A clean side part. A controlled slick back. A style with definition and a polished finish. Pomade gives you a way to shape the details—but the result depends on how you use it.
Start with a small amount, distribute it evenly, and establish the shape before adding more. Here is a straightforward routine you can adjust to your haircut and the formula in your hands.
PREP YOUR HAIR
Start with clean hair or hair with minimal leftover product. Heavy buildup makes it harder to distribute a fresh application and judge how much you need.
Towel-dry gently. Slightly damp hair can be a useful starting point for a smooth, combed style, provided your pomade’s directions allow it. Avoid soaking-wet hair.
You can also experiment with dry application. Damp and dry hair may produce different results, so follow the directions on your jar and compare what works for your style.
ESTABLISH THE DIRECTION
Before applying product, guide your hair into the shape you want.
For a side part, establish the part and comb each side into position. For a slick back, guide the hair backward. If you want height at the front, build that shape first with a brush or your fingers.
If you use a blow-dryer, keep it moving and use a comfortable heat setting. Product is easier to work with when your hair is already close to the finished shape.
START WITH A SMALL SCOOP
Begin with a small amount—roughly pea-sized is a reasonable starting point for short hair. Longer or denser hair may need more, but work up gradually.
Avoid committing to a large scoop before seeing how the first application performs. You want enough product to shape your hair without leaving it feeling overloaded.
SPREAD IT BETWEEN YOUR HANDS
Rub the pomade between your palms and fingers until it forms a thin, even layer.
Break up any visible clumps before touching your hair. This helps you spread the product across different sections instead of depositing it all in one spot.
WORK FROM THE BACK FORWARD
Apply through the back and sides first, then move toward the front.
Use your fingers to work through different layers rather than coating only the surface. Finish the fringe with the product left on your hands.
This gives you more control over how much reaches the front—the area where a concentrated application can be especially noticeable.
COMB INTO PLACE
Use a comb to establish the part, smooth the sides, and guide the top into position.
For a side part, follow the direction you established during preparation. For a slick back, comb backward and check the sides as well as the top.
If you prefer a softer finish, loosen the comb lines with your fingers. A polished style can still have movement; adjust the details to suit your haircut.
REFINE BEFORE ADDING MORE
Check the shape from the front and sides. Try adjusting it with your comb or fingers before reaching for another scoop.
If you need more control in a particular area, spread a small additional amount between your hands and apply it there.
If the result feels heavy or looks flatter than you intended, use less next time. Extra product cannot always make up for preparation or a haircut that does not support the shape you want.
COMMON POMADE MISTAKES
● Starting with too much product.
● Applying to soaking-wet hair without checking the formula’s directions.
● Skipping the step of spreading pomade between your hands.
● Putting the entire scoop on the fringe first.
● Smoothing the top while leaving the sides unfinished.
● Adding more product when the shape needs adjustment.
BUILD A ROUTINE THAT WORKS
The best amount and application method depend on your hair length, density, and pomade formula. Change one thing at a time so you can tell what improves the result.
Start small. Apply evenly. Shape with intention.
Explore Emperor Premium Pomade for your styling routine.
Still deciding between a polished look and a matte finish? Read our Matte Clay vs. Pomade guide.
Prefer texture and separation? Follow our How to Apply Matte Clay guide.
Own the Standard.