Is hair wax or gel better?

Author: Prof. Michelle Abbott  |  Last update: Friday, July 11, 2025

It all depends on your hair type and hairstyling goals. Gel is your best option for a stronger, longer hold. For a similar hold that's gentler on your hair, use pomade. Use wax to tame your unmanageable hair.

Which is better, hair gel or hair wax?

“If you are determined to use hair gel and hair wax for enhancing your visual aesthetics for an important event or occasion, then opt for the latter as the best possible option. This is because hair wax comes with minimal alcohol percentage and cause less damage to hair in the long run,” says Dr John Watts.

Is gel or wax better for fine hair?

Gels and pomades work better on hair that's thick, curly, dry, or coarse. Hair styling waxes and clays work on all hair types, but they're especially great for hair that's fine, thin, or greasy.

Is gel or wax better for slicked back hair?

Perfect for fancy or slicked-back styles, gel leaves a glossy finish for that extra punch of impact. Keeping your hair secure and stiff, it'll lock every strand in place until you wash out the product.

When to use wax or gel?

Good for creating texture and definition without the stiffness of gel. If you want a natural, soft look and have dry hair, go for cream. If you need a strong hold for structured styles, gel is your best choice. For a versatile, textured finish, wax is ideal.

Clay, Pomade, Gel or Cream? | Men's Hair Product Guide

Does hair wax damage hair?

By itself, styling wax doesn't have any particularly negative effects, but it can cause some problems if not handled correctly. The biggest problems with using hair wax are: Product build up. Greasiness.

Should you apply wax to wet or dry hair?

After the hair is completely dry, you can apply the wax. Depending on texture and length, putting wax on wet hair can cause the outline, form and flow of the hair to change when it dries. Also, if the roots are wet, the volume may be lost. Therefore, it is recommended to use wax after the hair is completely dry.

Does wax make hair greasy?

WAX OR GREASE? One of the problems wax could bring is that if it's not washed out properly, it could start to make your hair look greasy. And because wax essentially creates a seal around the hair and scalp, it could have a knock-on effect of trapping the oil close to your skin. The key in this case is moderation.

What do girls use to slick back hair?

Best Products for Slick Back Hair Down Look
  • amika Velveteen Dream Smoothing Balm. The last thing you want for a slicked back look is for your hair to be frizzy. ...
  • Mane The Three Way Multi-Use Flat Iron. ...
  • amika Supernova Moisture and Shine Cream. ...
  • Andrew Fitzsimons Hard Strong Hold Hairspray.

Is pomade healthier than wax?

Hair wax has the tendency to dehydrate the hair, while pomade makes your hair healthy-looking because of its oil content. Wax provides a hold that is better than the pomade, thus they are ideal if you want spikes as a hairstyle.

Will my hair get thinner if I wax?

Research and expert opinions agree that waxing does not make hair grow back darker or thicker. Several studies show no significant change in hair thickness, color, or density after waxing. Instead, waxing can weaken hair follicles, potentially causing thinner, finer hair over time.

What should you not use for fine hair?

  • Don't Use Heavy Products. Heavy products can weigh down fine hair, making it look limp and lifeless. ...
  • Don't Skip Regular Washing. ...
  • Don't Overuse Conditioner. ...
  • Don't Use Too Much Heat. ...
  • Don't Forget to Clarify. ...
  • Don't Ignore Scalp Care. ...
  • Don't Skip Trims. ...
  • Don't Use the Wrong Brush.

Is hair wax good for daily use?

Hair wax is a popular styling product known for its ability to create texture and hold. However, daily use can sometimes lead to product build-up, greasiness, and potential scalp issues if not managed properly.

Does hair wax give texture?

Hair wax is a styling product typically known for its firm or creamy consistency. It is celebrated for providing a matte finish and strong hold, making it ideal for creating texture and definition, especially for shorter hairstyles.

Is wax or gel better for short hair?

Choosing the right product for your desired style

If you're looking to style your hair with lots of texture while also retaining a good level of control so it doesn't totally get messed up throughout the day, then opt for a decent wax product. Especially if you have short to medium length hair.

Does hair wax last?

There's no one answer to “how long does waxing last?”. It really depends on your unique genetic makeup and wax routine. The average wax can last anywhere from 3 to 4 weeks, depending on your personal hair growth cycle, where you get waxed, and how often.

What do celebrities use to slick back their hair?

Experts say some of the most popular staples for slicked-back styles include mousse, wax sticks, hairspray, and a hardworking boar bristle brush. Professional hairstylist Raven Hurtado tells Bazaar that she prefers using mousse for slick hairstyles because you can apply it to dry hair, flattening it for a slicked look.

Is gel or mousse better for slick back?

If you're going for a sleek, defined style — opt for the gel. Just be sure to also consider the maintenance you're willing to deal with. Mousse offers less hold, so choosing it over a gel means you might need some touch ups throughout the day. .

Do girls like slicked back hair?

Whilst most woman aren't adverse to a subtle slick back, in fact when worn like Justin Timberlake it's actually one of the hairstyles that women find the most attractive, but using so much product that your hair actually goes hard or done in such a way that you can see the physical comb marks that have gone through ...

How damaging is hair wax?

Reality: Hair wax does not inherently cause hair damage. Excessive or improper use of hair wax can cause hair breakage and thinning. When used in moderation and with proper care, hair wax can be a safe styling tool.

Should you wax wet or dry hair?

Hair wax is drier than many other hair-styling products, and it may hold better when you apply it to slightly damp hair. If you do dampen your hair, it should be almost completely dry when you spread the wax.

Does hair wax give a wet look?

Hair Wax or Pomade: These products will provide hold and texture to your hair, allowing you to mould it into a sleek, wet look.

Do you wax hair up or down?

Wax Removal Direction. As mentioned earlier, you'll want to apply the wax in the direction of hair growth and remove the strip in the opposite direction, keeping it parallel to the skin.

Does waxing reduce hair growth?

The short answer is no, not permanently. While waxing doesn't permanently reduce hair growth, it does have some indirect effects on the appearance and texture of regrowth over time.

Previous article
Do eyelashes grow back if they are pulled out?
Next article
Why does pubic hair grow back prickly?