How to Make a Hair Pompadour

Glitzy jacket optional when you're rocking a pompadour

Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash were two of the celebrities who brought the pompadour, or pomp, hairstyle to popularity in the 1950s. Modern musicians including Huey Lewis and Green Day's Billy Joe still favor the pomp. Short, slicked-back sides and a high, full front and top characterize the style. The liberal use of pomade makes for a pompadour that won't flop. Style a pompadour with or without a part.

Things You'll Need

• Pomade or petroleum jelly
• Comb

Instructions

1. Take two fingers of pomade and distribute through hair.

2. Slick back the sides and top of your hair with the comb. Add more pomade if needed.

3. Add a side part to the top of your head, if you desire.

4. Push the hair at the crown of your head forward with your hand while combing the front hairs straight up.

5. Gently pat down with your fingers any hairs that are sticking up over the top of your pomp. Add a little pomade if needed.

6. Slick back any side hairs that have come loose.

7. Comb down any stray hairs at the back of your head.

Tips & Warnings

• Ask your barber to cut your hair short at the back and sides and long on top to help you style a pompadour.

• Begin styling your pompadour with a small amount of pomade. You'll find it easier to add pomade than to remove it if you get too much.

References

• Rockabilly Hairstyle for Men: Men Want Rockabilly Hairstyles, Too!
• Forces of Geek; How to Style a Pompadour -- The Good Kind of Grease; Stefan Blitz; February 2009