Pomade vs Gel: Which one is better for hair? What’s the main difference?

If you have a head of hair, and you know… routinely style it, you’ve probably heard of both pomade and hair gel. But if you’re like a lot of people, you don’t know the exact difference between them, and you definitely don’t know which one is better for you. In this article, we’ll break down the exact differences between hair pomade and hair gel, and we’ll figure out which one is best - for you.

What is Hair Pomade?

That’s a very general question, and the fact is that there are literally dozens of types of hair pomade out there. Pomade is nothing more than a catch-all term for “stuff that goes in your hair.” Of course, some people assume “pomade” is synonymous with thick, oil-based pomades, but that’s only because that’s the oldest kind. In recent years, there has been an explosion of different kinds of pomades, like matte pomades, clay pomades, cream pomades, and even ones that blend all three together. In reality, the term “pomade” in the 21st century can encompass all different types.

An example of matte pomade, the Hi-Lo in Maui Midnight scent

Main Types of Pomades

The main types of pomades are oil-based pomades and water-based pomades. Oil-based pomades are made with oil as the base ingredient, like castor oil or mineral oil. Water-based pomades, on the other hand, use water as the base ingredient. The main difference is how easy it is to wash out. Water-based pomade will easily wash out in water, while oil-based pomades will stay in your hair longer and take longer to wash out.

Sub-types of Pomades

Getting further down the funnel of the pomade rabbit hole, under the two main oil-based and water-based types, there are additional “sub types” of pomade. These include matte pomade, wax pomades, cream pomades, clay pomades, and more. All of these pomades are used the same way, but with slightly different look and feel. For a flat, matte finish, choose a matte pomade. To increase hair volume and make your hair look bigger, choose a clay pomade. Wax pomades are the options for high-hold. Each different sub-type has their own niche.

A look achieved with a flat, high-hold matte pomade

How Is Pomade Different from Hair Gel?

Hair gel is a type of water-based hair product that is semi-viscous and usually transparent. It was very popular in the 90s, when everyone was spiking their frosted tips or wanted the wet, hard look (think Ross from friends). Hair gel is perfect for very high hold, and for keeping your hair look wet and crunchy.

Pomade on the other hand, is completely different. Rather than making your hair crunchy and moist, the goal of a good water-based pomade is to look natural and semi-dry, all while still holding your hair in place. With a good quality pomade, you can still achieve a firm, high-hold look, but with a matte finish, dry finish, or natural finish. With the right technique, you can even make it look like you’re wearing no product in your hair at all.

Some hair gel can leave you looking like a wet dog

This is a far cry from the wet, crunchy, old-school look of hair gel.

However, if you are so inclined, you can always mix pomade with water to get a “wet” look that is similar to hair gel. Because of this, pomade is the more versatile option of the two.

Hair gel is also best used for short hair styles. Anything longer, than it will start to get sticky real quick. If you have medium to longer hair, it may be best to look for a light-weight pomade that will be easier to work through your hair.

To recap, hair gel is water-based and semi-viscous, which gives a wet, crunchy look. Pomade is usually more viscous, and is used to give a matte, natural look that looks more dry. Both of them can be water-based for easy wash out.

So, which one will you choose? Hair gel is a classic for sure, and will likely always have it’s place. However, if you want a more modern, trendy look, pomade is your best option for newer hair styles that look more natural.