Best Hair Clays for Men: Top 10 Picks You Need for 2024

This site is supported by our readers. We may earn a commission, at no cost to you, if you purchase through links.

You’ll find the best hair clays for men offer that perfect balance of hold and natural finish you’re looking for.

Unlike traditional pomades, clay creates textured, matte styles that don’t look "product-heavy."

Top picks like Baxter of California Clay Pomade and Hanz de Fuko Claymation give you complete style control while nourishing your hair with natural minerals.

For thick hair, try American Crew’s Molding Clay; for fine hair, Viking’s lightweight formula works wonders.

The secret to getting that effortlessly styled look isn’t just about picking the right product—it’s knowing exactly how to work it through your hair for maximum impact.

Choosing The Right Hair Clay

Choosing the right hair clay can make or break your style, whether you’re working with a textured quiff or a slick back.

Consider your hair type, length, holding strength, and desired finish to find the perfect match that will keep you looking sharp all day.

Consider Your Hair Type

So, how do you choose the right hair clay for your unique hair type?

Fine hair needs a lightweight clay to avoid weighing it down.

Curly hair? You’ll want something that defines curls without making them crunchy.

Wavy hair benefits from a clay that enhances texture.

And thick hair? Well, you’ve got more options, but look for strong hold clays to manage that volume.

Hair texture is key—find the perfect match for your mane!

Hair Length

Choosing the right hair clay isn’t just about hold—it’s about matching your style ambitions.

If you’ve got short hair, go for lighter clays that offer easy styling and versatility.

Medium hair? Try something with a bit more substance for shaping without stiffness.

For long hair, choose clays that help manage volume and keep everything looking natural and neat.

Holding Strength

In the world of hair clays, holding strength is your key to mastering style without losing flexibility.

To help you decide, consider the differences between other hair products, such as the hold offered by pomade vs gel.

Whether you prefer strong or light hold, clay offers versatility unmatched by wax.

Need texture? Go for strong hold; it shapes while maintaining freedom.

Opt for light hold for a natural look with a bit of control.

Find your perfect balance between hold and style.

Finish

View On Amazon
While holding strength is key, the finish adds polish to your style.

Do you want a matte vs. shine look?

Choose what suits your mood and hair type best.

What is Hair Clay for Men

Hair clay for men isn’t just another hair product—it’s a powerhouse in your grooming arsenal.

Designed for those who seek structure without the gloss, hair clay combines the strength you need with the natural look you desire.

Picture it as the secret ingredient to breaking free from the unbeatable wrestle with stubborn hair.

For men with thick hair, special hair clay can be particularly beneficial in taming the mane.

It’s like having a sculptor’s hands, molding your style with precision.

Compared to wax, clay offers heft and body while avoiding sticky situations.

Packed with ingredients like bentonite or kaolin, it’s ideal for crafting various styles, whether you’re into the laid-back or the carefully coiffed.

Plus, in the battle of clay vs. pomade, clay’s versatility and matte finish often win over the crowd seeking that effortlessly polished vibe.

Benefits of Using Hair Clay

You’ll love hair clay for its ability to add volume and texture while keeping your style natural with a matte finish.

Hair clay also helps absorb excess oil and impurities, giving your hair essential nutrients without leaving any residue.

Adds Volume and Texture

Imagine your hair gaining instant oomph and stylish texture with a dab of hair clay.

It’s your secret weapon for a fuller, more dynamic hairstyle.

Check out these benefits:

1. Volume Booster: Perfect for adding lift without weighing hair down.
2. Texture Enhancer: Creates beautiful, touchable texture.
3. Flexible Styles: Holds shape, but allows tweaking.
4. Quick Fix: Easy to use for busy mornings.

Offers a Natural Matte Finish

That extra volume’s great, but let’s talk matte finish benefits.

A matte finish gives you that effortlessly cool, natural look—no greasy shine here! It’s all about texture and control.

Choosing the right styling product is also key, as best pomade for thick hair can make a huge difference in achieving the desired look.

Check out these popular choices:

Product	Hold	Shine	Scent
American Crew Clay	Medium	Matte	Light, Clean
Layrite Cement Clay	Strong	Matte	Cream Soda
Uppercut Deluxe Clay	Firm	Matte	Masculine
Hanz de Fuko Claymation	Strong	Matte	Subtle, Natural
Every Man Jack Clay	Strong	Matte	Unscented

Want that effortlessly cool, natural look? A matte finish is your secret weapon.

