Nailing that “I just rolled outta bed but still look hot” hair? Yeah, it’s way trickier than Instagram makes it look. Every dude chases that chill, effortless style, but let’s get real—it doesn’t just happen by accident. If you’re not using hairpaste, you’re making life harder for yourself.
Forget those crunchy gels or slick pomades that make your hair look like you dunked your head in a fryer. Paste is where the magic happens. It dishes out texture, keeps your style in check, and leaves your hair looking like hair, no helmet head, no blinding shine. Quiff? Tamed curls? Just need a little lift? Paste does it all, no drama.
We’ve put these pastes through the wringer—like, we didn’t just skim Amazon reviews and call it a day. In real life, we slathered them on real hair with all the sweat, rain, and bad hair days you can imagine. Some were duds. A few were total game-changers. The ones here? Yeah, they’re legit.
Most are water-based, so you’re not stuck scrubbing your scalp for eternity. You can restyle them throughout the day, and they work for different hair types—thick, thin, wild, or just plain stubborn.
Are you sick of squinting at endless options in the hair aisle? Chill. I’ve got you covered. Here are the 15 best hair pastes for that perfectly messy look in 2025. We tested them, so you don’t have to.
Quick Summary: 15 Best Hair Paste for Messy Look
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PRODUCT
VICTORY BARBER & BRAND SUPER-DRY MEN'S HAIR PASTE
- Lightweight, matte finish
- Suitable for all-day styling
- Adds texture and definition
MONARCH MATTE PASTE
- Premium matte finish
- Strong hold with natural texture
- Easy to apply and wash out
KEVIN.MURPHY FREE.HOLD – HAIR STYLING PASTE
- Flexible hold for long hair
- Provides shine and texture
- Infused with natural ingredients
LAYRITE NATURAL MATTE CREAM
- Creamy texture for easy application
- Medium hold with a natural matte finish
- Perfect for everyday hairstyles
SCHWARZKOPF GOT2B MATTE PASTE
- Intense hold with a matte finish
- Long-lasting control for thick hair
- Affordable and widely available
GOLDWELL MATTE CREAM PASTE
- Strong hold with a smooth finish
- No stickiness or residue
- Perfect for precise styling
SHEAR REVIVAL NORTHERN LIGHTS MATTE PASTE
- Natural, hand-crafted formula
- The pleasant, subtle scent
- Works for all hair types
ARCADIAN VANILLA CEDAR MATTE PASTE
- Vanilla and cedar aroma
- Pliable hold with texture boost
- Great for medium to long hair
FORTE SERIES MOLDING PASTE
- All-day hold for versatile styling
- Adds thickness and texture
- Suited for short to medium hair
GOT2B PHENOMENAL MOLDING PASTE
- Strong hold with a natural matte finish
- Budget-friendly and effective
- Ideal for daily styling needs
JOHNNY’S CHOP SHOP #1 MEN'S HAIR STYLING MATTE PASTE
- Classic barbershop formula
- Medium hold with a clean matte look
- Suitable for all hair lengths
MATRIX 3 IN 1 OVER ACHIEVER 3-IN-1 PASTE WAX
- Paste, wax, and cream in one
- Flexible hold for multiple hairstyles
- Easy to apply and rework
VO5 SURFSTYLE NATURAL HOLD HAIR PASTE
- Natural hold with a textured, beachy look
- Affordable and lightweight
- Great for casual, everyday use
REDKEN TEXTURE PASTE STYLING PRODUCT
- Adds texture with a firm yet moldable hold
- Suitable for a professional polished look
- Works well for thick and short hair
MANCAVE TEXTURISING HAIR PASTE
- Natural ingredients for hair health
- Medium hold with texture boost
- Perfect for daily casual styles
Top 15 Hair Pastes for Messy Look in 2025
Victory Barber & Brand Super-Dry Men's Hair Paste
Award/Highlight: Best for Maximum Texture and Hold
Description:
The real game-changer in men’s hairstyling is the Vijay Barber & Brand Super-Dry Men’s Hair Paste. This paste is made from a high-performance blend of ingredients that provides a strong yet flexible hold, giving you ultimate control without sacrificing a natural look. The super-dry finish offers a matte appearance that doesn’t weigh your hair down, leaving it with a textured, lived-in feel. Whether you’re going for an effortlessly messy style or a more defined look, this product will keep your hair in place all day without losing its touchable softness.
