The Top 7 Pomade Mistakes Men Make
Shaylynn Marks
Pomade is notorious for being one of those hair products that seem self-explanatory until your hair begins a full-scale rebellion before you’ve even made it out the door. A little scoop of pomade can effectively sharpen a side part and tame a cowlick into submission. It’s also great for a quick slick back hairstyle and give shorter hairstyles a controlled, clean finish. But if you use it wrong, your hair can go from attractive to oil slick in a matter of seconds. It’s all good, we’ve all been there at some point. Once you really understand what your hair type is, the style you really want, and the right type of pomade to use, the rest will be easy. We’ll be calling out the top pomade mistakes men make and how to actually fix them.
The Top 7 Pomade Mistakes Men Make and How to Fix Them
Pomade Mistake #1: Using the Wrong Hair Product for the Style
Pomade is the go-to styling product for most controlled hairstyles like slick back or side parts that need a distinct shape. This mistake is grabbing pomade when the hairstyle actually calls for something with more movement and texture.
How to fix: Take the time to match the product to the end result before you even touch your hair. For a sleek, groomed look, pomade makes sense. If you’re going for something messy with volume, go lighter with something like sea salt spray.
Pomade Mistake #2: Using Too Much Pomade
Pomade is concentrated, which means the more product you use, the more likely you’ll end up with a head that looks like it was drenched in a deep fryer. Using too much pomade can flatten the hair and create a greasy finish.
How to fix: Start with a small, dime-sized amount. Warm it up by rubbing it between your hands. Only add more pomade when your hair still needs more control. Even that celebrity-level hair looks effortless because the stylist carefully layers the product.
Pomade Mistake #3: Applying Pomade to Hair That’s Too Wet—or Too Dry!
Soaking wet hair will dilute the product and inevitably weaken the hold. Bone dry hair will make the pomade harder to spread, especially if your hair is thick, coarse, or stubborn.
How to fix: Towel-dried hair is the sweet spot for a hairstyle with pomade. Aim for a consistency that’s slightly damp, not dripping. Damp hair helps pomade glide through evenly while still giving it enough grip to set the shape. For a more natural finish, you can also apply a smaller amount to dry hair as a final touch after the initial styling.
Pomade Mistake #4: Choosing the Wrong Pomade For Your Hair Type
Pomade isn’t a one-size fits all. Each type of pomade behaves differently on every head of hair. Fine hair will quickly collapse under a heavy formula. Thicker hair types may even laugh in the face of a lightweight product. Curly hair needs control, but within reason. The last thing you want to do before it destroys its shape.
How to fix: Start thinking like a barber. Choose the right product based on the density, texture, and length. Fine or thinning hair usually needs a lighter touch and less shine. Thick hair benefits from stronger hold and controlled application. Curly or wavy hair does better when the product does better when the product defines shape without being combed into oblivion.
Pomade Mistake #5: Ignoring the Hold and/or Shine Level
Hold and shine aren’t tiny product details. They decide whether your hair looks sharp, natural, overly slick, or like you walked out of a 1950s crime drama by accident.
How to fix: Choose the pomade with a hold-level based on the amount of control your hair needs. For shine-level, base it on how polished you want that finish to appear. Matte or low-shine pomades work best for natural everyday hairstyles. Medium shine gives a clean, classic look. High shine should be intentional. The last thing you want is a surprise attack in the bathroom mirror.
Pomade Mistake #6: Not Washing Out Pomade Properly
Pomade buildup can make your hair feel dense and greasy, making it even harder to style the next day. Even the best hair styling products turn against you when Monday’s hidden layers keep stacking up.
How to fix: A bit obvious, but washing thoroughly is a good start—especially if you use pomade daily. Also, keep in mind the pomade-type. Water-based pomades usually rinse out more easily, while heavier formulas may need a more intense shampoo, like a clarifying shampoo. The golden rule? Always wash your hair if it’s feeling coated. Begin working in the shampoo before you wet your hair, then rinse and shampoo again if needed.
Pomade Mistake #7: Not Applying Pomade Evenly
Uneven application is why one section looks perfect while another clumps, falls flat, or shines like cheap pleather. A lot of guys tend to start applying pomade right at the front, which overloads the most visible part of the hairstyle.
How to fix: Warm the pomade between your hands and fingers. Once it’s warmed up enough to spread smoothly, start through the back and middle of the hair before moving toward the front. Make sure to use your fingers first for distribution, then a comb if you want a cleaner shape. The front should get the final pass, not the first glob.
Before You Blame the Pomade
Pomade works best when you treat it like an actual styling tool. Pick the right formula, and use less than you think. Always apply your pomade with control, and, most importantly, make sure your hair is clean enough for the product to do its job. Avoiding these pomade mistakes will make styling your hair a no-brainer.
