Jan 15, 2026 | Men’s Grooming Tips, Men’s Hair Care
We see it time and time again, right in our chairs at First & Mane. The client comes in, describes what they are looking for, and confesses that they can never quite capture the look on their own at home. The trouble, more often than not, isn’t their skill or the quality of the cut. It simply has to do with the fact that they are working with the wrong product. The hair care section of the drugstore can be overwhelming, and it is common practice to simply grab what you see and go.
To help you upgrade your daily routine, we are going to break down two of the biggest players in the male grooming industry: pomade vs hair gel. Knowing how each works and their chemistry will give your hair the same look whether it’s been cut or not.
Understanding the Classic Pomade
Pomade is the traditional gentlemen’s grooming product. If you can picture the slicked back hairstyles of the 1950s, or the pompadours and quiffs we cut today, you can picture pomade. Traditionally, these products were oil-based, which means that they were very hard to wash out of the hair.
In today’s market, we’d suggest you look for water-based pomades. They provide you with the same pliable hold without the grease, and they come out easily at the end of the day. Flexibility is the main attribute you want to remember in this regard. Pomade does not crunch or harden. It allows you to comb your hair at 2 PM and restyle it with the ease you had at 8 AM. It is made to work with your hair, not against it.
The High Hold of Hair Gel
Hair gel is probably the first styling product you used in high school. It is renowned for its maximum hold and extreme high shine. In contrast to pomade, hair gel uses alcohol and hold polymers to hold hair in place. Once it dries, it will stay in the position you placed it in until you wash it off.
This formulation gives it a stiff hold, which is nearly wind-resistant. Although it went out of fashion for a short period when natural hairstyles became the fashion, gels work well for a particular kind of styled hair where the enemy is movement. It gives a wet look that will last all day, although it is not touch-friendly.
Comparison of the Finish and Feel
The largest difference between gel and pomade is in finish and feel. The gel dries into a shell around the hair shaft that has an extreme hold but no give. If you try to touch your hair after you have dried it with gel, you’ll see that your hold is broken and often comes out as white flakes on your shoulders. It is a set it and forget it type of product.
The pomade can still be worked with throughout the day. Also, it won’t dry out the hair. As for its components, gels contain high amounts of alcohol, which dries out the scalp when used on a daily basis without using an appropriate conditioner. The pomade is less harsh on the scalp area compared to gels when it comes to shine finish – matte to high shine.
Picking the Right Choice for Your Hair Type
Choosing the winner is completely dependent on your hair type and the look you’re trying to create. For instance, if you have really thick and frizzy hair, and you’re looking for something to help you defy gravity and create spikes or a sharply defined side part, then you’re looking for the help of the former in the hair gel vs pomade debate.
But for those with thinner hair or those who like a natural flow, we highly recommend the use of the former between pomade or gel. This not only gives your hair volume and texture, it also doesn’t weigh your hair down and doesn’t show your scalp by matting your hair together in chunks.
If you like to run your fingers through your hair, don’t use gel. If you like your hairstyle to look exactly the same when you get home as it did when you left the house, gel may be the solution.
The Hunt for the Perfect Finish
A good start to upgrading your grooming routine involves knowing what goes on your head. If you’re a man who requires the sturdy hold of a gel or the refined and flexible hold of a pomade, the key to your confidence boost begins with the right tool.
But if you’re still not sure which tub you’d rather grab, gel or pomade, just come on down to our shop for your next haircut. We’d be happy to evaluate your hair type and walk you through exactly how you can apply our product for that freshly barbered look every morning. For expert advice and a great cut, experience our barbershop services firsthand at First & Mane!
Dru Meskan is the owner and master barber at First & Mane in Scottsdale, Arizona. With 19 years of haircutting experience, including 11 years as a professional barber, Dru is known for precision cuts, modern grooming techniques, and personalized service that keeps clients looking and feeling their best.
Apr 15, 2025 | Hairstyles by Face Shape, Men’s Hair Care
Male pattern baldness is a difficult condition for men to go through, both in how it affects self-confidence and also in how it changes appearance. Balding happens to many men, but does not have to be something that leaves your personal style compromised. A well-groomed balding man’s haircut can be a big difference maker, highlighting your face and putting you in top shape to feel and look the best. No matter if you newly start to suffer from thinning hair or already show considerable loss, there are many steps you can take.
