Matte pomade or clay? They are the two most popular styling products in the barbershop and they have a lot in common: both have a matte finish, both give firm hold, both are water-based. Yet you choose them for different hairstyles. Here is the difference, straight to the point.
The short answer
Matte Pomade is more pliable: firm hold, a matte finish and hair that keeps its movement. Ideal if you want to look natural but still want control. Hair Clay is firmer and drier: extreme hold, an ultra-matte finish and visible texture. Ideal for short or thick hair that really has to stay up.
Matte pomade vs clay
| Matte Pomade | Hair Clay | |
|---|---|---|
| Hold | Firm, keeps its movement | Extreme, stays up |
| Finish | Matte, natural | Ultra-matte, with texture |
| Feel | Creamy, easy to spread | Drier, more grip |
| Volume | Good | Maximum |
| Hair type | Fine to normal, short to medium length | Normal to thick, short |
| Hairstyles | Textured crop, side part without shine, messy look | Quiff, faux hawk, spiky, textured crop |
Choose matte pomade if...
- your hair is fine or thin: matte pomade doesn’t weigh it down and adds volume without your hair clumping together.
- you want a natural look, as if there’s nothing in your hair.
- you want to touch up your hairstyle during the day without starting over.
- you have medium-length hair that needs direction, but not a layer of concrete.
Choose clay if...
- you have short, thick hair that has to stay up all day.
- you love texture: separated strands, a matte structure, a rugged finish.
- you want maximum hold without shine and without hairspray.
- you play sport, work outdoors or simply have a long day ahead.
The barber’s trick: mixing
Many hairdressers mix a little clay into matte pomade: the pliability of pomade with the grip of clay. Try a ratio of two parts Matte Pomade to one part Clay. Want it even lighter? Mix with Styling Cream. And always use a pre-styler: Hair Tonic for grip and heat protection when blow-drying, or Sea Salt Spray for extra volume and texture.
Sea Salt Spray → blow-dry → Matte Pomade
Hair Tonic → blow-dry → Hair Clay
Hair Tonic → blow-dry → Matte Pomade + a little Clay
Frequently asked questions
Is clay the same as matte wax? No. Wax usually contains wax and gives a light shine; clay contains clay and is drier and more matte. See all matte products under hair wax for men.
Can I wash clay out? KAPR Hair Clay is water-based and rinses out in a single wash. Many other clays are not.
Which product do hairdressers use most themselves? Matte Pomade is KAPR’s bestseller, with Clay close behind. In the salon, they are often mixed.
Take a look at Matte Pomade, Hair Clay or all hair products for men. Both are available in a 60ml travel size and 135ml, Matte Pomade also in 375ml. Not satisfied? 30-day satisfaction guarantee.
Deel:
Pomade or gel: what’s the difference and which suits you?
Sea salt spray: what does it do, how do you use it and is it bad for your hair?