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
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
Every mybest article is crafted with hours of in-depth research and interviews with experts. Each month, we are continually expanding our database of products based on our research. By emphasizing user insight and reliable information, we deliver trustworthy content to readers.
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 | |||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Hold Strength | Finish | Net Weight | Best for | Formulation | |||||
1 | Bench Barbers Fix Professional Pomade|20g | ![]() | Classic Hold and Shine for Modern Hairstyles | Strong | High Shine | 80 g | All Hair Types | Oil-Based | |
2 | Narco Man Pomade | ![]() | Strong Hold with Glossy Finish for Classic Styles | Very Strong | High Shine | 50 g | All Hair Types | Oil-Based | |
3 | Bad Lab Matte Max Water-Based Pomade | ![]() | Strong Matte Hold with Scalp Care Benefits | Strong | Matte | 40 g | All Hair Types | Water-Based | |
4 | The Maverick Northerner|50g | ![]() | Firm Hold with Medium Shine and Natural Oils | Firm | Medium Shine | 50 g | All Hair Types | Oil-Based | |
5 | Grips Hair Pomade | ![]() | Strong Hold with High Shine and Nourishing Oils | Strong | High Shine | 75 g | All Hair Types | Oil-Based | |
6 | Penshoppe Style Hair Pomade|80g | ![]() | Normal Hold with Natural Shine and Nourishing Care | Strong | Natural Shine | 80 mL | All Hair Types | Water-Based | |
7 | El Hefe Bubblegum Classic Oil Based Pomade | ![]() | Classic Strong Hold with Sweet Bubblegum Scent | Strong | Medium Shine | 80 g | All Hair Types | Oil-Based | |
8 | Hairfix for Men Slick Shine Pomade Water Based | ![]() | Flexible Hold with Natural Shine and Easy Washout | Medium | Natural Shine | 100 g | All Hair Types | Water-Based | |
9 | Gatsby Perfect Rise Water Base Pomade | ![]() | Edgy Quiff Hold with Fresh Shine and Easy Washout | Strong | Natural Shine | 75 g | All Hair Types | Water-Based | |
10 | El Hefe Superior Classic Oil Based Pomade | ![]() | Strong Hold with Medium Shine and Nourishing Oils | Strong | Medium Shine | 50 g | All Hair Types | Oil-Based |
Reviews mention:
Users appreciate the pomade’s reliable strong hold and the natural shine it gives without feeling heavy or greasy. Many highlight its pleasant scent and how it keeps hair in place even in humid conditions. Some note it can be a bit waxy for very fine hair but generally find it easy to wash out compared to other pomades.
Hold Strength | Strong |
---|---|
Finish | High Shine |
Net Weight | 80 g |
Best for | All Hair Types |
Formulation | Oil-Based |
Reviews mention:
Users praise the pomade’s strong hold and shiny finish that keeps hair styled all day without stiffness. Many appreciate its pleasant scent and how it remains soft and easy to restyle with a bit of water. Some mention it can feel a bit oily but find it washes out reasonably well compared to other oil-based pomades.
Hold Strength | Very Strong |
---|---|
Finish | High Shine |
Net Weight | 50 g |
Best for | All Hair Types |
Formulation | Oil-Based |
Reviews mention:
Users commend the pomade for its strong hold and matte finish that lasts throughout the day without feeling heavy. Many appreciate its scalp-friendly ingredients that help reduce itchiness and odor. Some note the scent is noticeable but pleasant, while a few wish for larger size options.
Hold Strength | Strong |
---|---|
Finish | Matte |
Net Weight | 40 g |
Best for | All Hair Types |
Formulation | Water-Based |
Hold Strength | Firm |
---|---|
Finish | Medium Shine |
Net Weight | 50 g |
Best for | All Hair Types |
Formulation | Oil-Based |
Reviews mention:
Users like how this pomade provides a firm hold without making hair stiff or greasy. Many appreciate the natural shine and the moisturizing effect from jojoba oil. Some mention the scent is noticeable but pleasant, while others wish for more size options.
Hold Strength | Strong |
---|---|
Finish | High Shine |
Net Weight | 75 g |
Best for | All Hair Types |
Formulation | Oil-Based |
Reviews mention:
Users appreciate the comfortable, flexible hold that allows restyling throughout the day. Many like the lightweight feel and how it leaves hair looking natural with a healthy shine. Some note the scent is mild and pleasant, while a few wish for stronger hold options.
Hold Strength | Strong |
---|---|
Finish | Natural Shine |
Net Weight | 80 mL |
Best for | All Hair Types |
Formulation | Water-Based |
Reviews mention:
Users enjoy the reliable strong hold and unique bubblegum scent that sets this pomade apart. Many find it easy to work with and appreciate how it maintains style throughout the day. Some mention the oil-based formula can feel a bit heavy for fine hair but generally washes out with proper shampooing.
Hold Strength | Strong |
---|---|
Finish | Medium Shine |
Net Weight | 80 g |
Best for | All Hair Types |
Formulation | Oil-Based |
Reviews mention:
Users appreciate the pomade’s natural shine and flexible hold that lasts throughout the day without stiffness. Many like how easily it washes out compared to oil-based products. Some mention the scent is mild and pleasant, while a few wish for stronger hold options.
Hold Strength | Medium |
---|---|
Finish | Natural Shine |
Net Weight | 100 g |
Best for | All Hair Types |
Formulation | Water-Based |
Reviews mention:
Users praise its strong setting power that keeps raised hairstyles intact for hours. Many appreciate the lightweight feel and how easily it washes out compared to oil-based pomades. Some note the scent is mild and pleasant, while a few wish for larger size options.
Hold Strength | Strong |
---|---|
Finish | Natural Shine |
Net Weight | 75 g |
Best for | All Hair Types |
Formulation | Water-Based |
Reviews mention:
Users praise the pomade’s firm hold that keeps hairstyles intact throughout the day while maintaining hair softness. Many appreciate the nourishing natural oils that help prevent dandruff and promote scalp health. Some note that the oil-based formula requires thorough washing but find the styling benefits worth the effort.
Hold Strength | Strong |
---|---|
Finish | Medium Shine |
Net Weight | 50 g |
Best for | All Hair Types |
Formulation | Oil-Based |
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: Narco|Man Pomade
No. 3: Bad Lab|Matte Max Water-Based Pomade
No. 4: The Maverick|Northerner|50g
No. 5: Grips|Hair Pomade
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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