Why It’s Great for a Messy Look:
For the perfect messy and tousled style, look to the Vijay Barber & Brand Super-Dry Men’s Hair Paste. The product provides incredible texture with a non-greasy, matte finish that’s perfect for natural or beach-inspired looks and slightly tousled, messy styles. It adds volume and grit to your hair with a flexible hold that enhances messy textures. Plus, it doesn’t leave your hair flat and can be reshaped and restyled whenever you want for that carefree effect.
Who Is It Suitable For?
The Vijay Barber & Brand Super-Dry Men’s Hair Paste is designed for men with short to medium-length hair who are in search of a versatile styling product. It works well for all types of hair, especially fine or thin hair, and is guaranteed not to weigh it down or leave any greasy residue. Whether you prefer a casual, disheveled look or something sleek, this product is tailored to meet all your styling needs.
What’s Inside (Ingredients):
Aqua, PVP, Ceteareth-25, Polysorbate 20, Cetearyl Alcohol, Butylene Glycol, Beeswax, Hydrolyzed Silk Protein, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Panthenol (Vitamin B5), Mentha Viridis Leaf Oil, Limonene, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Citric Acid, Fragrance.
Review Highlight: “Used a variety of different products in the past just like almost everyone this is nice. I think people would be pleasantly surprised. Hopefully, nobody messes with the formulation because it works well and smells nice.” – C.Rice
Monarch Matte Paste
Award/Highlight: Best for Effortless Textured Looks
Description:
The Monarch Matte gives your hair a natural look of texture, with a light feel and a matte finish. Formulated to perfection, this paste provides a flexible hold to shape your hair with ease, without the stiffness and shine that other products often have. It glides through smoothly to define or style your hair in a messy, tousled look.
Why It’s Great for a Messy Look:
Monarch Matte Paste is one of those products you simply must have if you want to achieve that perfectly imperfect messy style. The formula is unique because it adds volume and texture with a natural, matte finish. The paste offers just the right amount of hold without weighing your hair down, making it perfect for creating that “just-rolled-out-of-bed” look. Plus, it allows for easy restyling throughout the day without losing its shape. For those who love that lived-in messy aesthetic, Monarch Matte Paste is your ultimate styling partner.
Who Is It Suitable For?
Monarch Matte Paste is suitable for all types of hair, especially short to medium-length hairstyles. It is particularly ideal for men with fine or thin hair due to the volume and texture the product provides, without the greasy feel of traditional pomades. Whether you want a casually tousled appearance or a structured messy look, this paste is designed with versatility in mind to handle whatever style you desire.
Source: BluMaan Official Website.
What’s Inside (Ingredients):
Aqua, VP / Methacrylamide / Vinyl Imidazole Copolymer, Lanolin Wax, PEG-8 Beeswax, Glycerin, PVP, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Phenoxyethanol, Butylene Glycol, Glyceryl Behenate, Triethanolamine, Lanolin Alcohol, Carbomer, Sodium Polyacrylate, Hydrogenated Polydecene, Ethylhexylglycerin, Mentha Viridis Leaf Oil, PEG45M, Trideceth-6, PEG-40 Castor Oil, Limonene.
Review Highlight: “I usually don’t write reviews, but this is the only hair product I’ve ever used that makes my hair feel better after use! My hair is thick and stubborn, mainly want to go forward, but this product tames my hair back well! I highly recommend anyone to use this if you enjoy natural and quality products. Don’t put chemicals in your hair, use this! :)” – AV
KEVIN MURPHY Free Hold Medium Hold Styling Paste
Award/Highlight: Best for Flexible Hold and Texture
Description:
Kevin Murphy Free Hold Medium Hold Styling Balm is a versatile product that balances and holds hair. It delivers a medium hold with a natural finish and is ideal for creating neat and structured styles or relaxed, tousled hair. The paste doesn’t keep your hair in a rigid place, allowing it to move freely while maintaining its shape all day without any stiffness. Plus, it’s enriched with natural ingredients that nourish and hydrate your hair, leaving it looking and feeling healthy.
