18.21 Man Made Clay Sweet Tobacco Hair Clay is made from a blend of clay, wax and elastic fibers that give your hair extra thickness and a natural, shine-free look. Ideal for fine or limp hair, this high-quality clay is paraben-free and will hold your hair in a non-sticky, soft-touch style all day. 18.21 Man Made Clay Sweet Tobacco features a signature aroma inspired by sweet Virginia pipe tobacco and the rowdy spirit of Prohibition-era chic bars. A water-soluble mixture of clay, wax and elastic fibers will add roughness to the hair, allowing it to be easily shaped and thickened. This high-quality styling product is ideal for guys with fine or thinning hair textures who want to create both structured and unstructured medium hold hairstyles. It works best on short to medium length hair without weighing it down. Sweet Tobacco styling clay contains exclusive oils that have a lasting aroma. The composition includes saffron and dried fruits, which are softened by hints of tonka bean, manuka honey and dark vanilla. Together they combine sweet tobacco, exotic woods and powdery musk.
Scoop a small amount from the jar, apply to damp or dry hair, then shape with fingers, comb or brush. Apply to damp hair and blow dry to add volume. Pinch hair for finer definition or buff hair for more active texture.
Buyer ratings
What the people who bought it say
Verified purchases of this product on amazon.com.
3,8★★★★☆41 ratings
5★22
4★6
3★3
2★2
1★8
★★★★☆May 17, 2017
I love this stuff! But...
9/6/17 update: I've developed a love/hate relationship with this product. I love what it does for my hair. But, I'm growing tired of the strong fragrance. I feel that if the manufacturer could dial back the potency of the scent, it would improve the overall product. Overall Impression: I love this hair product! I have thick, wavy hair and it provides a perfect amount of hold and texture for me. It is not greasy or sticky at all, and my hair can be reworked all day. The scent is strong - no question - but, I find it a very pleasant smell. It washes out easily. I'm on my second jar. This will be my go-to product for as long as they keep making it! Packaging; The jar is glass with a metal lid. Very nice and not cheap looking. Nice to be able to recycle when empty too. The labeling is aesthetically pleasing; can leave this one out on the counter. Application: I apply to my hair when it is well towel dried. If my hair is too wet or too dry it doesn't work as well. A little goes a long way - I use maybe a pea sized amount. Smooth it out thoroughly in my palm before rubbing in my hands to emulsify. Then apply to hair and style. Hold: I'd call this a medium hold. It doesn't make my hair stiff, sticky, or greasy. It has a matte finish - looks very natural. Holds all day, with easy restyling if needed. Scent: This scent is amazing, in my opinion. I've learned that 18.21 Man Made uses the same fragrance in all of their products, which is their "Sweet Tobacco Spirits". You can read the reviews for the scent, which is available to purchase on its own as a cologne. I think it has notes of honey and vanilla, more than anything.
kbs125Verified purchaseHelpful (29)
★★★★★November 8, 2024
Quality product with a great scent
I’ve been using the 18.21 Man Made Hair Styling Pomade for a while now, and it has quickly become my go-to product. Here are some reasons why I think it’s fantastic: Hold and Flexibility The pomade provides a strong hold that lasts all day without making my hair feel stiff or crunchy. It allows for flexibility, so I can restyle my hair throughout the day if needed. It’s perfect for achieving both classic and modern hairstyles. Scent The original sweet tobacco scent is absolutely amazing. It’s subtle yet distinctive, giving my hair a pleasant aroma that isn’t overpowering. I’ve received numerous compliments on the scent, which adds a nice touch to my grooming routine. Texture and Application The texture of the pomade is smooth and easy to work with. It spreads evenly through my hair without any clumping or residue. A little goes a long way, making the 2oz. jar last quite a while. Finish The pomade gives my hair a natural, healthy-looking shine without making it look greasy. It enhances the overall appearance of my hair, making it look well-groomed and polished. Ingredients I appreciate that the product is made with high-quality ingredients that are gentle on my hair and scalp. It doesn’t cause any irritation or dryness, which is a big plus for me. Packaging The packaging is stylish and compact, making it easy to carry around. The jar is durable and looks great on my bathroom shelf. Value for Money Considering the quality and performance, the 18.21 Man Made Hair Styling Pomade offers excellent value for money. It’s a premium product that delivers on its promises and enhances my daily grooming routine. Overall I highly recommend the 18.21 Man Made Hair Styling Pomade to anyone looking for a high-quality styling product with a unique scent. It’s a great addition to any grooming arsenal and provides excellent hold, flexibility, and a fantastic finish.
hleumas1Verified purchaseHelpful (8)
★★★★★September 23, 2016
Review: Man Made Paste Exec Summary: Once you figure out what its for, its great.
