Even men are not exempted from dealing with frizzy hair that can be annoying. Fortunately, numerous hair-grooming products are available in the market, from waxes and gels to sprays. But if you're looking for one that can give you your desired hold and shine to let you sport different hairstyles, pomade is an excellent pick.
Whether you want an intense hold to sport a pompadour or want something that is just enough to keep your hair in place, there is surely a type of pomade for you. But worry not, as we have prepared some recommendations and a buying guide with insights and tips from board-certified dermatologist Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz!
Quick List - Top Pomades for Men
Bench Barbers
Achieve a Sleek and Defined Hairstyle With This Olive-Infused Pomade
Gatsby
Provides Long-Lasting, Water-Based Hold That Washes Out Easily
Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz is the face behind Ask Your Derma. She is a board-certified dermatologist in Metro Manila. She is also an educator and digital creator on all things skin, hair, and nails. She is a Diplomate of the Philippine Dermatological Society and offers online video consultations. You can also catch her on her Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube channel.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
Unlike hairsprays and gels that leave a stiff and crusty finish that is almost immovable, most pomades offer a flexible hold that allows you to rework your hairstyle freely. For the same reason, they also work better for curly, out-of-control, and dry hair.
Pomades are also free of alcohol that hairsprays and gels contain. These ingredients can cause drying and flaking. Moreover, pomades can offer different types of shine, compared to gels that always make your hair look wet.
To select the right pomade, match its hold and shine to your hair type and desired style. Choose between oil or water-based formulas, and always check ingredients for scalp compatibility.
Before purchasing a pomade, it is crucial to consider your hair type. Since each person has a different hair type, each also has varying hair care needs. A product that works best for thin hair might not do much for thick unruly hair. Hence, knowing your hair type, including its texture, can help you determine the type of pomade you should get.
Generally, if you have thin hair with fine strands, you should go for lightweight pomade, as using a formulation that is too heavy can end up weighing down your tresses. On the other hand, if your hair is leaning on the thick and coarse side, you must choose pomades with a heavier formulation since a lightweight one might not be able to hold your hair well.
Just as we have a skin type, so do we have a hair type. Knowing your hair type: straight vs wavy vs curly vs coily helps narrow down your specific hair care needs.
Pomades offer various types of hold that you can choose from depending on the hairstyle you wish to flaunt. Light-hold ones are suitable for laidback hairstyles like comma hair or a middle-parted style. Meanwhile, if you're going for a slicked-back kind, a medium hold pomade would do. But if you're trying to rock more defined hairstyles, like a mohawk, you'll need strong hold pomades.
Moreover, pomades also deliver different finishes. If you want to sport the "wet look," there are high-shine pomades that give your hair a slick and shiny finish. Meanwhile, there are also matte pomades with a flat finish if you just want to stay low-key with your hairstyle. All these would still depend on the hairstyle you want to sport.
Not all pomades are created equal. They have varying ingredients, strength of hold, and overall finishes. This primarily is based on your preference and the overall look you wish to achieve.
Generally, there are two types of pomades available in the market: oil-based and water-based. Each of them has its edge and drawbacks.
Oil-based pomades usually provide soft hold and a shiny gloss, as their base is typically made of wax, paraffin, or petroleum. Aside from that, they also do not dry quickly, so they remain pliable, allowing you to restyle your hair continuously.
However, oil-based pomades tend to be heavy on the scalp, especially when you're not used to them. They are also more challenging to wash off, requiring more than one round of rinsing. And if you don't wash them off properly, they can also leave a greasy build-up.
#AskYourDerma Tip: Use a specific shampoo for oily hair or for removing oil-based pomades. If there's double cleansing for the face, you may even need a double shampoo for this one to make sure all the residues are removed.
Water-based pomades are water-soluble, so they are easier to wash off and remove from the hair by simply taking a shower and rinsing them off with a good shampoo. They usually have a light and gel-like consistency, making them easier to apply to your hair too.
However, they also have drawbacks. Since they provide a dry hold, they do not allow restyling. If you want to fix your hairstyle, you will have to apply water to make your tresses pliable again. Aside from that, they also don't last very long on your hair, and they typically contain more chemical ingredients than oil-based ones.
