Pomade is one of the best-known styling products we sell at KAMM Barbershop, and for good reason. It gives your hair shine while keeping it flexible, creating the classic, well-groomed look that barbers have loved for more than a century. In this blog, we explain exactly what pomade is, what it is made of, which types are available, and how to use it.
What exactly is pomade?
Pomade is a styling product that shapes your hair while giving it a shiny, well-groomed appearance. Unlike gel, pomade does not harden: your hair stays soft and flexible throughout the day, making it easy to restyle, even after a long day. Pomade has traditionally been used for sleek, classic hairstyles such as a slick back or side part.
The name itself goes back centuries, to the French word for ointment. Curious about the full story, from mashed apples to Elvis Presley’s world-famous pompadour? Read our blog History of Pomade: From Apples to Elvis.
What types of pomade are there?
The two best-known types are water-based and oil-based pomade. Which one is best depends mainly on your hairstyle, hair type, and the result you want.
| Water-based pomade | Oil-based pomade | |
|---|---|---|
| Base | Water | Oils and fats |
| Hold | Medium to strong | Strong to extra strong |
| Shine | Medium to high | High |
| Washability | Easy to wash out | More difficult to wash out |
| Ideal for | Everyday use | Classic, long-lasting styles |
Water-based pomade has water as its main base, which generally makes it easier to wash out. This type is popular for everyday use and is available in different levels of hold and shine.
Oil-based pomade is made with oils and fats. These pomades often provide more shine and a stronger, longer-lasting hold. They also remain easy to work through and reshape, but are more difficult to wash out of the hair.
What is pomade made of?
A good pomade usually contains petroleum jelly or oil for shine and smoothness, combined with beeswax for hold and structure. Lanolin helps keep the product smooth and easy to spread.
Water-based pomade also contains water, which allows it to rinse out easily in the shower. Without water, the hold tends to be stronger, but the product is also more difficult to wash out.
How do you use pomade?
Always start with a small amount, roughly the size of a pea to a chestnut, depending on your hair length. Rub the pomade between your hands to warm it up and make it easier to work with, then distribute it evenly through your hair. You can use pomade on dry or slightly damp hair. Dry hair generally provides more hold, while slightly damp hair often gives you more shine.
Then style your hair with your fingers or a comb. For a sleek slick back or side part, we usually use a comb. Want a more relaxed look? Simply use your fingers to shape your hair.
When do we choose pomade?
We choose pomade when we want to give the hair control without making it hard. It is especially suitable for a slick back, side part, or other classic hairstyles. Pomade is also a great choice if you like a polished look with a shiny finish.
Do you have smooth or straight hair? Pomade can work especially well, as it makes it easy to style your hair in the desired direction. For thick or curly hair, we often recommend a pomade with a stronger hold to keep the style in place throughout the day.
At KAMM Barbershop, we always look at your hair, hairstyle, and the look you want to achieve. Not everyone needs the same pomade.
Buy pomade at KAMM Barbershop
At KAMM Barbershop, we always consider your hairstyle, hair type, and how you wear your hair every day before recommending a pomade. In our shop, you’ll find only pomades that we have carefully selected for their quality and results, and that we use ourselves every day in the barbershop. What we sell in our webshop is genuinely what we use on our clients.
Want advice on which pomade is best for your hair? Order online, or get in touch with us and visit the barbershop for personal advice.
