Bona Fide Matte Paste Review

Hold

  • Offers a strong, flexible hold capable of managing various medium-length styles.
  • Keeps the hair controlled and defined, ensuring stability throughout a long day.

Smell

  • Features a distinct and refreshing citrus scent that is noticeable but not overpowering.
  • The fragrance is clean, invigorating, and reminiscent of a classic barbershop experience.

Look

  • Delivers an authentic matte finish, eliminating unwanted shine for a natural look.
  • Significantly enhances texture and separation for a voluminous, full appearance.

Texture

  • The paste has a medium-firm, creamy texture that breaks down easily in the palms.
  • It applies smoothly, providing immediate grip and control without tugging at the hair.

Hair Type

  • Excellent for nearly all hair types, especially those seeking texture, lift, and volume.
  • Highly suitable for short-to-medium length cuts, both thin and thick.

Does It Last?

  • The strong hold reliably keeps the style intact for the duration of the day.
  • It maintains its definition and shape, preventing hair from falling flat over time.

Easy To Wash Out?

  • The water-based formula ensures that the paste rinses out completely and effortlessly.
  • There is no sticky residue or build-up left behind, even without intense shampooing.

Adding Too Much?

  • Using too much paste may result in the hair feeling slightly stiff or overly dry.
  • It is recommended to start with a dime-sized amount to avoid a heavy or dull look.

Customer Reviews:

Perfect texture and long-lasting hold.

This paste provides the ideal combination of strong hold and great texture for my short quiff. My style stays defined and lifted all day, resisting humidity without fail.

A little too expensive for regular use.

I absolutely love the performance and the look it gives, but the price point is steep. I find myself rationing it, wishing it came in a larger, more affordable size.

Truly matte with an amazing, clean scent.

The finish is exactly what I look for—zero shine, just natural-looking volume. The clean citrus scent is subtle but lasts, which makes it a pleasure to use every morning.

Excellent wash-out, but can feel dry.

I appreciate how easily this water-based product rinses clean from my hair and hands. However, if I use it three days in a row, my hair starts to feel a bit dry and brittle.

Can be difficult to restyle once it sets.

The hold is very strong, which is great, but once it dries, trying to comb or run my fingers through it is almost impossible. It sets too firmly for mid-day adjustments.

Reliable performance, needs precise application.

The product delivers consistent medium-to-strong hold for my fine hair. However, if I apply unevenly, it tends to clump strands together, making the hair look less natural and dense.