Pomades, clays, pastes and styling creams help shape and define a hairstyle; powders, salt sprays and tonics offer other ways to add texture or prepare hair for styling. Hairsprays help set the finished style, while heat protectants are intended for use before heat styling.

Start with the hold and finish you want: lighter hold allows more movement, stronger hold keeps the shape more firmly in place, and finishes range from matte to shiny. Then consider hair length, thickness and whether you style with your fingers, a comb or a dryer; follow the product’s directions for use on damp or dry hair.