In the ever-evolving world of men’s grooming, finding the perfect hair styling product can often feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. From pomades to waxes, gels to sprays, the options seem endless. However, one product that has been steadily gaining popularity among men seeking a versatile and textured look is hair styling clay. With its matte finish, strong hold, and natural feel, hair styling clay has become a favorite among those who want a more rugged, textured, and effortless style. This article’ll explore some of the best hair styling clays available today, helping you achieve that desired, perfectly tousled look.
A quick look at Best Hair Styling Clays
- Overall Best Hair Styling Clays, Hanz de Fuko Claymation. Skip to Review
- Best Hair Styling Clays for All Hair Types, Sun Bum Sonny’s Original Surf Paste. Skip to Review
- Best Hair Styling Clays for Hair Strengthening, Kevin Murphy Rough Rider Clay. Skip to Review
- Best Hair Styling Clays for Men, Smooth Viking Hair Clay. Skip to Review
- Best Hair Styling Clays for Matte Finish, Cremo Premium Barber Grade Hair Styling Sculpting Clay. Skip to Review
- Best Hair Styling Clays for Curly and Straight Hair, HAIR DADDY All Day Clay. Skip to Review
Overall Best Hair Styling Clays
- Scent: Natural
- Brand: Hanz de Fuko
- Hair Type : All
Product Review
Hanz de Fuko Claymation is a versatile styling solution for men. In a convenient 2 oz size, it aligns with cruelty-free values. With its cult following, this product is known for its exceptional pliability, allowing effortless restyling. The matte finish offers superb hold, perfect for lasting textured looks. Beyond style, Claymation moisturizes, prevents hair loss, and promotes new follicle growth. It’s easy to apply, lasts all day, and rinses out cleanly, enriched with natural botanicals for hair strength.
Hanz de Fuko Claymation is a trusted choice in men’s hairstyling. This 2 oz product, cruelty-free and cult-favorite, boasts remarkable pliability, enabling easy reshaping. It delivers a matte finish with strong hold, ideal for enduring textured styles. Beyond aesthetics, Claymation moisturizes, combats hair loss, prevents oil buildup, and supports new follicle growth. Simple to apply, long-lasting, and easy to wash out, this product is enriched with natural botanicals for hair strength and health.
Pros
- Strong hold: Provides a firm hold for various hairstyles.
- Matte finish: Creates a natural, non-shiny appearance.
- Versatile: Suitable for a range of hair lengths and styles.
- Long-lasting: Offers all-day hold without frequent reapplication.
- Cruelty-free: Ethical product not tested on animals.
- Easy to apply: Smooth and workable texture for effortless styling.
Cons
- Not suitable for all hair types: Works best for medium to thick hair.
- Limited shine options: Matte finish may not suit those seeking a glossy look.
- Hanz de Fuko Claymation is a premium men’s hair styling clay available in a convenient 2 oz size.
- This product is cruelty-free, making it a responsible choice for conscious consumers.
- Enjoy limitless styling possibilities with Claymation, which has gained a dedicated following for its exceptional pliability, allowing for endless re-shaping and creativity in your hairstyles.
- Achieve a matte styling masterpiece with Claymation, as it delivers super high hold without any shine, making it perfect for textured looks that stay in place throughout the day.
- Not only does Claymation help you achieve your desired style, but it also provides additional benefits. It moisturizes your hair, preventing hair loss, stopping oil buildup, and promoting new follicle growth.
- Applying Claymation is a breeze, and it lasts all day, ensuring your style remains intact from morning until night.
- When it’s time to wash out, Claymation rinses out cleanly, leaving no residue behind.
- This styling clay is enriched with natural botanical ingredients that strengthen your hair, contributing to overall hair health.
Best Hair Styling Clays for All Hair Types
Sun Bum Sonny’s Original Surf Paste
- Scent: Fresh
- Brand: Sun Bum
- Hair Type : All
Product Review
Sun Bum Sonny’s Original Surf Paste is a short hair essential for effortless style. This matte pomade delivers a casual, no-fuss finish with natural Sea Salt and Kokum Butter, ideal for quick styling on damp hair. Pair it with Sun Bum’s sea spray for a beachy look. Enriched with Sea Kelp and Coconut Oil, it’s vegan, gluten-free, cruelty-free, and paraben-free, promoting hair health.