Why It’s Great for a Messy Look:
If you want a messy, carefree look that still feels controlled, this styling paste is perfect, just like the other hair pastes I’ve mentioned. It provides a medium hold that texturizes and volumizes without weighing your hair down or making it greasy. The paste delivers a matte finish that enhances messy styles and keeps your hair light, mobile, and defined. Whether you’re going for beachy waves or a casually tousled look, the paste gives you the freedom to shape your hair just the way you want.
Who Is It Suitable For?
This styling paste is for men with medium to thick-density hair who seek a product that provides hold without being overly stiff. It’s perfect for anyone looking to add texture and volume to their hair, whether aiming for a structured style or a relaxed, messy look. Its hydrating properties make it suitable for all hair types, even for dry or damaged hair.
What’s Inside (Ingredients):
Water (Aqua), Cetearyl Alcohol, PVP, Beeswax, Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Squalane, Panthenol (Vitamin B5), Ceteareth-20, Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Lavandula angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Citric Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Linalool, Fragrance.
Review Highlight:
Layrite Natural Matte Cream Oz
Award/Highlight: Best for Natural, Low-Shine Texture
Description:
So, Layrite Natural Matte Cream? It’s a game-changer if you’re sick of sticky helmet hair. This stuff gives you the right amount of hold—nothing crunchy or stiff—and that chill, matte finish—no grease, no fake shine, just real texture that lets your hair move. It’s light as heck; you barely notice it. It’s there, but somehow, your hair stays put. Oh, and it washes out so easily, you don’t need to scrub your scalp raw after a long day. This cream has your back whether you want that just-rolled-outta-bed look or something a bit sharper. It always leaves you looking clean but not like you tried too hard.
Why It’s Great for Messy Looks:
This is the secret sauce for messy hair days. You get texture and volume, but none of that greasy, weighed-down nonsense. The hold’s soft but reliable, so your hair looks cool and tousled, not like you fought with a leaf blower. The matte finish amps up that messy texture, giving you that effortless, Instagram-ready vibe. You’ll look put together and carefree at the same time, which—let’s be real—is the best combo.
Who Is It Suitable For?
You can use this cream on any hair. It’s perfect for men who require a natural look and feel minus the grease. It’s ideal for short to medium lengths of medium to thick hair, providing a marvellous versatile hold on anything from textured undercuts to undone texture. Even thinning or fine-hair guys can use it to add texture and volume to their hair without flatness or weight.
What’s Inside (Ingredients):
Water (Aqua), Cetearyl Alcohol, Ceteareth-25, Beeswax, Glycerin, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Fragrance, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Glyceryl Stearate, Propylene Glycol, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Sodium Benzoate, Citric Acid, Polysorbate 20, Phenoxyethanol.
Review Highlight: “So I have been using pomade for years, I was always an old spice guy. But this stuff is so much better! Smells good, and since it’s not as thick it makes it so much easier to style your hair and not leave it feeling greasy! My new fav hair product!” – Joey Parti
Schwarzkopf got2b Matte Paste
Award/Highlight: Best for Effortless Messy Styles
Description:
Schwarzkopf got2b Matte Paste is a timeless favourite among men’s hair styling products. It gives your hair a flexible hold and matte finish, keeping it in place without coating it with a heavy, sticky residue left behind by some other styling products. This paste allows you to achieve both rugged, untamed texture and tighter, more polished styling. Light and easy to use, it lets you adjust your look during the day without having to reapply.
Why It’s Great for a Messy Look:
This paste works perfectly for messy styles, enhancing your hair’s natural, effortless look without adding any shine. It provides medium hold that keeps your messy hairstyle in place while still allowing your hair to move naturally. Its flexible formula makes shaping and reshaping a breeze, whether you’re going for a spiked, tousled look or a relaxed bedhead style. The matte finish elevates messy textures without adding gloss, giving you a laid-back coolness that sets you apart.
Who Is It Suitable For?
The Schwarzkopf got2b Matte Paste is suitable for all hair types but works especially well with medium to thick hair. It’s ideal for short to medium-length hairstyles, offering just the right balance of hold and flexibility. Even for fine or thin hair, it adds structure and volume without weighing your hair down or flattening it. This versatile product is perfect for anyone seeking an easy-to-use styling solution with a polished yet natural finish.
