If you’re still wondering what a pomade is and if it’s any better than a hair clay then we are here to help. To start off, pomades are one of the oldest hair styling products and can be made from different bases including: water, oil, clay or wax. Pomades have evolved throughout time but they are responsible for pompadour hairstyles which date back to the 1700s.

We are a long way from the 1700s, but pomades have remained a staple especially among professional hairdressers. Depending on which pomade you choose, the product can add shine to your hair or give you a slightly matte finish. Yes, pomades are known for big hairdos which require lots of hold, but that’s not the only way to use a pomade. Pomades are great to create all types of hairstyles even a natural lived-in tousled hair style which is a favorite.

Who should and should not use a pomade?

The good news is, anyone can use a pomade. If you’re using a high-quality vegan and paraben-free like our Glacial Clay pomade, you will not only see your hair styled to perfection, but will nourish and treat your hair. The Glacial Clay pomade, is not oil-based which makes it super easy to wash out from the hair and avoid buildup in the hair. Having buildup of products in your hair can affect the overall health of your scalp and hair, and leave your hair feeling extra flat and greasy.

Using or not using a pomade will depend on the hairstyle you are trying to achieve. If you’re looking for that tousled hair vibe, then a pomade with light to medium hold will be the best option. If you’re hair’s health is your main priority (as is mine), then you will be definitely want to look for a pomade with natural ingredients—quick tip, if you can’t pronounce the ingredient then stay away!

What is hair clay?

A hair clay generally contains kaolin and/or bentonite. Hair clays are great when you want to achieve a matte finish. In terms of hold, you can really get anything from a light to strong hold, and it can be used by anyone you just have to find the right one for you. Hair clays have been known to promote scalp health and even hair health as well. These are a great everyday product—easy to use and you don’t need any tools other than your hands and a comb or brush.

Who should and should not use a hair clays?

Hair clays can be used by anyone, so your decision on using a hair clay will come down to the type of finish you want. If you’re looking for super glossy hair, then using hair clay will not give your that result. Using a product like our Glacial Clay pomade is great because you can get a bit of both worlds, you get the effects of using a hair clay but because of the natural ingredients in the formula which include essential oils, you will also have moisturized hair with a natural shine.

Pomade vs. hair clay: Which one should you use

These are both great versatile products, but you will have to settle for matte hair if you opt for a hair clay. If you use a product like our Glacial Clay pomade, you don’t have to choose because you will get the same buildable hold a hair clay offers with the added natural shine signaling healthy, luscious hair. Here are some additional factors to consider when picking between a pomade and a hair clay.

Hair type: You first need to determine the type of hair you have. For instances, clays are great for those with fine hair or experiencing thinning because it will make your hair look fuller. Our Glacial Clay pomade, is a great option if you’re concerned with you’re hair looking “empty” because the kaolin is an ingredient known for swelling the hair and making it look fuller.

Texture: Clay based products have a slight grit to them, so they will be easy to work into the hair. Clays will not harden your hair in place or make your hair feel crispy; you will still have movement throughout the day.

Hair Health: A high quality products like the Glacial Clay pomade, will promote your hair’s overall health. The addition of oils like jojoba oil in our pomade is ideal if you’re dealing with dry and frizzy hair.

Shine: Hair clays will give you a matte finish. If you’re seeking a natural finish to your hair, then our Glacial Clay pomade will give you just that without adding excess amounts of shine.