Murray’s Superior Hair Dressing Pomade Review 2026

Are you looking for a pomade that has survived over 100 years of competition and still sits on store shelves everywhere?

Murray’s Superior Hair Dressing Pomade is one of the oldest and most affordable hair products on the market. It has loyal fans across multiple generations. But does it still hold up in 2026?

This review covers everything you need to know. We break down the hold, shine, ingredients, price, pros, cons, and real user opinions. Whether you want slick waves, a clean pompadour, or a tight flattop, this pomade promises to deliver.

Key Takeaways:

• Murray’s Superior Hair Dressing Pomade has been around since 1925. It was created by C.D. Murray, an African American barber from Chicago. The formula has barely changed in over a century, and that consistency is part of its charm.
• This pomade delivers a heavy hold with moderate shine. It locks your hair into place for the entire day. It works well for pompadours, quiffs, slick backs, flattops, and 360 waves.
• The ingredient list is extremely simple. The main components are petrolatum, mineral oil, and fragrance. This is an oil-based pomade. It does not wash out easily with water alone.
• The price is one of its biggest selling points. A 3 oz jar costs just a few dollars. You will struggle to find another pomade this affordable with this level of hold.
• The biggest drawback is the difficulty of washing it out. Most users need a strong shampoo or a degreasing product to fully remove it. This can be a dealbreaker for people who style their hair daily.
• It works for all hair types, but it is especially popular among people with thick, coarse, or curly hair. Users with fine or thin hair may find it too heavy.

Last update on 2026-06-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API Some of the links on this website are affiliate links, which means that at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. I only recommend products and services that I believe will add value to my readers. Thank you for your support!

What Is Murray’s Superior Hair Dressing Pomade?

Murray’s Superior Hair Dressing Pomade is an oil-based, heavy-hold pomade sold in a small orange tin. The product was first developed in 1925 by C.D. Murray, a barber who started his business in Chicago. He believed that an honest product sold at a fair price would earn lasting loyalty. He was right.

The brand eventually moved its base of operations to Detroit, Michigan, and has stayed there ever since. Murray’s Superior Products Company still manufactures this pomade using nearly the same formula from a century ago.

This product targets anyone who wants strong hold and a classic shine. It has become a staple in barbershops across the United States and beyond. It sits in the collection of the National Museum of African American History and Culture at the Smithsonian, which shows the cultural weight this small tin carries.

Murray’s Superior is not water-soluble. It is a petroleum-based product that stays in your hair until you actively remove it. Many users say their hairstyle looks great even on the second or third day without reapplication.

The History Behind Murray’s Pomade

C.D. Murray created this pomade at a time when Black men in America had limited grooming options. He saw a gap and filled it with a product that offered control, shine, and long-lasting hold. The formula worked. Word spread fast through barbershops.

By the mid-20th century, Murray’s had earned a spot in homes across the country. It was originally marketed to Black men for achieving clean wave patterns. But the product quickly found fans among white men, Latino men, and people of all backgrounds.

The brand celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2025. That milestone is rare for any consumer product, let alone a small tin of hair pomade. The iconic orange can with green lettering has remained almost unchanged throughout the decades.

Murray’s also expanded its product line over the years. They now offer beeswax, edge wax, Nu Nile, and other formulations. But the original Superior Hair Dressing Pomade remains the flagship product and the one most people recognize.

Ingredients Breakdown: What’s Inside the Tin?

The ingredient list for Murray’s Superior Pomade is remarkably short. It contains petrolatum, mineral oil (paraffinum liquidum), fragrance, limonene, linalool, benzyl alcohol, and coumarin. That’s it. No long list of chemicals. No fancy botanical extracts.

Petrolatum is the primary ingredient. It is the same substance found in products like Vaseline. It creates a thick, waxy barrier that locks hair into place. This is what gives Murray’s its legendary hold.

Mineral oil makes the pomade easier to spread and gives your hair a healthy-looking shine. It also softens the petrolatum so you can work the product through your strands.

The fragrance components (limonene, linalool, benzyl alcohol, coumarin) give Murray’s its distinctive scent. Most users describe the smell as pleasant, sweet, and slightly old-fashioned. It is mild and not overpowering.

Some versions sold at retailers like Walmart list additional ingredients such as aloe, lanolin, and coconut oil. These provide extra conditioning benefits. Always check the label on your specific jar.

How Strong Is the Hold?

The hold on Murray’s Superior is extremely strong. This is a heavy-hold pomade. It does not loosen or break down throughout the day. Once your hair is styled, it stays styled.

This level of hold makes Murray’s ideal for hairstyles that need structure. If you wear a pompadour, quiff, or tall flattop, this pomade will keep every strand in place. It also excels at creating 360 waves because of how tightly it lays hair against the scalp.

The pomade has a thick, waxy consistency inside the tin. You need to warm it up between your palms before applying. Once it softens, it spreads through hair with decent ease. The product sets firmly after a few minutes.