What’s Inside (Ingredients):
Aqua (Water), Ceteareth-25, VP/VA Copolymer, Cetearyl Alcohol, Lanolin Alcohol, Steareth-21, Polysorbate 60, Polyquaternium-11, Glycerin, Sodium Chloride, Propylene Glycol, Fragrance (Parfum), Citric Acid, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Limonene, Benzyl Alcohol, Phenoxyethanol.
Review Highlight:
Goldwell Matte Cream Paste
Award/Highlight: Best for Textured, Natural Styles
Description:
If the other pastes on this list didn’t quite cut it, this might be your perfect styling buddy. It provides the ideal amount of texture and control, while its matte finish looks natural, cool, and effortlessly put-together. It glides on with a lightweight, non-greasy formula and delivers just the right amount of medium hold to keep your hair in place all day without weighing it down. Whether you’re off to the office, grabbing coffee with friends, or hitting the gym, this styling paste has you covered for whatever life throws your way.
Why It’s Great for a Messy Look
Goldwell Matte Cream Paste is the answer for a bad hair day—or better, saving the day. Why? Because it texture-sizes your hair without overshining you. Think perfectly undone: beachy waves or bedhead, relaxed and messed up—whichever you style. It’s moldable, so your hair will go where you want it to but stay all day; it’s never hard or stiff. In addition, the matte finish also conceals flaws to provide a smooth, polished appearance that is still loose-fitting.
Who Is It Suitable For?
Goldwell Matte Cream Paste improves the feel and appearance of any hair, giving it a style without shine. It’s perfect for short to mid-length hair and efficiently works from day to day to more refined, messy styles. For a light touch, flexible hold, and texture without added weight, this paste is perfect for various styling applications.
What’s Inside (Ingredients):
Aqua (Water), Cetearyl Alcohol, PVP, Ceteareth-25, Polyquaternium-7, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Sorbitol, Polyquaternium-11, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Fragrance (Parfum), Citric Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Benzoic Acid, Linalool, Hexyl Cinnamal, Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone.
Review Highlight: “This product works great on short hair. You don’t need more than a pea-sized amount, so price-wise it is not expensive when you consider how little you use per time. This was highly recommended by my stylist as well.” – AAdams
Shear Revival Northern Lights Matte Paste
Award/Highlight: Best for Effortless Matte Texture
Description:
This product adds texture and volume to your hair, making it easy to create effortlessly cool hairstyles. Whether you prefer a laid-back, messy look or something more structured with shape and definition, this product delivers exceptional results. Its smooth, lightweight formula applies cleanly and blends seamlessly without leaving sticky or greasy residue. Infused with nourishing ingredients, it helps keep your hair hydrated all day long, leaving it soft and healthy.
Why It’s Perfect for Messy Looks:
Shear Revival Northern Lights Matte Paste shines when achieving that perfect, undone, unmistakably fashionable look. It gives added body and texture to your natural hair texture, so it works great with messy hair styles. The matte finish makes you look cool and understated without shine. Plus, its light hold finds the ideal balance, providing enough control to modify and enhance your style during the day without stiffness or weight.
Who Is It Suitable For?
This versatile matte paste is suitable for all men, regardless of hair type. It works particularly well for medium to thick hair, providing structure and movement with ease. For men with fine hair, it offers a much-needed boost in volume and texture without weighing the hair down or leaving it greasy. Whether you’re going for a casual, carefree style or a more polished, natural look, Shear Revival Northern Lights Matte Paste delivers the perfect combination of hold, flexibility, and texture to elevate your hairstyling game.
What’s Inside (Ingredients):
Aqua (Water), Ceteareth-25, Cetearyl Alcohol, Beeswax, Glycerin, Hydrolyzed Silk, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, PVP, Propylene Glycol, Panthenol, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Fragrance (Parfum), Citric Acid, Linalool, Limonene, Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone.
Review Highlight:
Arcadian Vanilla Cedar Matte Paste
Award/Highlight: Best for Natural Texture
Description:
Arcadian Vanilla Cedar Matte Paste keeps hair styling effortless and enjoyable. It provides your hair with a strong yet flexible hold and a matte finish that doesn’t shine, giving a natural, textured look. With a light vanilla cedar fragrance, it blends the rich, woody scent of cedar with a touch of sweetness. Its lightweight texture ensures smooth application and keeps your hair soft without any heaviness. Whether you’re looking to add volume, control, or simply shape your style, this versatile product does it all while keeping your hair looking natural and fresh.
