Grooming for men has come a long way. From 4-in-1 do-it-all products to individualized treatments such as facial exfoliators, the industry is still growing, and for the better. It has been able to help men everywhere elevate their game to their female counterparts. One of the best improvements in men's grooming comes down to hair products. You've washed and conditioned your hair — now what?
How you style your hair today can seem like a bit of a task with the numerous different hair creams, clays, pastes, and gels. On top of that, there are hundreds of brands to choose from and multiple options for each hair “type.”
Contrary to popular belief, men’s hair products can get very complicated and overwhelming. And using the right products for your hair is just as important as finding the right barber and what works for you. Styling products help keep your hair in check, and for many, their hairstyle is their defining characteristic. We rounded up some of the best products that you can find to help you make the most of your mane. Keep reading to learn about the best hair products for men.
Best overall
Patricks M2 Matte Finish Medium Hold
Purpose: This is best for styling medium to thicker hairstyles that want a more natural-looking hold.
Best for: This styling product is our best all-around winner to give you a nice medium hold with a matte finish. It has the workability to style hair into different styles with enough hold to last the entire day. To top it off, its bergamot and sandalwood scent gives you that nice woodsy smell.
Best hair gel
L'Oreal Paris Studio Line Gel
Purpose: If you're looking to tame wild hair with long-lasting hold and maximum shine, this is the gel for you.
Best for: We recommend using a gel for only those stray aways that just don't want to cooperate. Using a hair gel as a primary styling option can leave for a very dramatic and glossy look, which is fine if that's what you're going for!
Best hair serum
R + Co Bleu Surreal Styling Serum
Purpose: This serum is for all hair types and can be used on hair that's air-dried, blow-dried, or still damp.
Best for: This styling product is a great option for those who like to play around with a variety of hairstyles. Being super lightweight and flexible, this hair serum provides hold and texture for any hairstyle.
Best hair clay
Jack Henry Hair Clay
Purpose: As a daily medium-hold product for classic styles, this hair clay provides a high sheen. Apply it to damp hair for a more wet styled look or apply to dry hair for a natural firm hold look.
Best for: Other than hair gels, hair clay have been around for generations and are considered the go-to styling product. Think the classic slick back and pompadour. The clay has definitely evolved over the years and is great for a multitude of hair types, from straight to curly. A little goes a long way here when applying it — a little too much can give your hair a greasy appearance.
Best styling cream
American Crew Forming Cream
Purpose: Medium hold with medium shine, this cream is the perfect option for a natural shine that just so happens to make your hair look thicker as well.
Best for: Creams are a great option for guys who aren't really interested in too much styling but want a bit of hold. The American Crew Forming Cream provides a medium hold to shape the hair naturally for a very easy flowy look.
Best hair putty
Head and Shoulders Texturizing Putty
Purpose: Apply this for a long-lasting hold to damp or air dry hair, leaving hair with a natural shine compared to a pomade.
Best for: Hair putty's are great to tame shorter hairstyles whereas clays would be better for mid-length hair. Putty's create a long-lasting hold and texture. Hair putty also tends to be a lot less sticky in the hair and not as greasy.
Best hair oil
Bumble and Bumble Hairdresser's Invisible Oil Heat/UV Protective Primer
Purpose: This leave-in hair product helps to defrizz, detangle, and hydrate dry and brittle hair while protecting it from the sun's harmful rays.
Best for: Hair oil is a great option to build on top of your primary hair styling product. Naturally, hair oil promotes a higher shine when added with or after your hair clay, pomade, or putty. Hair oils also have ingredients that help nourish and hydrate the hair.
Best hair mask
Malin + Goetz Detox Scalp Mask
Purpose: Apply this to damp hair to revitalize, moisturize, and soothe the scalp while removing any build-up.
Best for: If you feel your scalp is filled with product build-up, is dry, or just needs an overall reset, the Malin + Goetz Detox Scalp Mask is a great product to use for well ... a detox from your hair routine. After using this mask, your hair will feel revitalized and refreshed and will improve the overall application of products.
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely! Using too much hair styling product can definitely damage your hair in several ways. Styling products, especially heavier ones like waxes, gels, and creams, can build up on your hair and scalp over time. This build-up can clog hair follicles, hindering their ability to produce healthy hair and potentially leading to hair loss.
Also, excessive product application can weigh down your hair, making it appear flat, limp, and greasy. This can be especially problematic for fine or thin hair. Some styling products, particularly those containing alcohol or drying agents (many above don’t have these), can strip your hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry and brittle. This can increase the risk of split ends and breakage.
You can, but you need to be picky on the type of hair product you use. Look for lightweight formulas designed for fine hair. These products are formulated to provide hold and volume without weighing down your strands. Also, water-based products are your friends, as they are less likely to leave a greasy residue and are easier to wash out. You may also consider texturizing products, which add volume and texture without weighing down your hair.
Our hairstyle is a way we can express ourselves and our individual personalities. In order to get that perfect look for you and your style, you want to make sure you are using the best hair products available. Try out some of those products and get ready to take your hair to a whole new level.
