Best Pomades for Asian Hair Reviewed 2022

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Men focus on two things when it comes to looking good, great wardrobe and better hair days.

And that’s not all…

With the plethora of hair products that exist in the market, it is difficult to find one that suits all hair types.

For Asian hair, finding the right type of product that can maintain volume is next to impossible. This is where pomade comes in.

Why does this matter?

Gel, mousse, wax, and pomade have been around and serve different purposes. Pomades are products that evolved over time. It has meet the ever changing demands of its consumers and suit about any hair type.

The biggest challenge then becomes what kind of pomade is best suited for you.

Below we will discuss a few great products that work well for Asian black hair. But before that let’s tackle the elephant in the room: The Pomade Myth.

What’s the real story?

The Pomade Myth: Pomade is terrible for your mane. The fact of the matter is that pomade has evolved as a product.

In the past, the only type of pomade that was available was petroleum based. This was not great for hair as it got stuck in your follicles and was very difficult to wash off. Even after washing, it would leave a feeling of dullness and dryness on your hair.

The product is available in water soluble formula, other types like the wax based pomade made its negative perception on active users in the past.

How about other hair products?

While gel has been the go to product for a long time it is now apparent that it has shortcomings. Although it is great for maintaining difficult hairstyles, but the downside is, you cannot change your style throughout the day.

And for pomades?

Pomades have evolved into products that are not only great for hair but also allow users to change their hairstyles as many times as they like!

The question then becomes not whether pomade should be used but what type is suitable for your hair, especially those with Asian hair that is difficult to maintain and keep in place. This article will help answer what kind of pomade is best suited for your needs.

In this article, we will talk about how these pomades work, how they are beneficial to you, and we will list a few of our favorite ones and tell you why we think they are the best in the market.

Our 9 Top Pomades for Asian Hair

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What Type of Pomade Should I Use?

Deciding on what pomade type to buy can be a bit tricky. The final decision will be up to you because it depends on what you want your hair to look like. With that said, allow us to help you make your decision-making easier. Here are some helpful tips to help you make the right choice.

  • For Natural oily hair, we suggest to choose a pomade with a matte finish. Pomades can make your hair look shiny and if you have oily hair, it can make it look wet. You probably won’t want to look like you just got out of the shower. If you want a slicked back hairstyle, a wet-look can look good.
  • However, if you have a dry and dehydrated hair type, it is best for you to choose a heavy pomade to make it look healthier and alive.
  • If you want to add volume to your hair, apply your pomade while your hair is damp and blow-dry it while combing.

9 Best Asian Hair Pomades Reviewed

1. Layrite Super Hold Pomade

About this product

  • Water-based
  • Vanilla scent
  • Best for medium to curly, coarse or thick hair

Layrite is a high hold, super shine and water soluble product that can control even the curliest and thickest of hair. The best part is that you can control the strength of the hold and sheen by drying your hair to the desired amount.

Note: It has the strongest hold when used on dry hair. And the best part? It holds like wax and washes out like gel!

Many users found that with longer durations, Layrite helps hair sit better. It is perfect for thick Asian hair and although it is a lower shine product, it is perfect if you are looking for something traditional. It also washes off on your hands and mane immediately.

Read Layrite Superhold Pomade review here


2. Suavetico Pomade Firme (Strong) Hold

About this product

  • Strong hold
  • Doesn't leave hair greasy
  • Water soluble
  • Best for pompadours, slick backs and side parts

This product is best for hairstyles like slick backs and side parts.

Quick tip: If you have manageable hair, maybe medium hold Original hold pomade is the way to go!

Suavecito is a strong hold and water soluble product which can be washed very easily and doesn’t need any special shampoos. It leaves the hair feeling fresh and clean after each wash. There are no chemicals used that could harm your scalp. It adds a radiant shine to the hair.

Note: For more shine effect apply to wet hair and for less shine apply to dry hair.

For most customers, its best feature is its smell! It is not overpowering and it has a strong hold. It is also reasonably priced compared to other pomades.

Read the full review of the Suavecito pomade here.


3. Uppercut Deluxe Pomade

About this product

  • Matte finish
  • Medium hold
  • Best for any hair style
  • Water soluble

This is a water soluble, medium/strong hold product with a medium shine. It’s vanilla and coconut scent and unique formula have its consumers lining up for more. It washes out easily and doesn’t leave any residue.

Uppercut has a thick gel like consistency which helps give hair definition but without the weight of traditional pomade.

Many customers found that it works best on slightly dry hair. It is flake free and does not irritate the scalp. Moreover, the look isn’t greasy and is easy to comb through. Using a little keeps you going for the day. It has great hold, good workability and a pleasant aroma that doesn’t linger too long.


