Pomade comes in many different types. It might seem like one product, but in practice the type of pomade makes a big difference in how your hair sits, feels, and looks. The right choice keeps your hairstyle looking good all day without hassle.
Different types of pomade
At KAMM Barbershop we work with different types of pomade and help customers find the right variant every day. In this blog we clearly explain the main types.
Water-based pomade
Water-based pomade is the most commonly used variant. This type is easy to use and especially popular because it washes out easily with water. It gives your hair a well-groomed look and is suitable for daily use. Depending on the brand and type, hold can range from light to strong. This makes it a safe choice if you're looking for a product that works without feeling heavy.
Properties:
- Easy to wash out without shampoo
- Suitable for daily use
- Variable hold from light to strong
- Less heavy feeling in the hair
- Often a drier, more natural finish than oil
Ideal for people who like to restyle their hair every day without any hassle. Two popular water-based pomades:
Oil-based pomade
Oil-based pomade is the classic variant and has been used in barbershops for years. This pomade often gives more shine and stays in your hair longer, even with thick or coarse hair. It creates a sleek, classic look such as a slick back or side part. The downside is that it's harder to wash out and can feel heavier.
Properties:
- Strong, long-lasting hold that stays all day
- High to very high shine, depending on the variant
- Stays flexible in the hair, not rock-hard or flaky
- Ideal for thick, coarse, or unruly hair types
- Perfect for classic hairstyles like slick backs and side parts
- More resistant to moisture and sweat than many water-based variants
Downsides to keep in mind:
- Harder to wash out, often requires multiple washes
- Can feel heavier on fine or thin hair
- Not ideal if you want to fully restyle every day
- Can build up in the hair with frequent use
Oil-based pomade is especially suitable if you're going for a real barbershop look that stays sharp from morning to evening. In our range, these are the two oil-based pomades:
Matte pomade
Matte pomade is perfect if you want a natural look without shine. It gives your hair structure and control, but keeps it from looking "wet" or glossy. This type is often chosen for modern hairstyles where the hair falls looser but still stays in place well.
Properties:
- No to little shine
- Natural, dry finish
- Adds texture and volume
- Works well with loose, modern hairstyles
- Often easier to restyle throughout the day
Three popular matte pomades:
High shine pomade
For a classic, well-groomed look with shine, choose a high shine pomade. This variant makes your hair look sleek and glossy. Ideal for hairstyles where you want a neat, polished appearance. Think styles where everything needs to stay in place and look well-groomed.
Properties:
- Strong shine for a sleek finish
- Neat, well-groomed appearance
- Keeps hair controlled and sharp
- Ideal for formal or classic hairstyles
- Often better suited for short to medium-length hair
Two popular high shine pomades:
Light, medium and strong hold
Besides the type of pomade, hold is also an important factor. This determines how much control and firmness a product gives and how long your hairstyle stays in place.
- Light hold is ideal for loose, natural hairstyles. Your hair stays soft and movable, giving it a relaxed, not overly styled look. Perfect if you mainly want some shape and structure without it feeling "fixed."
- Medium hold gives more control and firmness, while staying flexible enough to lightly restyle throughout the day. This is a good middle ground for daily use and most hair types.
- Strong hold is meant for hairstyles that need to stay sharp all day. Think classic, sleek looks or hairstyles that can't afford to fall flat. This gives maximum control and minimal movement.
Which hold suits you best depends on your hair type, hair length, and how sharp or loose you want to wear your hairstyle.
Which pomade should I choose?
The right pomade depends on your hair type and the result you want to achieve. If you have fine or thin hair, a lighter pomade is often the best choice. It gives control without weighing your hair down. With thick or coarse hair, you need more hold to keep it in place.
Also consider the finish you want. Going for a natural, matte look? Choose a matte pomade. Want a sleek, classic style with more shine instead? A glossy pomade suits better.
Torn between the different Reuzel variants specifically? Read our Reuzel Pomade Comparison, where we put all nine variants side by side.
Advice from KAMM Barbershop
There's no single pomade that works for everyone. It's about what suits you. At KAMM Barbershop we look at your hair, your hairstyle, and how you wear it day to day. We advise you on which pomade works best, so your hairstyle looks great here and at home.
Not sure which pomade suits you? Stop by or make an appointment. We're happy to help.
