Wax, Pomade, or Gel — Which is Best?

When it comes to adding a bit of pizzazz — whether it be some volume or structure — to your hair, there are a few options out there for the guys. However, not many know one product from the other, so before you lather your head with anything you can find on the shelf, we’re here to give you some tips on what type of look and feel each type of styling product delivers.

Wax

If you’re looking for a product that will hold your hairstyle throughout the evening (and in most cases, beyond that), then wax is often the way to go. Wax absorbs moisture in your hair, leaving a drier and more firm look, and the best part about wax is that it won’t stiffen or harden up your hair. Although it is thicker than gel, a good wax has a smooth finish which usually gives you a matt appearance at the end of the application.

An option to try is the Britsh Layered Wax from Gatsby (R84.99), which brings a textured and flowy look to your hair, that can be restyled too. It’s great for short and medium-length cuts.

Pomade

Pomades are everywhere these days, but in addition to sounding pretty cool and making you seem like you know what you’re talking about, what exactly is a pomade? Well, you’ll more often than not find pomades in two variants: water-based and petroleum jelly based. Water-based pomade is less shiny, but has a neat finish while petroleum-based pomade is greasy with a stronger hold. The difference between pomade and gel is the way it feels on the hair, so if you want some thickness and volume to your hair but still like to chop and change your style throughout the night, pomade is a more recommended choice, as it does provide a hold, but far more malleable than other options.

If you have fairly medium to long hair, a great option to add some thickness and volume is Gatby’s Pompadour Style Styling Pomade (R119.95). It’s got a great hold, but still feels flexible enough to run your fingers through it. On top of that, it smells great and washes off your hands and out your hair with ease.

Gel

Gels are often the best holding of the three, but cheaper and more run-of-the-mill gels can look greasy or stiffen your hair beyond what you had in mind. Furthermore, once you apply the gel and set your hair, you’re likely going to have a lot of trouble trying to restyle your hair later on, forcing you to wash it. Unlike what people usually believe, if you want to stick to gel use one that has a lower hold.

If you’re gel guy, but don’t want something that looks too fake and rigid, the Gatsby Water Gloss Super Hard (R59) is the perfect balance between a super strong hold and a natural look.

What’s your go-to product for your desired style? Let us know by tweeting @MenStuffZA, posting on our Facebook page, or commenting below.