Paste vs. Pomade: Which Is Best for You?

Untangling the world of hair styling products can be overwhelming, especially if you’re new to the game. With so many options, it can be hard to determine which product is right for your hair type and desired hairstyle. Today, we’ll break down the key differences between hair paste and pomade, two popular styling products, to help you make an informed decision.

What Is Hair Pomade?

Hair pomade has been around since the mid-1900s and was initially made from petroleum jelly to help men achieve the slicked-back look. Today’s pomades are much gentler and more nourishing for your hair and scalp. They are usually made with natural oils and wash out easily with regular shampoo and conditioner.

Pomade offers a robust and long-lasting hold that doesn’t dry out or harden. It’s also known for providing a high-shine finish that can add a classic touch to any hairstyle. When choosing a pomade, consider the hold, shine, and desired look. Lightweight pomades work well for taming flyaway hairs, while thicker products with strong holds are better suited for ambitious styles like the pompadour or slick-back.

What Is Hair Paste?

Hair paste is a versatile styling product for any hair type and hairstyle. It has a thicker consistency than pomade and is usually water-based. Hair paste provides a natural-looking finish that varies from matte to medium shine, making it an excellent option for those who prefer a more subtle look.

One of the benefits of hair paste is that it’s easy to wash out with regular shampoo. It also offers a medium to firm hold to create almost any hairstyle. When choosing a hair paste, consider the hold, shine, and your hair type. Low-hold pastes with matte to low shine work well for messy looks with a natural finish, while stronger holds are better suited for spiked-up hairstyles or waves.

So, Which One Should You Use?

Choosing between hair paste and pomade comes down to your desired hairstyle and personal preference. Hair paste is an excellent option if you want a natural-looking finish with a medium to firm hold. On the other hand, if you’re going for a classic look with a high-shine finish, pomade is your go-to product.

Ultimately, both hair paste and pomade offer unique benefits that can enhance your hair styling routine. With the right product and technique, you can achieve any hairstyle you desire. Just remember to consider your hair type, desired look, and the product’s attributes when making your choice.

Other Hair Styling Products to Try

Pastes and pomades are hardly the only options for styling your hair. Some other products you might find helpful include:

• Clay – Hair clay is ideal for those with short to medium-length hair and provides a high hold and matte finish. These attributes make hair clay perfect for creating structured hairstyles like the slick-back. Clay sets firmly and holds throughout the day, so it’s important to get your hairstyle right before leaving the house.
• Cream – Hair creams are mild hair products that provide minimal hold and work best for adding volume to hair without committing to a rigid or aggressive hairstyle. They can also smooth out curls and reduce stray hairs. Hair creams are malleable, meaning you can always add more and restyle as necessary.
• Fiber – Hair fiber is great for those with short to medium-length thin hair, adding texture and fullness to limp or flat hair. It provides a medium hold and matte finish, making it ideal for styling hair according to your preference.
• Gel – Hair gel is good for any hair length and delivers strong definition, sharp texture, a firm hold, and high shine. It’s perfect for those who want everyone to know they have product in their hair. How much gel you use depends on your hair length, and the more you apply, the more hold you’ll get.
• Mousse – Hair mousse is light, easy to distribute, and capable of adding more volume to your hair than expected. It’s perfect for those with short, medium-length, and long, thin hair who want to avoid weighing down their hair. You can apply small amounts of the mousse, starting at the roots of your hair and ending at the ends, using your fingertips to style your hair.
• Wax – Hair wax is best for those with short hair and provides a straitjacket-like hold to weigh down the hair and add some shine. Wax-based waxes are more challenging to shampoo out of your hair, while water-based waxes wash out easily. Use a pea-sized amount, warm it between your hands until it’s soft, and apply it to your roots, working the product through to the ends of your hair to achieve your desired style.

Let Therapy Hair Studio Find the Perfect Product for Your Style

Our stylists carry a wide range of pastes, pomades, and other hair products to help you achieve your perfect look. Call Therapy Hair Studio today or visit our contact page to schedule an appointment.