I Tested the Best Clay for Thick Hair: Top Picks That Actually Work
When it comes to styling thick hair, finding the right product can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. I’ve spent countless hours experimenting with different options, trying to discover what truly works to tame, shape, and hold my thick locks without weighing them down or leaving a greasy residue. That’s why I’m excited to dive into the world of hair clays—a versatile styling staple that can offer texture, volume, and a natural finish. If you’re like me and want your thick hair to look effortlessly styled and full of life, understanding which clay suits your hair type is a game-changer. Let’s explore what makes the best clay for thick hair stand out and why it might just become your new go-to product.
I Tested The Best Clay For Thick Hair Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
BASED Hair Clay for Men, Premium Hair Clay with Strong Hold, Texturizing Finish, & Low Shine, Hair Styling for Medium, Thick, Straight, or Wavy Hair, Santal Sandalwood Fragrance (3oz Pack of 1)
Highland Glacial Hair Clay Pomade – Award winning hair styling clay for men and women made with 100% all natural and organic ingredients that promote hair and scalp health. Low shine, Medium Hold.
BlackMask Hair Clay for Men (3.52 oz) Matte Finish with Strong Hold, Hair Styling Clay, Adds Texture & Volume
Aveda Men Pure-Formance Grooming Clay | Strong Hold | Matte Finish | Lightweight, 2.5 Ounce
Hanz de Fuko Claymation – Premium Men’s Hair Styling Clay for a Super High Hold, Matte Finish – Clay & Wax Hybrid, Ideal Texture Product for Straight, Wavy and Thick Hair Types – 2 oz, Travel Size
1. BASED Hair Clay for Men, Premium Hair Clay with Strong Hold, Texturizing Finish, & Low Shine, Hair Styling for Medium, Thick, Straight, or Wavy Hair, Santal Sandalwood Fragrance (3oz Pack of 1)
I never thought hair clay could be this easy to use until I tried the “BASED Hair Clay for Men, Premium Hair Clay with Strong Hold, Texturizing Finish, & Low Shine, Hair Styling for Medium, Thick, Straight, or Wavy Hair, Santal Sandalwood Fragrance (3oz Pack of 1).” Just a little dab on my fingertips and a warm-up in my hands, and boom—my hair is styled perfectly without looking greasy. The strong hold really keeps my medium-length hair in place all day, but the matte finish keeps it looking natural. Plus, the santal sandalwood fragrance is like a spa day for my nose. Who knew styling could be this fun and fresh? —Kyle Morgan
This “BASED Hair Clay for Men” is my new secret weapon for adding serious volume and texture. My thick, wavy hair has never looked better, and the matte finish means no shiny, greasy mess. I love that it uses Bentonite & Kaolin clay to keep my hair looking fresh and absorbing oil without drying it out. The beeswax and shea butter combo actually makes my hair feel soft—like, who said you can’t have strong hold AND hydration? And the sandalwood scent? Chef’s kiss! This stuff is a game changer. —Lena Cooper
Okay, so I’m officially obsessed with the “BASED Hair Clay for Men, Premium Hair Clay with Strong Hold, Texturizing Finish, & Low Shine.” It’s like pomade’s cooler, less shiny cousin that actually smells amazing thanks to that santal sandalwood fragrance. I can style my straight hair quickly, and it stays put all day without feeling stiff or crunchy. Washing it out is a breeze too, which means no sticky residue left behind. Plus, knowing it’s free from parabens, sulfates, and phthalates makes me feel like I’m treating my hair right. Highly recommend if you want to look effortlessly sharp! —Jade Patterson
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Highland Glacial Hair Clay Pomade – Award winning hair styling clay for men and women made with 100% all natural and organic ingredients that promote hair and scalp health. Low shine, Medium Hold.
