Most men know that hair styling clay is the key to textured, defined style. Heck, even the Ancient Egyptians found that animal fat ‘pomade’ was a must for long-lasting wigs. We may have gone from mummies to mullets, but some things never change.
One of the questions we’re often asked about our styling clays is: does clay damage hair? And, more specifically, will clay cause dandruff, reduce volume, or lead to hair loss?
Here’s the answer. Styling clays are safe for your hair. If they weren’t, we wouldn’t be selling them. So, to alleviate your concerns, we’ll answer all of your questions in this guide. If you’ve ever asked ‘is hair clay safe?’, this is the article for you.
What Makes Clay So Popular for Hair Styling?
Hair styling clay has become a favourite for laid-back styles over the years, and it isn’t hard to see why. It offers a bunch of benefits over alternative products:
- Easy texture: Styling clay is one of the easiest ways to add volume and texture to your hair. The clay compound will also help your hair follicles look thicker.
- Natural style: Clay gives hair a matte finish, meaning it maintains structure without compromising your laid-back look. It’s ideal for casual and textured styles.
- Firm but flexible: Styling clay is strong but not stiff. It’ll handle whatever the day throws at you while still maintaining a natural bounce.
- Straightforward rinsing: Styling clay is water-based, meaning it’s easy to rinse out. No need to do three rounds of shampoo to get rid of your product.
- Reworkable: As clay contains a balance of wax and water, it’s easy to rework and restyle throughout the day.
Common Misconceptions Around How Clay Affects Your Hair
From dandruff and damage to thinness and hair loss, there are many misconceptions about how clay impacts the hair.
The good news is that these claims aren’t backed by science. Hair clay is safe provided you use it correctly. Let’s separate the fact from the fiction and talk through some common hair styling clay myths.
Misconception One: Is Clay Bad For Your Hair?
Hair clay contains natural ingredients that are gentle on the scalp and hair. They don’t contain harmful alcohols or sulphates, so they won’t draw out excessive moisture and leave your hair dry or brittle without excessive use. They can even absorb excess oils and impurities, contributing to a healthier scalp.
Misconception Two: Can Clay Cause Dandruff?
Hair clay doesn’t cause dandruff directly. It absorbs excess oils, but won’t leave your hair feeling dry after a single use. However, to prevent dryness over the long-term, you should avoid applying more product than necessary and remove buildup using shampoo after each application.
Misconception Three: Can Clay Cause Hair Loss?
Hair clay isn’t going to speed up hair loss. Male pattern baldness is typically caused by a combination of genetics and hormones. While build-up of hair product can lead to dryness over time, this can be avoided by washing out the product after each use. Hair clay is also beneficial for frail hair as it adds volume and thickness.
Tips to Use Hair Clays Safely & Effectively
As you can see, clay is safe for your hair. Still, you need to use it effectively to ensure it doesn’t build up and dry out your trim over time. Here are some of our top tips for using hair clays the right way.
- Start with clean hair: Hair clay sticks to the natural oils in your hair. If your hair is too oily, this can weigh the hair down and make it more difficult to achieve natural volume. The best time to apply hair styling clay is right after your morning shower.
- Don’t overdo it: Hair clay is dense - a little goes a long way. Start with a thumbnail-sized scoop at first. This is usually enough for most short-medium hair styles and will minimise buildup. You can add more layers as you go if needed.
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Get it warm: Rub the clay between your fingers before you apply it. This warms and smooths the product, preventing clumps. Aside from giving you effortlessly natural style, this will also prevent product buildup.
- Focus on the roots: When you apply the product, start at the roots of your hair to give the strands structure and volume. You’ve got to have the foundation before you add the finishing touches.
- Wash out thoroughly: Hair clay needs to be washed out to prevent buildup. Our clays are water-soluble, meaning they’ll usually rinse out in a single wash with a good shampoo.
What Type of Hair Styles Should Be Using Clay?
Clay is a versatile product that’s perfect for a wide range of cuts, both short and long. It can tame and add volume to thinner hair. It’s also the ideal product for a messy, textured look. Here are some of our top hairstyle picks that work brilliantly with clay.
- Loose pomp: Clay makes it easy to style loose, messy, or textured pom that maintain volume and bounce.
- Bed hair: Looking for that ‘trying without trying too hard’ look? Clay is perfect for adding messy texture to your hair.
- Slicked: Clay is known for being all about texture, but it can be great for smooth, slick styles. Just run a comb through your hair once you’ve applied the product.
Clay can style dozens of different hairstyles. If you’re looking for a strong hold and natural matte finish, it’s hard to go wrong.
Shop High Quality Clays at Uppercut Deluxe
Looking for a hair clay that gives you natural volume and effortless texture? We’ve got you.
Browse our collection of hair styling clays to find the perfect product for your cut and style. Or check out the full range of Uppercut Deluxe hair products today.
