We've narrowed down the best hair styling clays for men, considering factors like hold, finish, and ingredients. Our top picks include Alex Costa Hair Clay for extreme hold and volume, Forte Series Control Hair Clay for strong hold and ease of use, and Hanz de Fuko Claymation for certified organic ingredients and moisturizing properties. Other standouts include MITCH by Paul Mitchell Matterial Finishing Clay for strong hold and ultra-matte finish, and ALURAM Soft Satin Finish Hair Styling Clay for added volume and body. Continue on to discover the full range of options that cater to various hair types and styles.
Key Takeaways
• Consider your hair type when choosing a hair styling clay, as some are designed for thick hair, while others work better for fine hair.
• Look for clays with natural ingredients like kaolin and bentonite, and avoid harsh chemicals like parabens and sulfates.
• Evaluate the hold and finish options, as some clays offer strong hold with a matte finish, while others provide medium hold with a natural shine.
• Assess the price per ounce and longevity of the product, as a higher upfront cost may be justified by a longer-lasting clay.
• Opt for a clay that provides flexibility and texture, as well as a strong hold, to achieve the perfect style.
Alex Costa Hair Clay for Men
If you're looking for an extreme hold with a matte finish and a boost of volume and texture, Alex Costa Hair Clay for Men might be the perfect choice for you, thanks to its unique blend of natural ingredients.
We appreciate that it contains shea butter, castor oil, bentonite clay, kaolin clay, and argan oil, which provide a natural and nourishing experience for our hair.
This product is suitable for all hair types, and we've found that it's particularly effective for those with thick hair who want to maintain their style all day.
While some users have mentioned that it can be firm and difficult to remove from the container, we've found that the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks.
Overall, we're impressed with the product's performance and ease of washout with warm water.
Best For: Those with thick hair who want to maintain their style all day, as well as users looking for a product that provides extreme hold with a matte finish and a boost of volume and texture.
Pros:
- Provides extreme hold with a matte finish and a boost of volume and texture
- Suitable for all hair types and particularly effective for those with thick hair
- Easy washout with warm water and contains natural ingredients that provide a nourishing experience for hair
Cons:
- Some users find the product firm and difficult to remove from the container
- Can be challenging to apply due to its firm texture
- Some users find the product slightly overpriced
Forte Series Control Hair Clay for Men
We opt for the Forte Series Control Hair Clay for Men when we need a strong hold with a matte finish and a residue-free rinse, making it perfect for men who desire effortless control and texture in their hairstyles.
What we love about this product is its creamy application that's infused with nourishing ingredients like aloe vera, argan oil, and shea butter. This not only provides a strong hold but also takes care of our hair's health.
The brand, founded by Alex Costa, is known for its salon-grade ingredients and is available in over 50 countries.
While some users have mixed reviews on the hold and longevity, we appreciate the ease of application and removal, as well as the pleasant scent.
Best For: Men who desire effortless control and texture in their hairstyles with a strong hold and a matte finish.
Pros:
- Creamy application with nourishing ingredients like aloe vera, argan oil, and shea butter for healthy hair
- Easy application and removal with a residue-free finish
- Pleasant scent and a strong hold with a matte finish
Cons:
- Mixed reviews on hold and longevity
- Some users prefer the original Texture Clay Extreme Hold
- Desire for an extreme hold version in Canada
Forte Series Hair Styling Cream for Men
For men with medium-thick hair seeking a natural hold and finish, the Forte Series Hair Styling Cream is an excellent choice, offering a unique blend of nourishing ingredients and versatile styling capabilities.
We've found that this cream provides a medium hold, allowing for a natural look that's not too greasy or stiff. The weightless volume it adds is a bonus, and we appreciate the signature scent, although some users have mentioned it can be strong.
As it's water-soluble, washing it out is a breeze. Overall, we think this cream is a great option for those wanting a low-maintenance, easy-to-style product that still delivers on performance.
Best For: Men with medium-thick hair seeking a natural hold and finish.
