Hair Gel vs Pomade vs Wax: What’s the Difference and Which One to Use?
Frustrated with your hair falling flat? Having trouble locking in your hairstyle? Choosing between gel, pomade, and wax can feel confusing.
Each hair styling product has its own strengths, and the wrong pick can lead to greasy, stiff, or flat-looking hair. In this guide, we break down the difference between pomade, hair gel, and wax so you can see how they work, weigh their pros and cons, and find the right match for your hair type and preferred pomade hairstyle.
By the end, you’ll know exactly which product is best for styling your look and where to find the best hair styling products in Perth.
Gel, Pomade, and Wax | How Do They Work on Different Hair Styles
Each styling product behaves differently when applied. Here’s how:
- Gel offers the strongest hold & support for defined hair styles.
When you apply a gel to damp hair and let it dry, it creates a high-shine, wet look and hardens the hair in place.
This makes gel ideal for sharp, hair gel hairstyles like slick-backs, spikes or mohawks where you want every strand locked down. However, once gel dries it can make hair feel stiff or even flaky.
- Pomade gives a medium hold with classic, shiny, and reworkable looks.
You can apply pomade to damp hair for extra shine or dry hair for a more natural, matte pomade hairstyle. The key is pomade never hardens, so you can reshape your style throughout the day.
This makes pomade great for classic slick looks like pompadours or comb-overs, as well as waxed hairstyles that still need flexibility. Many pomades also contain nourishing ingredients, so they’re gentle on hair.
- Hair wax provides a strong, buildable hold without a hard, crispy feel.
Wax sits between gel and pomade in hold. It is usually applied to dry hair and gives a natural to low-gloss finish. Unlike gel, wax won’t fully dry out or flake, and unlike some pomades, it offers a grittier, textured look.
This makes wax ideal for short-to-medium, textured styles like messy spikes or tousled crops). Because wax is pliable, you can restyle or add more wax later. But be careful; some waxes can be hard to wash out if used every day.
Now that you understand the basic function or purpose of each product, let’s weigh the pros and cons so you can choose smartly.
Gel vs. Pomade vs. Wax | Comparing Pros and Cons
Every product has its upsides and downsides. Here are the main pros and cons of each:
Hair Gel: Pros and Cons
Pros | Cons |
ü Rock-solid hold; keeps gravity-defying styles in place ü High shine; gives a polished, sleek appearance ü Quick-drying; great for fast styling ü Ideal for extreme styles; spikes, mohawks, slick-backs | û Can make hair feel hard or crunchy once dry û May flake or leave residue if over-applied û Not reworkable; style is locked once gel sets û Contains alcohol which can dry out hair |
Pomade: Pros and Cons
Pros | Cons |
ü Medium, buildable hold; layer for more control ü Flexible; allows restyling throughout the day ü Versatile; available in matte and high-shine finishes ü Water-based pomade; wash out easily ü Alcohol-free and conditioning; good for dry or sensitive hair | û Can be greasy, especially if oil-based û May attract dirt or cause buildup if not washed out û Less hold than gel; stiff styles can fall flat û Oil-based types require stronger cleansing |
Hair Wax: Pros and Cons
Pros | Cons |
ü Strong, flexible hold; hair remains touchable and natural ü Matte or low-shine finish; perfect for textured, modern looks ü Adds volume and definition; ideal for short-to-medium hair ü Great for messy hair styles; tousled or spiky ü Tames flyaways; controls frizz | û Doesn’t create a shiny, slick finish (not ideal for sleek styles) û Heavy waxes can be difficult to wash out û Too much product can leave hair greasy or flat û May feel heavy in long or fine hair |
Knowing the pros and cons is helpful, but your hair type also plays a key role in what works best
Pomade, Gel, or Wax? Picking the Best Product by Hair Type & Style Preference
Your hair’s length, texture, and desired look determine the best choice. Here’s a quick guide:
Fine or Thin Hair
A lightweight hair wax can add texture without weighing down strands. Avoid heavy gels or waxes that leave hair flat. A light-hold pomade (especially water-based) can also work if you want some shine, but go easy on quantity.
Thick or Coarse Hair
You’ll likely need something strong. Pomade or gel with high hold will tame bulkier hair. Oil-based pomades add shine and smoothness, while strong gels will keep thick strands locked. Avoid lightweight products that won’t grip coarse hair.
Curly or Wavy Hair
Pomade is the best bet here. It offers hold while allowing curls to breathe, and many formulas contain moisturizers to fight frizz. A matte pomade or wax can define curls without crunch. Use gels sparingly – they can make curls crispy if overused.
Oily Hair
Skip heavy petroleum pomades that add sheen. A wax or gel, especially one labeled “oil control”, provides hold without extra grease. Waxes won’t add oiliness, and lightweight gels will wash out oil.
Dry or Damaged Hair
Look for pomades (especially water-based) with nourishing ingredients. Pomade can soften and add moisture to dull hair. Avoid high-alcohol gels which can exacerbate dryness.
Quick Tips:
- No matter the type, always start with a small amount.
- For pomade vs. gel, remember gel is great if you want a uniform, slicked appearance, whereas pomade will give a more textured, natural look.
- For pomade vs. wax, choose pomade if you need some shine and flexibility, or wax if you want a gritty, matte finish with sturdy hold.
To get the most out of your product, make sure you’re applying it correctly and avoiding common styling mistakes.
