Best Hair Products for Men with Thick Hair

As a guy with thick hair myself, I know the struggle is real. What works for fine hair just won’t cut it for our robust manes. We need products that can tame, style, and hold without feeling heavy, looking greasy, or simply giving up halfway through the day. I’ve spent years experimenting with different formulations, trying to find that sweet spot that makes styling thick hair a pleasure, not a chore. This guide is born from that hands-on experience, diving deep into some of the best hair products for men with thick hair on the market. We’ll explore creams, clays, pastes, foams, and sprays, breaking down what makes each one tick, so you can confidently pick the right product to help you achieve your desired look, whether it’s a natural, textured style or a sharp, defined finish. Let’s find your next grooming essential!

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Cremo Hair Styling Matte Cream, Premium Barber Grade, Light…	View on Amazon
	Hair Dough Styling Clay For Men, Matte Finish Molding…	View on Amazon
	Cremo Mens Hair Paste – Premium Barber Grade Thickening…	View on Amazon
	Brylcreem 3-in-1 Original High Shine Men’s Hair Cream for…	View on Amazon
	Avenue Man Sculpting Foam for Men – 7 Oz -…	View on Amazon
	Viking Revolution Sea Salt Spray for Hair Men – Hair…	View on Amazon
	Redken Brews Cream Pomade For Men – Provides Medium Hold…	View on Amazon
	American Crew Men’s Hair Fiber, Like Hair Gel with High…	View on Amazon
	American Crew Men’s Hair Matte Clay (OLD VERSION), Like…	View on Amazon
	American Crew Men’s Hair Styling Gel, Firm Hold,…	View on Amazon

1. Cremo Hair Styling Matte Cream, Premium Barber Grade, Light Hold

If you’re after that effortless, “I woke up like this but better” vibe, Cremo’s Matte Cream is a solid contender. It’s incredibly lightweight, making it easy to distribute through your thick hair without clumping. The light hold means you can run your fingers through your hair all day, allowing for natural movement while keeping things subtly in place. It offers a low-shine, almost invisible finish, enhancing your hair’s natural texture without any greasy residue. I find it especially great for those days when you just want to add a bit of control and definition to a casual, messy look. You can even mix it with other products for a customizable hold if you need a touch more power.

• VERSATILE STYLE: Ideal for messy looks, suitable for all hair lengths.
• CUSTOMIZABLE HOLD: Can be mixed with other products to adjust hold strength.
• BARELY-THERE LOOK: Low-shine, light-hold for a natural appearance.
• EASY STYLING: Perfect for use on dry hair for quick application.
• ALL-DAY COMFORT: Lightweight and non-greasy feel.

Pros:
– Provides a very natural, touchable look.
– Non-greasy and comfortable for all-day wear.
– Great for adding subtle definition to thick hair.
– Easy to apply and re-style throughout the day.
– Can be customized by mixing with other products.

Cons:
– Light hold might not be sufficient for very stubborn or unruly thick hair.
– Low shine might not appeal to those who prefer a more polished, shiny finish.

Best for: Men with thick hair looking for a natural, low-shine, light-hold product for messy or textured styles, or those who value flexibility over rigid hold.

User feedback summary: Users often praise this cream for its ability to create a natural, “barely there” look, loving how it keeps hair soft and touchable without any sticky residue. Many appreciate its light hold for casual styles.

2. Hair Dough Styling Clay For Men, Matte Finish Molding

For those seeking a strong, resilient hold with an undeniably matte finish, the Hair Dough Styling Clay delivers. This stuff is a powerhouse, specifically formulated to give your thick hair the structure it needs to maintain even complex styles all day long, even through sweat. It’s fantastic for creating textured, modern looks that appear thicker and fuller. What I particularly like is its ability to bundle hair strands together naturally, enhancing texture and making your hair feel robust without looking stiff. Being water-based, it washes out easily, which is a huge plus for high-hold products.

• ALL DAY STRONG HOLD: Maintains thick, textured, and modern hairstyles even with perspiration.
• SHINE-FREE MATTE FINISH: Delivers a true matte look without residue or shine.
• IMPROVE TEXTURE & THICKNESS: Bundles hair for a thicker, enhanced texture.
• WATER BASED & WATER SOLUBLE: Healthy blend of clay, waxes, and oils, washes out easily.
• IDEAL FOR ALL HAIRSTYLES: Versatile for short, thick, or long wavy hair.