Pros:
- Provides a medium hold for a natural look that's not too greasy or stiff
- Adds weightless volume and has a signature scent
- Water-soluble for easy washout
Cons:
- Strong fragrance may be overpowering for some users
- Some users have reported issues with product packaging and quality control
- May not be suitable for all hair types or styles
Hanz de Fuko Claymation Hair Styling Clay
Men with unruly locks seeking a strong hold and matte finish will find Hanz de Fuko Claymation Hair Styling Clay to be a premium solution. We're impressed by its super high hold, which is similar to Moroccanoil Textured Clay, and its ability to provide limitless styling possibilities.
Made with certified organic ingredients, this clay not only moisturizes hair but also prevents hair loss, stops oil buildup, and promotes new follicle growth. It's easy to apply, lasts all day, and rinses out clean, making it a great choice for those who want a salon-grade performance without the hassle.
Best For: Men with unruly locks seeking a strong hold and matte finish.
Pros:
- Provides super high hold and a matte finish
- Made with certified organic ingredients that moisturize hair, prevent hair loss, and promote new follicle growth
- Easy to apply, lasts all day, and rinses out clean
Cons:
- Can be difficult to work into hair
- Considered slightly expensive
- May require pre-styling or damp hair for easier application
Hair Dough Styling Clay For Men
Those seeking a strong-hold styling clay that enhances hair texture and thickness without leaving residue will find Hair Dough Styling Clay For Men an ideal choice. We appreciate its all-day hold, shine-free matte finish, and ability to enhance our hair's natural texture and thickness.
The water-based, water-soluble formula makes it suitable for all hairstyles and hair types. When applying, we find it's best to use it on slightly damp hair, and a little experimentation with hair type and dampness is necessary for best results.
The sweet, masculine scent is a nice bonus, and we're impressed with its ability to hold well for a couple of days without feeling greasy or crunchy.
Best For: Men with all hairstyles and hair types seeking a strong-hold styling clay that enhances hair texture and thickness without leaving residue.
Pros:
- Provides all-day strong hold for modern hairstyles with a shine-free matte finish.
- Enhances texture and thickness of hair without leaving residue.
- Easy to apply to slightly damp hair with a sweet, masculine scent.
Cons:
- Requires experimentation with hair type and dampness for best results.
- Less workable once styled, with a matte finish.
- Can be stiff and requires smoothing out lumps when applying.
Cremo Premium Barber Grade Hair Styling Sculpting Clay
When seeking a styling clay that adds volume, texture, and thickness to our hair without leaving a greasy residue, the Cremo Premium Barber Grade Hair Styling Sculpting Clay is an excellent choice. This product offers a strong hold that's movable, making it ideal for all hair lengths.
We appreciate its natural-looking matte shine and the fact that it washes out easily. For the best results, we recommend applying it to wet hair, but it also works well on dry hair for a textured, messier style or on slightly damp hair to build up the style.
While it may not provide as much texture as expected, it's a great option for those with thin or fine hair, and many users swear by it as their go-to hair product.
Best For: Those with thin or fine hair, pixie cuts, or short hair looking for a styling clay that adds volume, texture, and thickness without a greasy residue.
Pros:
- Provides volume and texture to hair without leaving a residue
- Holds well, but is still movable and washes out easily
- Ideal for a natural, matte finish look
Cons:
- May not provide as much texture as expected
- Might not be suitable for all hair types
- May not provide a strong enough hold for some users
Hanz de Fuko Claymation Premium Hair Styling Clay
For guys who crave a strong, matte finish and limitless styling possibilities, Hanz de Fuko's Claymation Premium Hair Styling Clay is an ideal choice.
We've found that this premium men's hair styling clay offers super high hold and a matte finish, making it perfect for those who want to achieve a salon-grade look.
The clay is made with certified organic ingredients, which not only moisturize hair but also prevent hair loss, stop oil buildup, and promote new follicle growth.
It's easy to apply, lasts all day, and rinses out clean, making it a great option for special occasions or everyday use.
With its rich natural botanical ingredients, Claymation strengthens hair while providing a strong hold, making it a great investment for those looking for a high-quality styling product.
Best For: Guys who crave a strong, matte finish and limitless styling possibilities, especially those with dry or towel-dried hair looking for a high-hold, long-lasting styling product.
