Best Men’s Hair Styling Products: Barber-Approved Tips to Choose & Use Them

Ever feel like your hair has a mind of its own? Flat by noon. Frizzy by night. Just plain unmanageable!

You’ve tried every product under the sun, only to end up with crunchy gel, greasy wax, or mousse that falls flat. It’s frustrating, wasted time, and worst of all, it knocks your confidence.

That’s where Red One Perth steps in.

In this guide, we’ve curated the ultimate lineup of men’s hair styling products so you can finally get the look you want without the trial-and-error. Alongside, you’ll discover exactly how to choose and use them for real stunning results.

Keep scrolling to get insider tips that keep your hair healthy, strong, and ready for anything.

Understanding Men’s Hair Styling Products (And How to Choose & Use Them)

Choosing the best hair styling products isn’t just about grabbing whatever’s on sale. It’s about matching the product to your hair type, desired finish, and daily routine. Below you’ll find clear, barber-approved list of the most popular products along with our top picks. You’ll explore what they do to your hair, how to pick, and exactly how to use them for great results:

1. Pomade – for slick, polished styles

Pomade is a grease- or water-based styling product that coats hair strands to give shine and flexible hold. Traditional pomades were oil-based (petroleum or petrolatum), giving long-lasting sheen. Modern water-based pomades use polymers so they wash out easier while still giving glossy finish. Remains pliable, meaning you can restyle during the day.

Finish & Hold: Medium → strong hold; high shine.

Who Should Use It: Men who want slick, polished looks or hairstyles that need to appear smooth and controlled without being rock-hard.

What to Look for When Buying:

Water-based pomade: Contains polymers, glycerin, and mild emollients; easy to wash out.
Oil-based pomade: Made with petrolatum, beeswax, or lanolin; delivers stronger shine but requires more effort to remove.

How to Use Pomade:

Start with towel-damped or slightly damp hair for best spread.
Rub a pea-sized amount between palms until smooth. (Longer hair needs more.)
Apply evenly from mid-lengths to ends, then distribute towards roots.
Comb into place with a fine-tooth comb for a sleek finish; finger-style for a more modern look.
Add a tiny bit more for extra shine or hold, but avoid over-application to prevent greasiness.

Barber Tips:

For a modern look, choose a water-based pomade applied to slightly damp hair. It spreads evenly and prevents clumping
For extra lift in pompadours, apply pomade while blow-drying lightly at the roots.
Avoid applying directly to the scalp. This keeps hair looking natural and prevents buildup.

Top Picks:

Matt Pomade – Uppercut Deluxe: Strong hold, high shine, yet light and pliable.
RedOne Pomade: Ideal for sleek undercuts or pompadours.

2. Hair Wax – for texture and day-long reworkabilit

Hair wax is a pliable styling paste made from natural or synthetic waxes mixed with oils and conditioning agents. It’s designed to add separation, texture and body while keeping hair workable throughout the day.

Finish & Hold: Medium → strong hold; matte to low-shine finish.

Who Should Use It: Men who want textured, lived-in looks; messy crops, textured quiffs, bedhead styles, and short-to-medium lengths that benefit from shape and definition.

What to Look for When Buying:

Composition: Beeswax or carnauba for natural grip; synthetic waxes for stronger hold.
Conditioning: Look for vitamin-enriched or argan oil formulas if your hair needs moisture.
Finish: Choose “matte” or “no-shine” if you want a natural look.
Reworkability: Check product notes; wax should allow re-styling through the day.

How to Use Hair Wax:

Scoop a pea-sized amount (adjust for length) and warm it between your palms until tacky.
Apply to dry hair as wax grabs better on dry strands for clear separation.
Work from the mid-lengths to the ends, then move toward roots where you need lift.
Use your fingers to pinch, scrunch, and define sections. Add tiny amounts gradually to build texture.
Rework through the day by rubbing palms and re-sculpting.

Barber Tips:

Avoid high-oil formulas if you have very fine hair; they can weigh down the style.
Warm the wax thoroughly as cold wax clumps and leaves uneven patches.
For a more natural result, blend wax with a small dab of cream for added softness.