Before we begin...this is a hair product. That is NOT clear anywhere in the packaging or most of the product descriptions out there. Its basically a hair gel, though its consistency and description of 'paste' is accurate. Its actually a terrific product. The paste applies smoothly, simply. I usually wet my hands first and a 'lil dab'll do ya' happens. A little goes a pretty good way (most of my hair in a couple of drops of the paste but a little more than minimal is needed to go a full day. It IS capable of going a full day and with my hair, that's saying something. A lot of comments have been made, pro and con about the smell of the paste. I am a smoker and I'm not sure I could tell you what tobacco really smells like. But after I sniffed at the paste...that's just what it smells like. Its pleasant and nice and the odor permeates without overpowering. I really like it. The pricepoint for the 'paste' seems high (around $24 today) but the paste does a very good job and it is likely worth it to spend a few more pennies everyday to get the hold, look and smell that you want. All in all, this is a very good product. Remember three things: it is a hair product (which you CAN'T tell by looking at the jar, it works really well and the smell is pleasant. All in all, strong recommend! Update 07/24/2017 - This particular hair product has become my son's favorite. We have re ordered it multiple times since the initial order. Again, a strong recommend, seconded by a happy teenage consumer.
H. J. SpivackVerified purchaseFree product, given for reviewHelpful (7)
★★★★☆December 19, 2019
Love it but I'll admit im nitpicky
I personally love the scent. It's very masculine without feeling too overbearing. I usually get clay because it provides great hold without leaving my hair feeling like a rock. So here are my pros and cons of this specific product. Pros: -smells great -great hold, I usually wash my hair every other day (I rinse it in the shower on the days I dont wash it) , and it still has a great hold on my off days. -washes off with one use of shampoo, it's not difficult to wash off like some other brands. -looks great after a little bit of "after brushing" (further explained in cons) Cons: -VERY sticky/dry, making it pretty difficult to apply if your hair is not already wet. If your hair is dry, this wont absorb and will leave your hair white (the clay is white) -rock hard hold. This may sound like a good thing but if I wanted my hair rock hard, i would just get gel. H O W E V E R!!! if you brush your hair after it dries, it will leave your hair feeling way softer than that rock hard feeling, and itll look more natural. Although I already keep an extra brush on me at work and in my car, I really wish I didnt need to. - this stuff sticks like duct tape once its dry. Use a very stiff bristle brush to brush your hair once it dries because this stuff hates to separate and will be difficult for your brush to get through and break apart any previous comb rows. With all this being said, thisbis still my favorite styling clay!
logan santiagoVerified purchaseHelpful (7)
★★★★☆April 13, 2017
Versatile with great but overpowering smell
Just got this the other day and this is what I've found Pros: - adjustable through the day! One of the main reasons I got this stuff. - smells amazing, after an hour. Seriously this stuff smells better than most colognes. - put it in wet or dry hair, it gives two different textures / holds to make it more versatile. - no goopyness, no little white specs left in your hair even when put in dry. - cleans out easily with water - adds volume to thin hair - very versatile, whatever hairstyle you want you can probably get it wih this stuff Cons: - smell is very overpowering for an hour after you put it in, it gives me a headache but I got used to it. It's great after that first hour or two. - not for longer hair, I have medium to long hair and I needed to use too much to do what I wanted. - doesn't weigh hair down, this is my main gripe. I have pretty thick hair and this product does not weigh it down one bit. If you have thinner hair looking for volume, this is great. - not that great of hold. After messing with it after it's set it loses its hold, and water doesnt really seem to reactivate it. It definitely does for the first few hours, but it might not last for a long day. Take all of this with a grain of salt as I just got this product and it's my first impression. Others have said this product needs some time to understand. Overall its one of the best products Ive used, but probably not meant for my hair.
Amazon CustomerVerified purchaseHelpful (6)
★★★★★June 17, 2025
Excellent hair paste
This hair paste has quickly become part of my daily routine when I’m not wearing a hat. The scent is appealing without being overpowering and I’ve had compliments from women on its fragrance. Iterms of performance, it offers a perfect balance of hold and flexibility. The texture is thick but manageable, and a little goes a long way, making it a solid value for the price. What I really like is how well it works with a blow-dried style. I’ve found the best method is to first blow-dry my hair into the rough shape I want, then apply a small amount of paste. After that, I hit it with the blow dryer again for a few seconds — this melts the product slightly and really brings out the texture and definition. It gives a natural, look with subtle volume and zero greasiness. Highly recommend this product if it fits your needs.
