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!