Provides Essential Hair Nutrients

When you pick up quality hair clay, you’re not just styling – you’re nourishing your hair with essential nutrients. Modern clay products pack a powerful punch of vitamins and minerals that strengthen and protect your strands.

• Bentonite clay delivers key minerals like calcium, magnesium, and iron
• Natural beeswax seals in moisture while protecting against environmental damage
• Carrier oils like jojoba and argan provide deep nourishment and repair

Absorbs Excess Oil and Impurities

The natural clay minerals in hair styling products work like a magnet for excess oils and impurities, leaving your scalp feeling fresh and clean.

You’ll notice improved hair texture and less greasiness throughout the day, especially if you’re prone to oily hair.

Clay Type	Oil Absorption	Benefits for Scalp
Bentonite	High	Deep cleansing
Kaolin	Medium	Gentle purifying
White Clay	Moderate	Balancing
Red Clay	High	Detoxifying
Green Clay	Very High	Rejuvenating

Top 10 Hair Clays for Men

You’ll find the perfect styling solution to transform a bad haircut, such as one with uneven layers or choppy ends, which can be fixed by adjusting length and layers, among our handpicked selection of premium hair clays that offer everything from strong hold to natural matte finish.

These top-rated clay products will help you achieve that effortlessly styled look you’ve been wanting.

Whether you’re heading to the office or hitting the town.

1. American Crew Hair Molding Clay

View On Amazon
American Crew consistently delivers excellence with their Hair Molding Clay, a powerhouse product designed for guys who want control without compromise.

You’ll appreciate its high-hold formula that keeps your style intact throughout the day while adding a subtle shine that looks natural, not greasy.

Perfect for straight to wavy hair types, this 3.53-ounce styling heavyweight works best on damp hair and washes out easily when you’re done.

While it might be too strong for fine hair, its oil-based formula creates lasting styles that won’t leave your hair feeling stiff or crunchy.

Best For: Guys with straight to wavy hair who want a strong hold with a natural shine.

2. Paul Mitchell Mitch Matterial Clay

View On Amazon
Looking for a game-changer in your hair styling routine? Paul Mitchell Mitch Matterial Clay delivers professional-grade results with its powerful thickening ingredients and strong fixatives.

You’ll appreciate how it bulks up fine hair while maintaining a natural, ultra-matte finish that’s perfect for modern, textured styles.

The fresh lemon and aloe scent adds a pleasant touch, while the paraben-free, gluten-free formula keeps things clean and simple.

It dries quickly in 20-30 seconds, holds strong even in wind, and washes out easily.

Plus, a little goes a long way, making it worth the investment.

This clay is ideal for those with fine hair who want to add volume and create textured styles, similar to how the best mousse for men can add volume and lift, as seen in top mousse picks. This clay is ideal for those with fine hair who want to add volume and create textured styles.

3. Baxter of California Clay Pomade Firm Hold

View On Amazon
Mastering your style becomes effortless with Baxter of California Clay Pomade.

This premium clay delivers firm hold and a matte finish that’ll keep your look on point all day.

It’s versatile enough for all hair types, though you’ll want to make sure your hair isn’t too dry before application.

While it’s a bit pricey at 2.5oz, a little goes a long way – just warm it between your palms and work it through your strands.

The unscented formula and minimal crunch make it perfect for guys who prefer a natural-looking finish.

Best For: Guys who want a strong, lasting hold with a matte finish.

4. Hanz de Fuko Claymation Hair Styling Clay

For versatile styling products, Hanz de Fuko Claymation stands out as a game-changer.

This clay-wax hybrid delivers impressive hold without weighing down your hair, thanks to its unique blend of natural ingredients like jojoba oil and castor seed extract.

You’ll love how it creates that perfect balance of texture and control while maintaining a natural, matte finish.

Customer reviews rave about its long-lasting performance and how it works wonders for both thick and fine hair types.

Plus, its signature scent adds a subtle touch of sophistication to your daily routine.

Best For: Those looking for a strong hold styling product that provides a natural, matte finish, similar to the hold and style offered by top mustache waxes like Firehouse Mustache Wax Strong Hold, which works well for various hair types.

5. Viking Hair Clay Strong Hold Matte Finish

Viking Hair Clay stands out as a powerhouse performer for guys who demand all-day control.

