What Are the Differences Between Hair Wax, Pomade, Clay, Gel, and Paste?

If you’re a guy (or anyone with short hair), you’ve probably used one of these styling products: hair wax, pomade, clay, gel, and paste.

They’re all used for styling hair in all sorts of different ways, but have you ever wondered what the differences are between them? If you’re not familiar, we share their similarities and differences below.

Hair Wax

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As its name suggests, this product contains wax to style and hold the hair. Hair wax doesn’t harden so you can restyle your look throughout the day. If the hair loses its shape, you can simply pinch, twist, and restyle. Hair wax also has a stronger hold so you can experiment with different looks. This is great for hairstyles that require a comb, like pompadours or side parts.

The CYNOS Only Styling Texturizing Wax provides a light hold and high shine for a modern and flexible alternative to styling for all hair types.

Hair Pomade

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Like wax, pomade gives a flexible and natural hold that you can adjust throughout the day. One of the well-known variants is the oil-based pomade, which makes the hair look shiny. There are other kinds, too, that give a strong hold and a more matte finish. This is also recommended for hairstyles that need a comb.

The CYNOS Only Styling Retro Grooming Pomade gives a flexible, malleable texture, and high shine for all types of hair. This also works for unstructured tousled looks.

Hair Clay

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Clay adds body and thickness to the hair. It has a stronger hold that’s perfect for hairstyles that have a lot of volume. This product is good for you: ingredients like kaolin clean the hair while keeping its natural oils and moisture. It also absorbs toxins from the scalp and exfoliates the skin.

The CYNOS Only Styling Sculpting Clay creates instant definition and texture for all hair types. This has a strong hold and intense matte effect. Use this if you want concentrated styling power for your hair.

Hair Gel

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Gel also gives a firm hold but it locks hair into place so you can’t restyle it unless you wash the product off. This is great if you want to keep your hair in place the whole day, like with spiked styles.

The CYNOS Only Styling Die Hard Styling Gel provides an ultra-strong hold, wet effect, and soft feel for 24 hours.

Hair Paste

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Hair paste is thicker and its hold can range from medium to firm. This is a versatile product and can be used for many hair lengths and styles.