The 6 Best Hair Products for Men: A Barbershop-Approved Guide

Want to achieve that sharp, barbershop-fresh look every single day? The key is choosing the right hair products for your style, hair type, and daily routine. But with a crowded market and endless options promising everything from effortless hold to intense texture, how do you know what really works? We’ve teamed up with top barbers to cut through the clutter. Here’s your expert-approved guide to the six best hair products for men that deliver big on results—no matter your hair goals.

Why the Right Hair Products Matter

Men’s grooming has evolved, and so has the understanding of how hair products can transform your look. Whether you're aiming for a slick, classic side part or a tousled, textured finish, the right product can mean the difference between a style that sticks and one that falls flat. Beyond looks, good products nourish your strands and protect your scalp—making them an essential part of your daily routine.

Here are the barbershop essentials that professionals trust, tailored for just about every hair type and desired finish. Read on to discover your new hair arsenal!

1. Clay Pomade: For Effortless Texture & Matte Finish

Who it’s for: Men with fine to thick hair who want a natural, textured look with solid hold and zero shine.

Barbershop tip: “Clay pomades are my go-to for messy quiffs, modern crops, and styles that need volume without looking greasy,” says Tom, a seasoned barber at The Classic Chop House. “They separate and lift the hair, giving plenty of control while looking like you haven’t used a product at all.”

Best pick: Baxter of California Clay Pomade delivers all-day hold and is enriched with natural clay and beeswax for a healthy, matte finish.

2. Fiber: For Maximum Hold & Low Shine

Who it’s for: Guys with short to medium length hair who want thickening texture, flexible hold, and a subtle (almost matte) finish.

Barbershop tip: “Fiber is a secret-weapon for men struggling with limp or thinning hair,” notes Carla, master barber at Urban Edge. “It gives body, helps lock styles in place, and won’t weigh you down.”

Best pick: American Crew Fiber is legendary for a reason—it creates separated, defined styles with fullness and just the right amount of pliability.

3. Cream: For Lightweight, Natural Flow

Who it’s for: Men with longer hair or curls who need light control, frizz-fighting power, and a natural finish without a crisp or sticky feel.

Barbershop tip: “The right hair cream is a game changer for guys who crave movement, not stiffness,” says Jordan, senior stylist at Modern Mane. “Creams smooth everything out, define curls and waves, and keep hair touchable and soft.”

Best pick: Bumble and bumble Grooming Cream delivers weightless control, manages flyaways, and works on all hair types—especially wavy or long styles.

4. Pomade: For High Shine and Classic Styles

Who it’s for: Anyone after that retro slick-back, smooth side part, or any look demanding shine and sculpted shape.

Barbershop tip: “Classic pomade is the backbone of timeless men’s styles—from the Mad Men era to modern dapper,” remarks Luis, owner of Downtown Barbershop. “It gives unbeatable shine and strong hold for clean, neat cuts.”

Best pick: Suavecito Original Hold Pomade washes out easily, offers durable hold, and delivers that classic barbershop scent.

5. Sea Salt Spray: For Volume and Beachy Texture

Who it’s for: Men with fine or limp hair, wavy types, and anyone who wants easy, breezy texture with zero effort.

Barbershop tip: “A good sea salt spray lifts your roots, adds grit, and conjures up that ‘surfer’ vibe without stepping foot in the ocean,” says Aaron, lead stylist at The Gents Room. “It’s a major cheat code for creating volume and natural definition—especially if you have medium length or longer hair.”

Best pick: Bumble and bumble Surf Spray is a cult-favorite for good reason, delivering noticeable beachy lift and texture with just a few spritzes.

6. Styling Powder: For Instant Lift & Flexible Hold

Who it’s for: Perfect for short to medium-length hair needing dramatic lift, structure, and unbeatable re-workable hold. Especially great for men with thinner or finer hair.

Barbershop tip: “Styling powder is a revelation,” enthuses Mike, stylist at Razor & Row. “Just shake a little at your roots, mess it up with your hands, and you’ve got gravity-defying style that you can mess with all day. It’s a killer option for guys who hate that ‘product’ feel.”

Best pick: Evo Haze Styling Powder gives instant volume, re-workable texture, and a completely undetectable finish.

How to Choose the Right Hair Product for Your Style

• For a polished, classic look: Choose pomade for strong hold and shine.
• For modern, textured styles: Opt for fiber or clay pomade to add separation and subtle matte volume.
• For natural, flowing hair: Use cream or sea salt spray for soft movement and light control.
• For extreme lift or tackling fine hair: Styling powder is your ultimate secret weapon.

Consider your hair length, thickness, and daily habits. When in doubt, ask your barber for a personalized recommendation—they know your hair best and can steer you toward a product that complements your signature cut.

Conclusion: Elevate Your Look with Barbershop-Approved Grooming

Investing in quality hair products isn’t about vanity—it’s about boosting your confidence, simplifying your routine, and recreating that fresh-from-the-chair look every time you leave the house. Whether your hair is curly, straight, thick, or thinning, there’s a barbershop-approved product ready to help you unlock your best style yet.

Still not sure which to try first? Start by matching your hair type and go-to style to one of the products above. Experiment, have fun, and don’t be afraid to mix and match—your next signature style might be just a dollop or spritz away.

Ready to transform your look? Drop by your local barbershop for a personalized recommendation, or pick up one of these trusted products to bring barbershop style home. Great hair days, guaranteed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much hair product should I use?

Less is more. Start with a small amount (about a pea or dime-size), then add more if needed. It's easier to build up than to remove excess product.

What’s better for fine hair: clay or fiber?

Both are excellent, but clay is especially good for volume and a natural matte look, while fiber provides a slightly stronger hold and thicker appearance.

How do I avoid product buildup?

Use a clarifying shampoo once a week and avoid over-applying products. Always wash your hands before styling to prevent excess oils from transferring to your hair.