The best hair clays for men
There's a certain swagger that comes with great hair—and you know it when you see it. That leading-man-quality coif with its volume, shine and gravity-defying texture. For those of us who simply towel-dry our hair after a shower and run any old product through it, those kind of next-level results can seem out of reach. But it's amazing what a simple product change can do for your hair. For instance, if you want hair that's full and textured with a hold that doesn't look shellacked, you should switch to clay. A favorite of celebrity groomers and barbers, it's become the go-to because it works for almost any need you have: it works with casual, undone looks, it neutralizes oily scalps and makes thin hair look thicker because of the matte finish. As for which jar works best for you, we dipped into a wide range to find the best ones that work for any hairstyle or budget.
This four-ingredient clay pomade provides an all-day effortless hold with a natural finish and just a hint of shine. Organic coconut oil and beeswax is blended with bentonite clay and lavender oil to not only style hair but the nourishing antioxidants actually stimulate hair growth and fight dry, itchy scalps. This was the favorite for natural, Black hair as well.
Clay pomade,
$24 by Jack Henry
This adaptable clay adds volume, body and texture to hair so this is perfect for fine or thinning hair that's difficult to style. But it also works on more coarse and stubborn hair as well. A little goes a long way to provide control that holds fast but is still soft and touchable while soybean oils condition and add humidity resistance.
Clay pomade,
$22 by Rudy's
If you're looking for less of an investment, this clay-wax hybrid has all of the things you appreciate about a hair clay, but it's a bit easier to work with. There's no stickiness or heavy scent but it provides texture and a re-workable medium hold.
Styling clay,
$10 / $8.50 w/code VALET15 by Every Man Jack
The less-shiny, clay-based version of the popular pomade gives your hair the control and long-lasting hold you want, but with a more natural matte appearance. This sculpts your hair into place with a laidback surfer texture—it stays put but never looks dry or dull.
Strong hold clay pomade,
$19.99 by BYRD
A blend of white kaolin clay and Brazil wax is mixed with natural oils to deliver a strong, pliable hold with a natural low-shine finish. It keeps hair in place, but lets you run your fingers through it and stays re-workable throughout the day. This is great for guys who want hair that looks great but doesn't look like it's “styled.”
Coltrane clay,
$30 by Triumph & Disaster
Like a classic pomade or paste, clays work best on damp or just dried hair for shorter styles. For textured or curly hair, apply when wet and let air dry or use a diffuser on your hairdryer.
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