Alison Greeves
22 May 2024
With an almost endless supply of styling products available to give hold and definition it's often difficult to choose the right product for the right hairstyle. We look at five popular hold and definition style products and when to use them.
1. Hair Gel:
- Texture: Gel is typically a transparent, jelly-like substance.
- Hold: Provides a strong, stiff hold, making hair stay in place all day.
- Finish: Often gives a shiny, wet look.
- Use: Best for creating structured, spiky hairstyles or sleek, combed-back looks.
- Application: Apply to damp or dry hair and let it dry to set the style.
2. Hair Shaper:
- Texture: Usually a cream or paste.
- Hold: Offers a medium to strong hold with some flexibility.
- Finish: Matte to slightly shiny finish, depending on the product.
- Use: Ideal for creating textured, sculpted styles with a natural appearance.
- Application: Typically applied to damp or dry hair and styled as desired.
3. Hair Clay:
- Texture: Thick and pliable with a clay-like consistency.
- Hold: Provides a strong but flexible hold.
- Finish: Usually matte or natural-looking, with minimal shine.
- Use: Ideal for adding texture and volume, creating messy or structured styles.
- Application: Work a small amount into dry hair and style with fingers for a natural look.
4. Hair Pomade:
- Texture: Smooth and greasy, often oil-based or water-based.
- Hold: Medium to strong hold, depending on the product.
- Finish: Typically provides a shiny, slick finish.
- Use: Perfect for classic, slicked-back styles or pompadours.
- Application: Best applied to damp hair for a shiny finish or dry hair for a slightly less shiny look.
5. Hair Wax:
- Texture: Thick, pliable, and waxy.
- Hold: Medium to strong hold with flexibility.
- Finish: Usually a natural or low-shine finish.
- Use: Great for messy, tousled looks, and can be restyled throughout the day.
- Application: Apply a small amount to dry hair and style as desired.
In conclusion it all depends on the style you want to achieve. Each of these products has distinct characteristics, making them suitable for different hair types and desired styles. Choose based on the hold, finish, and texture that best suits your needs.
Images courtesy of L'oreal , Fudge, American Crew, Osmo and Goldwell professional hair products.