Learning Hair Loss
It’s important before you choose a haircut to understand how hair loss happens. The most prevalent, male pattern baldness, is actually genetic and involves hormones such as dihydrotestosterone (DHT) that act over time on hair follicles. Other causes may include stress, diet, or health conditions. Regardless of the cause, making the best of what you have and adjusting to your appearance according to your own pattern of hair loss is most essential. Whether you’re looking for a haircut in Scottsdale or elsewhere, understanding your hair loss will help you make the best choice.
Best Haircut Styles
Balding does have some haircut styles that are excellent at concealing thinning hair and accentuating your best features.
For light male thinning, an all-over crew cut is a surefire winner. This cuts everything right down to the head and gives an even look with not much visual distinction between thinner and thicker spots. It’s neat, simple, and low-maintenance.
If your balding is more severe, the buzz cut is probably your best option. This very short cut prevents the frustration of having to deal with areas where the hair will not grow back, and shifts attention somewhere else on your head, such as your jawline or beard.
The other option is the clean shave. When baldness is advanced enough that it can no longer be hidden, eliminating it entirely by shaving is a liberating choice. The shaved, bald look is confident and is part of an unassuming personal image.
For those who want to maintain some length, the cropped textured cut is a contemporary option. It involves maintaining some length on top but shaving close on the sides and adding texture that fills thinning areas discreetly. It’s particularly wonderful with light styling products to provide volume. This is one of the most stylish haircuts for balding men today.
What to Avoid
Not every haircut is equal when balding is involved. Some haircuts or styles of grooming will accentuate balding areas, and loss of hair will be more noticeable.
The comb-over is a haircut that will most likely be hurtful rather than helpful. While it might seem like an easy fix for covering up a bald spot, it will look phony and call attention to the problem rather than concealing it.
In the same way, don’t try to grow out your hair in order to hide bald spots. Bald spots under long hair create contrast and call attention to hair loss. Instead, keep your hair short with a style that gives a neat, solid look. Consider trying men’s hairstyles for a bald spot that blend seamlessly with your hairline.
Finally, don’t overdo heavy styling products like gel. They weigh your hair down and make the scalp show through underneath, adding to thinning. Light matte products are a better choice for volume and natural texture.
Style, Confidence, and Hair Loss
Hair loss doesn’t have to dominate your style. By choosing haircuts for men who are balding that work with, rather than against, your natural balding line and hairline, you can remain sleek and cool. From the rugged sex appeal of a close shave to the chic edge of a textured cut, there are many hairstyles for bald men that keep you looking fashionable.
Remember, your haircut is just one aspect of your overall look. Pair it with a great outfit, a well-groomed beard, or an accessory that reflects your personal style, and you’ll turn heads for all the right reasons.
Take the leap, experiment with some new styles, and own your look with confidence.
Dru Meskan is the owner and master barber at First & Mane in Scottsdale, Arizona. With 19 years of haircutting experience, including 11 years as a professional barber, Dru is known for precision cuts, modern grooming techniques, and personalized service that keeps clients looking and feeling their best.
Mar 10, 2025 | Men’s Grooming Tips, Men’s Hair Care
Curling cream is a styling product that the majority love using to define curls and add volume to them. It’s the natural curly or wavy-haired individual’s choice, providing them with moisture, control, and bounce.
What happens when the straight-haired person picks up the same product, though? Does curl cream work on straight hair? Does curling cream create curls, or is it just a hopeful wish? Let’s see if curling cream is suitable for straight hair, how to experiment with it, and what alternatives will provide textured haircuts. Can you use curl cream on straight hair?
Can Curling Cream Work on Straight Hair?
Curling cream is comprised of substances that enhance curl growth by defining already present curl or wave texture within the hair. Curling cream for straight hair doesn’t create curls out of nowhere. Straight hair individuals do not possess this texture, sadly.
In the absence of an already present curl or wave texture upon which to define curls, hair curling cream for straight hair is not able simply to conjure up curls into being. It cannot play around with what doesn’t come naturally with the hair—it can only mess around with what’s already present.
