How to Style with Pomade: Pompadour, Slick Back and Side Part

Product update: By Vilain Powermade has been improved and reformulated as By Vilain Flow Pomade. The original images have been retained and may show the former Powermade product.

Pomade is useful when you want a smoother finish and visible shine. A pompadour needs front lift, a slick back needs a backward direction, and a side part needs a clear division. Establish that shape first; the finishing product should support it rather than do all the work.

Choose the pomade for the result

By Vilain Flow Pomade provides light, flexible hold and natural shine. Use it for softer movement or as a small finishing addition to a more structured style. A tall pompadour that needs strong support may need a different holding product as well. Pomade formulas vary, so the category alone does not tell you the hold.

Pompadour: build the height while drying

Start with manageable, slightly damp hair and a suitable heat-protecting pre-styler. Use a brush to lift the front from the roots, then guide the ends backwards. Dry the sides closer to the head. Once the shape is established, spread a small amount of pomade through your palms and work it through the top before smoothing the surface.

Pompadour: troubleshoot a collapsing front

If the front drops immediately, check the cut, the drying direction and how much product you used. Adding a thick coat of a light-hold pomade will usually add weight. Reduce the amount and consider whether the front needs different support or a slightly lower silhouette.

Slick back: choose smoothness or movement

Guide the hair backwards with your hands or a comb. Flow can be used on dry or slightly damp hair according to its directions; experiment with a small amount rather than soaking the hair. A comb gives a cleaner surface, while fingers leave softer separation. Keep a natural wave if you want an easier routine.

Side part: follow the roots

Find the part where the hair naturally separates, then guide the top across and back. Establish the direction during drying if necessary. Apply the pomade evenly, comb the part once and refine the fringe. A very sharp shaved line is a haircut choice, not something pomade creates.

Can you mix pomade and wax?

The current Flow directions allow mixing with other By Vilain styling products. Start with small amounts and assess the finish: mixing changes shine, feel and reworkability, but does not guarantee more hold. If the result becomes heavy, wash out the buildup and use less next time.

Related guides

• One Haircut, Three Styles: Pompadour, Quiff and Kenickie Curl
• Hair Wax, Clay, Fibre or Pomade: Which Should You Choose?
• G-Eazy Slick-Back Haircut: Cut, Part and Styling Steps