Why It’s Great for Messy Looks:
This is the ultimate paste for messy, relaxed hairstyles. Its lightweight, non-greasy formula enhances the natural texture of your hair, giving you that “effortlessly cool” look. The matte finish doesn’t leave your hair stiff or overly shiny like many gels tend to do but instead keeps it looking fresh and natural. Whether it’s tousled waves or a laid-back messy style, this paste adds just the right amount of texture and volume to your hair. It holds well throughout the day and allows you to easily rework your style if needed.
Who Is It Suitable For?
This product is ideal for anyone seeking a matte finish with a natural, textured feel. It’s suitable for men of all hair types, especially those with medium to thick hair who want to add volume and definition to their hairstyles. It’s also perfect for those who prefer a lightweight, non-sticky, and non-heavy styling product. This cream-based paste is excellent for giving volume and texture to thin or fine hair without weighing it down. It’s the perfect product for anyone who loves their hair to be effortlessly stylish and easy to manage without compromising on quality.
What’s Inside (Ingredients):
Aqua (Water), Cetearyl Alcohol, Beeswax, Dimethicone, Glycerin, VP/VA Copolymer, Fragrance (Parfum), Sodium Chloride, Citric Acid, PVP, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Butylene Glycol, Linalool, Limonene.
Review Highlight: “I enjoy the alternate scent from the original Arcadian matte paste. Both great products. Arcadian is an awesome line. Original version has good hold and all day pliability while the Cedar Vanilla scent offers that plus a more rugged and outdoorsy option(versus) the cleaner and sweeter OG version)” – Preston Smith
Forte Series Molding Paste
Award/Highlight: Best for Long-Lasting Hold
Description:
This moulding paste is for ultimate flexibility, which can be easily manipulated for messy, tousled styles to sleeker, more polished ones. Its smooth, creamy texture glides through hair without tugging or pulling, and the finish is never greasy or sticky. It’s a firm but flexible hold that is secure all day and can be restyled anytime. This product offers texture, volume, and definition and gives your hair a natural and whole appearance without artificial or heavy-weight waxes or gels.
Why It’s Great for Messy Looks:
The Forte Series Molding Paste is the ideal choice for achieving that perfectly messy, undone look while maintaining control and texture. It enhances the natural shape of your hair by adding volume and definition and sets with a modern matte finish. Unlike many other products that leave your hair feeling stiff, this paste provides a firm yet flexible hold, allowing you to mold and rework your style without losing its structure. Whether it’s a tousled bedhead style or an intentionally messy aesthetic, this paste provides just the right amount of lift and texture to elevate any hairstyle.
Who Is It Suitable For?
This molding paste is suitable for all hair types but truly excels on medium and thick hair. For men with fine hair, it delivers a boost in volume and body, making your hair appear and feel fuller and more textured. It’s an excellent option for anyone seeking firm hold without the crunchy or shiny finish that some styling gels leave behind. Whether you prefer a natural, messy look or something more polished and finished, Forte Series Molding Paste helps you achieve your desired style with ease and flexibility.Moreover, I myself like this paste very much.
What’s Inside (Ingredients):
Aqua (Water), Ceteareth-25, Cetearyl Alcohol, PEG-8 Beeswax, Glycerin, VP/VA Copolymer, Cetearyl Glucoside, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Fragrance (Parfum), Citric Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Butylene Glycol, Linalool, Limonene.
Review Highlight:
Got2b Phenomenal Molding Paste
Award/Highlight: Best for Textured, Matte Finish
Description:
Got2b Phenomenal Molding Paste shines at dynamic styling, providing super high hold with a natural matte finish. It creates amazing texture and volume and is ideal for those who want structured hairstyles without being too stuck. The creamy paste moves easily through your hair, moulding and sculpting with no sticky residue. This paste gives long-lasting hold throughout the day, allowing you to re-do your look whenever you need to for a chic and fresh finish.
