Many know hair gel, and hairspray is probably familiar too – but what exactly are clay, mousse, or pomade? The variety of hair styling products types for men has never been greater. There’s a perfect product for every hair type and style. But which one suits your needs best?
In this guide, we introduce the most popular styling products for men – including tips on application, hold, and finish. This ensures you find the ideal product for your look.
Hair Gel: The Classic for Strong Hold
Hair gel provides extreme hold and a shiny finish. It dries quickly, making restyling nearly impossible. Ideal for defined looks that last all day.
Benefits
- Very strong hold
- Shiny finish
- Easy to wash out (water-based)
Application
Apply a small amount to towel-dried or dry hair.
Suitable for
All hair types – use sparingly on fine hair.
Hair Wax: For Flexible Styles
Hair wax remains malleable and does not dry completely. It allows you to reshape your style throughout the day. Wax typically gives a shiny finish and is ideal for short to medium-length hair.
Benefits
- Medium hold
- Shiny look
- Flexible styling
Application
Warm between your hands and work into dry hair.
Suitable for
Fine to medium hair – thick hair may feel weighed down.
Styling Paste: For Natural Hold
Hair paste offers medium to strong hold with a matte to slightly shiny finish. Its texture can be sticky or creamy. Perfect for a natural, textured look.
Benefits
- Medium to strong hold
- Matte to slightly shiny finish
Application
Warm in your hands and work into dry hair.
Suitable for
All hair types and lengths.
Clay: Structure & Volume with Care
Clay contains natural clay that absorbs excess oil and gives structure. It provides strong hold but is more flexible than gel. At the same time, it nourishes the scalp and hair.
Benefits
- Strong hold
- Natural volume
- Structure and care
Application
Warm between hands and distribute evenly through dry hair.
Suitable for
All hair types – ideal for curly or frizzy hair.
Hair Cream: For Casual, Natural Looks
Hair cream is lightweight and moldable. It tames flyaways, adds light hold, and gives a natural shine without weighing hair down. Perfect for relaxed, natural styles.
Benefits
- Medium hold
- Natural shine
- Flexible styling
Application
Rub into your hands and distribute through dry hair.
Suitable for
All hair types – especially curly or wavy hair.
Pomade: For Classic Men’s Hairstyles
Pomade is usually oil-based and remains pliable in the hair. It provides high shine and is perfect for classic styles like slick-backs or side parts. Note: difficult to wash out!
Benefits
- Strong hold
- High shine
- Restyling possible
Application
Work through hair with fingers or a comb.
Suitable for
Short to medium hair.
Mousse: More Volume for Fine Hair
Hair mousse (foam) adds volume and light hold. Perfect for men with thin hair or styles that need extra fullness.
Benefits
- Light hold
- Volume booster
- Light shine
Application
Apply to towel-dried hair and blow-dry.
Suitable for
All hair types, especially fine hair.
Hairspray: For the Perfect Finish
Hairspray fixes finished styles or adds volume at the roots. Available in light, medium, and strong hold formulas.
Benefits
- Versatile use
- Fixing & finishing
- Shine depending on product
Application
Spray from about 20 cm onto styled hair.
Suitable for
All hair types and lengths.
Hair Powder: For Extra Volume and Grip
Hair powder adds volume, grip, and a matte finish. Ideal for fine or weak hair, or for styles needing texture and hold.
Benefits
- More volume
- Better grip
- Matte finish
- Oil-absorbing
Application
Apply a small amount to dry hair, massage into roots, and style with fingers.
Suitable for
All hair types, especially fine or limp hair.
Salt Spray: For the Perfect Beach Look
Salt spray gives natural texture, light hold, and a “beach look.” Perfect for men wanting casual, textured styles with grip.
Benefits
- Natural texture
- Light hold
- Matte finish
- Loose, tousled look
Application
Spray on towel-dried or dry hair, distribute evenly, and style with fingers. For extra volume, tease or blow-dry lightly.
Suitable for
All hair types, especially medium to long hair, or natural, textured styles.
Curl Cream: For Defined Curls
Curl cream defines, softens, and controls curly or wavy hair. Perfect for men who want to enhance natural curls or waves and reduce frizz.
Benefits
- Defines curls and waves
- Reduces frizz
- Moisturizes
- Natural shine
Application
Work a small amount into towel-dried or slightly damp hair. Shape curls with fingers, then air-dry or diffuse for volume.
Suitable for
All hair types, especially curly or wavy hair needing definition.
Fiber: For Strong Hold
Fiber provides strong hold, texture, and defined styles. Perfect for men wanting matte, structured looks or short to medium hair with lasting shape.
Benefits
- Strong hold
- Texture and structure
- Matte finish
- Defines styles
Application
Work a small amount into towel-dried or dry hair. Style with fingers, adjusting individual strands as needed.
Suitable for
All hair types, especially short to medium hair needing texture and hold.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Styling Product for Your Look
Whether classic, casual, or voluminous - the right hair styling products types for men make every look possible. The key is selecting the product that matches your hair type and style. This keeps your look not only in shape but also well-groomed and professional.

