14 Best Hair Creams for Men That I Suggest for Shinier Hair

Written by Alvira Dsouza, Hair Expert
Updated on Mar 03, 2024
Best Hair Cream for Men
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Here's the deal with hair creams for men – they're like the wingman for your hair. Super easy styling, no fuss. Just slap some on, and you're good to go! It's like a cheat code for a cool hairstyle without any struggle. Based on my observation, with the best hair creams for men, you can say goodbye to that crunchy, overly styled look. They will keep things soft and touchable. You won't feel like you've got a helmet on your head. It's all about looking effortlessly cool with just one product in your hands.

Frizzy hair giving you grief? Hair creams are like your personal frizz busters. They tame your wild hair strands and keep everything in check. No need for a constant battle with the hairdryer. Moreover, who's got time for a complicated routine? Not us. Adding to that, hair creams are low maintenance but keep you high on style. Quick application and easy styling – that's the kind of grooming routine I'm all about. Some hair creams are even like secret growth potions for your hair. Packed with good stuff like vitamins and oils, they give your hair the love it deserves. Happy hair, happy you!

According to our contributor Gwenda Harmon, who is an experienced Hair Dresser & Curly Hair Specialist, “Hair creams can even help with hair growth. Such creams work best especially when you massage it into the scalp to promote hair growth.”

So gentlemen, it's time to elevate your grooming routine and unleash the full potential of your mane. Join me on this journey as I explore the top-notch choices that will undoubtedly become your grooming essentials. It's time to make a statement – starting with your hair.

14 Best Hair Creams for Men

This product from the American Crew is like the superhero of a man’s grooming routine – imagine hair gel, but cooler. A medium hold that's like the Goldilocks of styling, not too stiff, not too floppy, just right. And the shine? It's that sweet spot between "just rolled out of bed" and "red carpet ready." This cream will be your go-to for those days when you want your hair to cooperate without looking like it's auditioning for a rock band. Moreover, it's versatile – whether you are going for a casual messy look or a more polished vibe, this cream is the wingman you can count on. It's like a time machine for your hair, taking you back to the days when effortless style was the ultimate flex. American Crew, you've got my vote.

Pros
  • Dairy-free
  • Light texture
  • Suitable for all hair types
Cons
  • Poor packaging
  • Best Gentle Formula

    Dry Grooming Hair Cream for Men by Victory Barber & Brand

    Dry Grooming Hair Cream for Men by Victory Barber & Brand
  • Straight outta the USA, this stuff is like a grooming genie in a bottle. First off, major kudos for tackling frizz – it's like your hair's personal superhero against the wild fuzzies. Whether you are going for laid-back waves or a slicked-back vibe, this cream's got you covered. It's the unsung hero for your medium-length hair, giving it that natural finish without looking like you spent hours in front of the mirror. So, here's to Victory Barber & Brand for creating a styling sidekick that's got your back. Effortless style, anti-frizz magic, and a touch of American swag – what more could a guy ask for?

    Pros
    • Gentle formula
    • Climate pledge friendly
    • Suitable for dry hair types
    Cons
    • Overpowering smell
  • Best for Strengthening Hair

    Billy Jealousy Headlock Hair Molding Cream

    Billy Jealousy Headlock Hair Molding Cream
  • My brother gave this hair cream for men from Billy Jealousy a whirl, and let me spill the tea – his hair game reached legendary status. That strong, all-day hold is like a hair fortress, defying gravity and chaos. The natural matte finish is the magic touch, giving his locks that "just woke up like this" vibe, minus the bedhead drama. From his short and sleek moments to those tousled medium-length waves, this cream is his go-to. No glossy sheen, just pure, effortless charm. I'm not just saying this – his hair looks like it's ready to headline a rock concert or stroll the red carpet, depending on the day. So, heads up to Billy Jealousy for creating this secret weapon in my brother's grooming arsenal. Hair goals, achieved!

    Pros
    • No parabens
    • Cruelty-free
    • Strengthens hair
    Cons
    • Sticky texture
  • Best for Creating Natural Look

    American Crew Men's Hair Styling Cream

    American Crew Men's Hair Styling Cream
  • This hair cream from American Crew will be a game-changer for your daily grooming routine. This hair styling product will provide a firm hold without the stiff, unnatural look of traditional gels. What sets it apart is the low shine finish, giving your hair a natural and effortless appearance. I love how easy it is to apply; just a small amount goes a long way. It will effortlessly tame your unruly locks, keeping them in place throughout the day without feeling heavy or sticky. Whether you are going for a casual, tousled look or a more polished style, this cream adapts perfectly. It doesn't just style; it nourishes too, leaving your hair feeling soft and manageable. It will deliver the hold you need with a touch of sophistication, and you wouldn't trade it for anything else.