One thing to note is that this pomade does not feel stiff or crunchy like a gel. Your hair will feel smooth and pliable to the touch. You can still run a comb through it hours after application if you need to restyle.

Users with very thick or coarse hair report the best results. People with fine hair may find the hold too heavy, and the weight could flatten their style.

Top 3 Alternatives for Murray’s Superior Hair Dressing Pomade

1. Suavecito Pomade Original Hold

Last update on 2026-06-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API Some of the links on this website are affiliate links, which means that at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. I only recommend products and services that I believe will add value to my readers. Thank you for your support!

2. Layrite Superhold Pomade

Last update on 2026-06-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API Some of the links on this website are affiliate links, which means that at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. I only recommend products and services that I believe will add value to my readers. Thank you for your support!

3. Reuzel Pink Heavy Hold Grease Pomade

Last update on 2026-06-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API Some of the links on this website are affiliate links, which means that at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. I only recommend products and services that I believe will add value to my readers. Thank you for your support!

How to Apply Murray’s Superior Pomade

Applying Murray’s takes a little more effort than a water-based pomade. The product is hard and waxy inside the tin. You cannot just scoop it out and slap it on.

Start by scraping a small amount from the tin with your fingernail or the back of a comb. A little goes a long way. For short to medium hair, a dime-sized amount is usually enough.

Rub the product between your palms until it softens and becomes warm. You will feel it melt into a smoother, more spreadable texture. This step is important. Skipping it will result in uneven distribution and clumps.

Work the pomade through your hair from root to tip. Use a comb to distribute it evenly and shape your desired style. For waves, brush your hair down with a wave brush after applying.

If you want extra hold, you can apply a second thin layer. But be careful. Using too much makes the hair look greasy and makes washing it out even harder.

What Does It Smell Like?

Murray’s Superior has a classic, old-school scent that many users love. The fragrance is sweet, warm, and slightly musky. Some people compare it to a barbershop from decades ago.

The scent comes from a blend of limonene, linalool, and coumarin. These are common fragrance compounds found in many grooming products. The combination creates a smell that is pleasant and familiar without being overpowering.

The fragrance does linger in your hair throughout the day. This can be a positive or a negative depending on your preference. If you enjoy subtle, classic scents, you will appreciate it. If you prefer unscented products, this may bother you.

Most reviews mention the scent positively. It adds a nostalgic quality to the grooming experience. The smell has remained consistent for decades, and that familiarity is part of what keeps loyal customers coming back.

The Biggest Downside: Washing It Out

Let’s be honest. Washing out Murray’s Superior Pomade is a challenge. This is the number one complaint from users across every review platform. The petroleum-based formula clings to hair and resists water.

A regular shampoo will not fully remove it in one wash. Many users report needing two or three washes with a clarifying shampoo. Some people use dish soap or a dedicated degreasing shampoo to break down the product.

This difficulty is the trade-off for the incredible hold. The same properties that keep your hair locked in place all day also make the pomade stubborn to remove. If you only style your hair occasionally, this may not be a big deal. But daily users often find the cleanup frustrating.

A popular trick among longtime Murray’s users is to apply conditioner or olive oil to dry hair before shampooing. This helps dissolve the petrolatum and makes the wash process smoother. Some users also leave coconut oil in their hair for 15 minutes before washing.

Is Murray’s Pomade Bad for Your Hair?

This is a common concern. The short answer is: Murray’s is generally safe for your hair, but there are some caveats.

Petrolatum itself does not damage hair. It creates a protective barrier that locks in moisture. However, it can also trap dirt, sweat, and product buildup on your scalp if not washed out properly.

Long-term buildup could potentially clog pores on your scalp. This might lead to irritation or breakouts in some people. The key is to wash it out thoroughly on a regular basis. Do not let it accumulate day after day without proper cleansing.

Some users worry about hair loss linked to Murray’s. There is no scientific evidence that petrolatum causes hair loss. However, excessive pulling during the removal process or chronic scalp irritation could contribute to thinning over time.

If you have a sensitive scalp or are prone to acne, test the product on a small area first. Most people use Murray’s for years without any negative effects on their hair health.

Murray’s Superior Pomade for Waves

Murray’s is one of the most popular pomades for creating 360 waves. The heavy hold keeps hair pressed close to the scalp, which is essential for developing and maintaining wave patterns.

To use Murray’s for waves, apply a small amount to clean, slightly damp hair. Brush your hair in the direction of your wave pattern using a medium or hard wave brush. Then put on a durag or wave cap to compress the waves overnight.

The petrolatum base helps your hair stay trained in the wave pattern. Many wave enthusiasts have used Murray’s as their primary product for years. The affordable price makes it easy to restock frequently.

One tip for wave builders: do not over-apply. Too much pomade creates buildup that is hard to remove and can flatten your wave pattern instead of enhancing it. A thin, even coat is all you need.

Who Should Use Murray’s Superior Pomade?

Murray’s works best for people who want maximum hold at a minimum price. It is ideal for classic hairstyles that require structure and all-day staying power.

