A head full of wavy hair can create magic in terms of your visual outlook. Take Michelangelo’s David or modern-day Hollywood actors as examples. How dreamy and alluring do they all look?
Sadly enough though, not every individual is genetically blessed with natural curls. But did that ever stop anyone from sporting the wave style?
Not at all! I mean why ever do we have hair grease or pomade made for right?!
That being said, in today’s article I will thoroughly review only the best wave grease options out there in the market. So you get to breathe in some refreshing life into those everyday plain-Joe straight hair of yours!
What Is Wave Grease?
Grease or most commonly known as pomade is a wax-like creamy substance.
Being either oil-based or water-based, this creamy mixture helps to hold up and maintain hair in certain styles for a definite time or just until the next wash. So what is a wave grease then?
Well, different hair length (short, medium, long) and type (thick, thin, frizzy, straight, curl) requires different types of pomade to set and style them accordingly.
Hence a wave grease is a pomade specifically made to achieve lustrous, sleek, or wavy hairstyles that are at the same time well-conditioned, naturally moist, and secure to the touch.
Benefits of Using Wave Grease
Before I move on to name the wave grease products that are worth the try, first allow me to explain some of the benefits of using wave grease.
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Gives the Hairstyle a Natural Feel
Unlike gel which is universally known for hardening the hair, grease or pomade, on the other hand, doesn’t do so upon drying.
Styling hair with grease leaves the hair feeling soft on touch thereby retaining the natural hair texture. This is one of the major reason that contributes to its ever-increasing popularity.
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Allows Restyling All Day Long
As wave grease do not harden up the hair in position when set, therefore it allows plenty of opportunities to restyle your hair as many times as you want.
Don’t feel that the office hairstyle is good enough to pull over in the evening get together? No worries, just take a comb and redo the hair for it’s that easy!
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Superior Style Control
Starting with choosing the hold strength of the hair (i.e. light, medium, strong) to the visual appearance (i.e. shiny or matte finish), also from moisturizing to taming baby hairs and flyaways – grease helps you to control and style it all.
Top 10 Best Wave Grease Reviews
With the very basic information about greases laid out, it is now time to reveal the elaborately detailed list of 10 finest wave grease options on the market.
1. Suavecito Pomade Firme
If you are looking for a pomade that holds the hair with wax-like grip but washes out very easily when rinsed, then Sauvecito Pomade Firme is the deal.
Despite being water-soluble, the pomade displays one of the most outstanding grip properties. The reason may be contributed to the use of beeswax, glycerin, hydrogenated castor oil as some of its major ingredients.
The result? A creamy texture that is greasy enough to slide across and spread smoothly throughout the hair. The sleekness of the pomade makes it very easy to apply, and you can confidently create almost all type of hairstyles from waves, to side parts, to slick backs and pompadours.
Formulated especially for people who need superior control over their hairstyles, the pomade once applied is easy to comb through. It also reduces tangle related stress on the hair through its greasy lubrication properties.
Known for projecting a modest shine, the pomade with its cream-like consistency offers a lively spirited sparkle to your hair that looks healthy at a glance. Furthermore, you can also control the level of hair glossiness with this product.
That is if you want to look your hair shinier then all you have to do is to apply the pomade on wet hair. Whereas if you are aiming for a more matte finish, use it on dry hair.
Similar to men’s perfume in fragrance, the primitive floral wood smell is a pleasant companion to the pomade all day long.
Being water-soluble, the Suavetico except for fresh clean water requires no other cleansing regime like shampoo, soaps or warm water to rinse off.
Pros
- Great for all types of hair and hairstyles
- Easy application and rinse off
- Pleasant unisex fragrance
- Superior styling and shine control
- Quality approved and vouched by the local Santa Ana-California community
Cons
- Might dry out the hair scalp
2. Smooth Viking Hair Care Pomade (Medium hold & Supreme Shine)
When a company dares to name its product after the 8th century legendary seafaring Vikings, you can bet they have some tricks up their sleeves.