All that being said, though, there is some limited room for styling. In the event your straight hair is naturally slightly curved or wavy, curling cream can be used to bring out that natural texture, through the assistance of a bit of styling expertise. And although the product will never produce ringlets, it will provide softness, a slight amount of movement, and a shiny finish if done properly.
How to Use Curling Cream on Straight Hair
If you’re curious about experimenting with curl cream for straight hair, the process requires a combination of product and technique. First, apply curling cream to damp, towel-dried hair, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends. Avoid using too much product, as this can weigh the hair down and minimize any potential wave or texture.
Next, you will need to combine curling cream with heat styling technique to cause curl or wave creation. For example, twist and pin your tiny hair sections or braid and blow-dry your wet hair with a blow-dryer. You may also scrunch lightly with fingers while blow-drying for easy waves. Once your hair is dry, use a wand or curling iron to place extra curls, if desired, and top off with a light-hold hairspray to secure your style.
Remember that the effect will be discreet and may take some experimentation depending on hair length and type.
Styling Options for Straight Hair
Does curling cream work on straight hair? If it isn’t giving you the sweeping waves or curls you need, do not panic—there are plenty of other products and methods you can use to give you textured hair. Heat styling tools such as curling irons, wands, or hot rollers are still the best to use to convert straight hair to bouncy curls or soft waves. Heatless methods, overnight braids, or foam rollers work just fine if you want to avoid heating.
For straight hair texture, use sea salt sprays or texturizing mists. These will give the appearance of beach waves and give body to your hair without heat or time-consuming procedures. If you’re looking for additional tips, consider seeking advice at salon or barbershop services, as professional stylists can recommend alternative methods to achieve your desired look.
Make the Most of Your Styling Routine
Although curling cream might not work its miracle trick on straight hair, it can still be included in the process of obtaining a sleek, touchable finish when used as part of an imaginative styling routine. From searching for soft waves or trying out other methods, it’s all about figuring out what is most suitable to your own locks. And let’s not forget: sometimes, simple styling tricks and some special products will have the ultimate power transformation effect.
So, does curl cream work on straight hair? Not exactly, but with the right styling techniques and products, you can still enhance your natural texture and achieve a polished, stylish look.
Dru Meskan is the owner and master barber at First & Mane in Scottsdale, Arizona. With 19 years of haircutting experience, including 11 years as a professional barber, Dru is known for precision cuts, modern grooming techniques, and personalized service that keeps clients looking and feeling their best.
Jan 16, 2025 | Men’s Grooming Tips, Men’s Hair Care
You might not instantly consider men’s hair spray when pondering men’s grooming essentials, yet it’s a pivotal instrument for accomplishing the ideal hairdo. Whether your goal is a classic pompadour or a casual, disheveled style, the appropriate hairspray can take your look to the next level while ensuring every hair strand holds its position. If you are new to gents hair spray or uncertain about what type suits your hair, consider this your comprehensive guide.
Comprehending Men’s Hairspray
Hairsprays are as multifaceted as the hairdos they assist in crafting. Ranging from light to robust hold, each variety serves a function contingent on your intended style and your hair’s texture. Light-hold hairsprays deliver subtle control, making them ideal for men with fine hair or those desiring a more natural outcome. They provide sufficient grip to maintain your hairstyle without overdoing it.
Medium-hold hairsprays offer the perfect blend of control and adaptability. They are optimal for regular hairstyles requiring some structure, but not at the expense of freedom of movement. Suitable for all hair types, they are popular for creating hairstyles that remain intact yet seem effortless.
For complicated or daring hairdos that need to maintain their perfection from dawn to dusk, robust-hold hairsprays are indispensable. They excel on thicker hair or for accomplishing well-defined, crisp styles like a slicked-back undercut. Their design is aimed at preserving your style intact, regardless of how hectic your day might get.
Selecting the best hairspray for men’s hair also hinges on your hair type. For example, men with curly or wavy hair might favor sprays with extra moisture to resist frizz, while men with thinner hair will find lightweight formulas that don’t burden strands beneficial. Comprehending your hair’s distinct needs narrows down the options and ensures you use a product adequate for your style.
