Best Hair Styling Products For Men With Thick Hair: Top Picks & Buying Guide
I remember my friend, Dave, back in college. Dave had hair that could double as a small woodland creature's nest. Seriously, you could lose a comb in there. Every morning was a battle. He’d emerge from the bathroom looking like he’d wrestled a badger and lost, his thick mane defying gravity in all the wrong ways. He’d try everything: cheap gels that left his hair stiff as a board, waxes that made it look greasy, and sprays that just sort of… made it smell nice. Bless his heart, he never quite cracked the code.
Fast forward a few years, and Dave’s hair is… well, it’s still Dave’s hair, but now it looks good. Like, magazine-cover good. I finally had to ask him what his secret was. Turns out, it wasn't a magic potion or a weekly salon visit. It was just… the right products. And that, my friends, is what we’re diving into today. If you’ve got hair that’s got some serious volume, some real presence, then you know the struggle is real. It’s not just about looking good; it’s about having a hairstyle that lasts without feeling like you’ve plastered your head with cement.
So, what makes thick hair so… thick? It’s generally down to the individual strand's diameter. Thicker strands mean more hair on your head, which translates to more bulk. And while that can be a blessing for creating impressive styles, it can also be a curse if you don't have the right tools to tame it. Think of it like trying to sculpt a masterpiece out of play-doh versus trying to shape a tiny pebble. You need the right tools for the job, right?
The struggle is real, I get it. You’ve probably tried products that promised the moon and delivered… well, a slightly greasy forehead. Or maybe your hair just ends up looking the same no matter what you do. Don’t worry, you’re not alone in this follicular frontier. We’ve all been there, staring in the mirror with a mix of frustration and mild panic. But fear not, fellow thick-haired warriors! Today, we’re going to explore the absolute best styling products that can transform your magnificent mane from a wild jungle into a sculpted work of art.
The Quest for the Perfect Hold: What Thick Hair Needs
Thick hair has a mind of its own. It's got strength, it's got volume, and it's got the power to defy gravity with impressive, albeit sometimes unintended, results. What most guys with thick hair are looking for is a product that can provide serious hold without making their hair feel stiff, heavy, or look like it’s been attacked by a can of hairspray from the 80s. We want control, but we also want movement. We want it to look natural, like you just woke up like this… with a stylist on retainer.
The key is finding products that offer a good balance. Too little hold and your style will fall flat faster than a deflated balloon. Too much hold, and you’ll be left with a helmet-like appearance that screams “I tried too hard” (even if you really, really didn’t). It’s a delicate dance, and understanding what different product types do is your first step towards mastering it.
Let’s break down the common product types and how they fare with thicker hair. This is where the real magic starts to happen, so buckle up!
Waxes: The Sculpting Champions
Waxes are often the unsung heroes for guys with thick hair. Why? Because they offer a fantastic combination of medium to strong hold and a more natural, matte finish. Unlike some gels, they don't tend to dry hard, meaning you can restyle your hair throughout the day if needed. Think of it as a flexible sculptor’s clay for your hair.
The beauty of a good wax is its ability to add texture and definition without weighing your hair down. For thicker hair, you’ll want to look for waxes that are not too heavy or oily. You want something that’s pliable and easy to work through your strands. A little goes a long way, so don’t be tempted to glob it on!
Pro Tip: Always rub the wax between your palms until it’s almost fully melted before applying it to your hair. This ensures even distribution and prevents clumping. Trust me on this, it makes a huge difference.
Pomades: For That Classic Slickness (and Volume Control)
Ah, pomades. The stuff of old Hollywood and dapper gentlemen. Traditionally, pomades were oil-based and offered a high shine and strong hold. Modern pomades come in a variety of formulas, including water-based options that are easier to wash out and offer a less greasy finish.
For thick hair, a pomade can be excellent for creating slicked-back styles, quiffs, or anything that requires a bit more oomph and control. If you're going for that classic, polished look, a pomade is your best friend. Just be mindful of the shine level – if you prefer a matte finish, a wax or clay might be a better bet. Water-based pomades are often a good compromise for thick hair because they provide the hold without the excessive greasiness.
Consider this: If your hair is super thick and you're worried about looking like a greaser from the 50s (unless that's your jam, of course!), opt for a medium-hold, low-shine pomade. It’ll give you the control you need without the intense shine.