4. GATSBY - Moving Rubber

About this product

  • Apple Scent
  • Stronghold
  • Preservative-free

This amazing pomade brand can give you an edgy and soft hairstyle with less effort. It has no preservatives and has a blue apple scent. It contains ingredients like paraffin, mineral oils, candelilla wax, etc.

To achieve a stylish look, make sure that your hair is clean and apply a small amount of Gatsby to your hair. Remember not to put too much pomade for it may lead to an undesirable effect. After using the product, it is important to seal the container tightly. For best results, keep the product at room temperature.

If irritation and itching occur upon using this pomade, you must discontinue using it and consult a doctor if symptoms persist.

So far, the buyer loved Gatsby saying that it has a stronghold and is ideal even for men with short hair. Some even said that they achieved their desired look with a few strokes.


5. Chronos And Creed - Certified Organic

If you have a sensitive scalp that is prone to irritations, you might want to try this product. It is purely organic and is safe for men with sensitive skin. The organic ingredients that are used for this product can help improve scalp health and can even make hair grow thicker. Moreover, it has a fresh pine scent that can give you a fresher look and aura.

It contains organic coconut oil that can protect the hair from extreme heat and other environmental factors that can cause hair damage. Also, it contains vitamins and minerals that moisturize and clarify the scalp to prevent dandruff problems. It doesn’t contain any pesticides, GMOs, dyes, or chemicals. If you want to go all-natural, this product is the best for you.

What’s impressive about the Chronos and Creed is that buyers were impressed with how little pomade can go a long way. It can even hold your hair for the whole day!


6. Black and White Pomade

About this product

  • Affordable
  • Has natural coconut oil
  • Unisex
  • Light Fragrance

This is a product for those on a budget who are looking for cool hairstyles. The product smells great without being too overpowering. It is lightly scented with coconut oil and was mentioned by ‘In Style’ magazine as the ‘best natural groomer’. It works well for both men and women and it doesn’t hurt that it was a number one product in Hollywood, bought by celebrities of TV and movies.

Tip: For maximum volume and control, massage it through your roots.

Many consumers use Black and White for pumps and Asian slick back hair but even those looking for a bit of control and texture find it to work perfectly.


7. AXE Pomade Classic

About this product

  • Best for all hair types
  • Accepts returns
  • Clean cut look

Axe pomade is a strong hold, shine enhancing product suitable for all hair types. It helps refine your hair and create a variety of looks from retro to modern.

It is best for men with short and mid-length hairstyles. It’s specifically made for those with unruly hair and aims to combat the daily poof, leaving your mane polished and not wet.

Tip: Use a fingertip amount and mix with your fingers. Then rake it through your locks and use a comb to create the perfect look.

Customers love it because of its natural feel and great definition. The shine helps it look fresh for the whole day!


8. Rocky Mountain Barber Company

About this product

  • Easy to wash
  • Not greasy
  • Barber grade
  • Natural scent

This product made in North America works great for any hairstyle that you’re aiming to achieve. It has a stronghold and a natural shine which makes it ideal for a slick back, side-part, pompadour, or any modern look. You don’t need your barber because this product can make you style your hair like a pro!

What makes this pomade step-up from other typical oil-based pomades is that it is easy to wash. It is water-based and won’t damage your hair since your natural oils won’t be washed away. What we loved about the Rocky Mountain is its neutral scent. You can use it without mixing the fragrance with your aftershaves or perfumes. It also has a bigger size so you will have more pomade days ahead.

Buyers are impressed with this product. It is suitable for Asians and a little amount can go a long way.


9. Hair Craft Co.

About this product

  • Water soluble
  • Easy to wash
  • Semi-matte finidh
  • Best for all hair types

This product has a long-lasting effect. It can hold your hair for the whole day. Adding layers of pomade on your hair can leave it clumpy and dry. Well, you won’t have to do that with this product. With just one application, you won’t have to worry about your hair anymore.

It has a semi-matte finish and it is suitable for all hair types. Moreover, It doesn’t leave any residue because it is water-soluble and easy to wash. You just need to rinse it with warm water and apply shampoo if needed. 

What’s great is that the Hair Craft Co. company offers a money back guarantee to all of their customers.

Users say that this product works well even for men with thick hair. It has great effects and the smell is awesome. This product is a must-try!


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The Pomade Guidebook

Natural or synthetic?

During Elvis Presley, The King of Rock’N Roll days…

Pomade was used as a moisturizer which was applied on both the hair and scalp. This prevent moisture on the hair as the petroleum molecules was too large to penetrate the shaft. This molecule barrier caused breakage as well as dryness. It also require several washes with sulfate shampoo which strips off the cuticle (the hair’s outer covering) and its lipid protective layer. Excessive shampooing would lead to… loss of natural oils, causing more weakness and dryness.

In today’s hair product advancement…

Modern day pomade has replaced petroleum jelly with natural oils, light waxes, and soft butter. These new bases are much lighter and easier to wash off with softer surfactants or even surfactant free shampoo. Pomade can now be removed with just one wash.

