Ruffians Hairstyle Guide: The Popular Pomp

At its simplest, the pomp or pompadour is a style that calls for hair to be swept up and back over the head. The sides and back are combed neatly and kept close to the head while a quiff is constructed using the longer hair at the front.

If that sounds complicated, it’s not. The pompadour is a lot more versatile than you might first think. There are so many variations on the style that it can be cut, styled and altered to suit men of all ages, tastes and profession.

Here, you’ll find a step-by-step expert guide to everything you need to know about the Popular Pomp and how to achieve the best finish.

What is the “Popular Pomp”?

The Popular Pomp is the modern take on a classic. This style is defined by a clear contrast between the shortness of the hair at the sides and back compared to the length of the hair on the top.

Unlike a classic pomp, which is achieved with scissor-cut hair, the modern variation requires your hair at the sides and back be clippered either to a uniform length (usually a grade four or lower) or graduated, i.e. faded, from very short at the hairline at the sides and back to slightly longer towards the crown.

Less work than the classic, the modern pompadour does not require a lot of combing and styling at the sides and back, so it’s ideal if slightly pinched for time.

 

 

 

 

 

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How To Style it

Whether you want a slick, tightly sculpted pompadour or one that’s loose enough to run your hands through, the basic styling method is the same.

STEP 1 First, wash your hair with shampoo and conditioner to ensure it is completely free of excess oil, dirt and product residue.

STEP 2 Lightly towel dry the hair. Take a small amount of Ruffians Hair Cream into your palm, rub between your hands and apply evenly throughout the damp hair. Then, with a round brush and hair dryer, blow dry the hair backwards from your forehead and temples towards the back of your head, each time moving along the full shaft of the hair from root to tip.

STEP 3 Next, take a pea-sized amount of Ruffians Styling Paste. Thoroughly rub it between the palms of your hands to warm before running it through your hair. Make sure you apply it evenly, from the root to the tip. Remember, start with a small amount of Ruffians Styling Paste, you can always add more if required.

STEP 4 Resume brushing, using the technique outlined in step two. As you brush with one hand, use the other to gently guide the hair you’ve just brushed. 

STEP 5 Next, shape the hair as desired. If you desire more height or volume, use the palm of your hand to push the fringe/ quiff forward.

Once happy with the shape of your pompadour and depending on your desired finish, spray with a generous amount of strong-hold hairspray to help keep everything in place.

Remember, barbers and stylists have practised these techniques for years. Don’t panic if it takes you a couple of attempts before you get the perfect look!

Ruffians Hair Cream and Styling Paste is available to purchase from all five of our shops, or can be bought from our online store. Want to let the experts sort your hair and give you the lowdown on the best products for styling it? Book an appointment now.