Wavy hair can be a blessing and a curse. It has natural volume and texture, but getting it to cooperate can feel like a daily battle. Pomade can be a game-changer, offering hold without the stiffness of gel, defining those waves and keeping frizz at bay. Finding the right one, though, is key – too heavy, and your waves will droop; too light, and you’ll be fighting frizz all day. I’ve tried a bunch, so let me share what I’ve learned to help you find the best pomade for *your* wavy hair.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Suavecito Pomade Original Hold: Water-based, strong hold, classic scent.
- Layrite Superhold Pomade: High hold, water-based, vanilla scent.
- Reuzel Pink Pomade Grease Heavy Hold: Oil-based, heavy hold, apple scent.
- Uppercut Deluxe Pomade: Strong hold, water-based, coconut vanilla scent.
- Baxter of California Clay Pomade: Matte finish, strong hold, natural look.
Top 5 Best Pomade for Wavy Hair
Suavecito Pomade Original Hold
Suavecito Pomade Original Hold is a popular, water-based pomade known for its medium hold and shine. It’s a good all-rounder, easy to wash out, and has a classic masculine scent that many people enjoy. It’s a solid choice for everyday styling of wavy hair.
Pros:
- ✅ Affordable and widely available.
- ✅ Water-based formula washes out easily.
- ✅ Medium hold provides good control for wavy hair without being too stiff.
Cons:
- ❌ Scent can be overpowering for some.
- ❌ Hold may not be strong enough for very thick or unruly wavy hair.
- ❌ Can become flaky if too much is used.
Verdict: A great starting point for those new to pomades, especially if you like a classic scent and easy washability. Best for shorter to medium length wavy hair.
Layrite Superhold Pomade
Layrite Superhold Pomade is a water-based pomade designed for maximum hold. It’s known for keeping even the most stubborn hair in place, making it a popular choice for structured styles. Plus, it smells pretty good, too.
Pros:
- ✅ Provides a very strong hold for challenging hair.
- ✅ Water-based formula washes out easily.
- ✅ Clean, vanilla scent.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be difficult to apply evenly due to its strong hold.
- ❌ May feel stiff or crunchy if too much is used.
- ❌ Could be too strong for fine wavy hair.
Verdict: Ideal for those with thick, coarse wavy hair that needs serious control. Use sparingly to avoid stiffness.
Reuzel Pink Pomade Grease Heavy Hold
Reuzel Pink Pomade is an oil-based pomade that delivers a heavy hold and medium shine. It’s designed for creating classic, slicked-back styles and taming unruly hair. It’s a bit old-school, but it works.
Pros:
- ✅ Provides a very strong hold that lasts all day.
- ✅ Adds a healthy shine to the hair.
- ✅ Great for creating slicked-back styles.
Cons:
- ❌ Oil-based formula can be difficult to wash out completely.
- ❌ May feel heavy or greasy on fine hair.
- ❌ Can transfer to pillows and clothing.
Verdict: Best for those with thick, coarse wavy hair who want a strong hold and don’t mind the effort of washing out an oil-based product. Not recommended for fine or easily weighed-down hair.
Uppercut Deluxe Pomade
Uppercut Deluxe Pomade is a water-based pomade that offers a strong hold and a medium shine. It’s a versatile product that can be used to create a variety of styles, from slicked-back looks to more textured, natural styles. It’s a personal favorite of mine.
Pros:
- ✅ Strong hold that lasts all day.
- ✅ Water-based formula washes out easily.
- ✅ Versatile for different styles.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit sticky during application.
- ❌ Scent might be too sweet for some.
- ❌ Can dry out hair if used excessively without proper hydration.
Verdict: A great option for those who want a strong hold and easy washability. Works well for various wavy hair lengths and styles, but be mindful of potential dryness.
Baxter of California Clay Pomade
Baxter of California Clay Pomade is a matte finish pomade that provides a strong, pliable hold. It’s designed to create textured, natural-looking styles without adding shine. This one is great if you want definition without looking like you used product.
Pros:
- ✅ Provides a strong, flexible hold.
- ✅ Matte finish for a natural look.
- ✅ Works well for creating textured styles.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be drying to the hair.
- ❌ May be difficult to distribute evenly if hair is very dry.
- ❌ Hold might not be strong enough for very thick or coarse wavy hair in humid conditions.
Verdict: Best for those with oily or combination hair who want a natural, matte finish. Use with a hydrating conditioner to combat potential dryness. Might not be the best choice for very dry or coarse wavy hair.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right pomade for wavy hair can be tricky, but here’s what I’ve learned:
- Hold: Consider your hair thickness and the style you want. Finer waves need a lighter hold to avoid being weighed down, while thicker waves can handle a stronger hold.
- Shine: Decide whether you want a high-shine, medium-shine, or matte finish. High shine is great for classic, slicked-back looks, while matte finishes offer a more natural appearance.
- Base: Water-based pomades are easy to wash out, while oil-based pomades offer a stronger hold but require more effort to remove. There are also clay-based pomades for more of a matte look.
- Ingredients: Look for pomades with moisturizing ingredients to prevent dryness, especially if you have dry or damaged hair. Avoid products with harsh chemicals that can strip your hair of its natural oils.
- Scent: Consider the scent of the pomade. Choose a scent that you enjoy and that won’t clash with your cologne or other grooming products. I personally like the vanilla scent of Layrite.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about using pomade for wavy hair:
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Q: How much pomade should I use?
A: Start with a small amount (pea-sized) and add more as needed. It’s always easier to add more than to remove excess. For oil based, I find emulsifying it in my hands well before applying helps avoid clumping.
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Q: How do I apply pomade to wavy hair?
A: Rub the pomade between your palms to warm it up and then apply it evenly throughout your hair, starting at the roots and working your way to the ends. Style as desired.
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Q: Can I use pomade on dry or wet hair?
A: It depends on the pomade and the style you want. Generally, applying pomade to slightly damp hair provides better hold and control. However, some pomades work well on dry hair for a more textured look.
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Q: How do I wash pomade out of my hair?
A: Water-based pomades are easy to wash out with shampoo. Oil-based pomades may require a clarifying shampoo or a double-shampooing to remove completely. For oil based, try applying conditioner *before* shampoo. Sounds weird, but it helps remove the grease.
Conclusion
Finding the best pomade for your wavy hair is a matter of experimentation. Consider your hair type, desired style, and personal preferences. Don’t be afraid to try different products until you find one that works best for you. With the right pomade, you can achieve defined, frizz-free waves that look and feel great. Good luck!
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