The No-BS Guide to Men’s Hair Styling Products (Pomade, Clay, Texture Powder & More)
Diesel approach: Try a few products and see what works for you. Once you find the right one, your whole look improves.
Every guy eventually looks in the mirror and thinks:
“Alright… I should probably do something with my hair.”
It might be before a big date, a job interview, or just when you realize your current style isn’t working for you.
Here’s the problem: you walk into a store or barbershop and see shelves full of pomade, clay, gel, texture powder, hair cream, and hairspray, but you have no idea what actually works.
At Diesel Barbershop, we keep things simple. The right hair styling products don’t just hold your hair in place; they define your whole look.
Let’s break it down so you’ll know exactly what to use and when.
The Main Types of Men’s Hair Styling Products (And What They Actually Do)
Not all men’s grooming products are the same. The main differences are hold, shine, and flexibility. Picking the right one can totally change your style.
Pomade: Clean, Classic, Controlled
If you want a slick, polished look, pomade is your best choice.
Best for:
- Comb-over styles
- Side parts
- Clean, polished finishes
What to expect:
- Medium to high shine
- Smooth finish (no crunch)
- Flexible hold
Diesel tip: If you use a comb and want more control, go with pomade.
Popular picks:
- Outlaws & Gents: great for slicked-back and classic styles
- Suavecito: one of the best pomades for men with reliable hold
- Layrite: easy to apply and lasts all day
Texture Powder, Paste, & Spray: Volume, Texture, and Movement
These products help you get that effortless, textured look.
Whether you use texture powder, spray, or paste, these products focus on movement and volume.
Best for:
- Messy styles
- Textured crops
- Medium-length hair
What to expect:
- Low to no shine (matte finish)
- Flexible hold
- Easy restyling throughout the day
Diesel mindset: Controlled chaos. Your style isn’t messy; it’s intentional.
Go-to brands:
- Level 3: strong-performing texture powder and sea salt spray
- Gibs Grooming: fiber paste and texturizing spray options
- Suavecito: texture powder and sea salt spray
Hair Clay: Strong Hold, Natural Finish
If you want a strong hold without shine, hair clay is the way to go.
Best for:
- Volume and texture
- Short to medium styles
- Natural, fuller looks
What to expect:
- Strong hold
- Matte finish
- Thicker texture
Diesel tip: Great if you want your hair to stay in place but still look natural.
Recommended brands:
- Layrite: high-hold, water-based clay
- 18.21: premium feel with serious hold
- Suavecito: texture, definition, and control without stiffness
Hair Gel: Maximum Hold, High Shine
Hair gel is a classic and still one of the most popular men’s hair styling products.
Best for:
- Structured styles
- High hold looks
- All-day control
What to expect:
- Strong hold
- Glossy finish
- Less flexibility
Diesel reality check: If you want your hair to stay in place all day, gel will do the job. Just don’t use too much.
Trusted options:
- Suavecito: strong hold for all hair types
- Gibs Grooming: control with a more natural finish
Don’t Forget Beard & Grooming Products
Your hairstyle and beard should work together, not against each other.
If you’re rocking facial hair, your routine should include:
- Beard oil (hydration + softness)
- Beard balm (light hold + shape)
- Beard butter (deep conditioning)
- Beard shampoo (clean + healthy beard)
These beard grooming products are a must if you want a clean, well-groomed look.
Top picks:
- Grave Before Shave: one of the best beard oil brands for serious beard care
- Outlaws and Gents: premium grooming products with a bold edge
How to Choose the Right Hair Product for You
Here’s the truth: there’s no single product that works for everyone.
The best product depends on:
- Your hair type (thick, fine, curly, straight)
- Your style (clean vs textured)
- Your daily routine
Diesel approach: Try a few products and see what works for you. Once you find the right one, your whole look improves.
Why the Right Product Changes Everything
Using the wrong product:
- Weighs your hair down
- Makes it look greasy or stiff
- Kills your style halfway through the day
Using the right men’s hair styling product:
- Holds your appearance effortlessly
- Adds texture or shine where you need it
- Keeps you looking sharp from morning to night
Diesel mindset: Your haircut is the base, but the right product brings it to life.
Get Styled Right at Diesel Barbershop
Not sure which product to use? That’s where we can help you.
At Diesel Barbershop, we don’t just give you a great haircut; we also show you:
- The best hair styling products for your hair type
- How to use products like pomade, clay, or texture powder
- How to maintain your style every day
We carry top brands like Suavecito, Level 3, Layrite, Gibs Grooming, Grave Before Shave, 18.21, and Outlaws and Gents, so you get products that really work.
Level Up Your Hair Routine
The difference between “just okay” hair and a sharp, confident look is the right product and the right routine.
If you’re ready to stop guessing and start looking your best, come to Diesel Barbershop, pick up the right product, and let our pros help you out.
Book your appointment online or walk in today to see why Diesel Barbershop is a top choice for men’s haircuts, fades, and grooming.
Find the nearest Diesel Barbershop location HERE.