Dapper Dan Hair Products Review: Matte Paste and Heavy Hold Pomade

This review dives deep into Dapper Dan's Matte Paste and Heavy Hold Pomade, exploring their performance, scent, and overall user experience. We'll examine the unique qualities of each product, from the strong hold and matte finish of the paste to the surprisingly water-soluble nature of the heavy hold pomade, a feature uncommon in oil-based alternatives. Beyond functionality, we’ll also assess the sophisticated packaging and branding that elevates the Dapper Dan experience, creating a sense of classic barbershop luxury. Prepare for a detailed look at two products that promise to redefine your grooming routine.This comprehensive review covers every aspect, from the initial unboxing experience and the tactile feel of the packaging, to the ease of application, hold, and wash-out. We’ll delve into the distinct scents of each product and discuss how they contribute to the overall sensory experience. Ultimately, we’ll determine whether Dapper Dan’s Matte Paste and Heavy Hold Pomade live up to the hype, delivering the quality and performance promised by their stylish presentation and reasonable price point. Get ready for a complete and honest assessment of these two exceptional styling products.

Pros And Cons

Dapper Dan Matte Paste
  • Good strong hold
  • Low shine
  • Adds texture
  • Flexible hold
  • Water-soluble
  • Washes out easily
  • No flaky skin or buildup
  • Good scent (described as barbershop cologne)
  • Good for adding texture to hair
Dapper Dan Heavy Hold Pomade
  • Good hold
  • Pliable, doesn't hold hair rigidly
  • Medium to high shine
  • Water-soluble
  • Washes out easily
  • Doesn't dry crispy
  • Supple hold
  • Good for pompadours, slick backs, comb-overs
  • Nice scent (described as vanilla with a hint of licorice)
  • Oil-based (initially unexpected)

Read more: Top 10 Hair Waxes for Men: Find Your Perfect Style

Packaging and First Impressions

Dapper Dan's packaging immediately caught my eye. The retro Americana barbershop style is a clever touch, evoking a sense of classic grooming. The vintage-inspired design feels both nostalgic and sophisticated, immediately setting a positive tone for the product experience. It's a clear visual statement of quality and attention to detail.

Dapper Dan beard balm tins
Dapper Dan beard balm tins

The tins themselves are weighty and feel substantial in the hand, adding to the overall premium feel. The design elements, with their aged, crackled effect, look very appealing and align with the brand’s overall aesthetic. This presentation shows that Dapper Dan is committed to delivering a high-quality, well-considered product.

Dapper Dan Matte Paste: Texture, Hold, and Scent

The Matte Paste is described as a 'high-hold, low-shine' product. It lives up to its claims, offering a strong hold without that greasy look some other products can create. The texture is unique, a balance between paste and cream; it's easily workable and adds significant texture to the hair without clumping.

The scent is a fresh, clean cologne-like fragrance, reminiscent of a classic barbershop. It's subtle but pleasant, lasting for a reasonable time throughout the day. The paste also washes out effortlessly and cleanly, leaving no residue or irritation.

Dapper Dan Heavy Hold Pomade: A Classic with a Twist

Unlike some traditional oil-based pomades, the Heavy Hold Pomade from Dapper Dan offers a surprising twist: it's water-soluble. This is a major advantage, eliminating the struggle of removing stubborn product build-up. Despite its oil-base, this pomade washes out easily, preventing the flaking or irritation that can occur with less-refined formulas.

Dapper Dan Heavy Hold Pomade jar
Dapper Dan Heavy Hold Pomade jar

It provides a strong but pliable hold, allowing for restyling throughout the day. The shine is a nice medium to high, not overly glossy but definitely adding to the style. The scent, described as licorice and vanilla, is more prominent vanilla to me. It's a warm and inviting scent, adding to the luxurious feel of the product.

Overall Conclusion and Score

Both the Dapper Dan Matte Paste and Heavy Hold Pomade are excellent products, each exceeding expectations. The Matte Paste is ideal for those seeking texture and strong, flexible hold without shine. The Heavy Hold Pomade excels in achieving classic styles with its strong yet pliable hold and surprisingly easy water-solubility.

For their quality, performance, and reasonable price (£11.95), I'm giving both products a perfect 20 out of 20. Whether you prefer a matte paste or a pomade, Dapper Dan delivers exceptional products that are worth trying.