Techniques to Use Hairspray Effectively
Applying hairspray for men’s hair might seem easy, but certain methods can guarantee optimal results. Begin with dry hair, as hairspray works best on a style that’s already set. Depending on your chosen look, starting with a styling cream or pomade for enhanced definition, and using hairspray as the final step might be beneficial.
For a casual, nonchalant style like disheveled waves, hold the top hair spray for men about 10 inches from your head and spray lightly. Avoid drenching the hair to preserve natural movement. Use your hands to gently scrunch hair for boosted texture and volume.
If you’re aiming for a more structured look, such as a traditional quiff or slick back, opt for the best hairspray for guys with robust hold. Distribute it uniformly across the chosen style, concentrating on parts that need additional definition or hold. To inject more volume, elevate portions of your hair while spraying underneath to preserve the height.
Remember to spray in short pulses rather than a constant flow. This tactic will help you oversee the application and evade rigid or tacky hair. And don’t disregard protecting your face to avert the product from landing where it’s not wanted.
Hairspray for men can be an excellent tool for touching up your hairstyle throughout the day. A quick spritz can rejuvenate your look without having to start over if your hair begins to lose its shape or grip. It is a straightforward yet potent tool for maintaining your hair as tidy in the evening as it was in the morning.
Elevating Your Style with the Ideal Hairspray
The best hairspray for men goes beyond being a finishing touch – it is a flexible styling necessity that can differentiate a good hair day from a fantastic one. By understanding the different types and usages of hairsprays, you are more equipped to craft styles that reflect your character and regimen. Take the opportunity to discover what suits your hair type and the hairstyles you favor. The trick to achieving your ultimate style might lie in mastering the use of gents hair spray. Contact us today to learn more about finding the ideal product for your routine!
Dru Meskan is the owner and master barber at First & Mane in Scottsdale, Arizona. With 19 years of haircutting experience, including 11 years as a professional barber, Dru is known for precision cuts, modern grooming techniques, and personalized service that keeps clients looking and feeling their best.
Nov 23, 2024 | Men’s Hair Care
Ever pondered if you could utilize curly hair products on your straight locks? In the diverse universe of hair care products, indecision can easily take hold. Grasping how these products interact with different hair types can illuminate your pathway to finer hair care decisions.
The Science of Hair Products
Hair products are meticulously concocted to cater to a range of hair necessities such as hydration, fortification, and control of frizz. These concoctions comprise a variety of ingredients fashioned to respond in a particular manner to different hair types. Curly hair, typically drier and susceptible to frizz, necessitates products that lavish extra hydration and accentuate curls. Conversely, straight hair, characterized by a smoother cuticle, may not be as thirsty for moisture but may thrive with products enhancing volume and luster. Understanding the differences between hair products for curly hair and hair products for straight hair is essential.
Comprehending the science embedded in these products is pivotal for singling out the ones most compatible with your hair. Ingredients such as humectants lure moisture into the hair, emollients soften and smooth, while proteins fortify and mend. Each ingredient performs a distinctive role in preserving hair health, and their understanding can aid in your product selection journey.
It’s crucial to acknowledge that while hair type is a substantial determinant, individual hair features like thickness and porosity also influence product impacts. Therefore, even within a specific hair type, outcomes can diverge significantly, highlighting the necessity for trial and discovery to identify what caters to your unique hair demands.
The Great Debate: Can Straight Hair Benefit from Curly Hair Products?
Let’s dissect the burning question—can you use curly hair products on straight hair? The response is a nuanced yes and no, contingent on your hair care aspirations. Curly hair products are often laden with hydrating and nurturing elements like oils and butters, which can be beneficial if your straight hair tends towards dryness or damage. Indeed, can curly hair products be used on straight hair? The possibility exists, but careful consideration is needed to prevent undesirable effects.
For straight hair seeking volume, applying a curl-enhancing cream may weigh it down, giving it an oily appearance. However, a curl-defining gel may instill texture and hold without causing flatness. It all boils down to experimenting with modest quantities and noticing your hair’s reaction. To answer ‘can I use curly hair products on straight hair?’, start small and be observant.
If you’re keen on trying curly hair products, initiate with a single product, applying it judiciously. Opt for light formulas specifically crafted for all hair types or products devoid of heavy oils or silicones. By vigilantly observing your hair’s response, you can fine-tune your hair care regimen to resonate with your personal style and needs.