Pros:
– Provides an extremely strong, all-day hold, great for thick hair.
– Delivers a genuine shine-free matte finish.
– Helps hair appear thicker and improves overall texture.
– Water-based formula ensures easy wash-out.
– Versatile enough for a wide range of styles.

Cons:
– The strong hold might make re-styling difficult once it sets.
– Can feel a bit heavy if too much product is applied, especially for those new to clays.

Best for: Men with thick hair who need a strong, all-day hold for structured, textured, and matte hairstyles, especially those with active lifestyles.

User feedback summary: Many users rave about the Hair Dough Styling Clay’s impressive strong hold and consistently matte finish, noting how it helps them achieve complex, textured styles that last all day without fail.

3. Cremo Mens Hair Paste – Premium Barber Grade Thickening

Another great offering from Cremo, this Hair Paste is designed with thickening in mind, which is a huge benefit for anyone with dense but perhaps slightly flat thick hair. It helps add noticeable texture and volume, giving your hair more body and life. You get a strong hold here, but still with a low, natural shine, keeping your style looking effortless rather than overly styled. The fact that it’s “barber approved” tells you it’s a reliable product that professionals trust to get the job done. It’s easy to work through dry or damp hair, making it a versatile choice for your daily routine.

• HELPS ADD TEXTURE AND VOLUME: Creates fuller-looking hair with enhanced thickness.
• PROVIDES HIGH HOLD, LOW SHINE: Strong hold with a subtle, natural-looking matte finish.
• USED AND APPROVED BY BARBERS: Trusted by professionals for quality results.
• EASY AND VERSATILE APPLICATION: Works through dry or slightly damp hair.
• ELIMINATES STYLING GUESSWORK: Delivers reliable results for a consistent look.

Pros:
– Excellent for boosting volume and adding texture to thick hair.
– Strong hold provides reliable style retention throughout the day.
– Low shine finish gives a natural, sophisticated look.
– Easy to apply and delivers consistent, barber-quality results.
– Helps create the appearance of thicker hair.

Cons:
– The “tacky” feel during application might be unfamiliar to some users initially.
– The low shine might not appeal to those who prefer a glossy finish.

Best for: Men with thick hair seeking high hold and low shine, specifically looking to add volume and texture to their style with a barber-approved product.

User feedback summary: Users frequently highlight this Cremo paste’s ability to provide a strong, lasting hold while also adding significant texture and volume, making thick hair feel fuller without being stiff.

4. Brylcreem 3-in-1 Original High Shine Men’s Hair Cream

Sometimes, you want to lean into that classic, high-shine, slick-back aesthetic, and Brylcreem’s Original Cream is still a champion for that. This isn’t about stiff, helmet-like hold; it offers a light hold that keeps your hair manageable, soft, and healthy-looking. What’s unique about Brylcreem is its ability to provide that glossy, slicked-back look without the stickiness of gels or the greasiness of some pomades. It’s alcohol-free, so it won’t dry out your thick hair, and it even adds a bit of body, which is a nice touch. For a timeless, sophisticated look that feels good in your hair, this is a go-to.

• LIGHT HOLD AND HIGH-SHINE: Leaves hair healthy, soft, and manageable with a glossy finish.
• CLASSIC SLICK-BACK LOOK: Achieves high-shine without stickiness or greasiness.
• ALCOHOL-FREE: Won’t dry out your hair.
• ADDS BODY: Improves fullness without residue.
• EASY TO USE: Apply a dime-sized amount after shampooing.

Pros:
– Delivers a classic, high-shine finish perfect for slicked-back styles.
– Keeps hair soft, manageable, and feeling healthy.
– Alcohol-free formulation prevents drying.
– Avoids the sticky or greasy feel common with some high-shine products.
– Adds body to hair without leaving residue.

Cons:
– Light hold may not be strong enough for very stubborn or intricate styles on thick hair.
– The high-shine aesthetic isn’t for everyone.

Best for: Men with thick hair desiring a classic, high-shine, slicked-back style with a light, flexible hold that keeps hair soft and healthy.

