Harry's has launched a collection of under-$12 hair products designed for all hair types - here's what each one is like to use
Harry's Hair Texturizing Putty
If you're looking for some flexibility, the Texturizing Putty from Harry's is a good choice. Once applied, it provides a good hold, but unlike a paste or pomade, you can reshape your hairstyle a bit later. For example, you may want a more professional look in the morning as you head into the office, but a more messy style for happy hour after work — this putty lets you do that.
At least, that's what I experienced during a full week of using it while on vacation. I didn't need a very strong hold, but I still wanted some style. The Texturizing Putty maintained my all-day messy look, yet kept my short, straight hair in place (instead of sticking up haphazardly), despite the hot, sweaty weather. My look in the evening definitely changed from what I started the day with, so it may not work for people who want a consistent look from day-to-night.
The pliable putty is very thick and you really need to dig into it, but a little is all you need. However, the putty works best on towel-dried hair. Don't worry if it clumps up — just massage it into the hair and shape (no combing here). It leaves a matte finish, and your hair won't ever look like it's been gelled to death. The scent isn't unpleasant, but it isn't my favorite of the new Harry's products; still, it's subtle when it's on your hands and you won't smell it throughout the day. Unlike L'Oréal's Studio Line Overworked Hair Putty, Harry's feels lighter.
I used to use a pomade from Baxter of California and Sumotech from Bumble & Bumble, and the reason why I stopped is because of how expensive they are. The Texturizing Putty costs less, comes with a lot more in the jar, and works just as well, if not better. I love that it's easy to apply and maintain. Plus, the jar size meets TSA regulations, so it's the perfect hair product for travel. — Les Shu, Insider Picks Guides Editor
Harry's Hair Sculpting Gel
While I like the Texturizing Putty, I love the Sculpting Gel. I'm more of a gel-kinda-guy and I like the way the liquidy product works into my hair and the semi-permanent hold it gives. The downside to most gels I've used is that my straight hair requires more of it than I like, and I also hate the "crunchy" look and feel it leaves. After trying this for a week, I'm not kidding when I say I may have found my favorite hair gel.
I find that I only need a small dollop to style my hair, even less if I'm using a comb. There's enough time for me to work with it, yet sets in pretty soon after I leave it alone. With other gels, I have this tendency to over-squeeze the bottle, but Harry's designed the cap in a way that this won't happen. The gel has a very pleasant scent, but don't worry: the smell won't stay on the hair. During my testing, the gel managed my straight hair well and into the night — even with an afternoon disco nap.
While not the same type of hair-styling product, the Sculpting Gel gives me the same experience I'd get from my all-time favorite hair product, Rewind 06 from Redken, but at half the price (or more). Rewind, for me, is easy to work with, has a good scent, and gives my hair a strong, long-lasting hold — the attributes I find with the Sculpting Gel.
At $8, it's only $2-$3 more than drugstore brands, but I like the results much more and would be happy to spend the slight premium. — Les Shu, Insider Picks Guides Editor
Harry's Hair Taming Cream
With the softest hold of the new products, the Taming Cream is designed for curly, coarse, or thick hair. I have thick curls so it was the best choice for me. I've been using it for a couple of weeks ahead of the launch and I love it. Before curling my hair in the morning, I add a small amount of the Taming Cream and it holds the style all day long. Even though it comes out as a white cream, it's light and can be easily worked into your hair. You won't be left with a bunch of excess cream or white stuff in your hair — and it doesn't flake once dry.
It also has a mild scent, which I appreciate. Compared to similar products that I've used, I don't have to walk around smelling like coconuts, pineapples, and mangoes all day. — Amir Ismael, Insider Picks reporter
Harry's Hair 2-in-1 Shampoo and Conditioner
I generally don't like two-in-one shampoo-and-conditioners because I don't know if they actually work. My hair tends to get naturally oily if I don't use conditioner, and that greasiness is what I feel when I use a two-in-one. I love Harry's packaging and the minty scent, but admittedly, I had some initial doubts.
After using it for a week, I find that it works better than most two-in-ones. Depending on your hair type, you may need to use very little or a tad more (the latter, for me). But after showering, my hair felt clean for the rest of the day and there was no irritation. A small amount will work up to a nice lather, and that smell and slight tingly feeling make showering feel so good.
I still think my separate tea tree shampoo and conditioner (Trader Joe's, nothing fancy, folks) works better at thoroughly cleaning my hair, but Harry's two-in-one is damn close. Since the natural oil in hair is actually good for keeping it healthy, I should avoid stripping it away daily. So, I am trying a new regiment that involves washing my hair with Harry's twice a day, and my separate shampoo and conditioner a couple of times a week — more if it's been a nasty day, weather-wise.
Overall, this should work for most guys, and for me, it's a nice addition to my daily hair care. — Les Shu, Insider Picks Guides Editor
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