You’ll appreciate how this concentrated formula spreads evenly through both damp and dry hair while maintaining its strong hold throughout your busy day.

The oil-free composition works well across all hair types and washes out easily without leaving any stubborn residue.

While some users note a subtle chemical scent, the matte finish and flexible restyling capabilities make it a solid choice for various styles, from classic pompadours to modern textured looks.

Best For: Guys who want a strong hold with a matte finish and flexible restyling.

6. Matte Hair Clay Strong Hold

View On Amazon
With its water-based formula, this strong-hold hair clay delivers impressive results without leaving any residue.

You’ll appreciate how it smooths and thickens your hair while maintaining a shine-free matte finish that looks completely natural.

Perfect for all hair types, including wavy, curly, and thick strands, it’s particularly effective when applied to damp hair.

The unscented formula gives you the flexibility to style and restyle throughout the day with just a touch of moisture.

For best results, experiment with small amounts until you find your perfect application technique.

Best For: This matte hair clay is perfect for anyone looking for a strong hold with a natural, shine-free finish.

7. Hair Clay Pomade Medium Hold Matte Finish

View On Amazon
Looking for that perfect balance between hold and flexibility?

This travel-sized clay pomade delivers a true matte finish without any unwanted shine.

It’s particularly effective for taming flyaways while adding natural-looking volume to your style.

The dense formula allows for easy re-working throughout the day, making it ideal for short to medium hairstyles.

While it might take a bit more effort to work through your hair, the control you’ll gain is worth it.

Just keep in mind it contains parabens and might feel slightly rough to some users.

Best For: This hair clay is best for those with short to medium hair who want a matte finish, medium hold, and flexible style.

8. Uppercut Deluxe Matte Clay Hair Pomade

View On Amazon
Designed for active lifestyles, Uppercut Deluxe Matte Clay delivers exceptional performance through sweat and surf.

You’ll appreciate its water-resistant formula that keeps your style locked in place while remaining reworkable throughout the day.

The peppermint-scented clay provides a natural, low-shine finish that’s perfect for textured, short hairstyles.

While it might take a couple of shampoos to wash out completely, a small amount goes a long way – one tin typically lasts five months.

At €15 for 70g, it’s a solid investment in your daily grooming routine.

Best For: Active men with short, textured hairstyles who want a strong hold and a natural look.

9. Layrite Cement Clay Hair Styling Product

View On Amazon
Layrite Cement Clay stands out as a powerhouse among hair styling products, offering an incredible all-day hold that won’t weigh your hair down.

You’ll love how it never flakes or dries out, and you can rework your style anytime without water.

The clean matte finish gives your hair that natural look while adding thickness and texture.

Its mild cream soda scent is a nice bonus, and it works brilliantly on all hair types.

Whether you’re styling wet or dry hair, this USA-made clay delivers consistent, professional results every time.

Best For: Those looking for a strong hold, matte finish styling product that works on all hair types.

10. Every Man Jack Fragrance Free Styling Clay

View On Amazon
Every Man Jack’s Fragrance Free Styling Clay delivers a power punch of control without overwhelming your senses.

This USA-made clay packs extreme hold and a matte finish while keeping things naturally clean – you won’t find any parabens, phthalates, dyes, or GMOs here.

Perfect for both fine and thick hair types, it’s a game-changer for guys with chemical sensitivities or migraines.

While some users note a subtle rubber-like scent, the trade-off is worth it for those seeking a clean, reliable hold.

Plus, the eco-conscious packaging uses 50% recycled plastic.

Best For: Guys seeking a strong hold, matte finish, and fragrance-free styling option for fine or thick hair.

How to Apply Hair Clay

You’ll be amazed at how easy it’s to transform your hair from flat to fantastic with the right clay application technique.

Whether you’re aiming for a textured quiff or a sleek style, we’ll show you the foolproof way to work that pea-sized amount of clay into your locks for maximum impact.

Take a Small Amount of Clay

Now that you’ve got your perfect clay, let’s nail the right amount for your style.

Start with a dime-sized portion – you’d be surprised how far this small amount goes.

For shorter cuts, you might only need a pea-sized scoop, while longer or thicker hair demands a bit more.

Remember, you can always add more clay, but removing excess is a real hassle.