User feedback summary: Loyal users often commend Brylcreem for its authentic classic look and feel, appreciating how it leaves their thick hair soft and shiny without any unpleasant stickiness, bringing back a sense of nostalgia with consistent results.

5. Avenue Man Sculpting Foam for Men

When you want to add serious volume and structure to your thick hair without weighing it down, the Avenue Man Sculpting Foam is an excellent choice. This isn’t your average mousse; it’s designed to give real lift and definition that lasts all day, no matter if your hair is straight, curly, or notoriously stubborn. I love that it dries to a touchable, controlled finish without any crunch, flakes, or stiffness. It’s also packed with nourishing ingredients like aloe vera, sunflower, and jojoba, which means you’re styling and caring for your hair at the same time. It’s a fantastic pre-styler or a standalone product for natural, voluminous looks.

• WEIGHTLESS VOLUME AND ALL-DAY STRUCTURE: Delivers lift and hold without heaviness or crunch.
• CLEAN STYLING WITH ZERO BUILDUP: Dries quickly to a smooth, flake-free finish.
• ADAPTABLE GROOMING FOR EVERY HAIR TYPE: Enhances volume, tames frizz, and shapes various styles.
• NOURISHING, HERBAL-INFUSED FORMULA: Contains aloe vera, sunflower, almond oil, and jojoba for hair health.
• PREMIUM CRAFTSMANSHIP & CLEAN PERFORMANCE: Made in the USA, free from parabens, alcohol, and harsh chemicals.

Pros:
– Provides impressive volume and body without feeling heavy or sticky.
– Leaves hair touchable and controlled with no crunch or residue.
– Versatile for different hair types and styling needs.
– Nourishes and protects hair with natural ingredients.
– Free from harsh chemicals, making it gentle on the scalp.

Cons:
– Foam texture might not be preferred by those accustomed to creams or clays.
– While it offers good hold, it might not be as strong as a dedicated clay or paste for extremely rigid styles.

Best for: Men with thick hair looking for significant volume and natural-looking structure with a lightweight, nourishing product that avoids stiffness and flaking.

User feedback summary: Customers frequently praise Avenue Man Sculpting Foam for its effective volumizing properties and how it leaves hair feeling natural and soft, rather than stiff or sticky, highlighting its clean feel and lasting hold.

6. Viking Revolution Sea Salt Spray for Hair Men

For those days when you crave that effortless, sun-kissed, beach-hair look, the Viking Revolution Sea Salt Spray is your secret weapon. This refreshing spray is fantastic for boosting volume, enhancing your natural waves and curls, and adding incredible texture to thick hair. I often use it as a pre-styler to give my hair a foundation of volume before applying a lighter hold product, or simply on its own for a carefree, textured finish. It’s formulated with premium ingredients like Dead Sea Salt for texturizing, and Aloe Vera, Kelp, and Red Algae for moisturizing and soothing benefits – making it more than just a styling product.

• REFRESHING AND EFFECTIVE: Lifts, volumizes, and enhances natural curls/waves for a beachy look.
• VOLUME BOOSTER: Can be used as a pre-styler or standalone for a textured look.
• PREMIUM INGREDIENTS: Dead Sea Salt for texture, Aloe Vera for moisture, Kelp and Red Algae extract.
• FORMULATED FOR MEN: Designed specifically for men’s hair, suitable for various styles.
• THE VIKING PROMISE: Customer satisfaction guarantee.

Pros:
– Excellent for creating natural texture, waves, and curls in thick hair.
– Adds significant volume and lift, especially as a pre-styler.
– Formulated with nourishing, natural ingredients.
– Achieves an authentic “beach hair” look without effort.
– Versatile for use alone or as a foundation for other products.

Cons:
– Provides a lighter hold, not suitable for highly structured or rigid styles.
– Can sometimes give a slightly dry feeling if used excessively without a good conditioner.

Best for: Men with thick hair wanting to enhance natural texture, waves, and curls, or achieve a voluminous, effortless beachy look, especially as a pre-styler.

User feedback summary: Users consistently love the Viking Revolution Sea Salt Spray for its ability to create natural-looking volume and texture, making their thick hair feel fuller and more defined, often praising its refreshing scent and easy application.