Why It’s Great for a Messy Look:
Got.2b Phenomenal Molding Paste is a favorite for achieving a messy, controlled look. Its multi-tasking formula adds volume, texture, and lift with a matte finish, giving you a natural, undone look. The paste has a flexible hold that lets you tousle your hair as much as you want without it losing its shape. Whether you’re aiming for bedhead, tousled waves, or an on-purpose messy look, this paste gives you the “just woken up” effect without extra volume and flow.
Who Is It For?
This styling paste is ideal for anyone seeking a versatile, strong hold that doesn’t sacrifice flexibility. Best suited for short to medium-length hair, it adds texture, volume, and lift without weighing your hair down. If you’re after a natural, tousled finish with flexibility, this paste is your go-to for achieving a messy, effortlessly styled look.
What’s Inside (Ingredients):
Aqua (Water), Cetearyl Alcohol, VP/VA Copolymer, Polyquaternium-11, Glycerin, PVP, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Hydrolyzed Silk Protein, Fragrance (Parfum), Propylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Limonene, Linalool.
Review Highlight: “Smells so good. I use this on my toddler son and it is easy to work with and holds well, without looking overdone. It is pliable and can be restyled through the day, yet it has a hold decent enough for outings. Now if he gets wild and crazy like little boys do, the hold falls, but that is to be expected as it is a paste! I love this stuff and it is a great price, definitely recommend.” – Kelsey B.
JOHNNY’S CHOP SHOP #1 Men's Hair Styling Matte Paste
Award/Highlight: Best for Effortless, Natural Texture
Description:
Johnny’s Chop Shop Matte Paste is the go-to product for men who love a natural look with plenty of texture. It adds volume and definition without weighing the hair down, making it ideal for everything from classic styles to more modern, choppy cuts. The paste offers an easy application, smooth distribution, and leaves no sticky or greasy residue, ensuring a clean finish.
Why It’s Great for a Messy Look:
With its matte finish, Johnny’s Chop Shop Matte Paste provides a healthy, natural look without the over-styled effect. It adds volume and definition in layers without creating clumpy buildup, making it perfect for achieving a messy yet controlled style. Its flexible hold lets you reshape or redefine your style throughout the day or rock a carefree, disheveled look with ease.
Who Is It Good For?
Johnny’s Chop Shop Matte Paste is designed for men with all hair types who want a natural, matte finish. It’s especially great for short to medium-length hair and is low-maintenance yet versatile enough to create any look you desire, from structured styles to effortlessly messy ones.
What’s Inside (Ingredients):
Water (Aqua), Cetearyl Alcohol, PVP, Kaolin Clay, Cera Alba (Beeswax), Stearic Acid, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Glycerin, Polyquaternium-11, Fragrance (Parfum), Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Limonene.
Review Highlight: “This stuff is great! I have a strange hair type. Some people say my hair feels like steel wool. It can be hard to manage especially in humidity. This stuff does the trick and it smells great. And it lasts me a long time.” – Austin Hancock
Matrix 3 in 1 Over Achiever 3-in-1 Paste Wax
Award/Highlight: Best Multi-Tasking Hair Styling Product
Description:
The Matrix 3-in-1 Overachiever Paste Wax is a next-generation styling product that combines the benefits of paste, wax, and cream in one versatile formula. This innovative paste offers a natural, matte finish with a firm yet flexible hold, giving you full control to shape, mold, and texture your hair, just like the other pastes we’ve discussed.
Why It’s Great for a Messy Look:
The Matrix 3-in-1 Overachiever Paste Wax is perfect for messy, creative hairstyles. It blends the ideal properties of paste, wax, and cream to provide definition and volume, while maintaining a matte finish that holds your messy style in place. The flexible hold allows you to adjust or reshape your hair throughout the day, ensuring an effortlessly tousled look. Whether you’re aiming for tousled waves, messy spikes, or the relaxed feel of bedhead, this product has you covered.
Who Is It Suitable For?
Matrix 3-in-1 Overachiever Paste Wax is ideal for men with all hair types and lengths who desire flexibility and control in their styling. It’s especially great for those who prefer a multifunctional product that can adapt to a variety of looks, from structured to messy.
What’s Inside (Ingredients):
Aqua (Water), Cetearyl Alcohol, PVP, Kaolin Clay, Cera Alba (Beeswax), Propylene Glycol, Stearic Acid, Sodium Chloride, Fragrance (Parfum), PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Limonene.