Hair Styling Tips: How to Use Gel, Pomade, or Wax the Right Way
Using these products correctly can make or break your style. Keep these use-cases and tips in mind:
Less is more
One of the biggest mistakes is over-applying product. Too much gel or wax will make hair look greasy or stiff. Always start with a pea-sized amount.
Apply to the right hair state
Gel is meant for damp hair, applying it to dry hair will cause clumping and flaking. Wax usually works best on dry or almost-dry hair for strongest hold. Pomade can be used on wet or dry hair: wet for shine and grip, dry for a matte finish.
Distribute evenly
Rub pomade or wax between your hands first to warm it up. Then work from the back of your head forward. Uneven application leads to patchy hold or greasy spots.
Know your product’s limits
Don’t try to achieve a natural, tousled look with gel, it will feel too firm. Or a slick military cut with a matte wax – you won’t get enough shine. Use each product where it shines.
Protect your hair
Styling products shouldn’t replace proper haircare. Always wash your hair thoroughly to remove buildup after heavy use. Neglecting to wash out products can clog follicles or weigh hair down.
Experiment with combinations
Sometimes mixing a little wax into your gel or layering pomade under a clay can achieve a custom hold/shiny balance. Just avoid pasting in new product without removing the old first.
Mind the ingredients
If your scalp is sensitive, look for alcohol-free or natural formulas. Some gels contain alcohol that can dry skin, and some waxes have heavy oils that might break out sensitive scalps.
Still unsure which product fits your needs? This quick comparison chart simplifies it even more.
Pomade vs. Gel vs. Wax | A Quick Comparison
This table should help you decide at a glance which product aligns with your style goals.
Feature | Gel | Pomade | Wax |
Hold | Very strong; hair dries hard and fixed | Medium; buildable with layers | Medium–strong; flexible hold |
Shine/Finish | High-gloss, wet look | Medium to high; range from matte to shiny | Matte to low-shine; natural finish |
Flexibility | Hair hardens completely once dry | Remains pliable all day; can restyle | Doesn’t harden; you can re-sculpt |
Best For | Extreme styles; Slick-backs, mohawks, spikes | Classic hairstyles; pompadours & quiffs | Textured hair styles; messy or voluminous |
Application | Apply to damp hair; use sparingly | Apply to wet hair for shine, dry hair for matte | Apply to dry hair for maximum hold |
Hair Types | Best for thick, rough hair needing max hold | Works on all hair types (water vs. oil formulas) | Ideal for fine, oily, or frizzy hair |
When to Use | For bold, sculpted looks with max hold Ideal for short to medium hair | For sleek or classic styles with movement Works on short to long hair | For natural, textured styles with volume Perfect for short to medium hair |
So, Which Is Better: Gel, Pomade, or Wax?
In essence, it depends on your hair type and styling goals. Hair gel offers the strongest hold and is ideal for structured hairstyles like spikes or slick-backs. Pomade provides a medium, flexible hold with either a matte or shiny finish, perfect for classic styles like pompadours. Hair wax gives a textured, natural look with a firm yet pliable hold; great for messy or voluminous styles.
For the best results, choose based on your hair’s thickness, finish preference, and styling needs.
Do you dread waking up to a bad hair day?
Shop the Best Hair Styling Products at Read One Perth & End the Struggle
We stock best rated men’s hair wax, pomades, and gels, so you can style like a pro. Visit our Yokine store or shop online for the best hair styling products to achieve salon-quality results right here in Perth.
Browse our full range of men’s hair styling products
FAQs
1. Which hair wax is best for men in Perth?
A strong-hold matte wax is ideal for Perth’s hair and climate. Wax holds your hair in place all day long with a matte finish, which tames frizz and works well on thicker or oily hair. For example, Red One Perth’s Matt Wax (Maximum Control) offers this kind of hold.
2. Can I use pomade daily for my hairstyle?
Yes; as long as you keep your hair clean. Using pomade every day can cause product build-up, so Perth men should wash and condition regularly. It’s best to pick a water-based pomade (easy to rinse out) and use a clarifying shampoo to remove residue.
3. Where to buy professional hair styling products in Perth?
Check local barber-supply shops and salons. Red One Perth is a top choice. We stock a full range of men’s styling products, from strong-hold waxes to flexible gels. Many Perth barbers and stylists trust our barber-approved product lineup.
4. How do I choose between hair gel, pomade and wax for my hairstyle?
It depends on your hair type and desired look. Gel gives the strongest hold and a wet, stiff finish. Use it for slicked-back or structured styles. Pomade offers medium hold with shine and is easy to wash out, great for versatile or classic looks. Wax provides a strong yet flexible hold with a dry, matte finish, ideal for a natural look or to control frizz. Choose gel for maximum hold, pomade for a shiny finish, and wax for a matte, flexible style.
5. Is hair gel or pomade better for Perth’s humid summer?
In humid or hot weather, lighter, non-flaking products tend to work better. Many Perth men prefer wax or water-based pomade over stiff gels. Wax helps tame frizziness and won’t harden your hair like gel, making it great for humidity. A water-based pomade is also a good choice. It rinses out easily and won’t leave your hair crunchy. Gel can become too rigid or flaky in humidity, so it’s mostly skipped on the hottest Perth days.
6. Is Pomade the Same as Hair Wax?
No, pomade and wax are different in hold and finish. Pomade delivers a smoother, shinier look and works well for sleek styles like comb-overs. Wax gives a matte or low-shine finish with a stronger hold, ideal for textured or spiky hairstyles. Choose pomade for flexible shine and wax for control and definition.