Pomade

Pomade is a greasy, waxy, or a water-based substance that is used to style hair. Pomade generally gives the user's hair a shiny and slick appearance. It lasts longer than most hair care products, taking up to several washes to remove. The term derives from the French word pommade which means ointment.

History

The original pomade of the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries consisted mainly of bear fat or lard. Lanolin, beeswax, and petroleum jelly have been used extensively in the manufacture of modern pomades. Stiffening properties of pomades make sculptured hairstyles such as the pompadour possible.

Types

Pomades may be categorized by their content, consistency, and shine factor. In addition to these broad categories, there are also hybrids, which combine qualities of several types. These categories include:

• Water Based: Water-based pomades are water-soluble and are lighter than the oil-based pomades. They can be washed out easily with water.
• Oil Based: Oil-based pomades are made from real grease and fatty ingredients. They are heavier and provide a stronger hold than water-based pomades. They also have the ability to remain pliable and are suitable for most hair styles.
• Wax: Wax pomades are slightly heavier than oil-based pomades and provide a strong hold. They are suitable for hairstyles that require a strong hold.

Usage

Pomade is often used with hairstyles such as pompadours, ducktails, or quiffs. For such styles, hair length on top of the head needs to be long enough to lay flat when combed back, and sides should be short enough to either be slicked back or parted from the top.

See Also

• Hair wax
• Hair gel
• Hair mousse
• Hair spray

References

• 
  Royal Crown Pomade
• 
  Sweet Georgia Brown Hair Dressing Pomade 1947
• 
  Pomade and Brilliantine Catalog 1905-1906