Pomade is a popular hairstyling product that has been a staple in grooming routines for decades. Whether you're aiming for a sleek, polished look or something more textured and voluminous, pomade can help you achieve it. However, as with any grooming product, using pomade correctly is critical to getting the desired results. Here are five things you should definitely avoid when using pomade.
Don't Use Too Much Pomade
One of the most common mistakes when using pomade is applying too much. Pomade is a concentrated product, meaning a small amount can go a long way. Too much can make your hair look greasy, heavy, and difficult to style. It can also be challenging to wash out, leading to product buildup over time, affecting your hair's health.
To avoid this, start with a small amount, roughly the size of a pea, and gradually add more if necessary. Work the product through your hair evenly to ensure it provides the right amount of hold without overwhelming it. The goal is to enhance your hairstyle, not to drown your hair in product.
Don't Apply Pomade to Wet Hair
Pomade works best on dry or slightly damp hair. Applying it to wet hair can dilute the product, reducing its effectiveness and making it harder to achieve your desired style. Wet hair can also cause the product to slip through the strands, leading to uneven distribution and a lack of control over your hairstyle.
If you've just showered, make sure your hair is at least towel-dried before applying pomade. If you want to add volume or texture, a blow dryer can help shape your hair and create a better foundation for the pomade to adhere to. This will help you achieve a longer-lasting hold and a more polished look.
Don't Use Pomade in Thin Hair
You might want to reconsider using pomade, especially heavy or oil-based versions if you have thin or fine hair. Pomade can weigh down thin hair, making it look flat, greasy, and lifeless. It can also make it harder to achieve volume, which is often a key goal for those with fine hair.
Instead of pomade, consider using lighter styling products like mousse, lightweight gels, or texturizing sprays that provide hold without adding weight. If you do decide to use pomade, opt for a water-based formula that is easier to control and less likely to weigh your hair down. Always use a minimal amount and focus on applying it to the ends of your hair rather than the roots.
Don't Overlook the Importance of Even Distribution
Achieving a well-styled look with pomade requires even distribution. A common mistake is applying pomade unevenly, which can result in clumps of product in some areas and none in others. This can make your hairstyle look messy and unpolished.
Warm the pomade between your palms before applying it to your hair to ensure even distribution. This softens the product, making it easier to spread. Start from the back of your head and work your way forward, ensuring that the pomade is evenly applied throughout. This method helps you avoid an overly greasy appearance, especially at the front of your hair.
Don't Forget to Wash It Out
Pomade, particularly oil-based varieties, can be challenging to wash out of your hair. Leaving it in overnight or for multiple days can lead to product buildup, which can clog pores on your scalp and lead to issues like dandruff or breakouts along your hairline.
To prevent this, thoroughly wash your hair at the end of the day. Use a clarifying shampoo to remove all traces of the product. If you're using an oil-based pomade, shampoo twice or use a product specifically designed to break down oils.
Pomade can be an excellent tool for achieving various hairstyles, but it's essential to use it correctly. Avoiding these common mistakes—using too much product, applying it to wet hair, using it in thin hair, neglecting even distribution, and failing to wash it out properly—will help you get the best results and keep your hair looking its best. Remember, a little goes a long way with pomade; proper application is critical to a great hairstyle.
