Pomade has been a staple in men's grooming for over a century, evolving from the slick, shiny styles of the 1950s to the versatile, matte finishes popular today. Whether you're aiming for a timeless side part or a modern textured quiff, pomade offers the control and flexibility you need. This guide will walk you through everything from choosing the right type to mastering application techniques.
At Fellow Barber, we believe that great style starts with the right products. That's why we've curated a selection of premium pomades and styling aids, including Rudy's Invisible Cream, to help you achieve your desired look. Let's dive into the world of pomade and unlock your hair's full potential.
Understanding Pomade: Types and Textures
Pomade comes in various formulations, each offering a unique balance of hold, shine, and washability. The three main types are oil-based, water-based, and hybrid formulas. Oil-based pomades provide strong hold and high shine but can be difficult to wash out. Water-based pomades offer easy washout and a range of finishes, from matte to high shine. Hybrid formulas, like Hybrid Clay, combine the best of both worlds, providing a natural finish with strong hold and easy rinsing.
Hybrid Clay
When selecting a pomade, consider your hair type and desired style. For thick, coarse hair, a stronger hold is essential. For fine or thinning hair, a lighter formula prevents weighing down. Shine level is also a personal preference: classic styles often call for a glossy finish, while modern looks favor matte or low-shine textures.
- Oil-based: long-lasting, high shine, heavy hold
- Water-based: easy to wash, versatile finishes
- Hybrid: balance of hold and washability
How to Apply Pomade Like a Pro
Proper application is key to achieving a polished look. Start with clean, towel-dried hair. Pomade works best on slightly damp or dry hair, depending on the product. Scoop a small amount—about a fingertip's worth—and rub it between your palms to warm it up. This makes the product easier to distribute evenly.
Apply the pomade by running your hands through your hair, starting at the roots and working to the ends. Focus on the areas where you need the most control, such as the crown or sides. Once applied, style with a comb or your fingers. For a classic side part, use a fine-tooth comb to create a clean line. For a modern textured look, use your fingers to tousle and shape.
- Always start with a small amount and add more if needed.
- Warm the product in your palms before applying.
- Comb for precision, fingers for texture.
Classic Pomade Styles: Timeless Elegance
Classic pomade styles are all about clean lines, smooth finishes, and a touch of vintage charm. The slicked-back look, popularized in the 1950s, involves combing all hair back with a high-shine pomade. The side part is another iconic style, where a distinct parting line is created, and the hair is combed to one side. These styles work best with medium to high shine pomades that offer firm hold.
To achieve a classic look, apply pomade to damp hair and comb thoroughly. Use a comb to create your part or slick back, then allow the hair to dry naturally or with a blow dryer for extra smoothness. Finish with a light mist of hairspray to lock in the style.
- Slicked-back: comb all hair back, high shine
- Side part: clean parting line, combed to side
- Use a fine-tooth comb for precision
Modern Pomade Looks: Effortless Texture
Modern pomade looks embrace texture, movement, and a more relaxed vibe. The textured quiff, messy pompadour, and tousled crop are popular choices. These styles often use matte or low-shine pomades to avoid a greasy appearance. Hybrid products like Hybrid Clay are perfect for creating natural-looking texture with strong hold.
For a modern look, apply pomade to dry or slightly damp hair, focusing on the roots for volume. Use your fingers to lift and shape the hair, creating a messy, piecey effect. You can also use a blow dryer to add volume before applying pomade. Finish with a light-hold hairspray to maintain the style without stiffness.
- Textured quiff: lift at the front, messy finish
- Tousled crop: short sides, textured top
- Use fingers to create piecey texture
Top Pomade Picks from Fellow Barber
Choosing the right pomade can make all the difference. At Fellow Barber, we offer a range of high-quality styling products to suit every need. For a classic, high-shine look, consider a traditional water-based pomade. For modern, matte styles, our Hybrid Clay provides a flexible hold with a natural finish.
If you prefer a cream-based product, Rudy's Invisible Cream offers a lightweight, low-shine hold that's perfect for everyday styling. It's ideal for creating soft, natural-looking styles without any stiffness. Explore our collection to find the perfect pomade for your hair type and style preference.
Mastering pomade styling is all about understanding your hair and experimenting with different techniques. Whether you're drawn to the timeless elegance of a side part or the modern ease of a textured quiff, the right pomade and a little practice will have you looking sharp. Visit Fellow Barber to explore our selection and elevate your grooming routine today.