Rub The Clay Between Your Palms

Got your clay? Excellent. The warmup is where the magic happens – this step transforms that stiff product into a smooth, workable styling powerhouse.

• Rub your palms together like you’re plotting something devious
• Feel the clay soften and become more pliable, like butter on a warm day
• Watch it change from rigid to silky smooth
• Notice it become more translucent as it warms

Just remember, cold clay clumps, warm clay works. Keep rubbing until it feels completely smooth between your palms.

Apply The Clay to Your Hair

Start by working the warmed clay through your hair from the roots upward, focusing on even distribution.

Using your fingertips, massage the product thoroughly into your scalp and strands, ensuring complete coverage.

For maximum control, section your hair into manageable parts and apply the clay systematically.

Remember to reach those often-missed spots at the back of your head and behind your ears.

Style Your Hair as Desired

While your clay is evenly distributed, shape your hair into your desired style using your fingers or a comb.

For a more defined look, check out products specifically designed as hair clay for spikes here.

For a textured look, run your fingers through your hair in different directions.

Create spikes, waves, or a slick-back style – the clay’s moldable nature lets you experiment.

If you need to adjust, the clay’s reworkable formula means you can reshape throughout the day without adding more product.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Hair Clay

You’ll get the most out of your hair clay when you know the common styling blunders to watch out for.

Even experienced users can make mistakes that turn their perfectly styled look into a product-heavy mess, but we’ll show you how to avoid these styling pitfalls.

Applying Too Much Product at Once

Product overload is the silent killer of your hairstyle game.

Using too much hair clay transforms your sleek look into a heavy, clumpy mess that screams "rookie mistake." A pea-sized amount is all you need – trust us on this one.

Overusing hair products can also exacerbate issues with dry and damaged hair, such as hair breakage and shedding.

When you overdo it, you’ll end up with stiff, greasy-looking hair that’s harder to style and might even cause premature hair loss.

Not Warming The Product Before Application

Skipping the warming step is like trying to spread cold butter on bread – it’s just asking for trouble.

Hair clay needs that quick warm-up between your palms to transform from its stiff consistency into a workable texture.

Just 15-20 seconds of rubbing will soften the clay perfectly, making it easier to work with and ensuring you’ll get the best hold and finish possible.

Not Spreading The Product Evenly

Rushing through product application leads to clumpy hair and uneven texture – a classic rookie mistake.

When you don’t distribute hair clay properly, you’ll end up with some areas getting too much product while others get none.

For the best results and a seamless hair clay application, section your hair and work methodically from roots to tips, ensuring every strand gets equal attention.

This prevents product buildup and that dreaded messy look.

Is Hair Clay Suitable for All Hair Types

You’ll be glad to know that hair clay works wonderfully on all hair types, from fine strands to thick locks.

Hair clay is a versatile styling product.

Whether you’ve got straight, wavy, or curly hair, you’ll find the right clay product to match your styling needs and create your desired look.

Fine Hair

If you’ve got fine hair, you’re probably tired of products weighing down your delicate strands.

Here’s the good news: hair clay can be your secret weapon.

The best clay products for fine hair, like Man Made Clay and Hanz de Fuko Claymation, add thickness and texture without the heavy feeling.

Look for lightweight formulas that specifically mention "volumizing" or "thickening" properties to boost your hair’s natural body.

Curly Hair

Curly hair‘s unique texture makes it a perfect match for clay styling products. You’ll love how clay enhances your natural curls while keeping frizz at bay. Here’s why clay works wonders for your spirals:

1. Defines curl patterns without weighing them down
2. Provides much-needed moisture retention
3. Controls volume without creating crunch
4. Maintains natural bounce while fighting humidity

Just remember to work the clay through damp curls for best results.

Wavy Hair

Blessed with those beach-ready waves? Hair clay is your styling secret weapon.

You’ll find it adds just the right amount of texture without weighing down your natural movement.

For best results, work a small amount through damp hair, scrunching gently to enhance your waves.

Many top brands like Hanz de Fuko and Baxter of California offer specialized formulas that’ll keep your waves defined without the crunch.

Thick Hair

That impressive mane of thick hair you’ve got is perfect for hair clay styling.

You’ll love how clay adds definition without weighing down your strands, giving you total control over your look.

Start with a pea-sized amount – thick hair can handle it – and work it through from roots to tips.

You’ll get that natural-looking hold and matte finish while maintaining your hair’s natural volume.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)