Paul Mitchell Lab ESP Review
Hold
Strong flexible matte hold.
Smell
Chemical smell at first, but doesn't last.
Look
Great for spikes or radical hair styles or messy style. Not greasy at all.
Texture
Shorter lengths, adds great textured look. Leaves very little build-up to your hair.
Cost
Mid range price, ~$15-20.
Hair Type
Great for thick or thin hair. Better for shorter hair, less than 2" in length, short to medium hair lengths. With longer hair, ESP tends to weigh it down.
Does It Last?
Lasts all day. Very easy to restyle and rework hair throughout the day.
Easy To Wash Out?
Very easy to wash out.
Adding Too Much?
Start by using a little. Can pull hair if trying to put in too much. Can make hair look and feel dry. Can leave hair with white residue.
Customer Reviews:
Excellent hold for short hair
I love how this product gives a strong, flexible hold for my short hair. It's perfect for creating textured and messy styles without feeling greasy. The initial chemical smell isn't great, but it doesn't last long. Overall, a great purchase for the price.
Easy to wash out and restyle
This product has become my go-to for daily use. It's so easy to wash out and allows me to restyle my hair throughout the day without any hassle. The mid-range price is a bonus too!
Good for shorter lengths, not for long hair
The hold and texture are great for short to medium hair lengths, but it tends to weigh down my longer hair. It's a decent product, but probably better suited for someone with shorter hair.
Leaves hair dry and with white residue
I found that if I used too much of this product, it made my hair look and feel dry, and left an unappealing white residue. It also pulled at my hair when trying to apply it. Not a fan.
Chemical smell, but decent product overall
The initial chemical smell is off-putting, but it doesn't last long. Once you get past that, the product does its job well, providing a good hold for my short hair. It's a decent option, but I might look for something with a more pleasant fragrance next time.
Product Summary:
The Paul Mitchell ESP paste is renowned for its extremely strong matte hold, ensuring that hair remains shine-free regardless of the amount used. This product is particularly effective for shorter hairstyles, where it excels in maintaining a desired look. However, when applied to longer hair, it may result in the hair appearing dry, sticky, or difficult to work with. The adage "a little goes a long way" aptly describes this paste, as only a small amount is needed to achieve significant hold.
Its formidable holding power is evident even in humid weather conditions, keeping hairstyles intact throughout the day. While the product allows for reworking or restyling during the day, it's important to be mindful of not using too much, given its strong holding capabilities. This makes it an ideal choice for styles that require a firm hold, such as spiked looks or maintaining a mohawk (faux hawk) style.
Another advantage of the ESP paste is its subtle scent, which is barely noticeable. It is also user-friendly in terms of washability, as it can be easily washed out in the shower. This paste can also be used to tame curly hairstyles. It is perfect for those seeking a very strong hold with no shine. However, users with longer hair may find it challenging to run their hands through their hair after application. Therefore, this product is best recommended for shorter hair styles due to its intense hold and texturizing effects.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What kind of hold does Paul Mitchell Lab ESP Pomade provide?
Paul Mitchell Lab ESP Pomade offers a medium to strong hold that keeps your hair in place throughout the day without making it feel stiff or sticky. This hold is ideal for creating sleek and polished styles while allowing for some natural movement.
Is the scent of Paul Mitchell Lab ESP Pomade pleasant?
Yes, the pomade has a pleasant scent that is not overpowering. While some may describe it as reminiscent of a man's cologne, it generally fades throughout the day, making it tolerable for most users.
Does Paul Mitchell Lab ESP Pomade add shine to the hair?
Yes, the pomade provides a shiny and healthy appearance with a glossy finish. It enhances the natural shine of your hair without making it look greasy, giving a polished and sleek look.
What hair types are best suited for Paul Mitchell Lab ESP Pomade?
This pomade is ideal for individuals with thick, unruly hair as it provides excellent hold and taming capabilities. It is highly recommended for those with naturally curly or resistant-to-styling hair types, helping to achieve and maintain sleek and defined styles.
How long does the hold of Paul Mitchell Lab ESP Pomade last?
The pomade provides an all-day hold, ensuring that your hairstyle remains intact from morning to night. Its long-lasting formula maintains your style even in challenging conditions.
Is Paul Mitchell Lab ESP Pomade easy to wash out?
No, the pomade is somewhat difficult to wash out and tends to leave residue in the hair. It often requires multiple shampoo washes to completely remove the product, which can be time-consuming.
What happens if I apply too much Paul Mitchell Lab ESP Pomade?
Applying too much of the pomade can result in a greasy feel and make your hair look oily. It may also leave a sticky residue that is difficult to remove, so it's best to use the product sparingly for optimal results.
How does Paul Mitchell Lab ESP Pomade affect the texture of the hair?
The pomade adds volume and body to your hair, creating a thicker and fuller appearance. It smoothens and softens the hair, making it more manageable and easier to style without making it feel stiff or sticky.