The products curated for this article are independently chosen by the editorial team. If you make a purchase through the links mentioned below, we may receive a commission. Check out our product research & curation processOver the years, I have witnessed my dad, brother, guy friends, and male colleagues struggling to achieve that added edge while styling their hair. Hence, as a hair care and styling expert, I embarked on a journey to curate the best hair pastes for men, as I understand how hard they yearn for a good hold, volume, texture, and definition. I carried out my extensive research, considering factors like hair type, formula, texture, ingredients, customer reviews, and ratings, and trust me, the men in my life are forever grateful for me and my efforts in helping them revolutionize their hair care regime dramatically. Having noted their feedbacks and experiences, I can confidently say that hair pastes are the real game-changers!
Yes, they have been using a few hair styling products like slick-back gels and taming waxes, but these hair pastes offer a low-key, mattified, and natural look like none other. In the world of hair styling, hair pastes are the OGs. From smoothening the hair, adding volume, and taming frizz, to sealing their hairstyle, they do it all phenomenally! Personally, I saw how the quality and texture of the hair transformed and my happiness knew no bounds looking at my men’s happy faces. After all, for men, it is always about happy hair and a happy mood!
Let me also tell you that the pastes did not weigh down their hair, instead, their hair appeared a lot fuller and healthier than ever before. So, without further ado, let’s go through the below-listed product recommendatuons are unlikely to disappoint the men in your life either.
Our top picks
14 Best Hair Pastes for Men
There is a reason why American Crew’s defining hair paste has been my brother’s absolute favorite. This paste tames his hair and leaves behind a subtle shine. In addition, I noticed that my brother highly appreciated its ability to provide a texturized look. Honestly, I feel this paste is a must-have grooming product in every man’s hair care regime that aims to enhance definition seamlessly. Moreover, this paste for hair is just so apt for conditioning, moisturizing, and nourishing dry hair without actually weighing it down.
Pros
- Dairy-free
- Distributes evenly
- Flexible styling
- Unscented
Cons
- Dries too quickly
2
Best for Firm Hold
Pacinos Matte Hair Paste
If firm hold and no-shine finish is something that he is looking for, then the Pacinos’ matte hair paste is a reliable choice. This paste is no less than a magic potion intact in a jar that helps dudes seek a defined and texturized hairstyle with a much-needed pliable and natural finish. Additionally, it is crafted for all hair types and textures and thus manages to rank high on their favorite list. What makes it stand out is its water-soluble formula which makes it an easy-to-rinse hair product. My father and brother tried their hands on it and let me tell you that their hair looked perfect throughout the day!
Pros
- Free from silicones
- Non-sticky
- Non-clumpy
- Aloe vera scent
Cons
- Not sealed properly
3
Best for All Hair Types
Hair Dough Men’s Styling Fiber
Wavy hair, dry hair, curly hair, straight hair, finer hair, thick hair, or normal hair; no matter what kind of hair you possess, this hair fiber paste from Hair Dough is all that you need at your hands to style your hair without wasting too much time in front of the mirror. It lends your hair all-day hold, texture, and definition, and helps you style your hair in the most relaxed manner possible. So, for anyone who is tired of using gels and waxes, this one is a good alternative to rely on. No mess, no flakes, no residues — what else could a dude ask for?
Pros
- Free from harsh chemicals
- Shine-free finish
- Water-soluble formula
- Unscented
Cons
- Prone to mold
4
Best Volumizer
Cremo Thickening Paste
From short, sleek hairstyles to medium-length waves, this hair texture paste from Cremo has got your back. It is a fail-proof thickening paste that aims to add incredible volume and texture to your hair. Based on my observation, it is widely used and approved by top barbers. Hence, then there is no reason to fret. The paste promises to take due care of your hair and delivers high hold and low yet natural shine, just what you wish for! For best results, rub it in your hands till the paste feels a little tacky and then apply it. That’s all! This way, the hair grooming session is now just a matter of seconds!