Top Picks:

RedOne Matte Hair Wax – vitamin-enriched for structure and full matte hold.
RedOne Argan Matte Wax – great on dry hair for a tousled, no-shine finish.

3. Hair Gel – for uncompromising hold

Hair gel is a polymer-based styling product that sets as it dries, binding strands together for a firm, long-lasting shape. Gels range from wet-look shine to ultra-strong variants that keep hair locked in place.

Finish & Hold: Very strong hold; wet or high-shine finish. Once set, it becomes firm and hold its shape without reworkability.

Who Should Use It: Men who need maximum structure – spikes, mohawks, high-definition slick-backs, or theatrical looks that must stay put all day or night.

What to Look for When Buying:

Hold level: Look for labeled strengths (light to extra-strong) to match your style needs.
Ingredients: Avoid high-alcohol gels for regular use; choose gels with conditioning agents (like glycerin or keratin) if you style daily.
Finish: Choose “wet-look” for shine; choose lightweight formulas if you want less crunch.
Scalp care: If you have a dry scalp, pick moisturising gels or pair with a hydrating shampoo.

How to Use Hair Gel:

Start with damp hair for even spread.
Squeeze a small to medium amount into your palms (too much = heavy, flaky finish).
Work evenly through hair, sculpting with fingers or a comb.
Let hair air-dry for the firmest set, or use low heat to speed the setting process.
Avoid touching after drying to reduce flaking.

Barber Tips:

Use gel for targeted support (roots/sections) rather than saturating the whole head for a more modern look.
If you get flakes, switch to a gel with less alcohol or alternate with a cream-based product for daily use.
For performance events, finish with a flexible spray to soften the set slightly while preserving hold.

Top Pick:

RedOne Hair Gel Keratin 450 – high-hold gel with keratin to add strength and reduce breakage while keeping your style locked.

4. Hair Clay – for a natural matte build and volume

Hair clay combines natural clays like bentonite or kaolin with waxes and butters. Clays absorb excess oil, add texture, and create the appearance of thicker, fuller hair.

Finish & Hold: Strong hold; matte/no-shine finish. Ideal for building texture and body while controlling oily scalp shine.

Who Should Use It: Men with thinning or fine hair who want added thickness, or anyone wanting a natural, textured look with firm control. Especially effective for short to medium styles.

What to Look for When Buying:

Clay type: Bentonite or kaolin are common and effective for oil control.
Hold additives: Waxes/butters determine hold — the more wax, the stronger the hold.
Texture: Choose a lighter clay for subtle texture or a heavier formula for maximum control.
Hydration: If your hair is dry, look for clays with conditioning agents to avoid over-drying.

How to Use Clay:

Work a small amount between your palms until completely warmed and soft.
Apply to dry hair from roots to tips for maximum grip and volume.
Focus at the roots for lift; scrunch or pinch to create separation and texture.
Build in thin layers for stronger hold—too much at once can feel heavy.

Barber Tips:

Use a blow-dryer before applying if you want more lift. Dry hair then apply clay to lock volume.
Clays perform well in Perth’s heat by reducing greasy shine.
If clay dries hair, alternate with moisturizing treatments weekly.

Top Pick:

RedOne Clay – delivers natural matte texture and strong control for sculpted, everyday looks.

5. Cream – for soft control and frizz management

Hair cream is a light emulsion designed to hydrate, smooth and add gentle hold. It contains humectants and light oils to tame frizz and keep hair touchable.

Finish & Hold: Light → medium hold; natural, low-shine finish. Preserves movement and softness.

Who Should Use It: Men with wavy, curly, or longer hair who want manageable texture, enhanced curl definition, and reduced frizz without stiffness.

What to Look for When Buying:

Moisturising ingredients: Glycerin, argan oil, or shea butter help tame frizz.
Silicone presence: Silicone-free options keep texture more natural; light silicones can add smoothness.
Hold level: Choose a cream with defined light hold if you occasionally want to restyle.