    Pros
    • Highly moisturizing
    • Easy to use
    • Creates natural look
    Cons
    • Small size
  • Best Non-greasy Product

    Hair Cream for Men by KICK

    Hair Cream for Men by KICK
  • This award-winning styling cream boasts a medium hold that strikes the perfect balance for your daily look. What sets it apart is its non-greasy formula, allowing for a natural finish without the heavy residue. Infused with the goodness of argan and coconut oil, this cream goes beyond styling – it restores your dry and damaged hair back to life. The lightweight texture makes it easy to apply, and you will love how it effortlessly shapes your hair without stiffness. It's like a revitalizing treatment in every sense, leaving your hair looking and feeling healthier. It will offer a winning combination of style and care. It's a testament to how a quality hair product can transform not just your look, but the health of your hair too.

    Pros
    • Non-greasy
    • No parabens
    • Nice scent
    Cons
    • Pricey
  • Editor’s Pick

    OUAI Finishing Creme

    OUAI Finishing Creme
  • Say ‘OUAI’ to frizz-free, smoother, and shinier hair with this finishing cream packed with a mix of gardenia, ylang ylang, and white musk. The lightweight cream is a must-have in my haircare regime for its ability to provide deeply hydrated, healthier hair that I have always desired. Apart from that, it strengthens my mane and acts as a heat protectant to ensure no damage is caused to my tresses while heat styling them. Well, there’s more — the product, infused with hydrogenated olive oil and jojoba oil, is carefully crafted to cut styling time and nourish your hair to the maximum.

    Pros
    • Paraben-free
    • Adds shine to hair
    • Sulfate-free
    • Volumizes hair
    • Tames frizz
    Cons
    • Doesn’t smell good
  • Best Travel-friendly Product

    Woody's Styling Cream for Men

    Woody's Styling Cream for Men
  • My brother gave Woody's Styling Cream for Men a shot, and let me tell you, it's great in every sense. This stuff is like the superhero for curly and wavy hair. The flexibility it provides for styling is next level – no crunchy, stiff vibes. What's cool is that it's water-soluble, so no weird residue to deal with. Plus, the healthy shiny finish it leaves? Major win. But here's the real deal – it's not just about looks. This cream adds some serious volume and thickness. My brother's hair went from meh to majestic. And get this, it's got fibroin in it. Fancy word, right? Turns out it's a game-changer for keeping hair in check and looking healthy. So, if you're in the market for a styling cream that's easy going but packs a punch, this product is the way to go.

    Pros
    • Alcohol-free
    • Great for curly hair
    • Compact size
    Cons
    • A bit stiff
  • Best Hydrating Formula

    Avenue Man Sleek Finish Styling Cream

    Avenue Man Sleek Finish Styling Cream
  • This stuff will give you that perfect combo of a natural and firm hold. No more hair chaos! What's worth noting about this cream is the herbal extracts vibe. It's like a mini garden party in your head. And it's not picky – suits all hair types. So, whether you're rocking curls, waves, or a straight-up classic 'do, this cream's got your back. Applying it is a breeze, and it doesn't turn your hair into a grease fest. It's that ideal finishing touch without going overboard. It is basically your go-to for effortlessly cool hair – no stress, just style.

    Pros
    • Paraben-free
    • Hydrating
    • Suitable for all hair types
    Cons
    • Not great consistency
  • Smooth Vikings Forming Cream for Men

    Smooth Vikings Forming Cream for Men
  • My brother swears by the Smooth Vikings Forming Cream for Men, and now I get why. This product is like his secret weapon for nailing that effortlessly cool look. The matte finish and high hold combo? Pure genius. It's like his hair's on lockdown, but in a laid-back, not-trying-too-hard way. Whether he's rocking a short or long style, this cream adapts like a chameleon. It's like the Swiss Army knife of grooming. And for a guy with curly hair, it's been a game-changer. No more wild frizz – just perfectly styled curls. What really hooked him in is the ease of use. No complicated rituals, just a dollop and he's good to go. Smooth Vikings has become his grooming MVP, making the whole styling routine a breeze. If you want your hair game strong without the hassle, this cream is the real deal.