Clays: The Matte Masters
Clay is another fantastic option for thick hair, especially if you’re after a matte, natural look. Clays are known for their ability to add texture, volume, and a firm hold without any shine. They’re great for creating messy, textured styles or anything that needs a bit of grit and definition.
What I love about clays is how they absorb excess oil, which can be a lifesaver for those with thicker hair that might tend to get a bit greasy. They’re excellent for giving your hair a bit of lift at the roots and keeping it in place without looking “done.”
A word to the wise: Some clays can be a bit stiff to work with initially. Again, warm it up between your hands! It’s like giving your product a mini-spa treatment before it works on your hair.
Molding Pastes: The Versatile All-Rounders
Molding pastes fall somewhere between waxes and clays, offering a good balance of hold, texture, and often a natural to low-shine finish. They’re incredibly versatile and can be used for a wide range of styles.
If you’re someone who likes to switch up your hairstyle regularly or wants a product that’s forgiving and easy to rework, a molding paste is a solid choice. They’re usually pliable enough to restyle throughout the day, which is a huge plus for guys with hair that has a lot of volume and movement.
Think of it this way: If your hair has a lot of natural wave or curl, a molding paste can help define those textures without making them look frizzy or stiff. It’s like giving your natural hair texture a gentle nudge in the right direction.
Top Picks for Thick Hair: My Go-To Recommendations
Alright, enough theory. Let’s talk about the actual products that have earned a spot on my bathroom shelf (or in Dave’s, for that matter). I’ve tried my fair share, and these are the ones that consistently deliver for thick, unruly hair. Remember, what works best for one person might not be perfect for another, but these are a fantastic starting point.
1. Reuzel Clay Matte Pomade
Yes, it says "pomade" but it acts like a clay, which is why it’s a bit of a hybrid wonder. Reuzel is a brand that really understands hair, and this clay matte pomade is a testament to that. It offers an incredible matte finish, a strong hold, and a texture that’s easy to work with. It gives your hair that desirable volume and separation without any shine or greasiness.
I’ve used this on myself and on friends with seriously thick hair, and it always holds up. It’s particularly good for creating messy, textured styles or for giving your hair a bit of a lift at the roots. You get that controlled chaos look that’s so on-trend.
Why it’s great for thick hair: It provides significant hold and texture while keeping it looking completely natural. The matte finish is a huge win.
2. Hanz de Fuko Claymation
Hanz de Fuko is another brand that consistently impresses. Their Claymation is a legendary product for a reason. It’s a heavy-duty clay that offers an extreme hold with a natural matte finish. This is your go-to if you need your hair to stay put through anything, be it a windy day or a long commute.
Despite its strong hold, it doesn’t leave your hair feeling brittle or stiff. It’s got a great texture that allows for some flexibility, and it washes out surprisingly easily for such a powerful product. It’s a bit of an investment, but trust me, it’s worth every penny for the control you get.
What makes it stand out: The hold is seriously impressive, but it still feels natural. Perfect for those who need their style to survive everything life throws at it.
3. Baxter of California Clay Effect Style Pomade
Baxter of California is known for its no-nonsense, quality grooming products, and this pomade is no exception. It offers a medium to strong hold with a matte finish, making it ideal for thicker hair that needs control but not a greasy sheen. It’s excellent for adding texture and definition, and it’s relatively easy to work through thicker strands.
This one is a great all-rounder. If you’re looking for a product that can handle everything from a more structured look to something a bit more tousled, this is it. It provides a good amount of grit without being heavy.
Consider this: If you're new to styling products for thick hair, this is a fantastic, user-friendly option. It’s forgiving and effective.
4. American Crew Fiber
American Crew is a classic in the men's grooming world, and their Fiber product is a staple for a reason. It’s a wax-based product that offers a strong, flexible hold with a natural, slightly matte finish. It’s fantastic for adding texture and separation, and it works exceptionally well on thicker hair types.
What I like about Fiber is its ability to create a lived-in, textured look. It’s not about making your hair look perfectly sculpted, but rather giving it that effortlessly cool vibe. It’s also relatively affordable and widely available, which is always a bonus.
Why it’s a winner: It provides that desirable texture and hold without making hair stiff or greasy. A true workhorse product.
5. Pete & Pedro Putty
Pete & Pedro is a brand that’s really gained traction for its high-quality, men’s grooming products, and their Putty is a standout. It’s a medium-hold product that offers a matte finish and a lot of texture. It’s perfect for guys with thick hair who want a natural look that still has some control and definition.