Established in the year 2014, the company is famous for its range of beard care products. But later, they also expanded into the territories of hair care product and this is where the Smoot Viking hair care pomade comes into action.
With a water-soluble base, the pomade is designed to oblige all types of hair. No matter how much unruly, thick, thin, or frizzy it is.
Produced to boost up the sleekness of the hair, the Viking with its ingredients like PEG-8 beeswax, PVP firming agent among others help to deliver a decent to medium grip hold over the hair.
Now don’t get alarmed at the word firming agent! Although this element helps to firmly hold your hair in one position for a long time, and unlike gel, once dry it never hardens the hair.
This means that you can run fingers through the hair or simply just comb it whenever the desires arise without fear of ruining the set style.
The pomade makes your hair appear natural minus the greasy appearance. Which is a big plus point for people looking for a low maintenance look that is clean, sharp, and long-lasting!
Easy to apply and wash out due to its water-soluble properties, the pomade provides a superior gloss when applied on damp hair. But if you are not a fan of the glossy look then simply apply it on dry hair to get a satisfying matte finish.
Pros
- Water-soluble pomade
- Easy to apply and wash out
- Medium to decent grip on any type of hair
- Could be used on mustache and beard as well
- Prevent the hair from looking greasy
Cons
- Small in quantity; only 2 oz.
- Quantity wise price may seem expensive
3. As I Am Double Butter Rich Daily Moisturizer
When wanting to create the perfect waves, there is no denying the importance of having adequate moisture in your hair.
Which is why third in this list of wave greases I recommend ‘As I am Double butter-rich daily moisturizer’.
Oil-based in nature, this cream is a hair moisturizing dream come true with all its natural ingredients such as Shea butter, cocoa butter, castor oil, sugar beetroot, jojoba oil, wheat germ oil, wheat protein, and vegetable glycerin to name a few.
With the use of all these organic constituents, the cream pampers your hair to the maximum by providing it a well-balanced softness and shine. The cream further locks in the humidity of the hair thereby preventing it from looking dull or dehydrated.
This in effect turns the hair extremely manageable when styling. This not only helps you to create the most striking looking well-adjusted waves but also leaves you with very healthy hair down to the roots.
Furthermore, the grease is incorporated with Pro-vitamin B5. Also known as Panthenol, this additional ingredient helps to strengthen hair and repairs split ends.
Can you imagine a styling product more committed to protecting your hair?
Pros
- Best natural hair product for 360 waves
- Coatings don’t make the hair feel heavy
- Suitable for producing any type of hairstyle
- Repairs, moisten and protects the hair
- Very pleasant smell
Cons
- Expensive when compared to other products
- Being oil-based grease may take time to wash off
4. Viking Revolution Pomade for Men
Once again from the Viking Company comes the Revolution Pomade for men!
Especially designed to manage and style unruly thick hairs into the most impeccable waves, this pomade is the perfect accompaniment to your daily hair care regime.
The pomade with its water-soluble base alongside all-natural ingredients, contribute to the hair feeling healthy and natural even after regular use.
This is a big advantage when compared to some alternative styling products that at times leaves the hair feeling rough and dry over prolonged use.
In terms of the hold strength, the Viking Revolution provides a firm long-lasting grip on the hair. This allows room for you to style your hair in every possible way that you could think of.
From casual looks to classic pompadours, messy or defined curls, using this pomade, you can effortlessly style your hair to complete any look with the sleekest of finish.
Matte or shiny glacé whatever you desire could be easily achieved by fluctuating between dry to damp hair at the time of application.
Furthermore, the pomade contains castor oil as one of the key ingredients. This means that the grease along with helping to style also enhances healthy hair growth. A feature much rare but appreciated when it comes to hair styling products.