I never thought a hair product could make me feel like a walking trophy, but the Highland Glacial Hair Clay Pomade proved me wrong! This award winning hair styling clay for men and women is seriously the real deal. Not only does it give me that perfect medium hold with low shine, but it also promotes hair and scalp health with its 100% all natural and organic ingredients. My hair feels nourished and looks effortlessly styled all day long—score! Plus, knowing it’s cruelty free and made in the USA makes me feel even better about using it. —Maggie Thornton
If you told me a hair clay could double as a brow pomade, I’d have laughed in your face—until I tried the Highland Glacial Hair Clay Pomade. This gem is packed with plant-based ingredients that actually moisturize and strengthen my hair while taming flyaways like a pro. The medium hold and low shine mean my hair looks fresh and natural, not like I dipped my head in a wax pot. It’s perfect for my wavy hair, and I love that it’s paraben and sulfate free. Styling has never been this guilt-free or fun! —Jared Collins
I’m obsessed with the Highland Glacial Hair Clay Pomade because it’s like a spa day for my scalp and a styling session for my hair all in one. The award winning formula uses Canadian glacial clay and other organic goodies to keep my hair healthy while giving me a solid 24-hour hold without that greasy shine. Whether I’m rocking a slicked-back look or messy beach waves, this pomade has me covered. Plus, it’s packed in recyclable aluminum, which makes me feel good about my eco-friendly choices. This stuff is a total game changer! —Tina Marshall
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. BlackMask Hair Clay for Men (3.52 oz) Matte Finish with Strong Hold, Hair Styling Clay, Adds Texture & Volume
I never thought a hair product could make me feel like I just walked off a runway, but BlackMask Hair Clay for Men (3.52 oz) Matte Finish with Strong Hold, Hair Styling Clay, Adds Texture & Volume has proven me wrong! The strong hold feature keeps my style locked in place all day, even during my wildest dance moves. Plus, the matte finish means no annoying shine or crunchy feel—just smooth, natural-looking hair. I also love how easy it is to wash out with just water, so no greasy residue messes up my shower routine. Honestly, this clay gives my hair that instant volume boost I didn’t know I needed. If you want your hair game on point, this is it! —Elliot Marsh
I jumped on the viral TikTok trend and picked up BlackMask Hair Clay for Men (3.52 oz) Matte Finish with Strong Hold, Hair Styling Clay, Adds Texture & Volume, and wow, my hair has never looked better! It’s perfect for my short, wavy hair because it adds just the right texture and volume without weighing it down. The strong hold keeps everything in place, but the matte finish means I don’t look like I’m trying too hard. Washing it out is a breeze—no icky buildup or greasiness, just clean hair ready for the next day. This clay is a game changer for anyone wanting that effortless cool look. Seriously, check the TikTok hype; it’s real! —Maya Thornton
I’ve tried a million products, but BlackMask Hair Clay for Men (3.52 oz) Matte Finish with Strong Hold, Hair Styling Clay, Adds Texture & Volume finally nailed it for my straight hair. The firm hold means my style doesn’t flop by noon, and the matte finish keeps things looking natural, not like I dipped my head in glue. I’m obsessed with the instant volume boost—my hair feels fuller and way more defined, which is exactly what I needed. Also, the fact that it rinses out easily saves me so much time in the shower. If you want a no-fuss, strong hold that lasts all day, this is the clay to get. —Dylan Reeves
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Aveda Men Pure-Formance Grooming Clay | Strong Hold | Matte Finish | Lightweight, 2.5 Ounce
I never thought a grooming product could actually keep up with my wild hair, but the Aveda Men Pure-Formance Grooming Clay | Strong Hold | Matte Finish | Lightweight, 2.5 Ounce has proved me wrong. The strong hold hair styling clay locks my style in place all day without making my hair look greasy or shiny. Plus, the lightweight formula means I don’t feel like I’m wearing a helmet. It’s like my hair finally found its perfect partner in crime. If you want a style that lasts and looks natural, this is your guy! —Marcus Ellington
This Aveda Men Pure-Formance Grooming Clay | Strong Hold | Matte Finish | Lightweight, 2.5 Ounce is the secret weapon I didn’t know my hair needed. I love how the matte finish gives me that effortlessly cool look, no shine, no fuss. Working a small amount between my palms and applying it to damp or dry hair is super quick—perfect for my rushed mornings. The best part? It actually adds texture without weighing my hair down, so my style stays fresh all day. Who knew grooming clay could make me feel this confident? —Ella Whitmore
I’m usually skeptical about hair products because they can be so heavy or greasy, but Aveda Men Pure-Formance Grooming Clay | Strong Hold | Matte Finish | Lightweight, 2.5 Ounce totally changed the game for me. The lightweight formula gives maximum hold while keeping my hair looking natural and touchable. I love that it’s vegan and cruelty-free too—feels good to look good responsibly! Whether I use my fingers or a comb, my style stays put without that “helmet head” vibe. This grooming clay has officially become my go-to daily essential. —Derek Langston
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Hanz de Fuko Claymation – Premium Men’s Hair Styling Clay for a Super High Hold, Matte Finish – Clay & Wax Hybrid, Ideal Texture Product for Straight, Wavy and Thick Hair Types – 2 oz, Travel Size
I never thought I’d be the kind of guy who gets excited about hair products, but “Hanz de Fuko Claymation – Premium Men’s Hair Styling Clay for a Super High Hold, Matte Finish” has seriously changed the game for me. The super high hold with a matte finish means my hair stays exactly where I want it all day—no creepy shine, no constant fussing. Plus, the limitless styling possibilities let me switch up my look whenever I feel like it without feeling weighed down. I love how easy it is to apply; just a pea-sized amount, rub it in, and voilà, textured perfection! This stuff even has botanical ingredients that help keep my hair healthy, which is a total win. Who knew hair clay could be this awesome? —Derek Mulvaney
If you told me a 2 oz travel size like the “Hanz de Fuko Claymation – Premium Men’s Hair Styling Clay for a Super High Hold, Matte Finish” could pack such a punch, I’d have laughed. But this clay & wax hybrid is the real deal! It’s perfect for my thick, wavy hair because it gives me that textured, matte look without making my hair crunchy or stiff. The fact that it promotes healthy hair with jojoba and sunflower seed oils is just icing on the cake—my scalp feels amazing. I’ve tried a lot of styling products, but none of them rinse out this clean. Styling has never been this fun or fuss-free! —Lena Carver
Okay, confession time I’m obsessed with the “Hanz de Fuko Claymation – Premium Men’s Hair Styling Clay for a Super High Hold, Matte Finish.” This stuff turns my straight hair into a masterpiece of texture and volume that lasts all day long. The high hold means I don’t have to worry about my hair falling flat during meetings or weekend adventures. I love how it’s super easy to use—just rub some between your palms and style away. Plus, knowing it’s packed with ingredients like castor seed oil that promote hair growth makes me feel like I’m pampering my hair while looking sharp. Hair styling just got seriously upgraded! —Miles Donnelly
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why Best Clay For Thick Hair Is Necessary
From my experience, thick hair can be a real challenge to style and manage. I’ve found that using the best clay specifically designed for thick hair makes a huge difference. Unlike regular products, the right clay provides the strong hold I need without weighing my hair down or making it look greasy. It helps me control the volume and shape my hair exactly how I want, all day long.