These are generally easier to remove. Tip: Just as we don't advise you to sleep with your makeup, don't sleep with your pomade.
Another thing you should do is to take a look at the pomade's ingredients. It is especially crucial to practice this if you have a sensitive scalp. Generally, you may want to avoid pomades for men with synthetic fragrances that can further irritate sensitive skin and scalp.
Apart from that, if you're the type to maintain your hair's condition, you may also want to avoid ingredients like sulfates that can further strip off your hair's natural oils, leaving it dry and more complicated to style. Although some pomades contain these ingredients for more improved efficacy, using them excessively may lead to hair and scalp problems.
For those with a sensitive scalp, be a label reader and see if there are any ingredients that are known to cause irritation to you.
#AskYourDerma Tip: Try it out before using it consistently. Also, watch out around the hairline, scalp, and the hands that apply the pomade if you develop any irritation.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | |||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Best for | Sulfate-free | Formulation | Net Weight | Hold Strength | Finish | Fragrance-free | |||||
1 | Bench Barbers Fix Professional Pomade|20g | ![]() | Achieve a Sleek and Defined Hairstyle With This Olive-Infused Pomade | All Hair Types | Oil-Based | 20g | Strong | High Shine | |||
2 | Grips Hair Pomade | ![]() | Formulated With Jojoba Oil for Style That Lasts Without Drying Out | All Hair Types | Oil-Based | 75g | Strong | High Shine | |||
3 | Penshoppe Style Hair Pomade|80g | ![]() | Delivers a Flexible Hold With a Very Glossy Finish | All Hair Types | Oil-Based | 80g | Medium | High Shine | |||
4 | Gatsby Pomade Supreme Hold Water Base | ![]() | Provides Long-Lasting, Water-Based Hold That Washes Out Easily | All Hair Types | Water-Based | 75g | Firm | Natural Shine | |||
5 | The Maverick Northerner|50g | ![]() | Cool and Minty Pomade That Maintain Your Hair and Scalp’s Condition | All Hair Types | Oil-Based | 113g | Medium | Medium Shine | |||
6 | El-Hefe Vanilla Classic Oil Based Pomade | ![]() | Vanilla Scented Water-Resistant Pomade for a Classic, Clean Look | All Hair Types | Oil-Based | 50g | Firm | Medium Shine | |||
7 | Grafen Sea Water Pomade | ![]() | Infused With Nourishing Sea Minerals for a Strong Yet Healthy Hold | All Hair Types | Water-Based | 100g | Strong | Medium Shine | |||
8 | Bench Fix Professional Deputy Shine Pomade | ![]() | Gives Medium Hold, Maximum Shine for Normal to Thick Hair | Thick、Normal | Oil-Based、Water-Based | 25g | Medium | High Shine | |||
9 | Eight Wolves Dire Wolf|50g | ![]() | Score a Strong Hold With Low Shine With This Oil-Based Pomade | All Hair Types | Oil-Based | 50g | Strong | Low Shine | |||
10 | Tancho Nourishing Pomade | ![]() | Lightweight Hold and Shine Without the Heavy Wax Feel | All Hair Types | Oil-Based | 40g | Light、Medium | unknown |
Coming from a known brand, the Bench Barbers Fix Professional Pomade delivers reliable quality for sleek, well-defined hairstyles. Its high-shine, heavy-hold formula works great for modern quiffs and classic pompadours, while olive extract helps condition and smooth hair.
Since it’s suitable for all hair types, it’s a versatile pick for anyone looking to achieve a polished look. Many reviewers also shared that it’s easy to use and keeps hair neat without feeling sticky or clumpy. Though its stronghold can take extra effort to wash out, it provides lasting control, shine, and definition throughout the day.