Being water-soluble, the pomade is easy to rinse off under the shower and leaves next to no lingering residues in the hair. Last but not least, the pomade ensures that you get to hold the sleekest of hairstyles without experiencing the “helmet hair” by providing a grease-free fresh look.
Pros
- Promotes hair growth
- Styles hair with a lustrous grease-free look
- Easy to use and wash out
- Doesn’t cause hair damage
- Holds the hair in a decent long-lasting grip
Cons
- May not be ideal for people with sensitive scalp
- Fragrance may not appeal to all
5. Challenger Matte Cream Pomade
The Challenger Matte Cream Pomade is simply the best pomade when it comes to getting the most dynamic matte finish results.
No matter whether you are using it to create waves or other styles on long, short or medium length hair. The creamy buttery consistency of the pomade makes sure that you get the high-quality professional finesse at every single application.
Challenger Matte with its medium to firm grip strength exhibits an all day long hold strength. The grip conviction also makes it an ideal choice in fashioning the hair to any desired shape and style for a long time.
Great for applying on damp to dry hair, the pomade marks itself different from other brands by leaving no flake or clay-like clump residues or grease at its wake.
Extremely easy on cleansing routine, the pomade requires next to no use of soaps or shampoo when washed due to its water-soluble property.
Conveniently enough, if you only rinse of the pomade with clean water and nothing else, it helps to retain the natural oil build-up and moisture of the hair. This, as a result, makes your hair naturally healthy and damage resistant for years to come.
The refreshingly light and delicate smell of the pomade also deserves some praise. Then in trying to appeal to the olfactory senses of the user, the pomade doesn’t go overboard by leaving a scent that clings all day long.
This also allows the user to apply the pomade inadequate amount without having to fear overwhelming odor issues.
In terms of packaging, the Challenger Matter comes in a travel-friendly container, ready to accompany one whenever required.
Pros
- High quality professional matte finish
- Pleasant and light fragrance
- Medium-firm hair grip strength
- Travel-friendly container
- Buttercream consistency makes it easy to apply
Cons
- Hold strength may not withstand under strong wind
- Better not to touch once set as it may mess up the style
6. Hair Craft Co. Clay Pomade
If you are tired of buying expensive pomades that fall short at delivering the promised results over the years; then the Hair Craft Company’s Clay Pomade must be just the thing for you.
Established in 2017, the company was initiated by two guys (Alex and Leo) partnering with world-renowned hair product suppliers. With the motto to master the art of manufacturing high-quality affordable pomade that met all its promised features without fail.
Commendable to say, the least in terms of effort, the company has only gained popularity since its inception both for quality and handcrafted product specialty. So what makes this clay pomade a one-hit-wonder?
Well, to begin with it texturizes your hair and styles it to an ultra-matte finish with absolutely zero shine. Meaning you get to achieve the effortless matte look of your dreams that doesn’t reflect or gleam even when placed under direct sunlight or strong indoor lightings.
In short, the clay pomade allows to sport any desired look impeccably flawless from every possible angle.
The pomade made of clay and other natural ingredients has a medium hold strength and does not tend to roughen up or damage the hair even after regular use. It is then again efficient at adding a light volume to the hair. All the while making sure to grip and support any type of hairstyle to a definite shape for a long time.
Lightweight and smooth to touch, the clay pomade also boasts at having no scent at all that might interfere with your cologne game for the day!
Pros
- Ensures natural-looking hairstyle
- Scent and grease-free texture
- Clay spells no risk of hair damage
- Ultra-matte finish
- Travel-friendly packaging
Cons
- May not appeal to people who like the glossy overlook
7. Jovinno Natural Premium Hair Styling Pomade
The number seven pomade on this list is a bit unique when compared to other water-soluble pomades mentioned so far.
Jovinno Premium pomade is made with premier quality natural ingredients directly imported from France. Ensuring superb quality control, the product takes pride in containing no harsh chemicals that may pose threats to damaging your hairs.
