How Do I Use the Viral Hair Wax Stick Celebs Love?

The slicked-back bun is one of the remnants of the viral “clean girl aesthetic” trend, and we’re not complaining about it. When you’ve skipped wash day, there’s nothing like an updo to help you still feel chic and put together, without anyone knowing your roots are crying for a wash. And folks on social media agree: The hair wax stick is the ultimate sidekick to a slicked-back hairstyle. In fact, some might say the look is nearly impossible to achieve without it.

Wax sticks are like a jar of pommade, but solidified and molded into an easy-to-use, twist-up stick so you can easily style your hair without getting your fingers messy. The most common ingredients for hair wax sticks include castor oil, shea butter, and beeswax, according to celebrity hairstylist Kim Kimble, creator of Kim Kimble Hair Collection by HairUWear. 

“Wax sticks can be used for laying edges down, laying down flyaways prior to wigs on your natural hair, and creating sleek pony looks,” Kimble says. The key, she adds, is to use just a little bit of product at a time to avoid a greasy look. You can spread out the product with a spoolie after you apply it to really slick back your strands. 

TikTok user @jacquelynmengel even discovered that wax sticks can be used on the underside of the hair to add volume. Just lift strands, swipe on a few layers of the wax stick underneath the hair, and push up with your fingers for instant volume. Creator Alyssa Howard, meanwhile, uses the wax stick on a finished bun to tame flyaways. It’s a go-to for all hair types and textures. 

Our favorites include the ultra-affordable Samnyte Hair Wax Stick, the strong-hold Nexxus Slick Stick Strong Hold Hair Wax, and the natural-looking R+Co Dart Pomade Stick. Keep the product in your purse or gym bag the next time you need a sleek look on the fly.