Many men stick to the same basic hair products without realizing there are better options available. The right styling product can make a huge difference in texture, hold, and overall appearance. Here are 12 underrated hair products worth trying.
1. Sea Salt Spray
Sea salt spray has become a go-to product for anyone seeking that natural, beachy texture that looks effortlessly stylish. Designed to mimic the effect of saltwater on your hair after a day at the beach, sea salt spray works by adding texture, volume, and a relaxed, tousled look. What makes this product exceptional is its ability to enhance your hair’s natural body and movement without the heaviness or stiffness that some styling products can leave behind.
A great feature of sea salt spray is its versatility. While it works exceptionally well on wavy or slightly curly hair, it can also be applied to straight hair to give it a much-needed lift and definition. Begin by spraying a generous amount on damp or towel-dried hair. Comb through gently to distribute the product evenly, and then use your fingers to scrunch and shape. Alternatively, you can dry your hair with a diffuser or simply air dry to achieve a laid-back, windswept result.
Another benefit of sea salt spray is its ability to provide a matte finish, making your hair look natural and healthy rather than greasy. Many sea salt sprays are formulated with nourishing ingredients, like sea kelp or essential oils, to ensure your hair stays hydrated and doesn’t become brittle due to the drying effects of salt. Whether you’re heading to the office or meeting friends for a casual evening out, a few spritzes of sea salt spray can make your hair appear effortlessly stylish without requiring excessive effort.
2. Barbershop’s Custom Pomade
When it comes to pomades, mass-market options often dominate the shelves. However, some of the best-kept secrets in the grooming world are the custom pomades crafted by prestigious New York barbershops. With decades of expertise behind them, many top-tier barbershops have developed their own unique formulations, offering a product that caters directly to the needs of their clientele. These custom pomades often surpass their commercial counterparts by providing superior hold, shine, and nourishment for your hair.
What sets these pomades apart is their ability to deliver a precise balance of hold and flexibility. Unlike generic pomades that can make your hair feel sticky or overly stiff, custom pomades are typically designed to offer a strong but natural grip. This means you can style your hair into classic pompadours, sleek side parts, or messy, texturized looks without sacrificing flow or comfort. Many barbershops craft their pomades with premium ingredients that avoid harsh chemicals, ensuring they’re gentle on your scalp and hair follicles.
To use, start with a small dime-sized amount in your hands and rub it between your palms to warm the product and achieve an even consistency. Apply it gently to clean, dry, or slightly damp hair, focusing on your roots and working outward to the tips. For sharper styles, use a comb to perfect the shape; for a more casual look, use your fingers to create texture.
Not to be overlooked, these custom pomades also feature carefully considered scents, ranging from subtle musky notes to fresh, citrusy fragrances that enhance your grooming experience without overwhelming the senses. Pairing performance with refinement, New York Barbershop custom pomades exemplify the art of bespoke haircare and are a worthwhile addition to any styling routine.
3. Hair Clay
Hair clay is an incredibly versatile styling product, favored by many for its ability to provide medium hold with a matte finish. Unlike traditional waxes, hair clay does not leave a greasy or overly shiny appearance, making it an optimal choice for those who want their hair to look naturally styled. One of the remarkable qualities of hair clay is its ability to add texture and structure to the hair without weighing it down. This makes it particularly suitable for those with shorter to medium-length hair who prefer messy, casual, or intentionally “undone” styles.
The composition of most hair clays includes bentonite or kaolin clay, natural ingredients that deliver grip and volume while helping to improve the hair’s overall health. These clays also work to absorb excess oil on the scalp, making hair clay a go-to option for individuals with naturally oily hair who still desire a well-groomed look. When applied, hair clay gives the hair a malleable texture, allowing for restyling throughout the day. To use, simply take a small amount, warm it between your palms, and work it evenly through damp or dry hair. With its non-greasy formula and ability to create long-lasting messy or textured styles, hair clay has become a staple in many grooming routines.
4. Signature Style Fiber Cream
For those seeking a styling product that offers flexible hold without stiffness, fiber cream is an excellent option, often associated with a polished and professional look. Frequently used by hairstylists to craft a Signature Style, fiber cream is well-regarded for its ability to tame thicker and coarser hair types, offering control while preserving a natural appearance. Unlike harder styling products such as gels or waxes, fiber cream provides a soft, pliable hold that moves naturally with your hair while keeping your style intact throughout the day.