Pros:
- Provides super high hold and a matte finish, making it perfect for those who want to achieve a salon-grade look.
- Made with certified organic ingredients that moisturize hair, prevent hair loss, stop oil buildup, and promote new follicle growth.
- Easy to apply, lasts all day, and rinses out clean, making it a great option for special occasions or everyday use.
Cons:
- Can be difficult to work into hair, especially for those with very dry or brittle hair.
- Some users find the clay to be a bit hard and grabby, requiring some effort to style.
- Considered slightly expensive, although a small amount of product is sufficient and can offset the cost.
Viking Revolution Hair Styling Agent for Men
We men with unruly locks who crave a strong hold without the weight will appreciate the Viking Revolution Hair Styling Agent, a lightweight yet potent clay that adds volume and texture to our styles.
This product boasts a high hold, making it perfect for those who want a strong grip without the greasy feel. We've found that it's suitable for all hair types and is easy to wash out, thanks to its water-soluble formula.
While some users have reported issues with the hold being too strong initially, we've found that it's generally easy to apply and rinse out, with a pleasant scent to boot.
Overall, the Viking Revolution Hair Styling Agent is a great option for those seeking a reliable, versatile styling clay that won't break the bank.
Best For: Men with unruly hair seeking a strong hold without the weight, particularly those with all hair types.
Pros:
- Provides a high hold without the greasy feel
- Lightweight and easy to use, adding volume and texture to hair
- Water-soluble and easy to wash out, making it a convenient option
Cons:
- Some users find the hold too strong initially
- Can be difficult to wash out for some users, leaving residue in hair
- Has a strong scent that may not appeal to everyone
American Crew Mens Hair Matte Clay
Those with straight to wavy hair seeking a medium hold and matte finish will find American Crew Men's Hair Matte Clay to be an ideal choice. We appreciate that it's formulated specifically for our hair type, providing just the right amount of hold without weighing us down.
Plus, it's easy to wash out without leaving any greasy residue behind. We've found that it works beautifully on short to medium hair lengths, and the best part? It's incredibly versatile, suitable for both casual and formal styles.
In terms of user reviews, we've seen rave feedback on the hold, texture, and ease of styling. Many users have reported long-lasting hold with a matte finish, and we're impressed by its ability to work well for various hair types and styles.
Best For: Those with straight to wavy hair seeking a medium hold and matte finish.
Pros:
- Provides medium hold and matte finish suitable for straight to wavy hair
- Easy to wash out without leaving greasy residue
- Versatile and suitable for both casual and formal styles
Cons:
- No negative feedback or drawbacks mentioned in the reviews
- No information available on potential drawbacks
- No cons mentioned in the user reviews
Moroccanoil Texture Clay, 2.6 Fl. Oz
Looking for a styling product that provides a strong all-day hold without leaving our hair crunchy or stiff, we turn to Moroccanoil Texture Clay, 2.6 Fl. Oz, which offers a unique blend of nourishing ingredients and superior hold.
This styling clay not only provides a strong hold but also adds volume and texture to our hair, leaving it soft and manageable. We appreciate that it's free from harsh chemicals like parabens and sulfates, making it a great option for those with sensitive scalps.
The argan oil and bentonite clay combination works wonders in providing a natural, effortless look that lasts all day. With its creamy texture and easy application, we can style our hair with confidence, knowing it will stay in place without feeling stiff or crunchy.
Best For: Those with thick, wavy hair looking for a styling product that provides strong hold, volume, and texture without harsh chemicals.
Pros:
- Provides strong all-day hold with a matte finish
- Leaves hair soft and manageable, adding volume and texture
- Free from harsh chemicals like parabens and sulfates, making it suitable for sensitive scalps
Cons:
- May be expensive for some users
- No specific concerns or drawbacks mentioned by users
- No negative feedback on the product's performance
Layrite Cement Clay
If you're seeking a styling clay that provides high hold without sacrificing flexibility, Layrite Cement Clay is an ideal choice, thanks to its unique formula that keeps hair strong yet pliable.