How to Use Cream:

Apply to damp hair, focusing on mid-lengths and ends rather than roots.
Use a small amount and distribute evenly. Add more if hair is longer.
For curls, scrunch the cream into sections for definition; for smooth styles, comb through.
Let air-dry for natural texture or use a diffuser on low heat for added definition.

Barber Tips:

Apply creams from the middle of the hair shaft to ends to avoid flattening roots.
Pair with a light spray if you need extra hold – cream first, spray last.

Top Pick:

12 Reasons Creative Curl Cream (236ml) – hydrates curls, defines waves and controls frizz with a soft, touchable finish.

6. Mousse – for lift, body and bounce

Mousse is an aerated foam that adds body and structure while remaining lightweight. It coats hair strands to give volume and maintain shape as hair dries.

Finish & Hold: Light hold; natural finish with enhanced body and bounce.

Who Should Use It: Perfect for fine, limp hair needing root lift or curly hair that requires definition without weight. Great for guys who want fuller-looking hair without heavy product residue.

What to Look for When Buying:

Volumising agents: Check for polymers that lift at the root.
Conditioning elements: If hair is fragile, choose formulas with conditioning agents to avoid brittleness.
Humidity resistance: Some mousses offer extra hold in humid climates.

How to Use Mousse:

Shake well, dispense a golf-ball sized amount into palms.
Apply primarily to damp hair. Concentrate at the roots for lift and mid-lengths for body.
Blow-dry while lifting with fingers or a round brush for maximum volume.
For curls, scrunch mousse into hair and air-dry or diffuse.

Barber Tips:

Use mousse as a base under light wax or clay for added texture plus volume.
In Perth’s humid months, choose a mousse with humidity resistance for longer-lasting shape.

Top Pick:

Full Force Hair Mousse – provides natural fullness, long-lasting lift and curl definition.

6. Hair Spray – the finishing seal

Hair spray is a polymer-based finisher that locks your finished style in place. Formulas range from flexible to ultra-strong hold and may include humidity resistance or shine modifiers.

Finish & Hold: Variable; light flexible hold to very strong fixation. Finish can be matte or glossy depending on the product.

Who Should Use It: Everyone who needs extra hold, weather protection, or a final polish—especially useful for event styling or windy/humid days.

What to Look for When Buying:

Hold strength: Choose light/medium for everyday use; strong/extra-strong for events.
Flexibility: Flexible sprays let hair move naturally while holding shape.
Humidity resistance: Look for this if you live in humid areas (Perth summers).
Alcohol content: Lower-alcohol sprays are gentler on hair.

How to Use Hair Spray:

Hold the can 20–30 cm from your head.
Mist evenly in short bursts over the finished style.
For layered durability, spray lightly between styling steps (e.g., after pomade and after shaping).
Avoid soaking. Use short, controlled bursts to prevent stiffness.

Barber Tips:

Use a flexible spray for day-to-day wear and reserve firm sprays for performance or all-day events.
For windy Perth beaches or humid days, use a humidity-resistant spray as the final step.
If crunchiness occurs, brush lightly through hair and mist again with a flexible hold spray.

Top Pick:

Redone Hair Spray Show Off 06 — reliable finishing spray that locks styles while maintaining a natural feel when used correctly.

Below is a quick summary of product types, their hold/shine, and best use:

Product	Hold	Finish	Ideal For	Apply To
Pomade	Med–Strong	Shiny	Slick, polished looks	Damp hair
Wax	Med–Strong	Matte/Low	Textured, reworkable styles	Dry hair
Clay	Strong	Matte	Thinning hair, thick texture	Dry hair
Gel	Very Strong	Wet/Glossy	Spikes, fixed looks	Damp hair
Cream	Light–Med	Natural	Wavy/curly, frizz control	Damp hair
Mousse	Light	Natural	Volume, fine hair	Damp (roots)
Spray	Variable	Variable	Finish/hold	Finished style

Quick Checklist to Choose the Right Hair Stylish Products for Men

Want shine & polish? → Pick Pomade
Want matte texture & reworkability? → Choose Wax or Clay
Need rock-solid hold? → Go for Gel
Have wavy/curly or frizzy hair? → Get Cream
Want more volume / fine hair help? → Use Mousse
Need everything to stay put? → Apply Finishing Spray

First, ask “What’s my hair type?” then “Do I want shine or matte?” Answer those two and you’ll land on the right product.

