Mane Man: What’s The Difference Between Wax, Clay and Pomade
Natalia Blauth
When the average man decides to dabble in hair care, he might be bombarded with different options of hair tools to elevate his look. Titles such as hair wax, clay or pomade offer new styles. Yet what do these sophisticated products do for your hair, and which do you really need? What is the difference between hair clays, waxes, and pomades? Surprisingly the difference isn’t finite like most hair science. This read is for the average man who goes to Google the difference between these products while hunkered down in the aisles of a beauty supply store. Today, let’s break down the differences between these hair materials through specialized care advice from the distinguished style and culture column written at the Ambony.
Pomade
Starting with our first product, pomade is an oil base product that is usually high in shine and high in hold. These traits do come in a range depending on the specific brand. The oil can also be a combination of wax or Petro or paraffin etc.
Despite a pomade being its own product with a shiny finish, it is also used in general as an umbrella term with even some palms being referred to as a matte paste. These usually involve a water base and some waxes as ingredients. In other words, a pomade is usually going to be a combination of wax, gel, and oil. Overall, pomade will have a hold that ranges from flexible to strong and is best for people who want sleek and classic hair or a polished style that is reminiscent of a quiff or side part. Traditionally, they are an oil and wax base and keep hair slick and smooth. Water based versions wash out easily for every-day use. It does not dry hard or get crispy unlike other examples discussed today.
How does it wash out?
Because of its oil and water base, pomade’s mixture can easily overstimulate the scalp with more build up. This can lead to a phenomenon that carries layers of excess oil from one day to the next. Despite that, many traditional styling experts actually prefer this second day buildup because it makes the hair more manageable and easier to style as it sets into your mane.
Hair Clay
Fun fact: hair clays, or clay-pomade, does not always contain clay. Oftentimes, clay creates a cemented layer that takes away excess grease while also giving a cemented hold. But this isn’t always the case. Actual hair clays are usually much heavier and are mostly waterbase.
Its finish will involve zero shine, giving your hair a matte,natural look. This is ideal for someone who doesn't wanna make it look like they are carrying a lot of product in their hair. However, the hold is medium to very strong if you add a high volume of the product at a time. It's best for messy crops and textured styles adding thickness or grip to moderately fine hair without weighing it down. It's formulated with real minerals and absorbs excess oil. Coating the hair shaft to build a bulk and fullness without weighing it down allows your look to hold shape and power.
How Does It Wash Out?
Despite the buildup that may occur, clay is highly absorbent with scalp benefits that can help detoxify your scalp from exorbitant amounts of sebum. This supports the naturaloil in your scalp to somewhat act as a styling dry shampoo combo.
Wax
Now what about wax? Wax is generally a low to natural sheen and it is a light to medium hold.,. It's best for casual looks, textured finishes, and short to medium hair that needs movement. Usually made from a thick wax, it feels a bit sticky but stays pliable all day. This product allows you to re-style your hair without adding anything heavily shiny or creating heavy stiffness.
Overall, waxes excel at short and choppy haircuts and are perfect for individuals with short to medium hair. Make small pieces or sections and strategically place them in a texturized style after rubbing the product into your hair. Wax also has a lower melting point which means high temperatures or humid days can cause wax styles to look a little droopy. If you live in a climate that is prone to hot or humid weather, going with either clay or pomade might be a better fit.
How Does It Wash Out?
Just like pomades, wax has the tendency to create a likable "buildup" phenomenon for many traditional styling choices, becoming easier to work with when the product is left in the hair for multiple days. With time, wax seemingly becomes more manageable.
In The End, Which One Should You Choose?
If you want to evoke a retro and vintage appeal with a pristine side part and highly Rock ball for any classy event, you would probably want to go with the pomade. For a more casual, effortless and modern look perfect for working with a bed-head kind of style that is sultry even for hair you think is untouchable, wax will be your ideal friend. For a contemporary, rugged and clean look that allows for more volume, a great matte texture, and is phenomenal for finer or thinning hair, you should go with clay. We at The Ambonys styling team are confident that your knowledge is grounded, and stylish. Where as of now, the average loyal reader can assume success on their shopping. Beauty and style education is what the internet needs, more than affiliate link riddled award lists, or sponsorships. Expect great grooming education to be the priority for our readers. So now that you know what works best for your hair–what will you choose?
