How to Choose the Right Hair Styling Product for Your Hair Type

Quick Answer

For fine or thinning hair, choose a lightweight cream or matte pomade that won't weigh hair down. For thick or coarse hair, reach for a strong-hold matte pomade or clay to control and shape. Consider your desired finish—matte for a natural look, shine for polish—and your hair's specific needs.

Choosing the right hair styling product can transform your look, but with so many options—pomades, clays, creams, waxes—it's easy to feel overwhelmed. The key is to match the product to your hair type and the style you want to achieve. In this guide, we'll break down the differences between popular styling products and help you make an informed decision.

At Fellow Barber, we stock a curated selection of grooming essentials designed for modern men. Whether you need a flexible hold for fine hair or a strong hold for thick locks, we've got you covered. Let's dive into the details.

Understand Your Hair Type

Your hair type—fine, medium, thick, curly, straight, or oily—determines which products will work best. Fine hair lacks volume and can be easily weighed down by heavy products, so you need lightweight formulas that add texture without greasiness. Thick or coarse hair, on the other hand, requires stronger hold and more conditioning to manage frizz and maintain shape.

Consider your scalp's oiliness as well. If you have an oily scalp, avoid heavy oils and butters that can make hair look greasy. If your hair is dry or damaged, look for products with nourishing ingredients like natural oils and proteins.

• Fine hair: opt for lightweight creams, mousses, or matte pomades with a pliable finish.
• Thick hair: choose strong-hold pomades, clays, or waxes that can tame volume.
• Curly hair: use creams or gels that define curls without crunchiness.

Match the Product to Your Desired Style

Think about the look you want. A sleek, polished style calls for a product with shine and a firm hold. A messy, textured look benefits from a matte finish that adds grip and separation. For a natural, soft style, a lightweight cream or flexible pomade is ideal.

Matte pomades are versatile: they provide a natural finish with a medium-to-strong hold, perfect for both office and evening looks. Clays offer a similar matte finish but with a drier texture that gives extra volume and texture, making them great for thick hair. Creams are lighter and provide a softer, more natural hold, suitable for fine hair or casual styles.

• For a classic, all-day hold with a subtle shine, consider a traditional pomade.
• For a textured, matte finish that adds volume, try a clay or matte pomade.
• For a soft, workable hold that keeps hair looking natural, a styling cream is your best bet.

Consider Hold and Finish

Hold strength ranges from light to strong. Light hold allows natural movement and is great for fine hair or relaxed styles. Medium hold is the most versatile, working for most hair types and styles. Strong hold is best for thick, unruly hair or styles that need to stay in place all day.

Finish refers to the level of shine. Matte finishes are popular for a modern, natural look, while high-shine products give a more polished, retro vibe. Some products offer a low shine, striking a balance between the two.

• Strong hold is ideal for thick hair or intricate styles.
• Matte finish suits casual, textured looks; shine suits formal, sleek styles.

Read the Ingredients

The ingredients in a styling product affect not only its performance but also the health of your hair. Look for products with natural ingredients like beeswax, carnauba wax, and essential oils, which provide hold and nourishment without harsh chemicals. Avoid products with sulfates and parabens, which can strip moisture and irritate the scalp.

For example, carnauba wax offers a pliable hold that doesn't flake, while beeswax helps smooth hair and seal in moisture. These ingredients are beneficial for maintaining healthy hair while styling.

• Choose products with natural waxes and oils for added hair health.
• Avoid sulfates and parabens if you have sensitive skin or scalp.

Decision Rules for Choosing a Styling Product

• If you have fine or thinning hair: Choose a lightweight cream or matte pomade with a light to medium hold. Avoid heavy waxes or gels that weigh hair down. Look for products labeled 'lightweight' or 'flexible hold'.
• If you have thick or coarse hair: Opt for a strong-hold matte pomade or clay. These provide the control needed to tame volume and maintain shape. Products with 'strong hold' or 'firm' on the label are your friends.
• If you want a natural, matte finish: Go for a matte pomade or clay. They provide texture and separation without shine. Ideal for casual, modern styles.
• If you prefer a polished, shiny look: Choose a traditional pomade with a high-shine finish. These are great for slicked-back or formal styles. Perfect for events or professional settings.

Product Facts from Fellow Barber

• Rudy's Matte Pomade: Contains carnauba wax for a pliable hold that doesn't flake or leave residue, and beeswax to smooth hair and seal in moisture. This matte pomade is versatile—you can style at the office and then tousle for a night out without reapplying, thanks to its non-sticky, adjustable hold.
• Rudy's No. 2 Conditioner: Detangles, reduces static, and softens hair with antioxidant-rich formula that protects against UV and environmental damage. Includes Baobab Seed Protein and Vitamin E to repair damage and improve elasticity. Using a conditioner like this one prepares your hair for styling, making it more manageable and less prone to breakage, so your styling product works more effectively.

Which Product Fits You?

Best For

• Men with fine to medium hair who want a versatile, natural-looking product that can transition from day to night.
• Those seeking a matte finish with a comfortable, non-sticky hold.

Not For

• Men with very thick, coarse hair who need extreme hold and control.
• Those who prefer a high-shine, slick look.

Choosing the right hair styling product doesn't have to be complicated. By understanding your hair type and desired style, you can narrow down your options and pick a product that works with your hair, not against it. Explore our selection at Fellow Barber to find your perfect match, like the Rudy's Matte Pomade for a versatile, matte finish.