Choosing the right styling product is a challenge most face when exploring different hair styles. Whether you’re looking for a sleek, polished look or a textured, natural style, hair pomade and hair clay are two of the most popular options available. But how do you know which one is right for you? In this guide, we’ll dive into the pomade vs clay debate, highlighting their differences and explaining their key features to help you decide which one fits your style best. At Uppercut Deluxe, we offer both pomade and styling clay, and we’re here to help you make the right choice.
What is Pomade?
Pomade has long been a go-to for achieving smooth, polished hairstyles. Traditionally, pomades were oil-based, which gave them a strong hold and a glossy finish, but today you can find water-based pomades as well. Water-based pomades have a similar effect but are easier to wash out and tend to offer a lighter, more flexible hold.
At Uppercut Deluxe, we have a collection of Pomades that offer different levels of shine and hold. The key feature of our Deluxe Pomade is its ability to provide a high level of shine, making it perfect for achieving sleek, well-groomed hairstyles. The shine factor gives your hair a polished, almost wet-look finish, which works particularly well for formal styles.
Matte Pomade is perfect for those who want to add volume and texture without an overly glossy finish.
Both our Deluxe Pomade and Matte Pomade set firm, locking in those tight comblines. Great for achieving those classic, timeless styles.
Our Monster Hold is a traditional wax-based pomade that not only has a strong hold, but remains reworkable throughout the day. This one is also high shine.
Pomade is especially useful for styles that require smoothness and control, such as slicked-back hair, pompadours, or even side parts. It’s ideal for anyone who wants a style that stays in place but still has some movement, while offering that classic, clean finish.
What is Hair Clay?
Hair clay is a fantastic choice for those who prefer a matte finish with texture and volume. Unlike our Deluxe Pomade and Monster Hold, which provide shine, styling clay offers a more natural look.
Unlike Matte Pomade and Deluxe Pomade, Hair Clay provides a flexible, reworkable style while still having a strong hold. The matte finish and texture-enhancing properties make it ideal for styles where volume, separation, and natural movement are desired. Whether you're looking to achieve a messy crop, a quiff, or just a textured, tousled look, hair clay can help you create that effortless, ‘lived-in’ style.
If you're after a more natural, undone appearance, hair clay is a great choice. It works particularly well for short to medium-length hair, as it helps to add structure without making your hair look too stiff.
Pomade vs. Hair Clays: Key Features
To help you decide between pomade vs. clay, here’s a quick comparison chart to summarise the key features of each product:
| Feature | Monster Hold | Matte Pomade | Deluxe Pomade | Hair Clay |
| Finish | Shiny, glossy | Matte, natural | Shiny, glossy | Matte, natural |
| Hold | Heavy and strong hold | Medium hold | Flexible to strong, depending on type. | Strong hold |
| Hair Type | Anything that needs hardcore control | Works well with all hair types, especially thick or curly hair | Works well with all hair types, especially thick or curly hair | Ideal for fine to medium hair types, great for texture |
| Texture | Waxy, polished | Textured, voluminous | Smooth, polished | Textured, voluminous |
| Reworkable | Yes, flexible and reworkable | No, sets firm | No, sets firm | Yes, flexible and reworkable |
| Best for | Slick backs, pompadours, side parts | Slick backs, pompadours, side parts, textured tops, natural looks | Slick backs, pompadours, side parts | Messy crops, textured quiffs, natural looks |
| Ease of Removal | Wax-based, easier to remove by washing hair out with our Detox and Degrease Shampoo | Water-based pomade so it's easy to remove | Water-based pomade so it's easy to remove | Easy to wash out without leaving residue |
As you can see, pomade and hair clay each offer unique benefits depending on the look you’re aiming for. The choice ultimately comes down to the finish you prefer and the type of style you want to create.
When to Use Pomade
Pomade is a great choice when you’re looking for a polished, sleek, or well-defined hairstyle. If you’re into classic looks such as slicked-back styles, pompadours, or side parts, pomade will provide the level of shine and hold you need to keep your hair looking sharp throughout the day.
Pomade is particularly useful for those with thicker hair or curly hair, as it can help to smooth out the texture and give a more controlled, structured look. It’s also a go-to product for anyone aiming for a formal or semi-formal look, like for a wedding, interview, or event where you want your hair to look neat and presentable.
When to Use Hair Clay
Hair clay excels when you want a more relaxed, natural-looking style with texture and volume. It’s perfect for those who prefer a matte finish or want to add definition and separation without the heavy hold or shine of pomade.
If you’re after a messy crop, a textured quiff, or a dishevelled, tousled look, hair clay can help while still keeping your hair in place. It’s ideal for those looking to add volume, or anyone who prefers a more understated, matte style.
Explore Uppercut Deluxe’s Range of Pomades and Hair Clays
Now that you know the difference between pomade and hair clay, it’s time to choose the perfect product for your hair. Whether you’re after a sleek, polished finish with hair pomade or a textured, voluminous look with hair clay, Uppercut Deluxe has you covered. Explore our full range of pomades as well as our styling clay, designed to give you the flexibility to create any look you desire. Our products are made with quality ingredients to ensure long-lasting hold, easy application, and effortless styling. Shop now and find the perfect styling solution for your hair.