Pros
- Long-lasting results
- Lightweight formula
- Best for fine hair
- Washes away with shampoo easily
Cons
- Little difficult to spread
5
Best for a Natural Finish
R+Co Control Flexible Paste
My brother couldn’t thank me enough when I suggested to him the R+Co Control Flexible Paste to get a good hold and shine. When I discovered the product, I loved its formulation — it contains extracts of aloe leaf, passion flower, mango fruit, and ginger root, all of which help retain moisture, add shine to hair, and strengthen hair. This nutrient and vitamin-enriched formula has helped my brother get soft and silky hair easily. He uses it on damp hair to get a long-lasting, buildable hold.
Pros
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Gives a natural finish
- Smells nice
- Doesn’t leave a greasy residue
Cons
- Slightly expensive
6
Best for UV Protection
Sun Bum Sonny's Original Surf Paste
Cut down your hair styling hassles with Sun Bum Sonny's Original Surf Paste and elevate your hair game with minimum to no effort. Honestly, I have been witnessing my dad and brother’s dedication to styling their hair with this product and the results are so satisfying that I can’t even explain it. All credit goes it its enchanting formulation and blend which contains coconut oil as well as unsung heroes such as natural Hawaiian black sea salt, sea kelp, and kokum butter. These goodies lend your hair a little grit with a matte finish. What leaves me impressed is the fact that this best styling paste also promises to protect hair from harmful UV rays. Clearly, there is nothing more one can ask for!
Pros
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Fresh scent
- Budget-friendly
- Free from gluten and parabens
Cons
- The texture is a little greasy
7
Best Styling Essential
Paul Mitchell Mitch Construction Paste
On a scale of 1 to 10, I give this men’s styling paste from Paul Mitchell a 10. What makes it earn all brownie points is the fact that it is suitable for all hair types and lengths; from short to medium! Secondly, it is color-safe and completely free from parabens and gluten. With this one product, all cool dudes can easily style their hair without any mess. Moreover, building and creating top-notch hairstyles with this pliable styler is all fun and never boring!
Pros
- Pocket-friendly
- Vegan-friendly
- Doesn’t leave residue behind
- Pomade-like consistency
Cons
- Unpleasant smell
8
Best Oil-free Formula
Victory Barber & Brand Super-dry Weightless Texture Paste
When I hear words like cool and hairstyle goals, I immediately think of the Victory Barber & Brand’s super-dry weightless texture paste. That’s because this product is the wingman when you cannot decide what to do with your unruly hair. So, make your hair behave and sit as set throughout the day. What makes it the best paste for men's hair is its gravity-defying texture, woodsy fragrance, and extra dry finish. Topping it all off, its oil-free formula with allow you to create an effortlessly dashing and disheveled look.
Pros
- Easy to apply
- Can also be used on beard and mustache
- Medium hold
- Sized as per airline carry-on rules
Cons
- Dries too quickly
9
Best Plant-powered Formulation
AVEDA Control Paste
The best part of this men's dry hair paste from Aveda is that it is plant-powered. For anyone who is looking for a medium, pliable hold do give this one a thought because trust me, the results are so satisfying. My dad and brother used it for weeks and I could figure out a considerable difference in their hair quality and texture. Plus, this paste would give them immense styling freedom and help them ace high-textured styles like a breeze. One reviewer says, “It's great for spiky or choppy looks when I want my hair to look a little polished yet messy. It also never makes my hair feel stiff or greasy.”
Pros
- Smells great
- Vegan-friendly
- Leaves no residue
- Suits all hair types
Cons
- Little clumpy
10
Best for Color-treated Hair
Oribe Rough Luxury Soft Molding Paste
Colored-hair dudes, you need not fret, Oribe Rough Luxury Soft Molding Paste has got you covered! It will neither let the vibrancy of your colored hair reduce nor will it fade away the color. All that it has to offer is definition, medium hold, and flexible control. Isn’t that everything that you keep yearning for when it comes to hairstyle and care? So, don’t think much, splurge on this best hair paste for messy look or to look prim and proper throughout the day!
Pros
- Ultra-pliable
- Delivers a soft shine
- Offers UV protection
- No sodium chloride
- Formulated without parabens
11
Reuzel Matte Styling Paste
Check out the Reuzel Matte Styling Paste — a top-notch product that offers medium and pliable hold and adds desirable fullness to his hair. I was on a quest to find the best hair molding paste for my daddy and that’s when I came across this magical potion packed in a jar. What left him stoked is the fact that it is enriched with moisturizing hair oils. Another interesting aspect — the paste exudes a subtle sugary rum fragrance and makes him not only look good but also feel good! So, do give this hair product a try!
