A relatively new contender on the men’s hair styling scene, powders have quickly risen through the ranks of pomades, waxes and gels to become one of the most popular categories on the market - and for good reason.
As someone who’s always struggled with styling fine hair, it’s no surprise to me that guys are flocking to powders. Where other styling products can easily start to look greasy in their bid to deliver texture, powders instead remove excess oils and moisture thanks to ingredients like rice powder or sea salt - without compromising on styling benefits.
As explained by Wes Sharpton, Lead Educator at Hairstory: “Short hair can benefit from using hair powder because of its oil absorption and added texture. The great thing about our powder is when it’s applied close to the roots, it creates a lot of volume.”
Whether you’ve seen them trending on TikTok or your barber has used the wonder product on your fresh trim, we’re sure you’re familiar with the many plus points. You simply need to sprinkle some of the product into your locks for improved volume and fullness, as well as a naturally-looking matte finish which can be hard to achieve with the likes of clays or waxes.
How to apply hair powder for men?
So, what’s the best way to apply powder? Neil Moodie, hair stylist and founder of the Neil Moodie Studio, has the answer: “Use it sparingly to begin with - you can always add more if you feel you need it. It’s important to apply at the roots first to get some height in your hairstyle and emphasise fullness".
He continues: “Some people like the effect of hair powder on its own, but for extra hold, you can use a bit of hairspray, pomade or wax on top. Adding another layer of powder after you’ve finished styling will add more texture to your finished look”
What ingredients are best?
Those enriched with natural ingredients should be at the top of your list - and anything with talc is a big no-no. According to Sharpton: “It must be talc-free. Hairstory’s Powder has corn starch, tapioca starch and kaolin to help create this incredibly fine powder that really plumps up the hair.”
Moodie agrees: “Plant-based hair powders are the best as they are cruelty-free and also nourish your hair with vitamins and minerals. Chemical-based products are bad for the environment and can lead to dry hair and damaged follicles, especially for hair that is colour treated.”
So, without further ado, it’s time to find your new hair styling companion in our list of the best below.
Keep scrolling for our top pick
Best electric shavers for men, from budget to top of the range
Best manicure sets for men to keep your nails ship shape at home in 2023
Best hair gels for men to give you a slick or sculpted style
Best men’s grooming brands to know for your bathroom cabinet
Daimon Barber Texture Dust 20g
A powder that ticks all of the boxes, Daimon Barber’s Texture Dust mattifies your mane for added texture and hold - and doesn’t leave a residue when you wash it out. Especially effective for those with fine strands, this will make your locks feel thicker and fuller in an instant.
Buy now £23.00, lookfantastic
Bumble and bumble Prêt-à-powder, 56g
Equal parts dry shampoo and styling product, a sprinkle of Bumble and bumble’s Prêt-à-powder will absorb oil, create volume and add texture all in one go. Perfect for all hair types, it will give your style the refresh it needs to extend the time between washes. Your locks can thank us later.
Buy now £24.00, John Lewis
Davines Texturising Dust 8g
Founded in Parma in 1983, Davines is a high-end specialist haircare brand with 40 years of experience in the field. So, naturally, considering the level of expertise, this powder is one of the best on the market. It will deliver volume, structured hold and luxurious fullness - and your hair will stay healthy thanks to the paraben- and colour-free credentials.
Buy now £25.50, Liberty
Slick Gorilla Hair Styling Powder 20g
It’s no wonder this styling powder is Slick Gorilla’s best-selling product. From the natural-looking matte finish to the medium to strong hold, it lends itself to creating a nonchalant bedhead look that will last all day long.
Buy now £11.95, Boots
Sachajuan Volume Powder Hair Spray 200ml
It’s not always easy to achieve an equal spread of styling powder when sprinkling it by hand - so perhaps you could try Sachajuan’s spray applicator instead. It will create a soft texture with a flexible hold - and is perfect for resurrecting lacklustre or greasy hair in between washes.
Buy now £33.00, lookfantastic
Briogeo Blossom & Bloom Ginseng + Biotin Volumizing Root Powder 35g
Enriched with natural ingredients, Briogeo’s formula uses mineral-derived silica and maltodextrin, a natural corn starch, to gently lift the hair from the root, whilst extracts of ginger, ginseng and biotin help to retain its health. A product that’s good for your hair both inside and out.
Buy now £22.40, Sephora
Kevin Murphy Powder Puff
You may recognise Kevin Murphy’s range from the candy-coloured cases - and if not, you’re in for a treat. The products have much more to give beyond their trademark packaging.
Each formula is infused with active ingredients which are both effective and hair-loving - and this powder is a case in point. Containing amino acids and alaria esculenta extract, it will boost hydration whilst reinforcing the structure of the hair to promote volume and body - achieving the perfect naturally tousled look with some extra oomph.
Buy now £32.57, Amazon
American Crew Boost Powder (10g)
American Crew has an unrivalled selection of styling products for men, whether you’re in the market for a high-hold hairspray or a reworkable cream pomade. This boost powder will give your hair volume, separation and enhanced texture - not to mention the natural no-shine finish.
Buy now £18.80, lookfantastic
got2b Hair Volume Styling Powder POWDER'ful 10g
If you’re looking to try hair powder for the first time, why not give got2be’s formula a go? It delivers texture, fullness and a long-lasting hold, all for just £5.50.
Buy now £5.50, Boots