This putty is incredibly pliable, meaning you can really work it into your hair and sculpt it into place. It doesn’t dry hard, so you can restyle it if needed throughout the day. It’s also known for its pleasant scent, which is always a nice little bonus.
Think about it: If you want a product that feels good, smells good, and makes your thick hair look effortlessly cool, this is definitely one to try.
The Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Product for You
Okay, so you’ve seen some top contenders. But how do you navigate the sea of gels, waxes, and pomades to find the perfect one for your unique head of hair? It’s not as complicated as it seems. Here’s a quick checklist to help you make the right choice:
1. Understand Your Hair Type (Beyond Just "Thick")
While we're focusing on thick hair, think about other characteristics too. Is your thick hair also wavy, curly, straight, fine (but dense), or coarse? This will influence the type of hold and finish you need. For instance, very curly thick hair might benefit from something a bit more moisturizing and less likely to create crunch, while very straight thick hair might need a stronger, drier hold.
2. Consider the Desired Finish
Do you want your hair to look super shiny, naturally matte, or somewhere in between?
- Matte: Great for texture, volume, and a natural look. Clays and some waxes excel here.
- Natural/Low Shine: Offers a bit of sheen but still looks realistic. Many pastes and some pomades fall into this category.
- High Shine: Classic slicked-back styles. Traditional pomades are best for this.
3. Determine Your Hold Level Needs
This is crucial for thick hair. You need something that can stand up to its volume.
- Light Hold: Generally not sufficient for thick hair unless you’re going for a very soft, natural look and your hair has some natural structure.
- Medium Hold: A good starting point for many thick-haired guys, offering control without stiffness.
- Strong Hold: Essential for more structured styles or if your hair tends to fall flat or frizz.
- Extreme Hold: For those days when your hair needs to defy all odds.
4. Check the Ingredients (If You're Sensitive)
If you have a sensitive scalp or are prone to breakouts, take a peek at the ingredient list. Some people find certain alcohols or fragrances can be irritating. Look for products with natural oils and extracts if that’s a concern for you.
5. Read Reviews (But Take Them with a Grain of Salt)
Online reviews can be incredibly helpful, but remember that everyone’s hair is different. What one person loves, another might find doesn’t work for their specific hair type or desired style. Look for reviews from people who describe their hair as similar to yours.
The Application Game: Making it Work for You
Getting the product is only half the battle. How you apply it makes a world of difference. Here are some golden rules for styling thick hair:
Start with Dry or Damp Hair: Most waxes, clays, and pomades work best on hair that is either fully dry or slightly damp. Gels often perform better on wet hair, but we’re generally steering clear of heavy gels for thick hair. If you use a blow dryer, make sure your hair is towel-dried first.
Less is More (Initially): Always start with a small amount. You can always add more, but it’s a nightmare to take away excess product from thick hair. A pea-sized amount is usually a good starting point for most products.
Warm it Up: Rub the product thoroughly between your palms. You want it to become almost liquid-like before you put it in your hair. This ensures even distribution and prevents clumps. Seriously, this is a game-changer. Your hands are your comb, so make sure they’re ready to work!
Work from Back to Front: Apply the product starting from the back of your head and work your way forward. This helps build the foundation of your style and gives you more control over the front sections, which are often the most visible.
Distribute Evenly: Use your fingers to comb through your hair, ensuring the product is spread from root to tip. Pay attention to the underlayers too – thick hair can hide a multitude of sins (or product omissions!).
Style with Intention: Once the product is distributed, use your fingers or a comb to sculpt your hair into your desired style. Don’t be afraid to experiment. Thick hair is often forgiving and allows for a lot of manipulation.
The Final Touches: If you need a bit more hold or definition in specific areas, you can go back in with a tiny bit more product. A light mist of a texturizing spray can also add an extra layer of hold and separation.
So there you have it. A deep dive into the world of hair styling products for us guys with that glorious, abundant thick hair. It’s not about fighting your hair, it’s about working with it, understanding its needs, and equipping yourself with the right tools.
Dave eventually learned that a good wax or clay could tame his mane into something truly impressive. He went from looking like he’d been electrocuted to looking like he’d stepped out of a high-fashion photoshoot. And all it took was a little research and the right products. So, go forth, experiment, and find your perfect match. Your hair will thank you for it!