So... What is Pomade?

What Types of Pomade are Out There?

The three most common recipes are water based, oil based, and wax based formulas. Let’s take a second to understand the differences between them. 

Oil Based:

Oil-based pomade is the original pomade that gained a ton of popularity from the 1930’s through to the 1960’s. They’re usually made with petroleum, paraffin, or mineral oil. These oils do not mix well with water so be sparing when applying this type of product as some of it will likely stick around in your hair until the next day.

These pomades are great if you’re looking for a product that will make your hair shine. Since these oils don’t dry out, you’ll be able to style and re-style your hair for days. If your hair is naturally oily, this is probably not the product for you unless you want your hair to really shine.

Pros: Cheaper & lasts for more than a day

Cons: Not suitable for more oily hair types, takes a few washes to fully remove

Water Based:

Water based Pomades are the modern equivalent to more traditional oil-based pomades. They will usually have water as their main ingredient.

These pomades are great as a single-day hold and do quite well in warmer environments since they can dry in exactly the right shape that you’re looking to keep.  They do wash away very easily in water so keep that in mind if you’re planning to exercise or swim. If you struggle with overly greasy hair or breakouts on your skin, this type of pomade might be just the thing you’re looking for as they don’t introduce any extra oils to your hair. 

As with all good things, there are some negatives as well. Water-based pomades tend to carry a higher price tag compared to their oil-based counterparts since they are a little more complicated to make. You will also use this product much more frequently as it washes out of hair very easily. 

Pros: great in warmer weather, great for very greasy hair or oil-sensitive skin

Cons: washes out very easily, more expensive, need to use it daily, depending on the brand you might have some questionable chemicals in the mixture so make sure you check those ingredient labels!

Wax Based:

Wax based pomades typically use things like beeswax and natural oils in their mixtures. These pomades leverage the nourishing properties of the wax and oils to help you maintain a healthy head of hair. You can do everything from very basic texturizing to full slick-back style. This will have a more flexible hold and is perfect for anyone looking to maintain a more “natural” look to their hairstyle. 

Pros: generally use more natural ingredients, Malleable throughout the day, does not wash out immediately when it comes in contact with water.

Cons:  thicker composition so you have to make sure you spread it evenly through your hair, won't work for spiky or stiff hair styles

 Which Pomade should you use?

At the end of the day, not all pomades are going to work on your hair. Some might be too oily while others dry out your scalp completely. The most important part is to take your time in understanding the ingredients in your pomade of choice. If it's loaded with chemicals or petroleum jelly, you could be doing more harm than good to your hair.

If you're looking for a more natural hair product, then Hold Dat Classic Pomade might be right for you. It's a wax-based pomade that incorporates the nourishing qualities of rice bran wax, coconut oil, castor oil, and other essential oil blends, to help texturize and nourish your hair.