7. Redken Brews Cream Pomade For Men

Redken Brews Cream Pomade strikes a fantastic balance, offering a medium hold with a natural, low-shine finish. This water-based pomade is perfect for men with thick hair who want definition and control but also appreciate flexibility and re-workability throughout the day. I find it great for creating smooth, flexible styles like pompadours or side parts, as it provides enough hold to keep thick hair in place without crunchiness or flaking. It allows for natural movement and adds a subtle texture, making your hair look healthy and styled, not stiff. Plus, being water-based, it washes out with ease.

• MEN’S WATER-BASED HAIR POMADE: Holds and defines styled hair for all hair types.
• BENEFITS: Medium hold, medium control, no crunch or flaking, long-lasting.
• ADDITIONAL BENEFITS: Controls styles, low shine finish, defined texture, flexible movement.
• SCIENCE-BACKED INGREDIENTS: Water-based cream texture for smooth finish, volume, and dimension.
• REDKEN BREWS: Part of a high-performance grooming line for men.

Pros:
– Offers a versatile medium hold that allows for flexible movement.
– Delivers a natural, low-shine finish, avoiding overly glossy looks.
– Water-based formula ensures easy wash-out and no residue.
– Prevents crunchiness or flaking, keeping hair natural-feeling.
– Great for defined texture and smooth styles on thick hair.

Cons:
– Medium hold might not be sufficient for the most extreme or stubbornly thick hair styles.
– Those accustomed to high-hold products might find it a bit too flexible.

Best for: Men with thick hair seeking a flexible, medium hold with a natural, low-shine finish, ideal for styles that require definition, movement, and easy re-workability.

User feedback summary: Many users appreciate the Redken Brews Cream Pomade for its perfect balance of medium hold and flexibility, noting that it keeps their thick hair in place with a natural look and feel, without any crunchiness or residue.

8. American Crew Men’s Hair Fiber

American Crew Fiber is a legendary product in men’s grooming, and for good reason, especially for thick hair. It’s designed to thicken, texturize, and increase fullness, giving your hair a denser, more robust appearance. What sets it apart is its incredibly high hold combined with a low, matte shine, allowing you to create strong, defined styles that still look natural. The hold is pliable, meaning you can often re-work your style throughout the day without losing all control. It’s particularly effective for shorter to medium-length thick hair (around 1-3 inches), providing maximum impact without feeling heavy.

• SIMILAR TO HAIR GEL: Helps thicken, texturize, and increase fullness.
• LIKE HAIR GEL FOR MEN: Works well for a full, texturized look.
• KEY BENEFIT: High hold and low shine (matte finish).
• HOW TO USE: Apply to towel-dried hair and style as desired.
• HAIR LENGTH: Recommended for those with 1-3 inch hair length.

Pros:
– Provides exceptional high hold for even the most stubborn thick hair.
– Delivers a true matte finish, preventing unwanted shine.
– Significantly increases the appearance of fullness and texture.
– Offers a pliable hold, allowing for re-styling.
– A trusted, barber-favorite brand.

Cons:
– Specifically recommended for shorter hair lengths (1-3 inches), might be too heavy for longer thick hair.
– Can be a bit stiff if too much product is used.

Best for: Men with shorter to medium-length thick hair (1-3 inches) who need a very strong, pliable hold, a matte finish, and a boost in texture and fullness.

User feedback summary: American Crew Fiber receives widespread acclaim for its powerful hold and matte finish, with users consistently praising its ability to add thickness and texture, making their shorter thick hair feel full and styled all day.

9. American Crew Men’s Hair Matte Clay (OLD VERSION)

While this is listed as the “OLD VERSION” of American Crew’s Matte Clay, it still offers specific benefits that some users might seek out. This clay provides a long-lasting, workable hold with a distinct matte finish, ideal for creating textured, controlled styles. Clays are fantastic for thick hair because they offer a strong grip without necessarily feeling heavy or greasy. This particular formulation excels at defining texture and giving your hair a clean, natural look. If you can still find it, and you’re a fan of the traditional clay experience for thick hair, it’s worth considering for its consistent performance in creating structured, matte styles.

