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Pomade: A Cult Classic

Pomade is a hair product with true cult status and a rich history. Although it was forgotten for a long time, it’s now making a well-deserved comeback! This styling product is no longer just a status symbol in the rockabilly scene - and for good reason: pomade offers versatile effects while also caring for your hair.

Kategorie Pomade Model 2
Dunkelblonder Mann mit gestylten Haaren

What Is Pomade?

Pomade is a great alternative to hair gel, hair wax, or styling cream. It’s a styling product based on either water or oil, designed to give the hair a natural yet firm hold. It comes in different finishes — from matte to shiny, or even with a silky touch. And best of all: it nourishes and cares for the hair while styling it.

Benefits of Pomade

Pomade provides hold, shine, or a matte finish depending on the product — and it makes your hair smell amazing! The number of fans is huge, and more and more men (and women) swear by this cult-favorite product. Hair pomade is especially popular for quiffs, slick-back styles, pompadours, and other classic hairstyles from the 1920s to the 1950s. The reasons are clear — pomade both styles and nourishes the hair:

  • Moisture protection
  • Heat protection
  • Provides a strong, long-lasting hold throughout the day
  • Keeps the look flexible and natural
  • Highly efficient — just a pea-sized amount is enough
  • Adds structure and definition
  • Nourishes with various ingredients
  • Alcohol-free, so it won’t dry out the hair

How to Apply Pomade

Pomade is usually applied to towel-dried hair. Rub a small amount between your palms and work it evenly through your hair, avoiding the scalp. A bit of residual moisture in the hair helps achieve the perfect look. As the hair dries while you work in the pomade, it creates the signature pomade style — smooth, defined, and long-lasting.

Hairstyles with Pomade

Nostalgic hairstyles à la Elvis Presley can be created in no time using pomade. For all these styles, the focus is on volume at the top of the head. Pomade provides long-lasting volume and hold. Here are the most popular hairstyles with pomade:

  • Pompadour: This striking hairstyle is defined by voluminous, upward-styled hair. It requires a strong-hold pomade for the best results and is often shaped with a comb.
  • Slickback: In this classic look, the hair is combed straight back for an elegant and polished appearance. A medium to strong-hold pomade works best to maintain the sleek style.
  • Quiff: Similar to a pompadour but lighter and less rigid. The quiff can be styled with a medium-hold pomade for a casual yet structured look.
  • Rockabilly Quiff (Grease Quiff): This iconic 1950s hairstyle involves styling the hair up and away from the forehead. It’s typically created with a strong-hold pomade to ensure durability.
  • Ducktail: A favorite among rockabilly fans, this hairstyle features hair combed into a V-shape at the back of the head and works best with medium-hold pomade. Want to know more about men’s hairstyle trends this year and how to style your hair like a pro? Check out our blog for inspiration!

History of Pomade

The term “pomade” was already in use in the 18th century. It comes from the French word “pomme” (apple) or the Italian “pomo”, since the original pomades were made from mashed apples, animal fats, and herbs.

At first, pomade was used as a healing ointment, and its application for hair styling came later. In the early 20th century, pomade began to gain popularity and reached its peak in the 1950s with icons like Elvis Presley and others. Today, pomade has become a staple in hair care, known for providing stable, long-lasting styles without making the hair look greasy — a major advantage for many modern hairstyles.

Popular Pomades at BellAffair

Experts know: a good pomade leaves your hair feeling lightweight, nourished, and pleasantly scented. Here are some of the most popular pomades available at BellAffair:

  • Redken Brews Cream Pomade: for a silky finish
  • Wella Eimi Just Brilliant Shine Pomade: for a glossy finish
  • Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Grooming Pomade: enriched with botanical ingredients for a healthy shine
  • STMNT Grooming Goods Classic Pomade: offers strong control with a spicy, woody, and lavender scent
  • Seb Man The Dandy Light Hold Pomade: ideal for slick-back styles and undercuts
  • Fudge Vinyl Pomade: nourishes the hair with coconut oil

Hair, Eyebrows, and Beard: What Else Can You Use Pomade For?

Did you know? Hair pomades can also be used for the beard. Beard pomades are designed to nourish and shape facial hair. They help tame and condition longer or unruly beards while providing moisture and manageability in addition to styling.

For eyebrows, there are special pomades such as the Fleeky Brow Pomade. Applied with a dedicated applicator brush, it helps to define, shape, and fill in the brows for a natural, polished look.

Buy Hair Pomade at BellAffair

At BellAffair, you’ll find a wide selection of pomades for your individual styling needs, delivered quickly and easily right to your door. And if you’re quick, you can also secure exclusive high-quality gifts with many of your purchases!