Trust Sun Bum’s Original Surf Paste for style and hair protection. Created by beach lovers who understand the importance of effective hair care under the sun, this pomade is a reliable choice. Whether you’re beach-bound or seeking a quick style upgrade, this surf paste offers good vibes for your hair, helping you do less and live more.
Pros
- Hold and Texture: Sun Bum Sonny’s Original Surf Paste provides a strong hold and added texture to your hair, making it easier to style and shape.
- Matte Finish: It offers a matte finish, giving your hair a natural, beachy look without appearing greasy or shiny.
- Water-Resistant: This surf paste is water-resistant, so it can withstand the elements, including humidity and sweat.
- UV Protection: Sun Bum products often include UV protection, helping to shield your hair from sun damage.
- Paraben and Sulfate-Free: It’s free from harmful chemicals like parabens and sulfates, making it a healthier choice for your hair.
Cons
- Texture May Not Suit Everyone: Some individuals may find the texture of the surf paste to be too heavy or sticky for their liking.
- Not Suitable for All Hair Types: People with very fine or thin hair may find this product too heavy, potentially weighing down their hair.
- Sun Bum Sonny’s Original Surf Paste is a matte pomade designed for individuals with short hair who want a stylish, low-maintenance look.
- Provides a soft and casual finish for a quick styling solution.
- Contains natural Sea Salt and Kokum Butter that adds texture and a matte finish to your hair.
- Ideal for use on damp hair, whether right out of the shower or after a day at the beach.
- Apply a small amount with your fingertips for added grip and texture.
- Sonny’s Tip: Combine with Sun Bum sea spray for a beach-ready look.
- Enriched with healthy, natural ingredients such as Sea Kelp and Coconut Oil.
- Vegan, Gluten, Cruelty, and Paraben Free, ensuring the well-being of your hair and the environment.
- Developed by beach enthusiasts who understand the importance of effective hair care even in intense sun conditions.
Best Hair Styling Clays for Hair Strengthening
- Scent: Bamboo
- Brand: Kevin Murphy
- Hair Type : All
Product Review
If you’re on the hunt for a hair styling product that delivers a stronghold with a matte finish, Kevin Murphy Rough Rider Clay might be your perfect match. This 3.5-ounce jar packs a punch, allowing you to create a defined look that stays put all day. What sets it apart is the infusion of Soya bean extracts and golden bamboo, which provide that sought-after matte appearance and add softness and shine to your hair, making it more manageable and healthier.
This styling clay is appealing because of its dual role in hair care. While it helps you achieve your desired look, it also works behind the scenes to strengthen and moisturize your hair. With added antioxidant benefits, it shields your locks from environmental damage, contributing to overall hair health. If you’re in search of a versatile styling product that doesn’t compromise on hair care, Kevin Murphy Rough Rider Clay is certainly worth a try.
Pros
- Strong hold: Provides a high level of hold for all-day styling.
- Matte finish: Leaves hair with a natural, non-greasy matte finish.
- Texture and definition: Adds texture and definition to hairstyles.
- Long-lasting: Resists humidity and stays in place throughout the day.
- Easy to rework: Allows for restyling without losing hold.
- Suitable for short hair: Ideal for short to medium-length hair.
Cons
- Not suitable for all hair types: May be too heavy for fine or thin hair.
- Can be difficult to wash out: Requires thorough shampooing to remove completely.
- Product Name: Kevin Murphy Rough Rider Clay, 3.5 Ounce (Pack of 1)
- Hold Strength: Strong hold for a long-lasting style.
- Finish: Matte finish, providing a defined and natural look.
- Key Ingredients: Infused with Soya bean extracts and golden bamboo.
- Benefits:
- Soya bean extracts help create a matte, defined look while adding softness and shine to the hair.
- Golden bamboo helps seal the ends of the hair, providing strength and preventing split ends.
- Strengthens the hair, making it more resilient and less prone to breakage.
- Moisturizes the hair, keeping it hydrated and healthy.
- Promotes scalp health with its nourishing properties.
- Quantity: 3.5 ounces per container.
- Packaging: Comes in a single pack.
- Ideal for: Those looking for a strong hold clay that not only styles hair effectively but also offers hair-strengthening and moisturizing benefits.