• PREVIOUS VERSION: Note that this is the older stock item.
• CLAY BENEFITS: Provides long-lasting workable hold and control.
• TEXTURIZED STYLES: Creates textured looks with a matte finish.
• CONTROLLED DEFINITION: Works well when a precise, textured look is desired.

Pros:
– Delivers a strong, workable hold for effective styling of thick hair.
– Provides a true matte finish, avoiding any shine.
– Excellent for creating textured, defined looks.
– Offers good control, helping to keep stubborn hairs in place.

Cons:
– Being an “old version,” availability might be limited, and quality can’t be guaranteed by American Crew for older stock.
– Some users might prefer the updated formulation.

Best for: Men with thick hair who prefer a classic matte clay for strong, workable hold and defined, textured styles, and who are comfortable with sourcing an older product version.

User feedback summary: Users familiar with the old version of American Crew Matte Clay often express appreciation for its reliable, long-lasting matte hold and its ability to achieve precise, textured styles that stay put throughout the day.

10. American Crew Men’s Hair Styling Gel, Firm Hold

For those times when maximum hold and a high-shine finish are non-negotiable for your thick hair, American Crew’s Firm Hold Styling Gel is the answer. This is a traditional gel that delivers a defined look, excellent frizz control, and a significant gloss. It’s a moisture-rich formula, which is a nice touch for a gel, providing conditioning benefits while locking your style in place. If you’re going for a sleek, sculpted, or wet-look style that needs to stay absolutely perfect all day, this gel will deliver the unyielding hold you need to tame even the most unruly thick hair.

• HAIR GEL: Moisture-rich gel for a defined look with high shine.
• HAIR GEL FOR MEN: Ideal for textured definition, frizz-free hair, and a defined look.
• KEY BENEFIT: High hold and high shine, with moisturizing and conditioning.
• HOW TO USE: Apply to towel-dried hair and style as desired.
• AMERICAN CREW: A leader in men’s grooming.

Pros:
– Provides an extremely firm hold, perfect for maximum control on thick hair.
– Delivers a high-shine finish for sleek, polished looks.
– Excellent for taming frizz and flyaways.
– Offers moisturizing and conditioning benefits.
– Great for sculpted, defined styles that need to last all day.

Cons:
– The high shine and rigid hold might not be for everyone.
– Can leave hair feeling stiff or “crunchy” if too much is applied.

Best for: Men with thick hair requiring maximum, unyielding hold and a high-shine finish for sleek, sculpted, or defined styles, especially to combat frizz.

User feedback summary: Users needing serious control for their thick hair often laud American Crew Styling Gel for its firm hold and glossy finish, stating it perfectly tames frizz and maintains sculpted styles all day long.

Helpful Comparison Insights for Men with Thick Hair

Choosing the right hair product for men with thick hair really boils down to the hold level and finish you desire. For those who want maximum, all-day hold with an iron grip, Hair Dough Styling Clay and American Crew’s Firm Hold Styling Gel are your top contenders. The Hair Dough offers a shine-free matte, while the American Crew Gel gives you that glossy, sculpted look. If you need a strong hold but prefer a more natural, low-shine finish, then Cremo Men’s Hair Paste and American Crew Hair Fiber are excellent choices. They both excel at adding texture and volume, with the Fiber being particularly good for shorter thick hair.

For a more flexible or medium hold that still keeps your thick hair in check, Redken Brews Cream Pomade hits a sweet spot with a natural, low-shine finish and re-workable qualities. If natural, touchable texture and volume without stiffness are your priority, Cremo Hair Styling Matte Cream and Avenue Man Sculpting Foam are fantastic. The Cremo cream offers a very light hold for messy looks, while the foam gives weightless volume and all-day structure.

And if you’re chasing that beachy, wavy look, Viking Revolution Sea Salt Spray is your go-to for texture and volume, often used as a pre-styler. Finally, for a classic, high-shine, slicked-back aesthetic with a light, manageable hold that keeps hair soft, Brylcreem 3-in-1 Original High Shine Men’s Hair Cream remains a timeless choice. Remember, experimenting is key to finding what truly works best for your specific hair type and preferred style.

Final Verdict

So, with all these fantastic options for the best hair products for men with thick hair, how do you make a final decision? It truly comes down to your desired style and the unique characteristics of your thick mane.