Review Highlight:
VO5 Extreme Style Surf Style Paste
Award/Highlight: Best for Beachy, Textured Styles
Description:
For men looking to achieve that effortless, sun-bleached beach hair look, the VO5 Extreme Style Surf Style Paste is the perfect solution. This medium-hold styling paste offers the ideal combination of volume and texture without weighing hair down, providing a flexible, lived-in finish. Whether you’re at the beach or simply want a casual, everyday style, this paste is easy to use and even easier to touch up throughout the day.
Why It’s Great for Messy Looks:
If you’re aiming for that perfect “just-out-of-the-ocean” tousled hair, the VO5 Extreme Style Surf Style Paste is your go-to. Its texture-enhancing formula boosts volume and provides grip for those perfectly messy, carefree styles. The matte finish ensures your hair won’t look greasy, and the medium hold keeps it in place all day without making it feel stiff.
Who Is It Suitable For?
This styling paste is ideal for men with short to medium-length hair who want a no-fuss, natural look. It works especially well for fine to medium hair types, offering just the right amount of volume and texture without weighing hair down. Perfect for anyone who loves the beachy, tousled look without the shine typically associated with gels or pomades.
What’s Inside (Ingredients):
Aqua (Water), Ceteareth-25, Cetearyl Alcohol, PVP, Paraffin, Polyquaternium-11, Dimethicone, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Chloride, Fragrance (Parfum), Limonene.
Review Highlight:
“I was paying around £6.00 for a similar product from my salon. This does just about everything that more expensive product does—easy to use, effective hair control, and I would recommend this product to anybody.” – MR KEITH M BOND
Redken Texture Paste
Award/Highlight: Best for Flexible Hold and Effortless Styling
Description:
Redken Texture Paste? It’s not one of those heavy, glue-like goops that make your hair feel like it’s stuck in the early 2000s. Nah, this paste is lightweight—almost airy. It has a flexible hold with a matte vibe, too, so you can run it through your hair without feeling like you’re slathering on glue. Honestly, it keeps your style locked in place all day but somehow manages not to leave your hair looking like an oil slick or feeling gross and sticky.
Why It’s Great for Messy Looks:
This paste is great for creating piecey, undone styles. Its flexible formula is easy to shape and style your hair, allowing you to achieve a loose, effortless look. The matte finish won’t make your hair look greasy or shiny. And its flexible hold allows you to restyle your hair during the day without sacrificing that relaxed, undone appearance.
Who Is It Suitable For?
The Redken Texture Paste is suitable for all hair types but works best on short to medium-length hair. It’s ideal for men who want a textured, messy look without the heaviness or stickiness often associated with other styling products. If you’re seeking a product that strikes the perfect balance of hold and flexibility without weighing your hair down, this paste is an excellent choice.
What’s Inside (Ingredients):
Aqua (Water), Petrolatum, Beeswax, VP/VA Copolymer, PVP, Ceteareth-20, Stearyl Alcohol, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Propylene Glycol, Dimethicone, Phenoxyethanol, Mica, Fragrance (Parfum), Titanium Dioxide, Limonene, Linalool.
Review Highlight:
ManCave Texturizing Hair Paste
Award/Highlight: Best Natural Option for Effortless Styling
Description:
Mixed with naturally sourced ingredients, ManCave Texturizing Hair Paste offers a medium hold and matte finish. Paraben- and sulfate-free, the paste is kind to both your hair and scalp, providing a healthy style solution without sacrificing performance. Its non-greasy consistency offers easy application and lasting effects, with your style still looking great at the end of the day.
Why It’s Great for Messy Looks:
This paste is best for messy, undone hair. It provides a medium hold to keep your hair in place while still being pliable enough to be re-adjusted or restryled throughout the day. Its matte finish creates a clean, non-shiny appearance ideal for producing a rough, easy look. It adds volume and definition without leaving any residue, which gives your messy style a smooth finish.
Who Is It Suitable For?
The ManKave Texturizing Hair Paste works well on all hair types but particularly excels with short to medium-length hair. It’s ideal for men seeking a low-maintenance, natural-looking hair product with a clean matte finish. This paste is an excellent choice if you have sensitive skin or prefer grooming products with natural ingredients.
