If you've ever been in the chair at KAMM Barbershop, you've definitely heard it: "Are you going for pomade or wax?" Two products that both provide styling, but work completely differently. Choosing the right one makes the difference between a hairstyle that stays in place all day or one that quickly falls flat.
In this blog, we'll explain exactly what the difference is, when to use which, and what best suits your hair and style.
What is pomade?
Pomade is a classic styling product known for its shine and flexibility. It is often used for sleek hairstyles such as a slick back or a side part.
What makes pomade unique:
-
Gives a shiny, well-groomed look
-
Remains flexible, allowing you to restyle your hair
-
Does not harden like gel
-
Ideal for controlled, sleek hairstyles
There are two types of pomade:
-
Water-based: easy to wash out and slightly lighter
-
Oil-based: more shine and stronger hold, but harder to wash out
Use pomade if you're aiming for a classic and well-groomed appearance.
What is wax?
Wax is a modern styling product primarily used for a natural, matte look. It's perfect for hairstyles with texture and movement.
What makes wax different:
-
Gives little to no shine
-
Provides hold and grip
-
Ideal for loose, casual styles
-
Gives more volume and structure
Wax is suitable if you want your hairstyle to look natural without feeling heavy.
The main differences at a glance
The difference between pomade and wax lies mainly in how your hairstyle looks and feels. Below, we'll explain it clearly and concisely for you.
Shine
- Pomade gives your hair a distinct shine. This creates a well-groomed, often somewhat "wet" look.
- Wax, on the other hand, gives almost no shine and instead provides a matte, natural look.
Hold
- Pomade remains flexible. Your hair stays soft and movable, making it easy to restyle.
- Wax provides more grip and hold. Your hairstyle stays in place better, but feels slightly drier.
Look and style
- Pomade is mainly used for sleek, classic hairstyles such as a slick back or a side part.
- Wax is perfect for modern hairstyles with texture, where the hair falls looser and more casually.
Restyling throughout the day
- With pomade, you can easily adjust your hair throughout the day because it doesn't harden.
- Wax also remains flexible, but becomes slightly stiffer, making restyling a little less smooth.
Volume and texture
- Pomade often lays the hair flatter and primarily provides control.
- Wax, on the other hand, provides more volume and structure, making your hairstyle look fuller.
Washing out
- Water-based pomade is easy to wash out. Oil-based pomade takes a bit more effort.
- Wax is generally easy to wash out, but can sometimes leave a slight residue.
When to choose pomade?
Go for pomade if:
-
You wear a slick back or side part
-
You want a shiny finish
-
You want to be able to adjust your hair throughout the day
-
Your hair is naturally smooth or straight
When to choose wax?
Choose wax if:
-
You have a modern hairstyle with texture
-
You want a matte, natural look
-
You need more volume
-
Your hair quickly falls flat without product
What does KAMM Barbershop use?
At KAMM Barbershop, we consider your hairstyle, hair type, and how you wear your hair daily.
Sometimes pomade works better for control, sometimes wax for volume. Often, the best choice is somewhere in between. That's why you always receive personal advice, so you can achieve the same result at home as after your haircut.
Still in doubt? Feel free to drop by KAMM Barbershop. Then we'll figure out together what works best for your hair.
