Pomade, clay and styling cream can all help shape your hair, but they are not interchangeable. The right choice comes down to the amount of hold you want, the finish you prefer and how much flexibility you need throughout the day.
If you are staring at a shelf of men’s styling products and wondering where to start, use this guide to narrow it down. If you want to start with your hair and styling goals first, see our guide to choosing the right men’s hair product.
Pomade vs. Clay vs. Cream at a Glance
Pomade: A strong choice when you want control and a defined, polished style. Pomades can vary in hold and finish, so check the individual product before choosing one.
Clay: Best suited to styles where texture and a more matte-looking finish are the priority.
Styling cream: A good option when you want workable control and a more flexible, natural-looking style.
What Is Pomade?
Pomade is a classic men’s styling category built around control and definition.
At Groom Standard, options include MVRCK High Hold Pomade 3 oz, MVRCK Original Pomade 4 oz and Paul Mitchell MITCH Barbers Classic Pomade 3 oz.
What Is Hair Clay?
Hair clay is a useful choice when texture is more important than a polished appearance.
Groom Standard carries Moroccanoil Texture Clay 2.6 oz.
What Is Styling Cream?
Styling cream sits on the more flexible side of men’s hairstyling.
Two options in our current lineup are Moroccanoil Molding Cream 3.4 oz and American Crew Classic Forming Cream 1.75 oz.
Which One Should You Choose?
If your main priority is structure and definition, start with a pomade. If you want texture with a more matte-looking finish, look at clay. If you want flexibility and workable control, a styling cream is the better place to start.
What About Texture Powder?
If your goal is specifically added texture with a powder format, take a look at GIBS Grooming Styling Texture Powder.
Shop Men's Hair Styling Products
Browse the full men’s hair products collection at Groom Standard to compare styling and hair-care essentials.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is clay better than pomade?
Not necessarily. Clay makes more sense when texture and a matte-looking finish are priorities. Pomade is usually the better category to explore when you want more deliberate control and definition.
Where should I start if I am not sure?
Start with the finish you want. For polished definition, explore pomade. For texture and a more matte appearance, explore clay. For flexible, workable styling, start with cream.