How to Use Pomade for Men: Matte vs High Shine

Pomade is the go-to product for men who want a neat, structured style that stays in place. It's also easy to overdo. Too much and your hair looks heavy. Too little and it won't hold. This guide covers how to apply it, how to pick between matte and high shine, and how to avoid the usual mistakes.

What Is Pomade?

Pomade is a styling product that gives firm control and a clean, defined shape. Modern pomades come in two main finishes: matte, which has no shine and looks natural, and high shine, which gives a polished, slicked look. Both work best for styles that need structure, like side parts, slick-backs, pompadours and textured quiffs.

Matte vs High Shine Pomade

  • Matte pomade: Strong hold with a flat, natural finish. Good for everyday wear, the office and textured styles. Try our Precision Matte Pomade.
  • High shine pomade: Extra hold with a glossy, classic finish. Good for slick-backs, formal events and vintage styles. Try our Ironclad High-Shine Pomade.

How to Use Pomade — Step by Step

1. Start with dry or slightly damp hair. Towel-dried hair works well. Very wet hair stops the pomade from spreading and holding properly.

2. Take a small amount. A dime-sized scoop is enough for most hair. Start small and add more only if you need it.

3. Warm it in your palms. Rub your hands together until the pomade softens and coats your palms and fingers evenly. This stops it going on in clumps.

4. Apply from the back to the front. Work it through the back and sides, then the top, and finish at the front.

5. Style it. Use a comb for a sleek, sharp look, or your fingers for a looser, more textured finish.

6. Touch up if needed. A small amount of water on your hands or comb helps you reshape the style during the day.

How Much Pomade Should You Use?

  • Short hair: A pea-sized amount.
  • Medium hair: A dime-sized amount.
  • Longer or thicker hair: A nickel-sized amount, applied in two rounds.

Common Mistakes

  • Using too much. This looks heavy and greasy. You can always add more.
  • Not warming it up. Cold pomade goes on unevenly.
  • Applying to soaking wet hair. It won't spread or hold well.
  • Only styling the front. Work product through the whole head so the style looks even.
  • Not washing it out. Shampoo at the end of the day so product doesn't build up.

Which Hairstyles Work Best With Pomade?

Pomade suits styles that need shape and structure: side parts, slick-backs, pompadours, quiffs and textured crops. If you want a softer, more flexible hold, a styling paste may suit you better. See our clay vs pomade vs paste guide for the full comparison.

How to Wash Pomade Out

Water-based pomades rinse out more easily than traditional petroleum ones. Work shampoo through your hair with your fingertips and rinse well. If product builds up over a few days, use a clarifying shampoo once or twice a week.

Ready to try one? Shop the Precision Matte Pomade for strong hold with no shine, or the Ironclad High-Shine Pomade for a classic finish. Free shipping over $40 CAD.

FAQ

Do you put pomade on wet or dry hair? Dry or slightly damp hair works best. Very wet hair stops the pomade from spreading and holding properly.

How much pomade should I use? Start with a dime-sized amount and add more only if needed.

What is the difference between matte and shine pomade? Matte pomade has no shine and looks natural. High shine pomade gives a glossy, polished finish.

Is pomade good for fine hair? It can be, in small amounts. Heavy, high-shine pomades can weigh fine hair down, so try a matte one and use less.

Can I restyle pomade during the day? Yes. Most pomades stay workable, and a little water on your hands helps.

How do I get pomade out of my hair? Shampoo as usual and rinse well. Water-based pomades come out more easily than petroleum-based ones.