With so many kinds of men’s hairstyling products out there – including mousse, gel, pomade, wax, and serum – it’s easy to get confused. So we’ve decided to put together a Tip and Tricks series about common men’s hairstyling products, why you should use them, and how to use them. Consider this your primer in hair spiffer-uppers.

Up first: Hair serum.

What is hair serum?

Hair serum is primarily a finisher – while it can be used alone, we like to put it on after we’ve sculpted our hairstyle for added shine and to tame frizz. Hair serum’s consistency is the lightest of all men’s hairstyling products, so it offers little to no hold.

What makes hair serum unique is that it doubles as a hair treatment. Some hair serums will protect your hair from the heat – just put it on before you blow dry or straighten your hair. Some contain a UV shield to prevent sun damage. Others are targeted towards men with thinning hair who want more fullness.

Who should use hair serum?

Many hair serums (also called tonics) are designed to combat thinning hair, so we recommend using a serum if you’re looking for a volume boost. Since hair serum creates a soft, relaxed look, it’s also suitable for guys with longer or shaggier hair. In other words, if you like to rock the surfer look or just like a grown-out, low-maintenance style. Hair serum reduces tangles, so it’ll make managing your hair much easier.

How do I use hair serum?

After shampooing and towel-drying your hair, dispense a few drops into your palms and rub over strands. Pay more attention to the ends than the roots. Allow your hair to dry and style as usual.

A few of our hair serum picks:

For thinning hair:

Floid Anti-Hairloss Tonic

Floid Anti-Hairloss Tonic, Pomades.com

For all-in-one frizz control, scalp stimulation, and conditioning:

Lucky Tiger Control Three Purpose Hair Tonic

Lucky Tiger Control Three Purpose Hair Tonic, Pomades.com

For frizz control and shine:

Taylor of Old Bond Street Fragrance Free Brilliantine

Taylor of Old Bond Street Exquisite Fragrance Free Brilliantine, Pomades.com

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