We appreciate how it adds texture and spikiness to our hairstyles without leaving a crusty residue. Plus, the delicious vanilla-like fragrance is a nice bonus!
We've found that it's easy to wash out and doesn't weigh our hair down, making it perfect for everyday use. It's also great for styling with a comb or brush, and works well for various hairstyles like faux hawks and mohawks.
With its water-soluble formula and easy cleanup, we're big fans of this styling clay.
Best For: Individuals with various hairstyles, including faux hawks and mohawks, seeking a high-hold styling clay that adds texture and spikiness without leaving a crusty residue.
Pros:
- Provides high hold and a matte finish while keeping hair flexible and strong
- Has a delicious vanilla-like fragrance and is easy to wash out without weighing hair down
- Suitable for various hairstyles and works well with a comb or brush for styling
Cons:
- Requires a bit more product than some other brands and has a thick consistency that needs more time to warm and apply
- May require more product for stubborn or curly hair
- None mentioned by users, but potentially may not be suitable for very fine or oily hair
Old Spice Hair Styling Clay Pomade for Men, 2.22 oz
We men seeking a strong hold and natural look without stiffness can rely on the Old Spice Hair Styling Clay Pomade for Men, 2.22 oz, which boasts the highest hold for full control and a matte finish. This barbershop-quality product gives us the confidence to tackle our day, knowing our hairstyle will stay in place.
Its unique blend of coconut and tropical wood scents adds a manly touch to our daily routine. Plus, it's easy to apply – simply rub it between our palms, work it into our hair, and style as desired. We can air dry or use a blow dryer for faster results.
The best part? It's easy to wash out and doesn't leave any residue.
Best For: Men seeking a strong hold and natural look without stiffness in their hairstyles.
Pros:
- Provides a strong hold with a natural, matte finish
- Easy to apply and style, with a pleasant, manly scent
- Long-lasting and easy to wash out without leaving residue
Cons:
- Some users find it overpriced
- Availability issues in stores, with some users mentioning discontinuation
- May not be as strong of a hold for certain hair types
MITCH by Paul Mitchell Matterial Finishing Clay
For men seeking a strong hold and ultra-matte finish, MITCH by Paul Mitchell Matterial Finishing Clay is an excellent choice, suitable for all hair types and offering a long-lasting, textured look.
We appreciate that it's easy to apply, and a little goes a long way, making it a great value. Users rave about the product's strong hold and pleasant scent, and we agree that it's a great option for those seeking a medium hold with a matte finish.
We've found that the product dries rapidly after application, providing a textured feel without stiffness, making it suitable for fine or thick hair. Overall, we think MITCH by Paul Mitchell Matterial Finishing Clay is a great option for men seeking a reliable styling product that delivers.
Best For: Men seeking a strong hold and ultra-matte finish, particularly those with fine or thick hair.
Pros:
- Provides a long-lasting, textured look with a strong hold and ultra-matte finish
- Easy to apply and a little goes a long way, making it a great value
- Dries rapidly after application, providing a textured feel without stiffness
Cons:
- Recent formula and packaging changes have been met with disappointment
- New formula appears greasy and doesn't deliver the original matte finish
- Packaging design makes it difficult to differentiate between products
ALURAM Soft Satin Finish Hair Styling Clay
Those seeking a styling clay that adds volume and texture while providing a light hold for flexible styling will appreciate the ALURAM Soft Satin Finish Hair Styling Clay. We're impressed by its ability to add volume and body to short hair, all while being easy to wash out thanks to its water-based formula.
Suitable for all hair types, this clay is great for thickening and styling, and its coconut-water-based formula leaves a natural shine. We love that it's easy to apply, has a light fragrance, and doesn't build up or weigh hair down.
With its creamy and smooth consistency, it's no wonder users rave about its performance, versatility, and overall satisfaction.
Best For: Those with short hair, fine hair, curly hair, or looking for a styling clay that adds volume and texture while providing a light hold for flexible styling.
Pros:
- Provides volume and body for short hair
- Water-based and easy to wash out
- Suitable for all hair types and great for thickening and styling
Cons:
- None mentioned in the customer reviews and product description.
