Classic combed styles (side part, slick back) and raw, textured looks call for two different tools: pomade and fiber wax. Brands like American Crew and Reuzel made these categories famous — but the style is not brand-dependent. Here is the difference and a good alternative.
Pomade: shine and combability
Pomade gives a sleek, shiny, elegant finish and stays combable all day. The water-based (aqua) version washes out with water and is not greasy — the most convenient entry to the classic look.
Fiber wax: texture and separation
Fiber wax has a stringy texture: it adds texture, strand separation and a flexible, near-matte hold. Ideal for rawer, tousled styles, on thick and fine hair alike.
Hair Waxes
Agiva Styling Hair Wax Pomade - Grey
175 Ml
Hair Care
Agiva Care & Beauty Hair Styling Wax Fiber Gum Flexible Hold
100 Ml
Hair Waxes
Agiva Styling Hair Wax Matte Paste - Green
175 Ml
Hair Waxes
Agiva Styling Hair Wax Aqua Strong - Orange
175 Ml
Which product for which effect?
| Effect | Tool | Finish | Base |
|---|---|---|---|
| Combed, sleek (slick back) | Pomade | Shiny | Water |
| Textured, raw | Fiber wax | Near-matte | Water |
| Fully matte, loose | Matte paste | Matte | Water |
| Strong, all-day | Aqua wax | Shiny | Water |
If you are still on the hold/finish basics, our how to choose a hair wax article helps; the products are on the hair wax page.
Frequently asked questions
What is fiber wax?
Fiber wax is a stringy, tacky styler that gives texture and a flexible, medium-to-strong hold, usually with a matte or low-shine finish. It separates strands well on both thick and fine hair.
Pomade or fiber — which do I need?
For a combed, sleek, shiny classic style (side part, slick back), pomade is the pick. For a rawer, textured, tousled effect, go for fiber or a matte paste.
Is water-based pomade better than oil-based?
Water-based (aqua) pomade washes out easily with water and leaves no greasy film on your pillowcase — which many find more convenient. Oil-based pomade gives a stronger, longer-lasting shine and all-day combability, but is harder to remove.
Is there an alternative to American Crew or Reuzel?
Yes — both brands represent the pomade/fiber category. If you want a similar-effect alternative from a professional line, AGIVA pomade, Fiber Gum and matte paste cover the same styles, available in Hungary.
See pomades and fibers
Both classic shine and raw texture — a professional line, available in Hungary.