For the guy who battles with unruly, stubborn thick hair and needs a product that won’t quit, the Hair Dough Styling Clay is a non-negotiable. Its extreme hold and matte finish will lock in your style. Similarly, the American Crew Men’s Hair Fiber offers a robust, pliable hold with a matte look, particularly brilliant for shorter to medium lengths that crave density.

If your thick hair needs volume and texture without heavy stiffness, the Avenue Man Sculpting Foam is a standout, offering weightless lift and nourishment. And for that effortless, “just rolled out of bed but in a good way” textured look, the Cremo Hair Styling Matte Cream is superb for its light hold and natural feel.

For those who lean towards classic, slick looks, Brylcreem 3-in-1 Original is your choice for high shine and a soft, manageable feel, while American Crew Men’s Hair Styling Gel will give you an even firmer hold with that glossy finish. The Redken Brews Cream Pomade offers a balanced medium hold if you want a flexible style with low shine.

Ultimately, the best hair product for your thick hair is one that complements its natural texture while allowing you to achieve the look you want, with the hold and finish you prefer. Don’t be afraid to try a few different types to discover your perfect match – your thick hair deserves it!

Comprehensive FAQ Section

Q1: What is the main challenge when choosing hair products for men with thick hair?
A1: The biggest challenge for men with thick hair is finding products that offer sufficient hold and control without making the hair feel heavy, greasy, or stiff. Thick hair often requires more robust formulas to maintain a style throughout the day, manage volume, and combat frizz, while still looking natural and feeling good.

Q2: Should I use a matte finish or high shine product for my thick hair?
A2: It really depends on your desired look. Matte finish products are great for natural, textured, and modern styles where you want definition without gloss. They can make thick hair look fuller and more rugged. High shine products, on the other hand, are ideal for classic, slicked-back, or more formal styles where a polished, glossy appearance is desired. Both can work well for thick hair, so it’s a matter of personal preference.

Q3: Are clays, pastes, or creams better for thick hair?
A3: Each has its benefits for thick hair. Clays (like Hair Dough Styling Clay) generally offer the strongest hold and a true matte finish, excellent for structured, textured styles. Pastes (like Cremo Men’s Hair Paste) provide strong hold with a lower shine, often adding volume and texture, making hair feel thicker. Creams (like Cremo Hair Styling Matte Cream) usually offer lighter hold with natural finishes, great for softer, more pliable styles. Many men with thick hair use a combination or choose based on their daily needs.

Q4: Can sea salt spray actually help men with thick hair?
A4: Absolutely! Sea salt spray, like the Viking Revolution Sea Salt Spray, is fantastic for thick hair. It’s excellent for adding volume, texture, and enhancing natural waves or curls. It provides a lighter, more natural hold, perfect for achieving that effortless, “beachy” look or as a pre-styler to give your thick hair a foundational boost before applying other products.

Q5: How do I apply these products to my thick hair for the best results?
A5: For most styling products for men with thick hair (clays, pastes, creams, gels), start with a dime-sized amount (you can always add more, but can’t easily take away). Rub the product thoroughly between your palms until it’s warmed and evenly distributed. Then, work it into towel-dried or completely dry hair, starting from the back and working your way forward. Ensure even distribution to avoid clumping, then style as desired. For sprays and foams, apply evenly to damp or dry hair before styling.

Q6: Why is a water-based formula important for men’s hair products, especially for thick hair?
A6: Water-based formulas are crucial because they typically wash out easily with just shampoo and water, preventing product buildup in your thick hair. This means your hair and scalp can remain healthier without residue. Products like Redken Brews Cream Pomade and Hair Dough Styling Clay offer strong holds but the convenience of easy rinsing, which is a major benefit for daily use.

Q7: Can I use these products if I have long thick hair?
A7: Yes, many of these products are suitable for longer thick hair, though application might vary. Creams, foams, and sea salt sprays are excellent for adding volume and texture to long thick hair without weighing it down. For stronger holds, pastes and pomades can work well, but you might need slightly more product and focus on even distribution. American Crew Fiber is specifically recommended for 1-3 inch hair, so keep product-specific recommendations in mind.