Pros
- Water-soluble formula
- Adds texture
- Suitable for thick hair
- Sulfate-free
Cons
- Thick consistency
12
Molding Paste by Forte
Here comes yet another molding paste for men that makes them look no less than dapper. The brand, Forte, has mindfully crafted it for a strong and pliable hold. In addition, the touchable matte finish and gravity-defying results make you look presentable and your style charming. My brother has been using this for a while and he adores the effortless application that gives him the freedom to create a beachy, tousled look or a slicked-back style. What’s more? This strong hold hair paste can also be applied to the beard!
Pros
- Weightless
- Versatile
- Doesn't leave a gross residue
- Washes out easily
Cons
- Dries too quickly
13
SACHAJUAN Hair Paste
Sachajuan Hair Paste deserves applause for a couple of reasons. To start off, this is a good hair paste that lends malleable structure and control. Having said that, it creates much-needed texture and imparts shine to your hair for a strong yet flexible hold. Plus, it is suitable for thicker hair structures and shorter styles. I love how my brother applied it and based on my keen observations, I confidently say that it was distributed evenly. The best part — it smells divine and makes one feel refreshed
Pros
- Great consistency
- Little goes a long way
- Doesn’t weigh down your hair
- Best for creating natural looks
Cons
- Little pricey
14
Every Man Jack Thickening Paste
Last on my list, is the Every Man Jack thickening paste which I really love! I gifted it to my boyfriend and trust me, he has been using it for months regularly. The paste adds extra thickness and texture with a medium hold. Additionally, it has a matte finish, low shine, and a completely non-greasy texture. What I highly appreciate is the fact that this paste is formulated with clean, plant-based products and thus, ideal for all hair types and textures. For anyone who spends the majority of his time outdoors, this one is undoubtedly his savior to look well-groomed even after a long day!
Pros
- Reasonable
- Pack of 2
- Cruelty-free
- Fragrance-free
- Safe for sensitive skin
Cons
- Unsatisfactory packaging
That was my comprehensive list of the best men’s hair pastes. Now, let me run you through a detailed buying guide.
How to Choose the Best Hair Paste for Men?
Here are a few aspects that you should consider before splurging on the best hair paste for men:
Ingredients: I first analyzed the list of ingredients thoroughly. I had made up my mind that I wanted to get my hands only on the best men's hair paste that is loaded with nourishing, plant-based, clean, and pure ingredients like the Sun Bum Sonny's Original Surf Paste. I really love how Hawaiian black sea salt, coconut oil, sea kelp, and kokum butter make it a top-notch grooming essential. If you come across any such formulation or blend, don’t think twice, just grab it!
Level of Hold: The next important aspect to consider the level of hold and style that it has to offer. Based on my findings, most users I have interacted with loved the products that promised medium to strong hold. They were in favor of pastes like Victory Barber & Brand Super-Dry Weightless Texture Paste that delivered medium hold and Reuzel Matte Styling Paste that lent their hair a strong hold. All you need to make sure is that the paste offers a pliable and flexible hold for easy grooming.
Formula: After the ingredients and level of hold, I analyzed the formula of the men's hair paste that I was planning to buy for my dad and brother. Personally, I prefer vegan and cruelty-free hair pastes so that there is no chance of disappointment and zero possibility of side effects. You can think of investing in Reuzel Matte Styling Paste and AVEDA Control Paste which are not only vegan and cruelty-free but also free from harsh ingredients like sulfates, phthalates, mineral oil, parching alcohols, and parabens.
Texture: Lastly, I inspected the texture of the above-mentioned men's styling paste. I was fully aware of what my brother and dad preferred, and hence, I did not take much time in splurging on the best of the best. They like grooming products that are non-clumpy, non-flaky, non-greasy, non-sticky, light in weight, and easy-to-glide. Later I realized that such textures facilitated easy, smooth, even, and mess-free applications just as Molding Paste by Forte and Pacinos Matte Hair Paste.
