In the realm of men’s grooming, pomade has long reigned supreme—but for those seeking a stronger, more matte finish, the best men’s hair putty deserves the spotlight. Hair putty is pomade’s sturdier sibling, and gives you exceptional hold with minimal shine, making it the unsung hero of hairstyling. It’s a versatile game-changer, adding definition, texture, and even the illusion of fuller hair when applied just right. Quite simply, it’s the do-it-all solution your ’do has been missing.
Whether you’re looking for a bed head, towel-dried look; a high-hold, zero-frizz style; or anything in-between, we’ve compiled a short list of the best men’s hair putty to make every day the best hair day possible.
The Best Hair Putty, At a Glance:
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The Best Hair Putty Overall: Fatboy Perfect Putty
This putty lives up to its name. Its soft consistency strikes the perfect balance: It’s pliable without being goopy, ensuring no clumping occurs. Whether you’re working with dry hair or damp hair, it applies effortlessly, making it virtually foolproof. I like to work it into my hands and apply it at the roots with my fingertips to add texture to my shorter hair, smoothing out any flyaways for a polished finish.
It smells fantastic and leaves no sticky residue or odd scent on your hands, which is a blessing when you’re in a rush or planning to restyle later. With a kaolin clay base, you won’t have to worry about shine, and it rinses out with ease, no matter if you have thick hair or fine hair. Considering all of this alongside the price, this is definitely the putty I’ll be stocking up on in the future.
The Best-Smelling Hair Putty: PATRICKS M2 Hair Product
This medium hold, pro-level hair styler has a lot going for it. It has a luxuriously soft texture that blurs the line between pomade and hair paste, hence its label as simply a hair care “product.” Its standout feature? An incredible scent—bergamot and sandalwood unite for a clean, masculine fragrance that’s downright intoxicating. The sleek lock-top packaging adds a touch of sophistication, too. Unlike tackier alternatives that can leave your hair feeling parched, this soft consistency feels surprisingly hydrating. Honestly, it’s a splurge worth making.
The Best Value Hair Putty: Harry’s Texturizing Putty
Harry’s isn’t just about shaving; the brand’s hair products nail every detail too. The scent is a rich, woody delight that lingers just long enough without competing with your fragrance. The texture is firm but not clumpy, avoiding the stiffness often found in other products. When compared to some pricier options on this list, it offers undeniable value. The flexible hold is perfect for those with finer hair, like me, allowing for effortless restyling throughout the day.
The Best Hair Putty For Oily Hair: Seven Potions Hair Styling Clay
Now we’re venturing into sturdier territory where hold intensifies and shine is non-existent. This firm-hold product, aptly named a clay, effectively absorbs any excess grease your hair may have. Despite its moniker, it won’t leave your strands feeling parched. For those who prefer to let their chosen fragrance shine through, this clay is completely scent-free. Plus, the generous 3.4-ounce tin is the largest on our list, yet still compact enough to fit in your dopp kit for effortless touch-ups on the go.
The Best Nourishing Hair Putty: Blind Barber Bryce Harper Hair Clay
This product is also a “clay,” but it has a wetter texture akin to putty, IMO. It’s crafted by Blind Barber in collaboration with MLB All-Star and MVP Bryce Harper—who undeniably boasts a fantastic head of hair. This product delivers high hold with zero shine, striking the perfect balance for a neat look. It’s imbued with a pleasant fragrance and features nourishing shea butter and marula seed oil, which hydrate your hair while providing strong, lasting hold.
The Best Hair Putty For Serious Hold: Pete & Pedro Hair Putty
Arguably the strongest of the putties, this product begins with a slightly clumpy texture but transforms into a powerhouse of hold once warmed between your hands. For a natural look, I recommend applying it and then towel drying. A little goes a long way, so start with just a dime-sized dollop to avoid overdoing it. This putty ensures your hairstyle remains effortlessly coiffable throughout the day while maintaining a relaxed finish.
The Most Luxurious Hair Putty: Oribe Fiber Groom Elastic Texture Paste
You might debate whether a texture paste qualifies as a putty, but this one has a putty-like feel that earns my approval thanks to its incredible fibrous texture. It delivers impressive hold while remaining markedly lightweight. Starting off smooth and almost whipped, it guarantees a clump-free application. Plus, it features a clean scent that won’t clash with your fragrance du jour, making it a worthwhile addition to your styling routine.
How to Use Hair Putty
Unlike hair gel, putty often has a hard or crumbly texture right out of the jar. To unlock its sculpting potential, work a dime-sized amount (depending on your hair length) between your fingers until it’s fully melted before applying it to your hair. For best results, work it into dry or damp hair, moving from back to front to avoid overloading the front section. The thicker your mane, the more you’ll appreciate the putty’s impressive hold. Once applied, use your fingers to piece your hair together for a casually tousled look, towel-dry it for that effortlessly imperfect finish, or blow dry it for an added boost of volume. You can use it alone, or with a hair styling product like styling cream or sea salt spray to give your hair texture or make your hair look even more nonchalant.
What to Look For in Hair Putty
Hair putty encompasses a wide range of products, but for this discussion, we’ll delve into categories like traditional hair putty, hair clay, and even a product simply labeled “product.” While each option boasts its merits, your ideal choice hinges on personal preference. Begin by identifying what matters most: price, texture, hold, or shine. Establishing your priorities will significantly streamline your selection process and find the best product for you.
Worth noting: Quality doesn’t always necessitate a hefty price tag. The right type of hair putty is influenced by both your hair type and personal style, so be sure to consult your barber during your next appointment. As a general guideline, if you have short or thin hair hair, opt for a looser texture to avoid overwhelming your strands. Keep scrolling for more insights to help you find your perfect match.
Most hair putties offer a medium to strong hold, making them ideal for men with long hair or those aiming to maintain a specific hairstyle throughout the day. Generally, a higher hold—though not always—allows for easier restyling as the day progresses. Additionally, hair putty can effectively tame frizz, ensuring that even shorter styles can reap the benefits of a quality product. If you’re hoping for a high shine or slicked-back look, you might want to try a gel or hairspray instead.
Always take a moment to review the ingredient list on any men’s hair product. While it should be standard for products to be free of parabens, phthalates, and sulfates, also look for those without alcohol, as it can dry out your hair. Most reputable mainstream and indie brands are aware of these concerns, so it’s the budget products that often raise red flags. When in doubt, opt for higher-quality options with hair-friendly ingredients. After all, a single jar should last you quite a while.
