The right hair product can make all the difference in your look. Whether you’re aiming for a sleek, professional style or a casual, textured finish, choosing the right product for your hair type and style is key. At The Refined Man, we know that every man’s hair is different, and using the wrong product can leave your hair feeling too stiff, too greasy, or completely out of control.
Not sure what to use? Here’s a breakdown of popular men’s hair products and when to use them.
1. Pomade – For Sleek and Classic Styles
✔ Best for: Medium to thick hair, classic styles like slick-backs, pompadours, and side parts.
✔ Finish: Can be shiny (oil-based) or natural-looking (water-based).
✔ Hold: Medium to strong.
When to Use:
If you want a polished, vintage-inspired look, pomade is the way to go. It provides flexibility, allowing you to reshape your hair throughout the day. Water-based pomades are easier to wash out, while oil-based pomades offer longer hold but require a bit more effort to remove.
Pro Tip: Apply pomade to slightly damp hair for smoother application and a sleek finish.
2. Clay – For Volume and Texture
✔ Best for: Fine to thick hair, short to medium lengths, messy or natural styles.
✔ Finish: Matte.
✔ Hold: Medium to strong.
When to Use:
Clay products add texture and volume while keeping your hair lightweight and pliable. If you prefer a natural, effortless look with a little extra structure, clay is your go-to. It also absorbs excess oil, making it perfect for men with oily hair.
Pro Tip: Warm the clay between your fingers before applying to make distribution easier.
3. Wax – For Control Without Stiffness
✔ Best for: Medium to thick hair, styles that need flexibility.
✔ Finish: Natural to slight shine.
✔ Hold: Medium.
When to Use:
Wax is great for styles that need definition without looking overly stiff. It provides a natural look while keeping hair in place, making it ideal for casual, everyday styles. Unlike pomade, wax has a drier finish, which helps avoid a greasy look.
Pro Tip: Wax works best on dry hair—too much moisture can make it difficult to distribute evenly.
4. Gel – For a Strong, Structured Hold
✔ Best for: Short to medium-length hair, high-hold styles.
✔ Finish: High shine.
✔ Hold: Strong.
When to Use:
If you want a style that won’t budge all day, gel is your answer. It’s ideal for spiked styles or structured looks that require firm hold. However, some gels can create a crunchy feel, so choose an alcohol-free formula to avoid excessive dryness.
Pro Tip: Apply to damp hair and let it air dry for a controlled, slicked-back look.
5. Cream – For Lightweight Control and Softness
✔ Best for: Fine to medium hair, longer styles.
✔ Finish: Natural.
✔ Hold: Light to medium.
When to Use:
Cream provides just enough hold to tame flyaways and add slight definition while keeping your hair soft and touchable. It’s great for men who want a controlled, effortless style without a greasy or overly structured feel.
Pro Tip: Use a dime-sized amount to avoid weighing your hair down.
6. Sea Salt Spray – For a Relaxed, Beachy Look
✔ Best for: Wavy or curly hair, adding texture and volume.
✔ Finish: Matte.
✔ Hold: Light.
When to Use:
If you want that natural, beachy texture without heavy products, sea salt spray is perfect. It enhances waves, adds volume, and gives hair a relaxed, tousled appearance. Ideal for men with longer or naturally wavy hair.
Pro Tip: Spritz onto damp hair and let it air dry for a natural, effortless look.
Finding the Right Product for You
Choosing the right hair product depends on your hair type, desired style, and hold preference. If you’re unsure which product works best for you, visit The Refined Man for a consultation with our expert barbers. We’ll help you find the perfect styling product to match your hair goals and lifestyle.
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