Layrite — The World's First Water-Based Pomade Since 1999
Layrite is an American company founded in 1999 by barber Donnie Hawley in California. He created the world's first water-based pomade with the slogan "Hold Like Wax, Wash Out Like Gel" — setting the benchmark for traditional barbering and men's grooming worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions about Layrite
Who founded Layrite and why?
Layrite was founded in 1999 by barber Donnie Hawley at Hawleywood's Barbershop in California. Donnie, with very curly hair from the rockabilly scene, couldn't find a product that would hold and wash out — so he created his own.
What does the name "Layrite" mean?
The name came from a curly-haired customer who said: "Man, you're the only person that's been able to get my hair to lay right." It was the perfect description of the product and became the brand name that launched an industry.
Why is Layrite considered a pioneer?
Layrite Original Pomade was the world's first water-based pomade. Until then, only petroleum-based products existed that wouldn't wash out. "Hold Like Wax, Wash Out Like Gel" changed the men's grooming industry forever.
What scent do Layrite products have?
Layrite products feature the signature cream soda scent — a classic American vanilla soda. Donnie chose it as a tribute to his childhood memories of visiting the barbershop with his grandfather, who would buy him a cream soda.
What are the most popular Layrite products?
Popular Layrite products include: Original Pomade (medium shine, strong hold), Superhold Pomade (extra strong), Cement Clay (extreme hold, matte finish), Natural Matte Cream (natural finish), and Grooming Spray for volume and texture.
What is Hawleywood's Barbershop?
Hawleywood's is Donnie Hawley's barbershop in Costa Mesa, California, where Layrite was born. It specializes in "real men's grooming of the 1940s" with classic cuts, hot towel shaves, and even shoe shines — the complete vintage experience.
✓ Authorised Layrite retailer | ✓ Shipping worldwide | Updated: April 2026
