating natural, textured, and voluminous styles with a relaxed finish. It’s excellent for guys with fine or thinning hair who want a fuller look.

  • Hold & Shine: Typically offers a Medium to Strong Hold and a Matte (Low to No) Shine. It gives structure without looking like you have product in your hair.

  • Pro Tip: Warm a small amount in your palms until it’s smooth before applying. Work it through your hair from roots to tips to build volume.


3. The Product: Paste

  • What it is: The versatile middle ground. A good paste is like the Swiss Army knife of hair products—thicker than a pomade but more pliable than a clay.

  • Best For: A huge range of styles, from messy, textured looks to more defined but still flexible styles. It's a fantastic all-around choice.

  • Hold & Shine: Typically offers a Medium Hold and a Low to Medium Shine. It provides control with a natural finish that isn’t too glossy or too dry.

  • Pro Tip: Paste is very forgiving. You can apply it to damp hair for a lighter hold or dry hair for a stronger hold. It’s easy to restyle throughout the day.

 
 
 
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