Fiber cream is especially effective for individuals aiming to achieve sleek yet touchable hairstyles. It works beautifully for creating volume and definition, whether aiming for a well-groomed pompadour, a modern quiff, or other refined styles. Because of its lightweight texture, fiber cream doesn’t add unnecessary weight to the hair, making it ideal for those who want to avoid the flattened or overly-processed look. To apply, emulsify a small amount between your hands, distributing evenly through damp hair for a softer finish, or through dry hair for more precision and texture. Fiber cream is also enriched with conditioning agents, helping to nourish and protect the hair while you style. With its ability to deliver a high-performance hold that adapts to your hair’s movement, Signature Style Fiber Cream is a must-have for perfectly balanced styling.
5. Grooming Tonic
Grooming Tonic is a versatile and lightweight styling liquid designed to elevate your hair’s natural look with a subtle shine and light hold. Ideal for men seeking a low-effort yet polished appearance, this tonic delivers understated definition without compromising on comfort. Its formula is perfect for achieving that effortlessly styled look, allowing your hair to maintain its natural movement while adding a touch of sleekness. Whether you’re heading to the office or preparing for an evening out, Grooming Tonic is the go-to choice for men who prioritize simplicity and style.
Beyond its styling benefits, Grooming Tonic serves an essential role in promoting overall scalp health. Enriched with nourishing ingredients such as vitamins, herbal extracts, or moisturizing agents, it helps support the scalp’s natural balance, reduces dryness, and prevents irritation. For best results, apply Grooming Tonic evenly to damp hair and sculpt with your hands or a comb to create your desired look. Its lightweight consistency ensures a non-greasy finish, making it suitable for all hair types while leaving a fresh, clean feel throughout the day. A product designed to embody simplicity and sophistication, Grooming Tonic is a staple in any grooming routine, offering both aesthetics and wellness benefits.
6. Natural Grooming Products Barber Approved
With the rise of eco-conscious grooming, more New York barbers and professionals are turning to natural grooming products that prioritize innovation without compromising on quality. Today’s professional barbers are increasingly recommending plant-based gels, creams, and styling aids to their clients, reflecting a shift toward environmentally friendly and skin-safe options in men’s grooming. Choosing natural grooming products ensures that harmful chemicals such as parabens, sulfates, and synthetic fragrances are avoided, protecting both your hair and your overall health.
Barber-approved natural grooming products stand out for their use of organic ingredients that hydrate and strengthen the hair. Ingredients like aloe vera, shea butter, coconut oil, and essential oils are commonly incorporated into these products, providing a dual benefit of effective styling and nourishment. These formulations foster a healthy scalp environment, promoting growth and reducing issues like dandruff or irritation. For men seeking a suave, natural look, plant-based styling gels and creams offer enough manageability and hold for a defined yet effortless hairstyle.
New York’s finest barbers emphasize the importance of sustainable grooming practices, and using natural products is a key step toward reducing one’s environmental footprint. Many leading brands are now packaging their products in recyclable materials and employing ethical production methods, catering to the growing demand for clean and responsible grooming. By incorporating products trusted by professionals, you can achieve barber-quality results at home while supporting an eco-friendly approach to styling. Natural grooming products are not just a passing trend—they represent the future of healthy, conscious grooming that marries performance with responsibility.
7. Matte Paste
Matte paste is a versatile styling product celebrated for its ability to provide a strong hold while maintaining a natural appearance. Unlike traditional gel-based products or creams, matte paste offers a drier finish, ensuring the hair looks effortlessly styled without any unwanted shine. It is particularly well-suited for men seeking a low-maintenance yet fashionable look. The product’s ability to create definition and texture makes it an excellent choice for a range of popular hairstyles, from spiked looks to textured crops.
For men with shorter hair, matte paste is a go-to for shaping messy and rugged styles that stay in place throughout the day. Its pliable nature also accommodates second-day styling, allowing users to reshape and tweak their hair without needing excessive reapplication. Easy to apply and wash out, matte paste is a reliable option for those who value both performance and simplicity in their grooming routine.
8. Leave-In Conditioner with Heat Protection
Once thought of as a women’s hair product, leave-in conditioner with heat protection has become an essential grooming tool for men as well. This product serves two critical purposes. First, it provides hydration and nourishment to the hair, especially for those with dry, frizzy, or damaged strands. Ingredients such as argan oil, aloe vera, and keratin-infused formulas are commonly found in leave-in conditioners, promoting softness, shine, and overall hair health.
Second, it creates a protective barrier against the harsh effects of heat styling tools like blow dryers or flat irons. Regular heat usage can strip the hair of its natural oils and cause long-term damage, but a quality leave-in conditioner minimizes these risks while enhancing the styling process. For men who are frequently exposed to UV rays, some leave-in conditioners also double as sun protection. Using this product as part of a daily routine ensures that hair remains manageable, protected, and looking its best every day.