Highland Glacial Cream Hair Styling Product
If you're seeking a versatile, all-natural styling cream that effortlessly smooths, de-frizzes, and texturizes your locks while promoting hair and scalp health, Highland Glacial Cream is the perfect choice.
This multitasking cream is made with 15 sustainably sourced, plant-derived ingredients, making it vegan, cruelty-free, and gentle on your hair.
We love that it's designed for all hair types and textures, with a focus on medium to long hair for a loose, natural look.
Plus, it's a 2023 GQ Grooming Award Winner, which speaks to its effectiveness.
Whether you use it to enhance curl definition, add hold, or even as a dry shampoo, Highland Glacial Cream is a game-changer for achieving the perfect hold and texture.
Best For: People with medium to long hair looking for a versatile, all-natural styling cream that smooths, de-frizzes, and texturizes while promoting hair and scalp health.
Pros:
- Made with 15 all-natural, plant-derived, and sustainably sourced organic ingredients, making it vegan, cruelty-free, and gentle on hair.
- Can be used for various hair styling needs, including enhancing curl definition, adding hold, and as a dry shampoo.
- Features 100% recyclable aluminum packaging and is designed with sustainability in mind.
Cons:
- One customer review mentioned dissatisfaction with the product's smell.
- May not be suitable for very short hair due to its focus on medium to long hair.
- No other drawbacks mentioned in the customer reviews.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hair Styling Clay
When we're on the hunt for the perfect hair styling clay, it's crucial to evaluate a few key factors to make sure we find a product that meets our specific needs.
We need to ponder our hair type, the level of hold and finish we're after, and whether we've sensitive scalps that might react to certain ingredients.
Hair Type Matters
We've all been there – struggling to find the perfect hair styling clay that complements our unique hair type, only to end up with a product that weighs us down or lacks hold. That's why it's important to take into account our hair type when selecting a hair styling clay.
Different hair types require specific formulations for the best hold, texture, and styling options. For instance, if we've thin hair, we need a clay that adds volume without weighing it down. On the other hand, if we've thick, curly hair, we need a clay that provides control and definition without flattening our curls.
Understanding our hair type helps us choose a clay that offers the desired level of hold without damaging our hair. Factors like hair porosity, texture, and length play a vital role in determining the effectiveness of a hair styling clay for our specific hair type.
Hold and Finish Options
When exploring the world of hair styling clays, it's important to assess the hold and finish options that align with our individual needs and desired looks. We need to evaluate the level of hold required, ranging from light to extreme, based on our hair type and desired style.
Do we want a natural, effortless look with a light hold, or a more polished, sleek appearance with an extreme hold? We also need to determine the finish we prefer – a matte finish for a natural look or a shiny finish for a more polished appearance.
Additionally, we should seek out clays with nourishing ingredients like shea butter, argan oil, or aloe vera to condition and protect our hair. Another important factor is the base of the clay: water-based for easy washout or oil-based for a stronger hold and longer-lasting style.
Lastly, we should take into account the texture we prefer – a creamy application or a tackier consistency for better control and definition. By evaluating these hold and finish options, we can find the perfect hair styling clay that meets our unique needs and desired looks. In addition to considering texture, it’s also important to think about the specific styling effects we want to achieve. For those looking to add volume and texture to their hair, it may be beneficial to consider the best volumizing powders available on the market. These powders can provide lift and fullness to the hair, enhancing the overall styling results when used in conjunction with the right hair styling clay. By carefully considering all of these factors, we can make an informed decision and choose the best hair styling products for our hair type and desired look.
Scalp Sensitivity Considerations
As we narrow down our search for the perfect hair styling clay, we must also consider the potential impact on our scalp's sensitive skin, especially for those of us who've experienced irritation or discomfort from harsh ingredients.
When choosing a hair clay, we should keep an eye out for ingredients that might exacerbate scalp sensitivity, such as sulfates, parabens, and alcohol. Instead, we can opt for products labeled as hypoallergenic or formulated for sensitive skin to minimize the risk of scalp reactions. Natural ingredients like aloe vera, coconut oil, or tea tree oil can also help soothe and nourish our scalps.
