Choosing between an original pomade and a clay pomade is a big decision that a man can make in his grooming routine. Both products perform completely differently and each one gives you access to a different range of hairstyles, textures, and finishes.

This guide breaks down what each product does, who it’s best for, and exactly which hairstyles you can create with each one.

What’s the Difference Between Original Pomade and Clay Pomade?

Before you choose a product, you need to understand the core difference:

• Original Pomade

A classic, smooth product that gives control, shape, and a natural-to-slight-shine finish.
Best for structured, polished styles.

• Clay Pomade

A lightweight, grit-infused product that gives texture, volume, and a matte finish.
Best for messy, lived-in, or voluminous looks.

Both are strong options, just for different men and different styles.

What Hairstyles Can You Achieve With an Original Pomade?

Original Pomade is all about control, hold, and definition.
This is the product for men who want their hair to look clean, intentional, and consistently styled.

1. The Classic Side Part

The most iconic pomade style.
Clean lines, sharp part, structured look.

Works best for:

• Straight or slightly wavy hair
• Medium hair length
• Professional or polished looks

2. The Slick Back

A timeless, masculine style with controlled shine and smoothness.

Works best for:

• Medium-length hair
• Men who want a sharp, powerful look
• High-hold styling that stays put

3. The Modern Gentlemen’s Look

Slight shine, natural finish, combed but not overly slick.

Works best for:

• Men who want a “clean but not greasy” look
• Weddings, events, photos, or daily polished style

4. The Tapered Brush-Back

Volume in front, fullness on top, combed structure.

Works best for:

• Men with thick or coarse hair
• Medium strength pomade application

5. Long-Hair Control Styles

Pomade keeps longer hair smooth, neat, and controlled when pulled back.

What Hairstyles Can You Achieve With a Clay Pomade?

Clay pomade is perfect for men who want texture, volume, and a matte, natural finish that doesn’t look styled — even though it is.

1. The Textured Quiff

One of the most popular modern men’s hairstyles.

Works best for:

• Fine, medium, or thick hair
• Men who want volume without shine

2. The Messy Short Crop

Laid-back, effortless, masculine.

Works best for:

• Short-to-medium hair
• Men with wavy or straight hair
• Everyday casual style

3. The Volumized “I Woke Up Like This” Look

Natural shape, touchable hair, strong texture.

Works best for:

• Men with thin hair needing fullness
• Guys who hate greasy product

4. The Spiky or Lifted Top Style

Matte clays add structure without the crunchy gel look.

Works best for:

• Short haircuts
• Men who like strong hold with zero shine

Which One Should You Use? (Quick Decision Guide)

Choose Original Pomade if you want…

✔ A classic clean look
✔ Structured, controlled styling
✔ A natural or subtle shine
✔ Professional, polished hair
✔ Comb-friendly styles

Choose Clay Pomade if you want…

✔ Texture and volume
✔ A matte, natural look
✔ Lightweight everyday styling
✔ Messy or casual hairstyles
✔ Fuller-looking hair (especially for thin hair)

Can You Own Both? Yes — and You Should.

Most men eventually use both depending on the look they want that day.
Think of them like two tools:

• Original Pomade = Polish
• Clay Pomade = Texture

Two different products, two completely different styles.

Final Thoughts: Your Hairstyle Is Only as Good as the Product You Use

Choosing between original pomade and clay pomade isn’t about what’s “better” — it’s about what fits your style, your hair type, and the look you want to create.

At Father’s Grooming, every formula is intentionally crafted with minimal ingredients, a premium finish, and a performance-first focus so men can rely on the same result every single day.