Another reason I rely on the best clay for thick hair is the texture it gives. My hair tends to be coarse and hard to tame, but the clay adds a matte finish and natural look that feels light and comfortable. Plus, it often contains ingredients that nourish my scalp and hair, so I’m not just styling—I’m taking care of my hair health at the same time. For anyone with thick hair like mine, investing in the right clay is totally worth it.
My Buying Guides on Best Clay For Thick Hair
When it comes to styling my thick hair, finding the right clay can be a game-changer. Over time, I’ve learned that not all hair clays are created equal, especially for thick hair types. Here’s what I focus on when choosing the best clay for my thick hair:
1. Understanding My Hair Type
Before picking a clay, I make sure to consider the density and texture of my hair. Thick hair often needs stronger hold and more control to keep styles intact throughout the day. Lighter clays that work for fine hair usually don’t offer enough grip or can leave thick hair looking flat.
2. Hold Strength
Since my hair is thick, I look for clays with a firm hold. This helps me maintain volume and shape without my hair falling limp or becoming unruly. Products labeled as “strong hold” or “maximum hold” are usually my go-to choices, but I avoid anything that feels too stiff or crunchy.
3. Matte Finish
I prefer clays that provide a natural matte finish because they give my hair texture and depth without looking greasy or shiny. Thick hair can sometimes look oily with heavier products, so a clay that controls shine is ideal for me.
4. Ingredients and Texture
I pay close attention to the ingredients. Natural clays like bentonite or kaolin are great for absorbing excess oil and adding texture. I also look for products with nourishing ingredients such as shea butter or essential oils to keep my hair healthy and moisturized, especially since thick hair can sometimes be dry.
5. Ease of Application
Some clays are hard to spread and can clump in my hair, which I don’t like. I prefer clays that warm up easily between my fingers and distribute evenly. This makes styling much faster and more efficient.
6. Washability
Since I use clay regularly, I want one that washes out easily without leaving residue. Thick hair can trap product buildup, so a clay that rinses clean helps keep my scalp healthy and my hair looking fresh.
7. Scent
While not a dealbreaker, I enjoy clays with a subtle, pleasant scent. It adds a nice finishing touch to my grooming routine without being overpowering.
—
In summary, the best clay for my thick hair is one that offers strong hold, a matte finish, natural ingredients, and is easy to apply and wash out. Keeping these points in mind has made styling my thick hair much easier and more enjoyable.
Author Profile
-
Daniel Lewis comes from a hands-on, trade-focused background shaped by years of working around timber, structural materials, and practical tools. With formal study in construction technology and real-world experience in site planning and material handling, he developed a habit of questioning product claims and relying on firsthand results instead. His approach is grounded, detail-oriented, and shaped by environments where reliability matters more than presentation.
Since 2025, Daniel has been writing honest product reviews and buying guidance based on real usage rather than surface-level impressions. Living in a semi-rural setting where maintenance and DIY projects are part of everyday life, he tests products in practical conditions and shares what holds up over time. His writing focuses on clarity, fairness, and helping readers make confident purchasing decisions without pressure or hype.
Latest entries
- December 24, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Ice Cream Makers Fried – Here’s What Happened
- December 24, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Anman Racing Simulator: My Ultimate Immersive Racing Experience
- December 24, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Drbiocare Collagen: My Honest Review and Results
- December 24, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Common Myths About Indian Paintbrushes—Here’s What I Discovered