What’s Inside (Ingredients):
Aqua (Water), Kaolin Clay, Beeswax, Glycerin, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Cetearyl Alcohol, Polysorbate 60, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Citric Acid, Parfum (Fragrance), Limonene, Linalool.
Review Highlight:
“In summary, excellent remouldable hold, smells great, not just a styling clay—it has ingredients, including caffeine, that keep your hair and scalp healthy. Excellent ethics on the recycling and vegan front. I have reasonably short hair and would recommend it—you won’t be disappointed.” – Dan C
Furthermore, I’m confident that if you try any of these 15 pastes, your style will reach a level you never thought possible.
What to Look for in a Hair Paste
Honestly? The “perfect” hair paste isn’t even about hair. It’s about swagger. You get that extra jolt when your style’s just right, and you catch your reflection thinking, “Heck yeah, that’s me.” First thing—hold. Want messy, I-woke-up-like-this magic? Go light and bendy. Are you trying to keep your hair from bailing on you halfway through the day? Grab something more substantial; don’t let gravity win.
The finish is next—some folks dig that chill, matte vibe like you hardly tried. Others? They want to shine, like, “Look at me; I’m a shampoo commercial.” There are no wrong answers; it just depends if you’re more rockstar or a Wall Street.
Don’t ignore your hair type, either. Fine, thick, straight, curly—your hair’s got a personality, so pick a paste that vibes with it, not fights it. The dream is something that slides on smoothly, with no goop, no weird stickiness, just easy-breezy. If it has natural oils or waxes, that would be even better. Hair should feel soft, unlike if you’ve dipped it in candle wax.
Last thing: scent. Yeah, it matters. You don’t want to smell like a chemical lab—go for something fresh but low-key, so people lean in, not back away.
How to Use Hair Paste for a Messy Look
For the perfect messy look with hair paste, here are some easy yet effective steps to follow for a natural and relaxed style. Start by warming a small amount of hair paste between your hands; this makes it easier to apply and ensures even distribution throughout your hair. Applying it to slightly damp hair works wonders, as it helps avoid greasiness and leaves a light, airy finish.
Gently, using your fingers, tousle and scrunch your hair. The key is volume and texture, focused mainly on the roots and mid-lengths of the hair, keeping the ends very soft and light. You may twist or finger-coil selected areas to add more definition and additional layering to your hairstyle without compromising the relaxed, messy look.
One of the great things about hairpaste is how flexible it is. If your style starts to lose shape during the day, just rework it with a little more paste and style it with your fingers. For an even more natural look, let your hair air dry. However, if you like a bit more volume, blow-dry while continuing to scrunch for that effortless, voluminous finish.
Simple-sounding, using these methods will quickly and safely provide you with perfection in an awesome messy look while keeping it fresh, light, natural, and full of life throughout the day.
Final Thoughts
Imagine this—scrambling to go to work or just to hang out, you get that perfect hairstyle, which is quick yet never demanding. Imagine getting your hair styled in an effortlessly chic way without all the struggle with heavy gels or standing for hours in front of your mirror. Welcome hair paste as the perfect friend in your style statement—a finishing touch for any day. The magic touch gives a matte finish, while the flexible hold and texture will never weigh your hair down.
The right hair paste can create the perfect messy look, staying in place throughout the day. Hair paste works wonders in giving volume, definition, and even that laid-back, tousled look—without any grease or residue, whether your hair is fine or thick, short or long. Whatever type of hair and personal preference you may have, there’s a paste out there waiting to be tried until the perfect one is found.
Why not try one of these 15 Best Hair Paste for Messy Look in 2025? Be it for the dry feel of Victory Barber & Brand Super-Dry Men’s Hair Paste or the all-day hold of Got2b Phenomenal Molding Paste, a whole new dimension of effortless textured styles awaits being uncovered. Each of these products has been handpicked for its ability to bring life to your hair with the least effort and maximum effect.
As you experiment with different pastes and styles, you’ll realize just how easy it is to look your best while keeping your routine simple. So go ahead—choose your favorite, apply a little paste, and transform your messy look into a statement of effortless confidence.
If you’re looking to elevate your style even further, be sure to check out our blog, “Top 10 Best Men’s Hair Putty for Effortless Style in 2025”—where you’ll discover even more tips to enhance your grooming routine.