Summary
The hair care cosmos demands an understanding of the science behind products and their intended use for optimal results. Curly hair products can confer benefits to straight hair, particularly if it’s dry or damaged. However, it’s crucial to tread carefully and test your hair’s reactions.
Do curly hair products work on straight hair? With a smidgen of experimentation, you could uncover fresh methods to amplify your straight hair’s texture, brilliance, and overall health. For more insights, consider checking out the best barber blog. Remember, hair care is a deeply personal odyssey, so fearless exploration to discover your best fit is key. Continue to learn, experiment, and cherish your hair!
Dru Meskan is the owner and master barber at First & Mane in Scottsdale, Arizona. With 19 years of haircutting experience, including 11 years as a professional barber, Dru is known for precision cuts, modern grooming techniques, and personalized service that keeps clients looking and feeling their best.
Oct 31, 2024 | Men’s Hair Care
When we consider the daily rituals that symbolize masculinity, hair styling often sits at the pinnacle. It’s not only about vanity — it encapsulates confidence, professionalism, and a personal stamp of style. But the dilemma arises when your go-to hair product is amiss, or perhaps, your decision to evade the harsh chemicals common in styling gels and sprays is the case. The silver lining? Exceptional hairdos are achievable without surrendering to commercial products. This guide serves as your practical manual to accomplish just that.
The Toolbox: Techniques and Devices
The golden rule of hairstyles for men without product? Your tools can either make or break the game. With a high-quality comb or brush, a blow dryer, and a pinch of innovation, you’re off to a good start. The selection of the right comb or brush is mainly hinged on the desired hairstyle. For instance, a wide-tooth comb can secure that relaxed, disheveled look, while a fine-tooth comb paves the way for smooth, refined styles.
Mastering the art of a blow dryer can yield volume and stability. Begin the process by towel-drying your locks to discard redundant moisture, followed by the strategic use of your comb or brush alongside the blow dryer to mold and style your hair. For additional volume, blow-drying against the natural trajectory of your hair growth is a trick worth remembering. Employing a cool air setting can solidify the style while avoiding harmful heat exposure.
Different hairstyles necessitate unique techniques. The classic side part can be achieved with a fine-tooth comb and blow-drying, while a messy, just-awoken style requires finger tousling during drying. Craving a pompadour? Use a round brush to elevate the front section of your hair while drying, for the perfect volume and shape. When seeking hairstyle without product finesse, these techniques are invaluable.
Mother Nature: Natural Ingredients for Volume and Hold
In the quest for stellar hairdos, nature turns out to be a fantastic accomplice. Natural ingredients can bestow the hold and volume required by your hair, without synthetic chemicals. Seemingly ordinary water can be a potent hairstyling companion if used to moisten hair prior to shaping it. If you want men’s hairstyles without product, water and natural ingredients become your best allies.
For an enhanced hold, consider the humble yet powerful aloe vera gel. Esteemed for its restorative properties, it provides a light hold, ensuring your style remains intact. Distribute a modest amount throughout your hair, concentrating on the segments requiring most control.
Another natural alternative offering volume and structure is egg whites. Whip them into a soft froth and apply onto damp hair, before molding as preferred. Once your style is solidified, rinse out the egg whites, leaving your hair with a flawless shape and a dash of bounce.
Defying Conventions: Choosing the Natural Path
Bidding adieu to conventional hair products isn’t just a possibility but an exciting exploration of new skills and natural, healthier alternatives. Whether you’ve run out of products or you’re consciously moving towards a more natural approach, these tools, techniques, and ingredients present a straightforward path to stellar styles.
Continue experimenting with different natural ingredients to discover what suits your hair type and style aspirations. Conquering the realm of product-less styling might just become your new cherished approach to hair care. Ready to dive deeper? Schedule an appointment now to explore more about alternative styling techniques and discover hairstyles without products that perfectly suit your individuality.
Dru Meskan is the owner and master barber at First & Mane in Scottsdale, Arizona. With 19 years of haircutting experience, including 11 years as a professional barber, Dru is known for precision cuts, modern grooming techniques, and personalized service that keeps clients looking and feeling their best.