This pomade is a great fit if you have thick, coarse, or curly hair. The heavy formula provides enough weight and grip to tame even the most stubborn strands. It is also popular among men who wear pompadours, slick backs, and retro styles.

Murray’s may not be the best choice if you have fine or thin hair. The heavy consistency can weigh down lighter hair types and make them look flat or greasy. A lighter water-based pomade would serve you better in that case.

If you dislike spending time on hair washing routines, Murray’s might frustrate you. The removal process requires extra effort. But if you don’t mind a thorough wash session, the hold and performance are hard to beat.

Price and Value: Is It Worth the Money?

Murray’s Superior Hair Dressing Pomade is one of the most affordable grooming products you can buy. A single 3 oz tin typically costs between $2 and $4. Multi-packs bring the price down even further.

For comparison, many popular pomades from brands like Suavecito, Layrite, and Reuzel cost $15 to $25 per jar. Murray’s delivers comparable or stronger hold at a fraction of the price.

A single tin also lasts a long time because you only need a small amount per application. Heavy users might go through a tin in a few weeks, but casual users can stretch one for a month or more.

The value proposition is exceptional. You get a proven, century-old formula that delivers strong hold and lasting shine for less than the price of a coffee. It is hard to argue with that kind of value.

What Real Users Say About Murray’s Pomade

User opinions on Murray’s are strongly positive overall, with one consistent complaint. Let’s break it down.

Fans of the product praise its incredible hold, low price, and iconic scent. Many users on Reddit describe it as the best budget pomade available. One user on the r/Pomade subreddit wrote that they “can’t beat the price” and love the hold for pompadour styles.

Reviews on Amazon highlight that a little goes a long way. Users appreciate how well it controls thick and curly hair. Several reviewers mention using Murray’s for over 20 years without switching to another product.

The main criticism is the difficulty of removal. Nearly every negative review mentions the challenge of washing it out. Users on Badger & Blade forums note that it “takes serious effort” to fully clean from hair.

Some users also mention that the product can feel too heavy for everyday use. They recommend it for special occasions or weekends rather than daily styling.

Murray’s Superior Pomade vs. Water-Based Pomades

The biggest debate in the pomade community is oil-based vs. water-based. Murray’s falls firmly in the oil-based camp. Understanding the differences helps you decide which type suits your lifestyle.

Oil-based pomades like Murray’s provide stronger hold and longer-lasting styles. They allow for restylability throughout the day. Your hair stays smooth and pliable. The downside is the difficult cleanup.

Water-based pomades wash out easily with regular shampoo and water. They are more convenient for daily use. However, they tend to dry out faster, may flake, and often require reapplication.

If you value hold and longevity above everything else, Murray’s is the better choice. If you value convenience and easy washing, go with a water-based alternative like Suavecito or Layrite.

Many experienced pomade users keep both types in their collection. They use Murray’s for events and special occasions and water-based products for everyday styling.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy Murray’s Superior Hair Dressing Pomade?

Murray’s Superior Hair Dressing Pomade has earned its place in grooming history. Over 100 years of production speak for themselves. The formula works, the price is right, and the hold is among the strongest you will find.

This pomade is perfect for you if you want a heavy-hold, oil-based product that lasts all day. It excels at classic styles like pompadours, slick backs, waves, and flattops. The price makes it accessible to everyone.

The removal difficulty is real. You need to plan for extra washing time. But longtime users have figured out effective workarounds, and the results justify the effort.

If you have never tried Murray’s, pick up a tin. At this price, the risk is minimal. You might discover your new favorite grooming product, or you might realize oil-based pomades aren’t your thing. Either way, you’ll understand why this little orange tin has survived for a century.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Murray’s Superior Pomade good for waves?

Yes. Murray’s is one of the most popular products for building and maintaining 360 waves. Its heavy hold keeps hair pressed to the scalp and trained in wave patterns. Apply a small amount, brush with a wave brush, and wear a durag overnight for best results.

How do you wash out Murray’s Pomade?

Regular shampoo alone may not be enough. Use a clarifying or degreasing shampoo for best results. You can also apply conditioner or olive oil to dry hair before shampooing. This helps break down the petrolatum and makes removal easier.

Does Murray’s Pomade cause hair loss?

There is no scientific evidence linking petrolatum or Murray’s Pomade to hair loss. However, improper removal and chronic scalp buildup could cause irritation. Wash your hair regularly and avoid excessive pulling during the removal process.

Can women use Murray’s Superior Pomade?

Absolutely. Murray’s works for all genders. It is especially useful for edge control, sleek buns, and slicked-back styles. The heavy hold tames flyaways and keeps hairstyles in place throughout the day.

How long does a tin of Murray’s Pomade last?

A 3 oz tin lasts several weeks to over a month depending on your usage. Since you only need a small amount per application, the product stretches further than most users expect.

Is Murray’s Pomade water-soluble?

No. Murray’s Superior Hair Dressing Pomade is oil-based and not water-soluble. It does not wash out with water alone. You need shampoo or a degreasing agent to remove it from your hair.