Best Hair Styling Clays for Men
- Scent: Natural
- Brand: Smooth Viking Care
- Hair Type : All
Product Review
Smooth Viking Hair Clay for Men offers a reliable solution for all your styling needs. With its strong hold and matte finish, this 2oz product ensures your hair stays in place throughout the day, whether for casual waves or a refined pompadour. Infused with beeswax, castor oil, soybean oil, and carrot seed oil, it enhances hair texture and provides flexibility without stiffness.
This versatile styling clay is suitable for all hair types and can also be applied to damp or dry hair, allowing you to achieve various looks effortlessly. Smooth Viking is a trusted brand committed to providing high-quality men’s grooming products, and their Hair Clay lives up to that reputation. Say goodbye to unruly hair days and hello to a polished, put-together appearance with this dependable styling companion.
Pros
- Strong hold: Provides a reliable hold for various hair types and styles.
- Matte finish: Gives a natural, non-greasy appearance without shine.
- Effortless styling: Easy to apply and manipulate for desired looks.
- Long-lasting control: Keeps hair in place throughout the day.
- Polished appearance: Helps achieve a refined and put-together look.
- Suitable for men: Designed specifically for men’s hair needs.
- Travel-friendly: Compact 2oz size is convenient for on-the-go use.
- Versatile: Works with different hairstyles and hair lengths.
- Easy to wash out: Doesn’t leave residue or buildup in the hair.
Cons
- Not suitable for extreme styles: May not hold up well for very intricate or high-volume styles.
- Some users may find it too stiff: Can feel slightly rigid in the hair.
- Product Name: Smooth Viking Hair Clay for Men
- Hold Strength: Strong hold for long-lasting control
- Finish: Matte finish for a polished appearance
- Size: 2oz
- Ideal for All Hair Types
- Effortless Styling: Easily molds hair into desired styles
- Achieve Various Looks: Suitable for beachy waves, choppy cuts, and more
- Ingredients: Contains beeswax, castor oil, soybean oil, and carrot seed oil
- Texture Enhancement: Enhances hair’s texture for modern hairstyles
- Versatile Application: Can be applied to slightly damp or dry hair
- Lightweight Formula: Allows natural movement and flexibility
- No Stiffness or Crunchiness: Hair feels soft and manageable
- All-Day Hold: Keeps hair in place, even during sports and perspiration
- Trusted Brand: Smooth Viking is committed to high-quality men’s hair products
- Customer-Centric: Strives to exceed customer expectations
Best Hair Styling Clays for Matte Finish
Cremo Premium Barber Grade Hair Styling Sculpting Clay
- Scent: Sculpting Clay
- Brand: Cremo
- Hair Type : All
Product Review
Cremo Premium Barber Grade Hair Styling Sculpting Clay offers a strong, yet flexible hold for all hair lengths. Its natural matte shine enhances your style, whether you prefer a textured, messy look on dry hair or want to build it up on slightly damp strands. This versatile clay provides dependable performance, making it a valuable addition to your grooming routine.
With Cremo’s Barber Grade quality, you can trust in the premium performance of this styling clay. It perfectly balances a robust hold and the freedom to adapt your hairstyle as needed. Whether you’re aiming for a polished or effortlessly casual look, this clay ensures your hair stays in place while maintaining its natural charm.
Pros
- High hold: Provides strong hold for all-day styling.
- Matte finish: Gives a natural, non-greasy look.
- Barber-grade quality: Trusted by professionals.
- Easy to apply: Smooth texture for effortless styling.
- Long-lasting: Keeps hair in place throughout the day.
Cons
- May be too strong for some hair types.
- Not ideal for extremely fine or thin hair.
- Cremo Premium Barber Grade Hair Styling Sculpting Clay offers a strong hold that remains flexible and movable throughout the day.
- Achieve a natural-looking matte shine with this high-quality hair styling product.
- Suitable for all hair lengths, making it versatile for various hair types and styles.
- Apply the clay to dry hair for a textured, messier look, allowing you to craft your desired style effortlessly.
- Use the clay on the ends of slightly damp hair to build up your hairstyle with control and precision.
- Enjoy the confidence of using a Barber Grade product known for its premium quality and performance.
Best Hair Styling Clays for Curly and Straight Hair
- Scent: Aloe
- Brand: HAIR DADDY
- Item Form : Clay
Product Review
Hair Daddy All Day Clay is a versatile styling paste designed for men seeking a dependable solution for their hair. Its strong hold and matte finish last throughout the day, providing a modern, textured look. This unique blend thickens and adds fullness to your hair while remaining pliable for touch-ups. The water-based formula ensures easy washout, leaving no residue. With Hair Daddy, you can confidently achieve your desired hairstyle and maintain it effortlessly.
