For as long as we can remember, it seemed as though shiny and healthy-looking hair were synonymous. This had us reaching for hair serums and gels in order to achieve strands that reflected in the light. But as we head into 2021, a new trend has come to the forefront: matte hair. As the hottest look for men at the moment, matte finish hair is all about using hair-styling products to get a shine-free look. Ahead, we’re sharing our two best matte hair products (hint: one is a matte hair paste), how to use them, and a few other styling tips to make your hair matte this season.
Our Best Matte Hair Products
Before we talk about how to get matte finish hair, let’s take a second to go over our two best matte hair product options: a matte hair cream and paste.
1. L’Oréal Paris Studio Line Flexible Strong Hold Cream
The L’Oréal Paris Studio Line Flexible Strong Hold Cream is a matte hair gel cream that offers a buildable, flexible hold, making it easy to style your hair to your liking. The formula contains glycerin, allowing it to melt into your hair for weightless, residue-free definition. Aside from giving your style a medium hold, the cream has a matte finish that will keep your mane from looking greasy while adding a trendsetting touch to even the simplest of ‘dos.
How to use it: Squeeze a dime-sized amount of cream into your hand, rubbing the product between your palms. Work the formula through your hair and shape as you go to create your desired look. Add more product as needed.
2. L’Oréal Paris Studio Line Thickening Medium Hold Cream Paste
If creams aren’t your forte, a matte hair wax like the L’Oréal Paris Studio Line Thickening Medium Hold Cream Paste may be a worthy alternative. The cream-solid hybrid is formulated with beeswax to leave your strands with a medium hold, natural-looking texture, and (of course) matte hair finish. The weightless product invisibly blends into your hair for both control and comfort, while also creating a thicker appearance.
How to use it: Start with a dime-sized amount of paste and rub the formula between your palms. Then, work the product throughout your hair to create the shape you’re envisioning. You can also use this matte hair paste to style your facial hair.
3 Other Ways To Get Matte Finish Hair
If you don’t have a matte hair clay or cream in your arsenal, we have three additional ideas for bringing the matte hair trend to life. Take note of the following.
Tip #1. Use Dry Shampoo
As you probably already know, dry shampoo is specifically made to absorb excess oils from your hair. So, when you think about it, it makes sense that this hair-care product can be used to create a matte finish. After all, a lack of oils means an absence of shine. Look for an offering that has an invisible formula that will blend seamlessly into your hair. Then, spray and tousle your mane with your fingers.
Tip #2. Try Baby Powder
Baby powder works as a stand-in for dry shampoo in a pinch, and that goes for creating a matte hair finish, too. Sprinkle a small amount of baby powder into your hand before working it throughout your strands. Keep in mind that this option is best for those with a lighter hair color, since baby powder can leave a white cast on dark locks.
Tip #3. Turn To Hairspray
One of the easiest ways to achieve the matte hair trend is to use a matte finish hairspray. All you have to do is mist the product over your mane after styling. Easy, peasy.
Next up: Speaking of hair trends for men, if you want to be in the loop on another mane attraction, click over to our article, Trend Alert: Curly Perms For Men.