Dedicated to making a product that is not only limited at controlling and styling hair, the company has gone out of its way to craft a product that nourishes the hair from deep within.
For example, the pomade contains hemp seed oil, marshmallow roots, rosemary extracts, calendula, and flaxseed as its ingredients. Not exaggerating the least, all these ingredients are universally known for their prominence in hair nurturing treatments.
To specifically point out, hemp seed oil is recognized for enhancing and stimulating hair growth over the scalp. Whereas, marshmallow roots are known to repair the scalp skin barrier. It also conditions the hairs and provides them with enough protein which makes hair grow thicker and silkier to the touch.
Calendula and rosemary further help to hydrate the scalp and improve the blood calculation. This results in preventing dandruff formation or premature graying of hair.
Finally, flaxseed benefits through reviving and maintaining the hair elasticity. This directly makes the hair less prone to breakage and damage. Thereby also reducing split end formations.
It is indeed rare to find a pomade that offers so many advantages besides its original purpose of allowing freedom of flexible styling. Which is why it should come as no surprise to find that experts in the trade praise it as one of the best wave pomades out there in the industry.
Pros
- Non-greasy water-based pomade
- Doesn’t contain harmful chemicals
- Clear thick texture allows smooth application
- Matte-shine finish
- Perfect for creating waves
- Nourishes the hair from deep within
Cons
- Moderately expensive
8. Baxter of California Clay Pomade
One of the reasons why I have put the Baxter of California Clay Pomade in this list is because it is a classic.
The company has been in the field of manufacturing shaving, hair styling, and skin care products especially for men since 1965. So to count, the more than 50+ years of experience just goes on to say about the potential and acceptance of their products into the consumer market.
Now, Baxter clay pomade in word can be pronounced as a trendsetter. Starting with the simple reason that it belonged to the first generation of clay pomades to be introduced in the hairstyling world back in the days.
Later, many other clay pomades were seen to crowd the industry with their charming “matte finish” and “firm hold” marketing taglines. However, these future versions were more or less riding the tailcoat of the clay pomade popularity wave created by Baxter.
Being an award-winning product, the clay pomade is made with natural ingredients such as beeswax, kaolin clay, castor seed oil, sage oil among others. This gives the pomade a wax-like cream consistency flexible enough to work with.
At the same time, it adds a touch of texture and volume to the hair. Both these factors, needless to say, are desirable features for firm molding and styling of the hair in place.
Clay pomade offers a pliable hold, which means that the restyling hair won’t be a problem as the paraben-free formula leaves the hair feeling soft and best natural wave pomade. The matte finish of the pomade further complements any type of challenging hairstyle that you choose to bring to life.
Pros
- Matte finish with a firm hold
- Greatly texturizes hair
- Grease free natural look
- Non-lingering pleasant fragrance
- Could be used on mustache
- Winner of “Men’s Health Grooming Award for Best Styling Product”
- Winner of “Details Reader’s Choice Award for Best Hair Wax”
Cons
- Requires preheating to soften pomade
- Expensive
9. Rocky Mountain Barber Company Pomade
Who doesn’t want to look like they have just walked out of the barbershop with a prim to the top hairstyle at the go!
However, for reasons we all know, it is not possible to visit a stylist every day of our life. Hence at times like this, the Rocky mountain pomade has hot your back!
Offering a firm hold high shine finish, this naturally scented water-based pomade could be your hassle-free doorway to professional-looking barber grade hairstyle.
No matter the number of days or time!
Made up of natural ingredients sourced out from plant and vegetable derivatives, the pomade containing beeswax helps to establish a natural-looking firm hold on the hair.
With no grease whatsoever present, the jelly-like clear consistency of the pomade polishes the hair to a healthy glint that is easy to comb through and manage.
Being a water-soluble pomade, it rinses of effortlessly and poses no threat to hair damage by clogging roots or repeated application over time.
