Is Pomade Safe For Your Hair?

by Jessica Mullholland · Mar 12, 2025

Wondering if pomades are safe for your hair? Learn about their effects, ingredients, and how to use pomade without damaging your hair at Uppercut Deluxe.

Pomade is a popular men’s grooming product and for a reason. It was created to control unwanted frizz, deliver a range of different styles from slick backs to throwbacks, and add shine. But a common question we get; is pomade safe for your hair?

The short answer is, yes, hairstyling pomade is safe for your hair. It’s defined some of the iconic looks in popular culture and has long been a staple in men’s fashion and styling.

In this article, we’ll go further than stating it's safe; We will also outline the benefits that can come from using this product. We’ll also debunk common misconceptions and give you some tips to get the most of your pomade.

What Makes Pomade So Popular for Hair Styling?

Pomades have been a traditional go-to hair styling product for decades - think Scarface, Great Gatsby, old Hollywood movies. Pomade is versatile and equally suited to super slick finishes or more lived in looks, which is key to its endless popularity.

● Sleek control: We associate healthy hair with gloss and shine. Pomades provide a smooth and polished look while taming the worst of bad hair days.

● Strong hold: The myth that pomades are difficult to wash out has at least enhanced its reputation for endurance. If you need all-day hold, look no further.

● Flexible texture: Pomades are great for keeping slick backs in place, but they can add much-needed texture to a variety of hair types.

● No crunch: Unlike some gels and hairsprays that harden, pomades maintain a fresh and clean look without any crunch or flakes.

● Easy restyle: The absence of a harder set makes pomade perfect for quick restyling throughout the day. No washes or additional product are needed.

Common Misconceptions Around How Pomade Affects Your Hair

Pomade is incredibly popular and can achieve both classic and contemporary styles. However, misconceptions about how it affects people’s hair persist. Let’s definitely answer the question: “Is pomade safe for hair?”

Misconception One: Does Pomade Cause Dandruff?

Pomades do not cause dandruff. They are made with either oils, waxes and water-based ingredients that keep hair hydrated and flexible. These ingredients also actively prevent the formation of flakes. However, it is important to cleanse regularly, preferably after each application, to reduce build-up and to keep the scalp healthy.

Misconception Two: Can Pomade Damage Hair?

Another misconception is that pomades are tough to wash out or can damage hair. Water-based pomades are particularly easy to remove, and most high-quality products only require a single wash afterwards. Pomades also have hydrating ingredients like natural oils and little to no alcohol content. This reduces dryness and brittleness and contributes to a healthier head of hair.

Misconception Three: Does Hair Pomade Cause Hair Loss?

Hair loss is caused by a combination of heredity, genetic and health-related factors. Pomade won’t speed up male pattern baldness, or result in excessive hairs falling out in the shower. If you are worried about stressing your hair, you could adopt a looser style with a lighter application of pomade to begin with. Again, it’s important to prevent grease from building up over time by cleansing regularly.

Tips To Use Hair Pomades Safe & Effectively

Ready to take your hair game to the next level? Here are some tips to style safely and effectively using pomade.

Choose the right product: Pomades are not all made the same. There are three different types of pomade - oil-based, water-based, and wax-based - each suited to different styles and hair types.

Towel-dry hair: Pomade works best when it’s applied to clean hair with a little bit of moisture. Skip the blow dry in favour of a towel until it's damp; the water will help to “activate” the pomade so it distributes more evenly across hair.

Warm it up: Pomade doesn’t like the cold. It’s important to rub a desired amount between your hands to make it more pliable and prepare it for application.

Start small: You don’t need a whole tub for one style - this can lead to build-up and grease. A pea-sized amount worked through can give both straight and curly styles that extra pop.

Roots first: Start by working the pomade into the roots and spreading it out to the ends for an even finish. Only apply more when you need it.

Comb through: Depending on the look you are going for, you can complement the fingertip method with a comb to perfect your style.

Lock style: Now it’s time for the hair dryer. Secure your locks by blow drying to add definition and volume.

Wash out: Healthy hair needs a consistent cleansing routine. Regular shampooing will prevent clogged pores and dandruff, and provide a clean base for any style you want to experiment with.

What Type of Hair Styles Should Be Using Pomade

Pomade doesn’t discriminate against hair types - it’s perfectly suited to most styles, even messy, unstructured mops. That said, there are a few definitive hairstyles that just wouldn’t look the same (or even work) without pomade.

● Pompadour: Emulate Elvis Presley, James Dean, and Alex Turner from the Arctic Monkeys by rocking an iconic pompadour. Pomade is perfect for creating a high and voluminous “pomp”.

● Slick back: The slick back never goes out of style. Whether you want to pair length on top with a skin fade or scissored sides, pomade is essential for delivering the high shine and smooth control for this cool, sleek look.

● Side-part: Adding a touch of pomade at the roots complements professional and sophisticated styles like the side parting, which requires hold and definition to last the day.

There’s a pomade for every person and every style - it isn’t always about a high shine look. There are products that offer a more textured, matte finish. We recommend trying out different styles to see what works for you.

Shop High Quality Pomades at Uppercut Deluxe

Need a high-quality pomade to define your style? Look no further.

We have a collection of hair styling pomades to cater to all needs - from strong, high shine hold to lighter, textured finishes. Or browse our complete range of Uppercut Deluxe hair products today.