Pomade
Pomade is a greasy, waxy, or water-based substance that is used to style hair. It generally gives the user's hair a shiny, slick appearance. It lasts longer than most
Names
The
History
During the Roman era, soap was used as a pomade by some European tribes.
Ancient Origins
The concept of pomade can be traced back to ancient times. The ancient Egyptians, for instance, used a substance similar to pomade made from animal fats and other ingredients to style their hair and wigs. This practice was not only about appearance but also about hygiene and protection from the harsh sun.[10]
Pomades were much more popular in the 1920s to 1950s[11] than they are today, although they have made a comeback in the 2010s with recent alternations to the marketplace, which feature not only traditionally manufactured petroleum and oil-based pomades but also modern water-soluble pomades. Compared to oil-based pomades, water-based pomades wash out more easily.
Hairstyles from the 20th and 21st centuries involving the use of pomade include the
Modern resurgence
The reemergence of popular pomade use coincides with the rise in popularity of the disconnected undercut hairstyle. The hairstyle is characterized by buzzed or faded sides, and a much longer top which is disconnected from the side hairs. The undercut hairstyle was first popularized in the early 20th century as affordable barbershops used the newly invented hair clipper to quickly and cheaply shave the sides of men's heads; leaving long top hairs that would be styled with pomade. During the 2010s, the style was featured in many popular period movies, especially World War II films, and in shows such as Peaky Blinders. Celebrities such as athlete David Beckham and actor Brad Pitt were seen donning this style of hair.
The heavy hold and slick look of pomade is very well suited to control the long hair of most undercut styles.[12]
Today's pomades fall under two main categories with some subcategories, the traditional oil-based pomade and the newer water-based and gel pomades.[13]
Traditional oil-based pomades are generally subdivided into three more groups: heavy hold, medium hold, and light hold. Heavier pomades generally have a higher wax content and better hold their shape throughout the day. The higher wax content usually results in a lower shine pomade. Light holds, sometimes called a brilliantine, have a higher oil content and therefore are usually more shiny. This type of pomade has a wet look and a lower hold. Some prominent modern oil-based pomades are Reuzel, Lockhart's, and Murray's.
The water-based pomades are split between gel-based pomades (Orthodox) and water-based (Unorthodox) pomades. Gel pomades come in different degrees of hold. Firm hold pomades dry much more stiff and are better at holding a particular style. However, they are generally less malleable and can only be restyled during the day by wetting the hair. These pomades generally contain hardening agents such as polyvinyl pyrolidone or vinyl pyrolidone.[14] Some popular gel pomades include Suavecito, Layrite and Imperial.
Unorthodox water-based pomades mimic the malleable qualities of oil-based pomades while still being able to be easily washed out like a gel pomade. Popular unorthodox water-based pomades include O'Douds, Shear Revival, Lockharts, and Flagship pomades.
Natural Versus Traditional Pomades
The modern preference for natural hair care solutions has given rise to a reevaluation of traditional pomade formulations. While the word "pomade" has historically been associated with a variety of hair styling products, there has been a notable shift away from products containing petroleum. This movement has been driven by an increasing awareness of the problems associated with petroleum-based hair products and a growing demand for natural hair care alternatives that are both safe and effective for users.
Traditional pomades, often petroleum-based, have been found to possess certain qualities that can be detrimental to the hair and scalp health of consumers. A primary issue lies in their tendency to cause buildup, leading to clogged hair follicles, which can impede hair growth and result in scalp ailments. Furthermore, the presence of certain petroleum derivatives has raised concerns over their potential health risks, including the risk of irritation and more serious consequences from prolonged use.[15]
In contrast, natural pomades are typically made from a blend of ingredients like shea butter, beeswax, and a variety of nourishing oils. These ingredients offer a stark difference in both intention and effect, aiming to provide nutrients and support for the hair and scalp, instead of merely offering styling hold. The benefits of natural ingredients over petroleum extend beyond avoiding negative side effects—they often contribute positively to the overall condition of the hair, promoting moisture retention and a healthy scalp environment.
The resurgence of natural hair grease reflects a broader consumer shift towards products that not only perform well but also align with a health-conscious lifestyle and ethical consumerism. As awareness and education about the benefits of natural hair care ingredients grow, so does the popularity of these safer, more beneficial alternatives in hair styling routines.[16]
See also
References
- ^ "Pomade, lard and bear fat". Mr Bear Family. Retrieved 2022-11-15.
- ^ Harper, Dan (2008), "Pomade", Online Etymology Dictionary.
- ^ Pliny the Elder. Natural History.
- ^ J. K. Crellin (1994). Home Medicine. McGill-Queen's Press. p. 88.
- ^ "Morgan's Pomade Company History". Archived from the original on October 30, 2017. Retrieved January 10, 2018.
- ^ Raymond Foss Bacon, William Allen Hamor (1916). The American petroleum industry. McGraw-Hill.
- ^ Thomas William Cowan (1908). Wax Craft, All about Beeswax: Its History, Production, Adulteration, and Commercial Value. S. Low, Marston & co., ltd. p. 148.
- ^ Murray's history Archived January 7, 2015, at the Wayback Machine
- ^ "Sweet Georgia Brown". Sweet Georgia Brown. Retrieved September 25, 2018.
- ^ "The Benefit of Using Hair Grease on Your Natural Hair". KeraVada. Retrieved 2023-12-12.
- ISBN 978-3-9816789-2-5.)
{{cite book}}
: CS1 maint: location missing publisher (link - ^ "Key Men's Hair Trend: The Disconnected Undercut". FashionBeans. Retrieved 2020-06-17.
- ^ "Wax or water based Hair Pomade - whats the difference?". Barber Surgeons Guild. 2018-11-13. Retrieved 2020-06-17.
- ^ "The Chemistry of Hair Gel - www.ChemistryIsLife.com". www.chemistryislife.com. Retrieved 2020-06-17.
- ^ "Hair Grease and Growth: A Guide for Women of Color". KeraVada. Retrieved 2023-12-21.
- ^ "Hair Grease: The Staple Hair Product is Making a Major Comeback, Naturally". KeraVada. Retrieved 2023-12-19.
Sources
- Yoda, Hiroko; Alt, Matt (2013). Yokai Attack!: The Japanese Monster Survival Guide. ISBN 978-1462908837.