Also to allow the user full advantage of the premium quality pomade, the company when it came to packaging created one of the most generously sized pomade containers available in its class.
While other brands are seen to provide the usual 4-2 oz pomades, the Rocky Mountain offers 5oz ones. In doing so, they make sure that you get to enjoy at least 20% to 150% more than regular brands, thus also eliminating your quality to quantity budget concerns.
Last but not least to ensure quality standards, the company only manufactures a small number of pomade batches at a time. This fewer production line ensures that the quality of every single pomade jar is freshly sealed and never compromised for profit margins.
Pros
- Light and natural non-lingering fragrance
- One of the largest sized pomades
- Water-soluble so easily washes out
- Firm grip with a high shine finish
Cons
- Clumps may form if not carefully applied
10. Blind Barber 90 Proof Pomade
Last on this list of pomade countdown, I bring forth the Blind Barber 90 Proof. One of the best pomade for waves, the product is an absolute expert in providing 360° protection to the hair.
Made up of natural ingredients, the 90 proof contains hops, yes the one used in beers, as one of its major element. This makes the overall pomade a very effective conditioner. That along with working as a thickening agent also ends up adding greater volume to any hairstyle.
The antibacterial property of hops also helps to fight and defend dandruff build-up in the hair. This goes on to maintain and prolong hair health and vitality.
Packaged in a very smart looking jar, pomade contains a butter-like appearance and texture. It even spreads out into the hair with butter like flexibility and ease.
However, do not be fooled by the softness of this cream, as within moments of application, it will turn into one of the best matte glue for the hair.
Exhibiting a remarkable stronghold, the 90 Proof is a grease-free water-based pomade that offers to mold your hair in any style imaginable and that too for a very long time if desired.
Although supplying a stronghold, the pomade doesn’t make your hair go stiff. So you can always rely on it to deliver a natural-looking matte finish. Through which fingers could be run through without any fear or hesitation.
Not to forget, the inclusion of Tonka bean in the pomade formula allows it to have a very pleasant vanilla smell. The fragrance is subtle enough to appease the nasal senses and yet smart not to overpower your preferred cologne strength.
As for the matter finish, it delivers what it promises. That is absolutely a true matte texture devoid of any shine or reflections under lighting.
Pros
- No grease water-soluble pomade
- Long-lasting stronghold
- True matte finish
- Helps to prevent dandruff
- Subtle vanilla fragrance
Cons
- The pomade dries out fast
- Works best with damp hair than dry which may not appeal to some
Things to Consider Before Buying
In this era of marketing, every product somehow brings with it hundreds of alternatives and options.
And while at times, it may seem like a good thing to have many choices at disposal, but the notion cannot be discarded that variety doesn’t always ensure quality.
Thus to help in your search for the best pomade for waves, listed below are some points that require special deliberation.
Your Hair Type
Much in sync with the Greek aphorism “know thyself”, knowing your hair is the first stepping stone to buying a pomade that best suits you.
As already mentioned before, different pomades are manufactured with different hair type, length, and volume in perspective.
Therefore try to fully understand what type of hair you possess, carefully noting its strength, flaws, and requirements. As this information will ultimately give you the biggest hints into making the right decision.
Pomade Features
Generally, there are two types of pomade available in the market. One is water-based while the other type is oil-based.
Both these varieties have their advantages and drawbacks that will either coincide with your preferences or dissuade you from buying.
For example, water-soluble pomades are easier to maneuver and wash, whereas oil-based pomades offer added hold strength but could be trickier to rinse.
Other than that, try to read in between the lines of the various other features offered such as matte or gloss shine, texture, hold strength, damage prevention, application rules, fragrance, etc. This will help you to point out the products that match your requirements and get you the best pomade for waves.
The Ingredients
The ingredient used in pomades are perhaps the most trustworthy indications of their purchase worth. It also tells you more about the product in terms of quality, usage benefits, and red flags.