9. Texturizing Dust
Texturizing dust—a lightweight, powder-based product—is a game-changer for men dealing with fine or thinning hair. Its primary function is to add instant volume, lift, and grip to the hair, creating a fuller and more dynamic appearance. To use texturizing dust, simply sprinkle a small amount at the roots, then gently work it through the hair with your fingers to achieve volume and texture. This product is especially helpful for men who struggle with limp or flat hair and desire a thicker look that stays in place.
Unlike heavier styling products, texturizing dust offers a weightless texture that allows for effortless restyling throughout the day. It also works wonders for those sporting modern hairstyles such as quiffs, pompadours, or messy, tousled looks. Beyond its styling benefits, the lightweight formula ensures there’s no greasy residue, making it an excellent addition to any man’s grooming arsenal.
10. Curl Defining Cream
Men with curly hair often face the challenge of maintaining their natural texture while combating frizz and unruliness. A high-quality curl defining cream is specifically designed to enhance and define the natural patterns of curls, making them more structured and polished. This product works by providing critical hydration to the hair, which is essential for keeping curls bouncy and healthy. Drier hair types, which are common with curls, benefit immensely from the nourishing ingredients found in most curl creams, such as shea butter, coconut oil, or argan oil. By delivering moisture directly to the strands, the cream reduces the appearance of frizz while maintaining the hair’s natural elasticity.
Additionally, curl creams are lightweight, making them a suitable option for those looking to avoid the heavy or greasy feeling often associated with traditional styling products. They also help control flyaways and provide a subtle hold that keeps curls in shape throughout the day without the stiffness or crunchiness of gels. Whether you’re looking to define loose waves or tightly coiled curls, a curl defining cream ensures a polished look that still feels natural. Applying it is simple—work a small amount through damp hair and scrunch for immediate definition. For even better results, pair it with a diffuser when blow-drying, as this will enhance volume and shape.
11. Scalp Serum
Healthy hair begins with a healthy scalp, and this is where a quality scalp serum steps in. A scalp serum is a specialized product aimed at improving scalp health, often overlooked in men’s grooming routines. It works by moisturizing the scalp, reducing dryness and flakiness, which are common issues caused by environmental factors, harsh shampoos, or product buildup. Many scalp serums also contain ingredients like tea tree oil, niacinamide, biotin, and salicylic acid, which target irritation, inflammation, or clogged follicles, paving the way for healthier hair growth.
Scalp serums are particularly beneficial for men dealing with thinning hair or early signs of hair loss. By stimulating the scalp through improved blood circulation, these products promote stronger, thicker hair growth over time. They also prepare the scalp for styling by creating the optimal foundation for hair products to work effectively. The application process is straightforward—apply just a few drops directly onto a clean scalp, particularly focusing on problem areas, and massage gently for maximum absorption. Consistent use of a scalp serum can improve the overall appearance, feel, and health of your hair, making it an investment worth considering for long-term results.
12. Hybrid Wax-Gel
For men who demand versatility and durability from their styling products, a hybrid wax-gel offers the perfect balance. This innovative product combines the strong hold and staying power of a gel with the flexibility and matte finish of a wax. Hybrid wax-gels are designed to provide all-day control without the stiffness or crunchiness often associated with traditional gels. They allow you to restyle your hair easily throughout the day, making them ideal for dynamic or textured looks that require both structure and adaptability.
The hybrid nature of this product also makes it suitable for a wide range of hairstyles. Whether you’re opting for sharp, defined lines in a slicked-back style or adding volume and movement to a pompadour, this dual-action formula gets the job done. Its versatility extends to all hair types as well—from straight to wavy—and even coarse hair can benefit from its strong hold without losing a natural finish. The application is simple: warm a small amount in your hands and distribute evenly through dry or slightly damp hair, focusing on shaping the desired look. With a balance of strong hold and pliability, hybrid wax-gels are becoming an essential tool for men’s grooming routines.
Conclusion
Experimenting with new grooming products can make a significant difference in the way you approach your daily styling routine. Products such as curl defining creams, scalp serums, and hybrid wax-gels offer specialized solutions that address common challenges while promoting healthier, better-looking hair. These innovative products go beyond the conventional, delivering results that are both effective and gentle on your hair and scalp.
To find the perfect product for your needs, consider consulting a professional barber. Their expertise can guide you towards options tailored to your hair type and styling preferences. By incorporating these underrated hair care essentials into your routine, you’ll achieve a look that not only appears polished but is also healthier and more manageable in the long run. Don’t be afraid to upgrade your grooming arsenal—your hair will thank you for it.
