The Ultimate Guide to Men’s Hair Styling Products in 2025

Navigating the world of hair styling products can feel like decoding a secret language. With so many options, knowing what to use (and in what order) can make or break your style. Here’s a clear, no-BS breakdown of the most common hair products, their purpose, and how to use them to get the best results.

Hair Styling Product Breakdown

Texture & Hold: Clays, Pastes, Pomades, and More

Clay: Matte finish, medium to strong hold, adds volume and texture. Best for messy, natural styles.

Paste & Putty: Flexible hold, medium shine, works for all hair types. Ideal for structured yet moveable styles. 

Pomade (Oil-Based): High shine, medium to strong hold. Classic slick looks (think Mad Men).

Pomade (Water-Based): Similar to oil-based but washes out easily. Perfect for modern slicked-back styles.

Gel: Strongest hold with a wet, shiny finish. Best for structured, polished styles.

Fiber Pomade/Cream: High hold, low shine, great for shorter, textured styles.

Hair Powder: Adds volume and absorbs oil for a natural, weightless texture. Great for fine hair.

Soft & Flexible Hold: Creams, Sprays & Tonics

Styling Cream: Light hold, natural finish, tames frizz. Best for longer, flowy styles.

Salt Spray: Lightweight, gives beachy, wavy texture. Perfect for effortless, windblown looks.

Hair Spray: Sets the style in place. Available in different hold levels for a natural or strong finish.

Hair Tonic: Lightweight, adds moisture, preps hair for styling. Often used before pomades.

Foam (Mousse): Adds body and volume without stiffness. Works great on curly or wavy hair.

Prepping & Protecting: Essential Hair Care Products

Leave-In Conditioner: Hydrates, reduces frizz, improves hair health. Essential for dry or damaged hair.

Heat Protectant Spray: Shields hair from heat styling damage (blow dryers, straighteners, etc.).

What is a Pre-Styler?

A pre-styler is any product that prepares your hair for styling, adding volume, texture, or control before applying the main styling product.

Popular Pre-Stylers:

• Salt Spray (volume & texture)
• Hair Tonic (light control & moisture)
• Foam/Mousse (body & definition)
• Hair Powder (lift at the roots)
• Leave-In Conditioner (softness & hydration)

How to Layer Products for Different Looks

Textured, Voluminous Look (Messy, Natural, or Quiff)

1. Pre-Styler: Salt spray or hair powder

2. Blow Dry: For volume

3. Styling Product: Clay, paste, or fiber pomade

4. Finishing Touch: Light hairspray for extra hold

Slicked-Back or Classic Pompadour

1. Pre-Styler: Hair tonic or leave-in conditioner

2. Blow Dry: Use a brush for smoothness

3. Styling Product: Pomade (oil-based for shine, water-based for flexibility)

4. Finishing Touch: Hair spray for long-lasting hold

Loose Waves & Flowy Styles

1. Pre-Styler: Foam or salt spray

2. Blow Dry: With a diffuser for waves

3. Styling Product: Light cream or paste for flexibility

4. Finishing Touch: Optional hairspray for hold

Matte, Textured Crop (Modern Short Cut)

1. Pre-Styler: Hair powder or salt spray

2. Blow Dry: Optional for extra lift

3. Styling Product: Clay or fiber pomade

4. Finishing Touch: None or very light hairspray

Predicted Hair Trends for 2025

• More Natural, Textured Styles: Matte finishes and looser, effortless looks will dominate.
• Volume & Movement: Products like salt spray, creams, foams, and clay will be key.
• Slick Looks with Flexibility: Water-based pomades will continue to rise in popularity.
• Healthier Hair Focus: More men will use leave-in conditioners and tonics as part of their routine.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right product depends on your hair type, desired finish, and styling routine. Mastering layering (pre-stylers + styling products + finishing touches) is the secret to pro-level hair. Experiment, mix, and match to find what works best for you.

Need recommendations? Check out MASC’s best-selling hair styling products to level up your routine!