Pomade vs Hair Putty (Differences Explained)
Not all hair products are created equal. If you've ever struggled with greasy buildup, weak hold, or an unnatural finish, you’re not alone.
The endless lineup of styling products—creams, pomade, putty, gels, wax, clay—makes it hard to know what actually works for your hair type and style goals.
So, what’s the difference between hair putty and pomade? And which one should you be using? We will break it down so you can pick the perfect product for your look.
Hair Styling Confusion: Putty vs. Pomade – What’s the Difference?
Many guys get putty and pomade mixed up, thinking they do the same thing. The truth? They’re completely different.
Feature |
Hair Putty |
Pomade |
Hold |
Medium to strong, flexible |
Medium to strong, firm structure |
Finish |
Matte, natural look |
Shiny or semi-matte, polished |
Texture |
Thick, slightly tacky |
Smooth, creamy |
Best for |
Messy, textured, voluminous styles |
Sleek, defined, classic looks |
Washability |
Easy to rinse out |
Varies (water-based = easy, oil-based = harder) |
Key takeaway: If you want natural texture and flexibility , go with putty. If you want stronger hold and a polished finish , pomade is the better choice.
Putty vs. Pomade – Which One Holds Up Better Throughout the Day?
Choosing the right styling product isn’t just about initial results—it’s about how it performs over time . We put putty and pomade through a real-world test: an 8-hour workday, humidity, and a post-work gym session.
Feature |
Hair Putty |
Pomade (Glacial Clay Pomade) |
Hold Duration |
6-8 hours, slightly flexible |
Up to 24 hours hold |
Restyling |
Easy to rework throughout the day |
Easy re-workable style |
Sweat & Humidity Resistance |
Moderate, may need touch-ups |
High, resists humidity & sweat |
Washability |
Rinses out easily |
Vegetable Glycerin -based = washes out better than other pomades |
When it comes to cleaning your hair we recommend you try The Wash - our natural hair cleanser that we know will pleasantly surprise you.
Hair Putty – The Go-To for a Textured, Natural Look
Hair putty is a favorite for guys who want volume, flexibility, and a natural matte finish . It works well for messy, casual, and tousled styles that need structure without stiffness.
Best For:
✅ Short to medium-length hair
✅ Textured styles (e.g., quiffs, modern messy looks)
✅ Reworkable hold (can adjust throughout the day)
How to Apply:
Start with dry or slightly damp hair .
Scoop a dime-sized amount and rub between palms to warm up.
Distribute evenly through hair, focusing on roots for volume .
Shape and style as needed— no crunch, no stiffness .
Pomade – The Classic Choice for Sleek, Defined Styles
Pomade has been the go-to for structured, polished styles for decades. But not all pomades are created equal—some leave hair greasy, heavy, or impossible to wash out. That’s where modern pomades, like Highland Style Co.’s Glacial Clay Pomade, change the game .
Best For:
✅ Sleek, defined styles (e.g., side parts, pompadours, slick backs)
✅ Medium to thick hair
✅ A clean, refined look that holds all day
How to Apply:
Work with damp or dry hair , depending on desired finish.
Use a small amount and rub between palms.
Apply evenly from roots to ends, using a comb for extra precision.
Lock in your style with strong yet flexible hold .
Expert & Barber Recommendations – What Professionals Say
Professional barbers consistently recommend choosing the right formula for your hair type and lifestyle.
Speak to your local barber about which product suits your hair type and style best.
Final Verdict – Which One is Right for You?
For casual, textured looks → putty is your go-to.
For defined, long-lasting styles → pomade wins.
For a medium-hold, matte pomade that is also good for your hair health → Glacial Clay Pomade is perfect.