After taking note of the factors mentioned above, walk along me with to know how to apply the best hair styling paste appropriately.
How Do I Apply Hair Paste Properly?
Below are a few steps to apply styling paste for men in the right way:
Step 1: Use your fingers to scoop out a little amount of the paste.
Step 2: Place it onto your palms and rub your palms together.
Step 3: On towel-dried or blow-dried hair, run your fingers and palms evenly.
Step 4: Repeat the process until the desired look, texture, style, volume, and hold is achieved.
Step 5: If needed, you can use a blow dryer or low-heat tool to style your hair. Please note, that every hair paste’s application process differs, so glance through the directions of usage before applying it.
Tada, you are good to go! Now, let me acquaint you with the benefits of using hair pastes.
Benefits of Using Hair Paste
The following are the benefits of using hair pastes:
1. They tame frizz
2. They add volume, texture, and desirable definition to your hair
3. They lend your hair much-needed hold and structure
4. They seal your hairstyle throughout the day
5. They facilitate quick and easy hair grooming
6. They make your hair look prim and proper
7. Some pastes also moisturize the hair
Conclusion
That’s all folks! These best hair pastes for men are all that they need to switch up their hairstyles, hair quality, and hair texture with minimal effort. Like the rest of the styling products for men, these pastes too deserve some place in their everyday regime. These pastes have sorted all hair hair-styling woes of my dad, brother, and boyfriend. It’s the American Crew Defining Paste that helps keep their hair moisturized, nourished, and conditioned. While Oribe Rough Luxury Soft Molding Paste takes due care of their color-treated hair. Let’s not forget that every hair paste has something or the else to offer. Some help majorly in adding hold and texture whereas a few aim to deliver desirable volume and definition. When it comes to creating top-notch styles, Paul Mitchell Mitch Construction Paste is what they look up to. From my findings, observations, and research, I can say with immense confidence that a hairpaste is a grooming genie that no guy can stop appreciating! I hope my curated recommendations have helped your men in laying down some serious hair goals for the rest of the world!
FAQ's
Is hair paste good for your hair?
Yes, hair pastes are good for hair styling and adding extra volume, texture, and hold.
Is hair clay or paste better?
For a lighter hold and a natural feel and look, a hair paste is always better than clay.
Is it OK to use hair paste every day?
Yes, hair pastes are gentle to use every day.
Is it OK to sleep with hair paste?
No, it is recommended to remove the hair paste off your hair before going to bed as it might make you suffer from scalp issues.
How long does hair paste last?
A hair paste lasts for 3 years straight.
Is hair paste the same as wax?
No. Hair pastes offer a more malleable hold while waxes are more focused on lending your hair a mattified look or shiny sheen. However, with innovative formulations these days, the lines between the two are surely blurring.
Does hair paste leave my hair looking greasy or stiff?
Ideally, a hair paste does not leave your hair looking greasy, stiff, or crunchy. However, much of this depends on the quality of the product, so shop wisely.
What types of hairstyles work well with a hair paste?
Almost all types of hairstyles work well with hairpaste.
Does hair paste leave a greasy or sticky residue?
No, hair paste doesn’t leave greasy or sticky residue behind.
Is hair paste easy to wash out?
Yes, hair paste with a water-soluble formula is easy to wash out.
Why Trust Pinkvilla
Our certified hair care expert, Alvira, is tired of all the guesswork that comes with finding the best hair styling products for her dad, brother, or be it her boyfriend. She did get baffled a little looking at unclear labels, bewildering names, and of course, too many choices available in the market. Hence, she took it as a challenge and found the perfect hair styling product for the beloved men in her life. She considered factors like texture, ingredients, hold, formula, etc., to aid you in finding the right hair paste without collecting an expensive drawer filled with one-time tries. Personally, she observed a noticeable change in her brother's and father’s hair since they started using American Crew Defining Paste. This paste not only made their hair feel good but also nourished. You too can snatch a glimpse of her top picks and help your hero elevate his hair game by several notches.
Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!
Author BIO
With a keen eye for detail and a passion for hairstyling, Alvira is a certified Hair Expert who brings the latest tre More
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