In order to achieve the perfect hairstyle, it requires the right products and techniques. With so many options to choose from, pomade remains a standout choice for many.
Knowing how to style hair using pomade in an underrated skill that can make all the difference. Pomade can help you get that classic slick-back or the modern comb-over look down pat.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to style your hair with pomade, from understanding what pomade is to tips for making the entire process smoother.
What is Pomade?
Pomade has a long and storied history dating back to the times of ancient Egyptians. It is a type of hair styling product that is typically available as a thick oil, wax, or water-based activator offering a strong hold and natural shine.
There are different types of pomades available depending on your preference of locking a style in that won’t move all day, or keeping the hair flexible so you can restyle with ease. Each style of pomade has its own list of benefits.
Types of Pomade You Can Use to Style Your Hair
Choosing the right pomade is just as important as how you style it. How to use pomade and which type to us depends on factors such as your hair type, hair length, and desired style.
Uppercut Deluxe stocks a range of diverse pomades to suit most needs:
- Matte Pomade: Perfect for a natural-looking, textured style with a low-shine finish. Matte Pomade is great for adding definition and volume to messy styles. It’s also good for a low-shine twist on a classic style like a slick back or quiff. Water based.
- Deluxe Pomade: Offers a classic, strong hold with a high-shine finish. Perfect for slicked-back styles and pompadours. GQ recommends Deluxe Pomade for thick and curly hair types that want a high shine. Water based.
- Monster Hold: Provides the strongest hold in the Uppercut Deluxe range, best suited for thick hair or creating high, gravity-defying hairstyles. Wax based and reworkable.
How to Style Your Hair with Pomade
Styling your hair with pomade can be incredibly straightforward, all you have to do is follow the right steps for a successful pomade styling experience. Before we get into application, let’s dive into how to style your hair with pomade.
Pre-Styling Preparation
Before applying pomade, it’s important to prepare you hair properly. Start by washing your hair with shampoo and conditioner to remove any dirt or previous product buildup. Towel dry your hair until it’s damp but not wet.
Use a comb to detangle and pre-style your hair. This is particularly important for creating a clean part line or a specific direction for your hair to sit.
Applying Pomade to your Hair: A Step by Step
- Picking the right amount – Start with a small amount of pomade, roughly the size of a pea for short hair, adding more as needed. You can always add more, but overdoing it can lead to greasy buildup.
- Apply Evenly – Work the pomade through the hair, starting at the roots and spreading towards the ends using your fingertips.
- Style Your Hair – Use a comb for a sleek, structured look or your fingers for a more natural style with texture. Adjust as necessary until you’ve styled your hair into the desired look.
Creating Different Hairstyles with Pomade
Many different types of hairstyles look great with pomade. Choose from a few popular options and experiment to see what works best:
Pompadour: For a classic, high-volume look, apply pomade to the roots and comb upwards and back.
Slick-Back: For a slicked-back appearance, comb the pomade through your hair from front to back. Use a strong hold pomade like Uppercut Deluxe Monster Hold or Deluxe Pomade to achieve a classic, slicked-back look. For best results, apply Monster hold to dry hair, Deluxe Pomade can be applied to damp hair to achieve a tighter, slicked style.
Quiff: For a modern, tousled style, use a matte pomade, a comb, and your fingers to sweep the hair upwards and to one side.
Side Part: For a sharp, professional look, use a comb to create a clean part and slick the hair to the side. Part the hair while it’s damp, then blow dry with a Quiff roller to lock the style in. Apply pomade to dry hair and finish with a comb. Choose the finish of your comb lines by using different comb styles. Use a wide tooth rake comb like our CB11 for thicker lines, or a classic styling comb like our CT5.
For more styles to try out with pomade, refer to our style blogs for ideas, inspiration, and tips.
Mistakes to Avoid When Using Pomade for Hair Styling
Common mistakes to avoid include using too much pomade, using not enough, uneven distribution, and more below.
Using too much pomade can lead to greasy, weighed-down hair. Start with a small amount and add more as you go (if needed). However, not applying enough pomade might not provide enough hold to achieve the style you want. Also, make sure to work the pomade through your hair evenly to avoid patchy application. Try rubbing the pomade evenly across your hands before applying, then working the pomade all the way through the hair from the back of the head working slowly towards the front.
Use the right type of pomade for your hair type and desired hairstyle. A water-based pomade might be better for fine hair, while and oil-based pomade is ideal for thicker hair. Buildup can occur if you don’t wash your hair regularly, especially when using oil or wax-based pomades.
Water based pomades break down when wet (water or even sweat) or touched repetitively, so take your lifestyle into account when choosing a pomade. For example, a water based pomade for playing sport might break down, so opt and an oil-based alternative.
Tips to Make Hair Styling with Pomade Easier
Here are some quick hacks and tips to make your experience with pomade even better.
- Warm Up: Always rub the pomade between your hands before applying. This will soften it and make distribution more even.
- Comb: For added precision on structure styles, use a fine-tooth comb to evenly distribute the pomade for a more polished look.
- Blow-Dry: Depending on the style you’re aiming for, you may want to blow-dry your hair into the general shape you want. If you want more volume, blow-dry your hair into shape before you apply the pomade, using a brush or your fingers to guide it.
- Layer: Layer pomade with other styling products like Uppercut Deluxe Foam Tonic for extra hold or extra volume.
Lastly, you should try experimenting with different pomades to find the perfect one for your hair type and desired style.
Try Out Uppercut Deluxe’s Range of Pomades Today
With the right pomade and styling techniques, you can create a variety of stylish new and classic looks with ease.
At Uppercut Deluxe, we offer a range of pomades to suit every style and hair type. Shop the extensive Uppercut Deluxe range of pomades today and save when you purchase a bundle.
Whether you prefer a matte-finish, a high shine, or a strong hold, there’s a pomade waiting for you in the Uppercut Deluxe range.