The Ultimate Guide to Men's Hair Products: What to Use and When
Let’s face it—most guys were never taught how to use hair products. You either grabbed whatever was in the cabinet, or skipped it entirely. Some have multiple products in their bathroom because every time they buy one, they go home, try it out, and realized they didn’t buy the right thing. But knowing the right product for your hair type and style makes a massive difference. Whether you're going for texture, shine, volume, or control, the right product is the key to leveling up your grooming game.
It doesn’t have to be so confusing… but alas, it’s not so simple nowadays.
The grooming and hair product industry has become so confusing to people because the types of products have all become mashed together and are used interchangeably. For example, “Clay Pomade”. Is it a clay or a pomade? I think companies need to do a better job of identifying what exactly their product is… but that’s another rant for another time. Hopefully this breakdown gives you a little it of clarity.
Here’s a breakdown of the most common types of men’s hair products, what they do, and when to use them.
1. Pomade
Best for: Sleek styles, comb-overs, slick backs, and side parts
Finish: Medium to high shine
Hold: Medium to strong (there are SOME light hold pomades out there though)
Use if: You want a smooth, classic look with a bit of gloss. Ideal for straight to wavy hair.
2. Clay
Best for: Natural, textured styles that stay put
Finish: Matte
Hold: Strong
Use if: You need all-day hold without the shine. Great for short to medium styles and thicker hair types.
3. Paste
Best for: Flexible, touchable styles with some volume
Finish: Low to medium shine
Hold: Medium
Use if: You like to restyle throughout the day. Paste works well for most hair types and lengths.
4. Cream
Best for: Soft, natural flow; longer or wavy hair
Finish: Low to medium shine
Hold: Light
Use if: You want subtle control and a lightweight finish. Good for taming frizz and defining waves.
5. Gel
Best for: Sharp, structured looks with serious hold
Finish: High shine
Hold: Strong to crunchy
Use if: You’re into dramatic, slick styles—but don’t overdo it. Gel can dry stiff and flake.
6. Wax
Best for: Spiky or textured looks with flexibility
Finish: Medium shine
Hold: Medium to firm
Use if: You want structure that can be reworked. Best for short to medium styles.
7. Sea Salt Spray
Best for: Beachy texture and volume
Finish: Matte
Hold: Light to medium
Use if: You have fine or limp hair and want a little grit and movement. Works best on damp hair.
8. Mousse
Best for: Volume and fullness
Finish: Natural to slightly glossy
Hold: Light to medium
Use if: You want body and lift without heaviness. Excellent for curly or thinning hair.
9. Fiber
Best for: Thick, short styles that need grip
Finish: Matte
Hold: Very strong
Use if: You want a firm style that won’t move. Not great for longer hair but excellent for defined shapes like cropped cuts.
10. Hair Oil or Serum
Best for: Conditioning, shine, and frizz control
Finish: Glossy and Natural
Hold: None
Use if: You want healthier hair over time, especially if it’s dry or damaged. Use sparingly, especially on fine hair.
Final Thoughts
Your haircut is only half the battle—how you style it is the rest. With the right product, you can enhance your natural texture, control unruly spots, and express your personal style without overdoing it. If you're not sure where to start, ask your barber what works best for your hair type. And remember: a little goes a long way.
Get the product that fits your style, not the one with the loudest label. You’ll find yourself less frustrated and with more room in your bathroom cabinet. :)
This post contains affiliate links to some of my favorite products that I recommend to make your hair journey less confusing. Currently, I’m in the process of developing a game changer to help you even further and create a one stop shop for all of your skin, hair, and scalp needs. If you want the latest and greatest updates on this secret project of mine as well as first dibs on these blog posts, be sure to subscribe to my mailing list by clicking the link below. Talk soon!
XOXO,
Andy Fischer