Barber-Approved Hair Styling Tips: Dos & Don’ts for Healthy, Shiny Hair

Great style begins with a healthy foundation, so focus on hair health first. Remember that proper diet and hydration support hair growth, since hair health reflects overall wellness.

Wondering what habits help and hurt your hair the most?

Here’s a clear list of the top Dos and Don’ts every man should follow to achieve stronger, shinier, and healthier locks with ease.

Dos – What to Do for Healthier Hair

Know your hair type before styling. Curly, wavy, straight, fine, or thick hair all have different needs.
Start with small amounts of product. Using a pea-sized portion and building gradually prevents heaviness, clumping, or greasiness.
Layer styling products smartly. Apply leave-in creams first, then texture products like wax or clay, and finish with a light hairspray for best results.
Wash and condition properly. Shampoo 2–3 times per week with a gentle cleanser, then condition according to your hair type.
Protect hair from heat. Always apply a heat protectant and use the lowest effective blow-dryer or styling tool temperature.
Dry hair gently. Pat hair with a microfiber towel or soft T-shirt and avoid rubbing to reduce breakage and frizz.
Prioritise scalp health. Massage the scalp while shampooing to boost circulation and use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo to avoid dryness.
Trim hair regularly. Cutting split ends every 4–6 weeks keeps hair healthy, prevents breakage, and maintains a clean shape.
Eat a balanced diet and stay hydrated. Protein, vitamins, omega-3s, and plenty of water strengthen hair from the inside out.
Protect hair during sleep and sun exposure. Use silk pillowcases or loose hairstyles at night and hats or UV-protectant products outdoors.
Clean styling tools regularly. Wash brushes and combs often to prevent product buildup and maintain hair hygiene.

Don’ts – What to Avoid in Men’s Hair Styling

Don’t shampoo every day. Excessive washing strips natural oils, leaving hair dry and brittle.
Don’t rely on 2-in-1 shampoo-conditioners. Separate products provide better cleansing and proper moisturisation.
Don’t overuse styling products. Too many products can weigh hair down or make it greasy; limit to one or two at a time.
Don’t skip conditioner. Conditioner smooths the hair cuticle and prevents dryness and breakage.
Don’t use high-alcohol products on dry hair or scalp. Alcohol dries strands and irritates the scalp, causing damage.
Don’t towel-rub wet hair or sleep with soaking hair. Hair is weakest when wet, so pat dry gently and avoid tangles at night.
Don’t pull hair into tight styles too often. Tension from tight ponytails or braids can cause breakage and hair loss.

Struggling to find the perfect styling products for men that last all day and nourish your hair?

Level Up Your Style with the Best Hair Styling Products at Red One Perth

At Red One Perth, we’ve crafted a barber‑approved collection. From hair growth products to matte clays, we have everything you need to keep you looking sharp hair healthy.

Explore our range of hair care products, hair styling products online, and even skin care products in Perth.

Shop Men’s Hair Styling Product Online Now

FAQs

1. What are the best men’s hair styling products for everyday use?

Common styling products for men include pomades, waxes, gels, clays, and sprays. Each one offers different hold and finish (see above table) so you can achieve your look.

2. Which is better for men’s hair, pomade or gel?

It depends on the style. Pomade gives a creamy, strong yet pliable hold with high shine, great for classic or professional looks without stiffness. Gel, on the other hand, provides a rock-solid stiff hold and a glossy wet look, ideal for spikes, slick-backs, or any look you want locked in place. Choose pomade for flexibility and shine, or gel for maximum hold.

3. Is hair wax or hair spray better for men’s hairstyles?

These do different jobs. Hair wax is used to shape and texturize your hair with hold that you can restyle throughout the day. Hairspray is a finishing step that simply locks a style in place. In practice, many men use wax to create the look, then finish with a light mist of hairspray to ensure it stays put.