    Pros
    • Paraben-free
    • Great for all hair types
    • Easy application
    Cons
    • Strong smell
  • Best Lasting Control

    Paul Mitchell MITCH Clean Cut Styling Cream for Men

    Paul Mitchell MITCH Clean Cut Styling Cream for Men
  • This product will hit that sweet spot with a medium hold, giving your hair the right amount of control without going into lockdown mode. What's cool is that it works like a charm for all hair types. If you have got this short to medium hair situation happening, then this cream is for you. It's like a secret weapon for those days when you want your hair to cooperate without looking too overdone. Plus, the name says it all – clean cut. No fuss, no mess, just the right amount of hold. So, if you're looking for a styling sidekick that's got your back without being too extra, give this MITCH Clean Cut a shot. Your hair will thank you.

    Pros
    • No gluten
    • Color-safe
    • Lasting control
    Cons
    • Costly
  • Best Lightweight Texture

    Cremo Premium Barber Grade Hair Styling Matte Cream

    Cremo Premium Barber Grade Hair Styling Matte Cream
  • I'm not a hair guru, but this stuff is legit. It's got this light hold that's perfect for any laid-back style, and the low shine gives it that effortlessly cool look. No greasy vibes, just the right amount of control. What I dig most is that it's easy to work with. You will not be spending hours in front of the mirror trying to get it right. Plus, the scent is on point - not too overpowering, just a subtle freshness. Your hair stays in place without looking like you are trying too hard, and that's a win in my book. So, shoutout to my bro for the recommendation!

    Pros
    • Suitable for dry hair
    • Dairy free
    • Lightweight hair cream
    Cons
    • A bit greasy
  • Brylcreem 3-in-1 Original High Shine Men's Hair Cream

    Brylcreem 3-in-1 Original High Shine Men's Hair Cream
  • This stuff does it all - styling, strengthening, and conditioning. The high shine it gives is next level without making you look like you are stuck in the '50s. Styling-wise, it's like a magic wand for your hair. You can shape it how you want without feeling like you have got a helmet on. And the added bonus? It's like a mini spa day for your hair. The strengthening and conditioning aspects make your mane feel healthier and more robust. The scent is a subtle bonus that lingers just enough to keep things fresh. Bottom line, it is a triple threat that will take your hair game to new heights. Highly recommended for anyone wanting style and substance in one slick package.

    Pros
    • Alcohol-free
    • Suitable for all hair types
    • Non-drying
    Cons
    • A bit watery
  • Best for Enhancing Curls

    Uncle Jimmy Curl-Kicker Hair Cream for Men

    Uncle Jimmy Curl-Kicker Hair Cream for Men
  • My brother is obsessed with this hair cream as it brings the heat with a medium hold that keeps his hair in check without going all stiff and robot-like. But here's the real kicker (pun intended): black seed oil and honey. This combo not only makes his hair manageable but also gives it this healthy, luscious vibe. The best part? No flakes. It's like magic – no snowstorm on your shoulders. My brother swears by it, and if you try it, you too will be on the Curl-Kicker bandwagon.  So, major props to Uncle Jimmy for creating this gem. If you want your hair to be on point without the fuss, give this a shot.

    Pros
    • Enhances curl
    • Paraben-free
    • Long-lasting control
    Cons
    • Leaves a white residue
  • Floyd's 99 Styling Cream

    Floyd's 99 Styling Cream
  • I'm all about that easy-going, effortlessly styled vibe, and this cream nails it. It stays put without feeling like you have applied glue. What's cool is the natural shine it gives. I'm not into that super glossy look, but Floyd's 99 finds that sweet spot – a healthy, natural glow. Styling becomes a breeze with this cream. No rocket science, just a dollop, a quick tousle, and you are good to go. Plus, it doesn't feel heavy or greasy, which is a deal-breaker for me. So, if you're after a styling cream that gets the job done without the drama, it is the real deal.

    Pros
    • Long-lasting stay
    • Versatile styler
    • Easy to apply
    Cons
    • Poor packaging

    Now that you have seen my product recommendations for the best hair creams for men, glance through my buying guide to make an informed purchase.

    How to Choose the Best Hair Cream for Men?

    Whether you have thick, thin, curly, or straight hair, I believe that recognizing these characteristics will guide you toward products designed to meet your  hair's unique needs.

    Defining Style And Hold: Your preferred hairstyle and the level of hold you desire dictate your choice. Hair creams offer a spectrum of holds, from light and flexible to strong and structured. I will suggest assessing your daily styling routine helps pinpoint the ideal level of control.

    Inspecting Ingredients:I always prioritize products with nourishing ingredients like natural oils, vitamins, and proteins. You must steer clear of harsh chemicals that could potentially harm your hair or scalp. A glance at the ingredients list ensures you are making a healthy choice for your hair.

