The right hair product starts with the finish you want.

Matte clay is typically the choice for texture, separation, and a natural look with little to no shine. Traditional shine pomade is the choice for smoother definition and a more polished finish.

Both can provide control. What changes is how your hair looks once it’s styled—and how you work the product through it.

Here’s how to choose the right one for your routine.

What is matte clay?

Matte clay is a styling product that commonly uses clay ingredients such as kaolin or bentonite. Formulas vary, but the category generally favors a dry-looking finish and defined texture.

Think a textured crop, a quiff with separation, or a short style that looks shaped without looking glossy.

Clay is a useful starting point when you want your hair’s texture to stay visible. You can use your fingers to separate sections or a comb to give the style more structure.

Our Matte Clay pairs a matte finish with medium-to-strong hold. Choose it when texture is the priority.

What is pomade?

Pomade is a broad styling category that includes water-based and oil-based formulas. Many traditional pomades emphasize smooth control and shine, though matte versions also exist.

For this comparison, we’re talking about a pomade with visible sheen: the kind you reach for when you want a defined side part, a slick back, or a classic shape with a polished finish.

Our Premium Pomade is water-based, with medium-to-strong hold and medium shine. Choose it when you want a smoother, more deliberate shape.

Does clay hold better than pomade?

The category alone won’t tell you.

Hold depends on the formula, your hair’s length and density, the amount you apply, and how you prepare your hair. A matte finish doesn’t automatically mean a stronger hold, and visible shine doesn’t mean less control.

If your style needs height, shape it while drying before applying your finishing product. Adding more product to hair that hasn’t been shaped can leave it heavier without giving you the lift you wanted.

Which one fits your hair and style?

Choose matte clay if you want:

● A finish with little to no shine.

● Visible separation and texture.

● A crop, loose quiff, or natural everyday style.

Choose a shine pomade if you want:

● A smoother surface with visible sheen.

● Defined comb lines or a clean side part.

● A slick back or a more polished classic style.

For fine hair, start with a small amount of either product. Too much can flatten the style and make strands gather together. Clay can be a useful starting point for a matte, textured look, but heavier clay formulas can still weigh fine hair down.

For thick hair, focus on even distribution. Work through the back and sides before finishing the front, rather than loading product onto the surface.

For wavy or curly hair, decide whether you want separation or a smoother shape. Your curl pattern and the individual formula matter more than the category name.

How to apply matte clay

1. Start with dry hair for a more textured finish.

2. Take a small scoop. You can add more after the first pass.

3. Rub it thoroughly between your palms until it spreads evenly.

4. Work through the hair from back to front.

5. Use your fingers for separation or a comb for a cleaner shape.

The first pass should distribute the product. The second should shape the style.

How to apply pomade

1. Start with dry or slightly damp hair, following your product’s directions.

2. Spread a small amount evenly between your palms.

3. Work it through the hair before setting your part or combing it back.

4. Use a comb for defined lines or your fingers for a looser finish.

5. Add a little more only where you need extra control.

Slightly damp hair can make distribution easier. Dry hair lets you judge the shape without waiting for the remaining water to evaporate.

The mistake to avoid: using more before checking your technique

If your hair looks heavy, flat, or uneven, more product may make the problem worse.

Start smaller. Spread it fully through your palms. Distribute it throughout your hair. Then decide whether you need another light layer.

Choose your finish. Own your routine.

For matte texture, start with Emperor Matte Clay. For a smoother shape with medium shine, start with Emperor Premium Pomade.

Choose the finish you want, learn the amount your hair needs, and make the routine consistent.

OWN THE STANDARD.