To keep up with consumers and their need for responsible products, pomades have newer bases that can be both organic and vegan. Such bases don’t have any chemical processes or refinement.

What's the big difference?

The emollient in the modern day pomade can soften even the middle layer of the hair which is the source of its strength. Lack of petrolatum, mineral oil and parabens make these newer products healthier for both your mane and body.

New formulated pomades are made with essential oils such as peppermint, rosemary, bergamot, nettle and ylang ylang (proven to grow hair). These nutrients are usually coupled with carrier oils such as emu, jojoba, avocado and Ayurvedic oils.

Pomade / Mousse or Gel?

The gel is the best maximum hold product as it hardens the hair to create a ‘wet look’. This means you could go sky diving and return to the ground with perfect looking hair. It washes out easily with water plus you can do certain types of odd hairstyles with it.

Gel works best for guys with thin or fine hair as it creates texture and makes hair thicker. The gel is also easy to wash out and doesn’t clog pores in case you have sensitive or acne prone skin. However, the gel has a reputation for causing flakes on the hair making it very inconvenient to use.

Mousse:

Although very popular in the 80’s, mousse has slowly lost its popularity. The reason for that is that the hold isn’t great and the dried product creates a crunchy unnatural look.

Pomade:

Pomade is flake free and comes in varieties: water and oil based. Water based means that the product is water soluble and washes out easily while oil based is made from greasy ingredients like beeswax which don’t wash out easily.

Unlike gels, pomades don’t harden the hair so it is easy to try different styles throughout the day. Depending on the product, pomades provide light to strong hold and a characteristic shine.

Level of Shine

Wax based pomade tend to have more shine than water based pomade. This is great for modern slick back looks but not as great for different styles.

If the product isn’t washed out after a couple of days it could look greasy but once it’s washed out, lighter pomades can be used. Some brands even have extra shine versions available.

Bottom line is that there are so many options available, some products will work better than others depending on your hair type. The only way to find out is to go out into the market and try some.

Time-Holding Strength

This also depends on the type of pomade that you use. For almost all pomade brands there are soft hold and extra hold versions.

There is also a difference on whether the pomade base used was oil, wax or water based. The water based pomade is lighter and works well to create volume and lift. Oil products are heavier so they make the hair sit flatter.

Watch out!

Some pomades that have thick texture can clog pores if used excessively causing whiteheads, blackheads and sometimes acne.

This is possible with oil based pomades that are occlusive to the skin and prevent the release of sebum from hair follicles.The solution to this is to use water based pomades instead which are thinner and unlikely to cause breakouts.

How much pomade do I need to use in order to create the right look? Warm up a dime sized amount and then work it through your hair in the style you want.

Tip: For more shine and less hold apply it when your hair is wet and for less shine and more hold, apply it when your hair is dry.

Advantages of Using Pomade

1.  Creates a fresher look

Everybody wants a look that’s easy to maintain but doesn’t look greasy and unnatural. Pomade makes that possible. Whether you want a look that is slicked back or casual, pomades can make any type of hair style look natural without letting it lose its shine.

2. Makes your hair stay in place

Pomade can let you maintain a hairdo for as long as a day.

3. Makes hair shiny

Some pomades include ingredients such as castor, coconut and olive oils which add luster to your hair. Although pomades are not moisturizers, they can be used as sealants that lock moisture.

Believe it or not, pomade with sulfur when applied to the scalp can actually help grow your hair. Moreover, instead of using alcohol-laden hair sprays which dry the hair and damage it, you can use light pomade which does the same job but with no damage!

4. Works on all kinds of hair

The best part about pomades is its versatility. Whether your hair is thin, thick, curly or unruly, pomade can help you recreate just about any look under the sun.

Frequently Asked Questions

I have thick hair, will pomade work for me too?

Pomade works on all types of hair. It’s just about finding the right type for you. They range from mild hold to strong hold and also have a spectrum in terms of shine. It is one of the few products that don’t damage your mane and is suited to all needs.

Pomades are especially beneficial for thick and curly locks as they keep the hair intact while looking healthy. It also adds moisture and shine to dry, frizzy hair.

Is it easy to wash?

This depends entirely on the type of pomade you use for your hair. Oil based pomade is harder to take out than water based pomade. Today’s pomades are lighter, much less greasy and full of natural ingredients which protect your mane from damage and come out much more easily compared to the ones from the past.

Conclusion

So what are the benefits of using pomade?

Endless. While in the past pomade developed a negative image about themselves, over time newer pomade products have helped wipe the slate clean. With its versatility and benefits, these products can easily kick up a storm in the hair styling business.

Remember, if one type of brand doesn’t work for you, it doesn’t mean another won’t. It’s just about finding what’s right for your hair type. My personal favorites are Layrite and Smooth Viking depending on my mood.

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