Style Guide: Do Your Hair with These Styling Products

by Kevin Smith Author

While looking for hairstyling products, you've probably seen the words "hold" and "shine" on the container. What do they mean?

Hold refers to how stiff or pliable your locks will be after application. Those with strong or high hold keep strands in place, while those with low or medium hold allow flexibility. Shine refers to your hair's luster after use. It may be a glossy finish to reflect light or matte to make it look as if you've applied nothing at all.

Stylists from the best barber school in Orlando recommend using these products with their respective characteristics when styling your hair:

Wax

This commonly has a medium shine and hold, but it can leave a glossier or a more matte finish depending on the brand. Wax is suitable for straight hair, as it clumps on curls. Use this if you want to play around and create spikes or go for structured, well-groomed locks. It's also recommended for hairstyles that require combing such as the ducktail, pompadour, or classic side part.

Pomade

This offers a medium hold, a high shine, and a slick appearance. Unlike gel, it won't harden or cause a crunchy feeling. Pomade is creamier than wax, making it suitable for all types of hair. It has two kinds:

· Oil-based pomade is made of petroleum and grease and cheaper than its water-based counterpart. It provides a strong hold but can be difficult to wash out. Products used to remove it may strip your hair of its natural oils, but if you let it stay for too long, it can clog your scalp's pores.

· Water-based pomade is easy to wash out. Although it doesn't provide the same hold, it still keeps hair in place while letting you restyle it throughout the day.

Mousse

Mousse is recommended for all hair types. It adds volume while providing a low hold and light shine. It has a foamy texture, surrounding strands with polymers to give them a fuller look. Applying the product and blow-drying your tresses from the roots downward will help you achieve massive volume. Some brands also contain rice protein and rosemary to thicken fine locks.

Hair Spray

This is one of the most popular hairstyling products, and it's known for its superior hold. You can use it alone or with other items, such as pomade, for a final touch. A few spritzes can serve as a protective layer, keeping the style in place even when your environment is humid. It comes in three holds: flexible, medium, and maximum. Choose depending on whether you want your strands supple for movability or in place all day.

Your choice will depend on your hair type or the style you're going for. Consult professional stylists who got their start at the best barber school in Orlando, and they can recommend products that will best suit you and can help you achieve your dream 'do!