Say goodbye to mid-day styling woes and hello to a product that truly delivers on its promises. Hair Daddy’s zero-shine finish keeps your hair looking impeccable and natural, suitable for all hair types. This product combines the best features of various styling products into one, simplifying your grooming routine. Whether you’re hitting the gym or heading to an important meeting, Hair Daddy All Day Clay ensures your hair remains stylish and under control throughout the day.
Pros
- Strong, all-day hold for various hair types.
- Matte finish for a natural look.
- Suitable for men’s hairstyles.
- Versatile styling options.
- Long-lasting performance.
- Residue-free, zero shine formula.
Cons
- May be difficult to wash out.
- Some users may find it too stiff for their liking.
- Strong Hold, Matte Finish: Hair Daddy All Day Clay offers a strong hold and a matte finish that lasts all day, even during strenuous activities.
- Suitable for All Hair Types: This versatile product combines the best features of hair wax, clay, putty, and fiber paste to work effectively on all hair types, providing a modern and textured look.
- Thickens and Texturizes: Hair Daddy’s formula helps thicken, texturize, and add fullness to your hair, creating a natural and healthy appearance that’s easy to style and run your fingers through.
- Pliable and Playable: Enjoy a strong hold that keeps your hair in place while remaining pliable. You can still run your fingers through your hair or let others play with it without compromising your hairstyle.
- Water-Based Formula: Hair Daddy’s water-based formula washes out effortlessly with just one wash despite its strong hold. No need for double washes or dealing with residue like many other hair waxes, clays, or putties.
- Long-Lasting Style: Say goodbye to mid-day touch-ups and droopy hair. Hair Daddy All Day Clay keeps your hairstyle looking good throughout the day.
- Confident, Zero Shine Look: Achieve a confident, zero shine look that exudes style and sophistication with Hair Daddy All Day Clay.
- Ideal for Men: Specifically designed for men who want a reliable, long-lasting hairstyling product that provides a matte finish and strong hold.
- Easy to Use: Apply to dry hair, style as desired, and enjoy a durable, fashionable hairstyle that lasts until you decide to wash it out.
FAQS
Hair styling clay is a type of hair product designed to provide a matte finish with a strong hold. It differs from gels and pomades because it usually contains natural ingredients and has a more flexible, textured finish.
Start with clean, dry hair. Take a small amount of clay and rub it between your palms to warm it up. Then, evenly distribute it through your hair, focusing on the areas you want to style. Use your fingers to create your desired hairstyle.
Hair styling clay is versatile and works well for textured, messy, or matte finish hairstyles. It’s great for pompadours, quiffs, messy spikes, and short, textured crops.
No, one of the benefits of using hair styling clay is that it provides a matte finish, so it won’t make your hair look greasy or shiny. It gives a natural, textured appearance.
The hold of hair styling clay can vary depending on the brand and formulation. Generally, it offers a strong hold that can last throughout the day, but you may need to re-style if exposed to humidity or wind.
Yes, most hair styling clays are water-based and wash out easily with regular shampoo. You won’t have residue buildup like you might with some other styling products.
Factors to consider when buying Hair Styling Clays;
- Hair Type Compatibility: Ensure the clay suits your hair type, whether it’s fine, thick, curly, or straight.
- Hold Strength: Consider the hold level you need, ranging from light to strong, for your desired style.
- Ingredients: Check for natural and hair-friendly ingredients to prevent damage and promote hair health.
- Matte vs. Shine: Decide if you want a matte finish for a natural look or a shiny finish for a polished appearance.
- Fragrance: Evaluate the scent as it can affect your overall grooming experience and personal preference.
- Price and Size: Compare prices and sizes to find a product that fits your budget and usage needs.
In conclusion, the world of men’s hair styling has been forever changed by the emergence of hair styling clays. These versatile products offer a natural finish, strong hold, and the ability to create a wide range of styles, from messy quiffs to textured pompadours. Whether you’re a gentleman who prefers a clean and polished look or someone who loves that effortlessly disheveled appearance, there’s a hair styling clay out there for you. With the recommendations provided above in this article, you can confidently choose the best hair styling clay to elevate your grooming routine and keep your hair looking impeccable day in and day out.