Before committing to a product, we can test a small amount on a patch of skin to check for any adverse reactions. If we're still unsure, consulting with a dermatologist or hairstylist can provide valuable recommendations on hair styling clays suitable for sensitive scalps.
Product Ingredients Importance
With our scalp's sensitive skin protected, we turn our attention to the heart of the matter: the ingredients that make a hair styling clay truly essential, where the right mix of natural and nourishing components can elevate our hair's health and style.
When it comes to choosing a hair styling clay, the ingredients play an important role in determining its performance. We want to opt for products that boast natural ingredients like kaolin and bentonite, which provide enhanced hold and flexibility. Additionally, ingredients like shea butter, argan oil, and aloe vera can offer moisturizing and conditioning benefits to our hair.
On the other hand, we should steer clear of products containing harsh chemicals like parabens and sulfates, which can cause damage to our hair over time. By selecting a clay with quality ingredients, we can contribute to healthier hair and better styling results.
Price and Value Assessment
We need to weigh the cost of a hair styling clay against its performance and ingredients in order to ensure we're getting the best value for our money. When comparing prices, it's crucial to take into account the price per ounce to get a fair assessment. We shouldn't just focus on the initial cost; we need to evaluate the longevity of the product as well. If a clay lasts longer, it might be worth paying a bit more upfront.
Additionally, we should compare the price of the clay to similar products in the market to understand its value. It's not just about the price tag; we need to factor in the quality of ingredients and performance. A cheap clay with low-quality ingredients mightn't be the best deal in the long run.
On the other hand, a pricier clay with premium ingredients and excellent performance might be worth the investment. By taking these factors into account, we can make an informed decision and find the best hair styling clay for our needs and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Hair Styling Clay on Damp or Wet Hair?
We've all wondered: can we use hair styling clay on damp or wet hair? Generally, it's not recommended. Styling clay works best on dry hair, as it helps absorb excess moisture and adds hold.
Applying it to damp or wet hair can lead to a greasy, weighed-down look. If you must use it on damp hair, towel-dry your locks and use a small amount of clay to avoid a heavy, sticky mess.
How Long Does a Typical Hair Styling Clay Product Last?
Let's explore the shelf life of our styling staples, shall we? Typically, a hair styling clay product lasts anywhere from 12 to 24 months, depending on factors like storage, usage, and brand quality.
If we use it regularly, we can expect it to last around 6-12 months. However, if we store it properly in a cool, dry place, it can last up to two years.
Are Hair Styling Clays Suitable for All Hair Types and Textures?
We've found that hair styling clays can be suitable for most hair types, but not all. Those with very fine or damaged hair may find that clays weigh their hair down or exacerbate dryness.
However, for those with normal to thick hair, clays can provide great hold and texture. It's essential to choose a clay that's formulated for your hair type, and to use it in moderation to avoid overpowering your locks.
Can I Mix Hair Styling Clay With Other Hair Care Products?
We're often tempted to mix and match hair care products, but can we really combine hair styling clay with other products? In short, yes, but with caution.
Mixing clay with moisturizing products can create a hydrating powerhouse, while blending with styling creams can enhance hold and texture. However, be wary of combining clay with oils, as they can dilute the clay's effectiveness.
Experiment with small batches to find the perfect blend for your locks.
Do Hair Styling Clays Expire or Have a Shelf Life?
We've all wondered, do hair styling clays have an expiration date? The answer is, it depends.
Typically, hair styling clays can last up to three years if stored properly in a cool, dry place. However, if you notice changes in texture, smell, or performance, it's time to replace it.
We recommend checking the manufacturer's guidelines for specific shelf life information, as some products may vary.
Conclusion
With so many great options out there, we're left wondering: can you ever have too many hair styling clays? Probably not, especially when each one offers a unique blend of hold, texture, and style.
From Alex Costa to Highland Glacial Cream, we've got the scoop on the best hair styling clays for the perfect look. Whether you're going for sleek and polished or textured and undone, there's a clay out there for you – so what're you waiting for?