    Sharing more about formulations, our contributor Nate Masterson, a hair expert, says, “The benefits of hair creams depend largely on the ingredients and formulation. There are no hair creams that can actually make your hair grow faster or cause it to become thicker, but ingredients like rosemary, argan and biotin can help give you a boost in volume, leading to hair that appears thicker and healthier.”

    Speaking of ingredients, Gwenda Harmon - Curly hair specialist, says, “Natural ingredients from hair creams can help promote scalp and hair health because they can reduce inflammation and improve blood circulation. These can also help hydrate and nourish the hair through natural oils, plant extracts, and natural proteins. Hair creams also contain antioxidants to repel environmental damage such as UV rays and air pollution.”

    Considering Scent Preferences: Personal preference matters in product satisfaction. So choose a hair cream with a scent that aligns with your taste. Whether it's a subtle aroma or a more distinct fragrance, it must ensure a pleasant grooming experience.

    Trial And Observation: Before committing, I always conduct a trial. Applying a small amount of the chosen hair cream will allow you to observe how it interacts with your hair throughout the day. This hands-on approach ensures compatibility and will help you gauge the product's effectiveness.

    Contributor: Gwenda Harmon, Hair Dresser & Curly Hair Specialist - Click for blog

    Nate Masterson, Hair Expert - Maple Holistics

    Conclusion

    So, there you have it, folks – the lowdown on the best hair creams for men. From effortlessly taming frizz to nailing that laid-back style, these creams, including American Crew Men's Hair Forming Cream are like the magic wand for your hair. It's not just about looking good; it's about feeling good too. With Dry Grooming Hair Cream for Men by Victory Barber & Brand, no more crunchy, over-styled mess – just soft, touchable hair that plays nice. And let's not forget the secret health boost some of these creams like Hair Cream for Men by KICK bring to the party – vitamins and oils working their behind-the-scenes magic. So, whether you're a style guru or a grooming minimalist, there's a hair cream out there with your name on it. Select any of my above recommended products, and let your hair do the talking. Cheers to good vibes and great hair!

    FAQ's

    Can I use hair cream for men on all hair types?
    Always check the label and ensure that it is suitable for your hair type. This is because some creams may have different ingredients catered toward different hair types. Also note that some hair creams may have a stronger hold than others, so choose one that matches your desired hair style.
    Can I use hair cream for men on dry or wet hair?
    Certainly! Hair cream for men is versatile and can be used on both dry and wet hair. For a natural, textured look, apply it to damp hair. For a polished, structured style, use it on dry hair. Start with a small amount and adjust based on your desired hold.
    Does hair cream for men provide heat protection?
    Hair creams for men may not always explicitly mention heat protection. While they offer styling benefits like hold and texture, dedicated heat protectants are recommended for safeguarding hair from heat damage during styling. Check product labels for specific features or use a separate heat protectant before using styling tools to ensure your hair stays healthy and protected.
    Can I use hair cream for men with other styling products?
    Absolutely! Hair cream for men can be layered with other styling products to achieve your desired look. My friends often combine it with pomade, wax, or styling spray to enhance hold, texture, or shine. However, it's crucial not to overdo it; start with small amounts of each product and adjust based on your styling needs to avoid buildup or heaviness.
    Does hair cream wash out easily?
    The ease of washing out hair cream depends on its formulation. Water-based styling creams usually rinse out easily during a shower. Leave-in conditioners are often lightweight and may stay until the next wash. Oil-based creams may require clarifying shampoo for effective removal. Product buildup can affect washability, so periodic clarifying may be needed.
    Is hair cream suitable for short hair or longer hairstyles?
    Hair cream is suitable for both short hair and longer hairstyles. It provides texture, definition, and control, making it ideal for styling various lengths. For short hair, a small amount can add texture and shape. For longer styles, it helps manage frizz and adds a polished finish. Adjust the amount based on hair length and styling preferences.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    Alvira reviewed the best hair creams for men for her brother and father to make informed grooming choices. Researching various products allowed her to understand their formulations, benefits, and user experiences. By exploring factors like hold, texture, and scent, she can pinpoint hair creams tailored to your specific needs and hairstyle preferences. Her review process likely involved considering customer feedback, and product ingredients. This comprehensive approach ensures that the chosen hair cream not only aligns with her readers’ styling goals but also offers a pleasant and effective grooming experience. Her review serves as a valuable guide for others seeking quality hair care products.

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust Select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!

    Author BIO
    reviewer
    Alvira Dsouza
    Hair Expert

    With a keen eye for detail and a passion for hairstyling, Alvira is a certified Hair Expert who brings the latest tre More