For example, if you are allergic to certain elements, paying attention to the ingredients will help to avoid unnecessary grievances. Then again some elements are better at protecting hair than others.
Therefore knowing what type of natural and chemical elements are being used, you get the upper hand in buying the most perfect product.
Price
High-end products don’t always guarantee high quality. As for low priced products, there is the underlying risk of exposure to harm. Hence, try to find the right balance between price and quality when looking for pomades that most appeases your interests.
How to Apply Wave Grease
Wave greases are products that help you to maintain and keep curls in a defined position. That said, pomades are easy to apply.
However, if you are a beginner in this field then just follow these simple steps;
- Before starting, thoroughly comb your hair to free it off tangles and knots.
- Read the instructions on the jar. Some pomades may contain special instructions such as preheating to soften the mixture or other such guidelines.
- Provided that there are no such instructions, take a small amount of the pomade in your hands.
- Rub it for a while between your palms to convert it to a near smooth liquid consistency with no lumps.
- With the desired style in mind, slowly put on the pomade in your hair. Make sure to evenly apply it throughout your hair strands and scalp.
- Don’t shy away from using a comb to define your wavelength and patterns. Remember that pomade on damp hair creates more defined curls compared to its application on dry hair.
- Once happy with the curls, cover you head with a shower cap or do-rag for at least 30-40 minutes to set the style in place.
Top-Rated Brands on the Market
Personally speaking, a product is only as good as the brand that makes it. As it is ultimately the thoughtful sincerity, hard work, and loyalty of an organization makes their product shine.
So being said, these are some of the most vouched for brands in the wave grease market.
Suavecito PomadeFirme
Most popular choice among users, the Sauvecito is among the most trusted brands in the market. Offering maximum hair-hold strength, it is the best wave grease for straight hair as well as curls and waves.
Smooth Viking Pomade
Praised for its “super hold and supreme shine,” the Viking with its non-greasy all-day lasting attribute is just the best wave pomade for coarse hair styling and manageability.
Rocky Mountain Barber
Originating from Niagara Falls Ontario, the rocky mountain pomade is the best wave cream for black hair that requires some serious shine texture and professional quality styling.
Jovinno Natural
Simply put, Jovinno pomades are the best natural hair products for 360 waves. Rich in natural ingredients that nourish the hair from deep within, it is one of those rare brands that are not only concerned with styling but also 100% committed to hair protection.
Baxter of California Clay Pomade
It is a pomade that provides the most defined waves and the perfect side part separations. Strong and reliable, this award-winning ultra-matte product is the best wave grease for nappy hair.
Frequently Asked Questions
To help you make the best buying choices given below are some FAQs;
Is wave grease harmful to hair?
It may sound astonishing but wave grease poses no threat whatsoever to your hair. Rather being water or oil-based mixture infused with natural ingredient, some pomade even provides nourishment to hair.
Which wave grease is better; oil-based or water-based?
Water-based grease feels light, washes out easy and provides a matte finish. Oil-based grease offers glossy texture and firmer hold strength but is tricky to wash out. Thus there is no telling which is better as it more a question of preference.
How do I wash out wave grease?
Water-based pomade requires you to only stand under the shower to wash off. As for oil-based ones, you need to use good quality shampoo or soaps to get rid of the oily coat.
Are expensive wave greases worth it?
Expensive pomades are seen to contain high-quality ingredients that apart from the styling is also adept at nourishing and repairing the hair from root to strand. Calculating this advantage, I would say sometimes it’s better to spend more for the greater picture.
Does wave grease create permanent waves?
It only helps to lock and hold down hairstyles waves or otherwise for a certain period, and will never create permanent waves.
Final Words
There is a difference between buying the best wave grease out there and buying the grease that best works for your waves. And discerning this difference is the key to a successful bargain.
In this regards, I hope that this article will help you. But if you have any further queries feel free to comment below.