Best for | All Hair Types |
---|---|
Sulfate-free | |
Formulation | Oil-Based |
Net Weight | 20g |
Hold Strength | Strong |
Finish | High Shine |
Fragrance-free |
Best for | All Hair Types |
---|---|
Sulfate-free | |
Formulation | Oil-Based |
Net Weight | 75g |
Hold Strength | Strong |
Finish | High Shine |
Fragrance-free |
If you’re after a sleek, polished look with minimal effort, the Penshoppe Style Hair Pomade is worth considering. Its normal hold and glossy finish make it ideal for slick-backs, side parts, or pompadours. Enriched with vitamin E and jojoba oil, it keeps hair healthy and moisturized without looking greasy. Plus, its balanced hold is reworkable, letting you tweak your style throughout the day without stiffness or hassle.
Many appreciate how easy it is to apply and wash off, making it practical for daily use. However, some reviewers note that the shine may be excessive for those who prefer a matte finish, but given its affordability and performance, it’s worth a try.
Best for | All Hair Types |
---|---|
Sulfate-free | |
Formulation | Oil-Based |
Net Weight | 80g |
Hold Strength | Medium |
Finish | High Shine |
Fragrance-free |
Best for | All Hair Types |
---|---|
Sulfate-free | |
Formulation | Water-Based |
Net Weight | 75g |
Hold Strength | Firm |
Finish | Natural Shine |
Fragrance-free |
The Maverick North Classic Oil-based Styling Pomade keeps your hair in place while giving your scalp a cool, minty sensation. Made with natural oils like virgin coconut to fight dandruff, castor to support hair growth, and jojoba to keep hair moisturized, it helps your hair stay healthy, too. Moreover, with a medium hold and medium shine, it’s great for slick-backs, pompadours, and side parts.
According to reviews, it styles well without feeling too stiff, and the minty effect keeps the scalp comfortable, even in hot weather. However, since it’s oil-based, it can feel heavy on fine hair and take extra effort to wash out. But if you have medium to thick hair and want a polished, put-together look, this pomade is worth trying.
Best for | All Hair Types |
---|---|
Sulfate-free | |
Formulation | Oil-Based |
Net Weight | 113g |
Hold Strength | Medium |
Finish | Medium Shine |
Fragrance-free |
Best for | All Hair Types |
---|---|
Sulfate-free | |
Formulation | Oil-Based |
Net Weight | 50g |
Hold Strength | Firm |
Finish | Medium Shine |
Fragrance-free |
Best for | All Hair Types |
---|---|
Sulfate-free | |
Formulation | Water-Based |
Net Weight | 100g |
Hold Strength | Strong |
Finish | Medium Shine |
Fragrance-free |
Best for | Thick、Normal |
---|---|
Sulfate-free | |
Formulation | Oil-Based、Water-Based |
Net Weight | 25g |
Hold Strength | Medium |
Finish | High Shine |
Fragrance-free |
Eightwolves Dire Wolf Pomade offers extreme hold with a natural finish, perfect for all-day styling. Its oil-based formula keeps hair in place while staying pliable enough to restyle. Moreover, with low shine, it won’t look too glossy, and since it’s locally made, it suits the Philippine climate without feeling heavy or greasy. You may consider this product if you want a strong yet flexible hold.
The standout feature? A unique dragon clove scent inspired by Game of Thrones. Reviews mentioned its strong hold, lasting scent, and great value for the price. Some noted that washing it out takes extra effort, but overall, it’s a great pick for long-lasting style.
Best for | All Hair Types |
---|---|
Sulfate-free | |
Formulation | Oil-Based |
Net Weight | 50g |
Hold Strength | Strong |
Finish | Low Shine |
Fragrance-free |
Best for | All Hair Types |
---|---|
Sulfate-free | |
Formulation | Oil-Based |
Net Weight | 40g |
Hold Strength | Light、Medium |
Finish | unknown |
Fragrance-free |
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by Dr. Katrina.
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Author: Roel Pillas Malubay
Re-editor: R. Victoriano, D. Trinidad
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
No. 1: Bench Barbers|Fix Professional Pomade|20g
No. 2: Grips|Hair Pomade
No. 3: Penshoppe|Style Hair Pomade|80g
No. 4: Gatsby |Pomade Supreme Hold Water Base
No. 5: The Maverick|Northerner|50g
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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