My usual method is simply to switch to a water based pomade for a day or two. I use Dax Wave and Groom, either straight from the can or fortified with a bit of heavy wax mixed in, so as you know it can be fun fun fun to try and clean out.
Here’s my usual method:
3-4 days of Dax. Starting to get a bit soft ’cause of the oils from my head. Not able to style properly anymore.
Wash hair once, maybe twice with regular shampoo (pantene. Girl shampoo you say? Bite me. It works). Cuts out the lighter oils and cleans out my hair nicely but leaves the heavier stuff behind.
Dry hair somewhat, comb it straight while still a bit damp.
Slap in the water based pomade! I use Monkey Brains ’cause I’m cheap and I can get it local. I dig layrite, it’s what I started with, but I can’t afford to use it regularly. Since my hair is still damp it applies well and holds like crazy. I can do scary things at this stage and I often do. Smoke ’em if you got ’em right?
Don’t bother washing it out that day, wet-comb it and put in a bit more the next day if necessary. After the second day, wash everything out and shampoo your hair once or twice. 100 percent grease free and ready for another round.
Notes: I actually prefer to have some Dax left in my hair when I put the water based stuff in, it holds better and is easier to style. If I put it in dry hair I’ll be able to do a decent pomp, but after an hour or two I’ll start having hairs spring loose and curl up. Not cool.
Also, if you’re not careful, this method can be real hard on your hair. Wet-combing is your best friend, otherwise you’ll be pulling out hairs like crazy.
Sometimes your hair will act like you’re trying to style it with oil rather than pomade. It won’t hold for crap and it’ll look real shiny. Add water. Water-based pomade is just that, WATER BASED. Without water all you have is some grease, water-based polymers, and an emulsifier. Add water and your pomade will stiffen back up.