KurtVerified purchaseHelpful (4)
★★★★★December 2, 2024
Exceptional Hold, Even for Thick Hair, with a Signature Scent
The 18.21 Man Made Hair Styling Clay is a standout product that works wonders for my thick hair. Pros: Strong Hold: Provides a firm grip, keeping even thick hair styles in place all day. Matte Finish: Delivers a natural, shine-free look suitable for various styles. Pleasant Aroma: Features a distinctive sweet tobacco scent that’s both unique and enjoyable. Quality Ingredients: Made with premium components that don’t dry out or damage hair. Cons: Price Point: A bit more expensive than other styling clays, but worth it for the performance. Application Texture: Can feel slightly stiff when working it through hair, but it smooths out. Final Thoughts: If you have thick hair and need a reliable styling clay, this one delivers exceptional hold without compromising on style. Add the signature scent, and it’s a clear winner in my grooming kit. 5/5
iamthezapVerified purchaseHelpful (3)
★☆☆☆☆February 3, 2026
Disappointed
Dear 18.21 Man Made Team, I hope this email finds you well. I’ve been a loyal customer for at least 6 years, regularly purchasing your Sweet Tobacco Paste (and often the 3-in-1 Shampoo/Body Wash as well). I truly appreciated the product’s original performance—it allowed me to sculpt and hold my hair in place reliably all day, even with moderate amounts. Unfortunately, something has changed in the Paste in recent batches. No matter how generously I apply it now, it no longer provides the same hold or staying power. My hair doesn’t stay styled, and the overall texture/feel seems different (less grippy or pliable than before). This has made it unusable for my needs, and I’m disappointed to say I won’t be purchasing it again unless the issue is addressed. Additionally, I’ve noticed what appears to be simultaneous changes: an increase in price alongside what feels like a degradation in quality. As someone who has supported the brand for years, this is frustrating—especially when the product no longer delivers the performance I relied on. I understand from your FAQ that there was a temporary formula adjustment for the Thick Pour Wash (which you restored to the original), but I haven’t seen any similar acknowledgment for the Paste. If there has been a reformulation or supply-related change affecting the Paste, I’d appreciate any transparency on that. If not, perhaps my recent jars are from an off batch, and I’d be open to hearing if there’s a way to resolve this (e.g., replacement or refund options). I’m hopeful you’ll continue maintaining the high standards that kept me coming back. In the meantime, I’ll be monitoring the Shampoo/Body Wash closely—if I notice similar issues there, I’ll have to stop purchasing that as well. Thank you for your time and for any insight or assistance you can provide. I value the brand and would love to see the original quality restored.
Amazon CustomerVerified purchaseHelpful (2)
★★★★★November 28, 2025
Divine Scent + Serious Hold (Hair Control Freaks, Rejoice)
The scent of this 18.21 styling product is absolutely divine—like “why isn’t every product in my bathroom required to smell this good?” divine. The hold is strong and aggressive in the best way. You’ll want to work it in quickly, because once it sets, it sets. If you’ve got thick hair like me, here’s the pro move: finish with your favorite strong-hold hairspray. This stuff will last all day on its own, but the combo makes your style basically indestructible (critical if you’re a “it must stay exactly like this until bedtime” type). One tip—go with an unscented spray so you don’t mess with the legendary 18.21 scent. Hands down my favorite hair product. Strong hold, amazing fragrance, zero disappointments.
BLUE ELEPHANTVerified purchaseHelpful (1)
★★★★★June 19, 2026
This stuff works!
Love the scent, love the workability! This works great and I will use it every time. The scent is not too strong and doesn’t fade away throughout the day. Holds hair great whether the hair is wet or dry. Not much shine and doesn’t leave behind any residue.
JustinVerified purchaseHelpful (1)
★★★★★January 26, 2026
Great hair wax that smells great, holds strong, and isn't shiny or wet-looking
I love this hair wax. This has been my go to hair product for the past several years. I style my hair nearly every day, and one of these jars lasts me almost the whole year. A little bit goes a long way. The hair wax has very strong hold, no shine, and smells great. It smells like tobacco leaf, not tobacco smoke (yes there is a difference). It is on the spendy end for hair product for men, but if it lasts me almost a whole calendar year, I have to problem paying the price.
Peter C.Verified purchaseHelpful (1)
★★★★★June 21, 2026
My Hubby Loves This
My hubby loves this stuff. It’s the only thing he uses for his hair. The consistency is great. I love the smell of it!
StephanieDVerified purchase
★☆☆☆☆June 15, 2026
Awful Smell
I’m not sure if this product is a practical joke or what but the “sweet tobacco” smells like a New Jersey Hobo Urinated on a brick wall and it’s been there for a few days. Would check the product warehouse to make sure rats aren’t pissing in your product.
Ryan ReiterVerified purchase
★☆☆☆☆July 25, 2026
Can is half full
Not good half full…
David robbinsVerified purchase
★★★★★July 21, 2026
Ladies read this, and mom's that have sons
Any woman reading this should buy their man this, mom's reading this, buy this for your son, matter of fact buy all the Man Made Products like the shampoo the deodorant, the cologne. Trust me.
TylerVerified purchase
★★★★★April 25, 2026
Great for your mustache
Took a gamble 2 years ago in search of the right mustache wax. I've tried 3-4 brands that are popular from a stiff wax consistency to more of a cream/mudd and I believe this brand is the best I've found. I usually only apply it once per day and I'm set, and where I'm forgetful at times and leave the jar open, I've never had an issue with it drying out and becoming unusable. As for my mustache, I regularly keep it Imperial, French, or Bandito style with a full curl about the size of a quarter.
Gawin HawkeyeVerified purchase
★★★★★March 16, 2026
Great Product!
I have bought this product for a few years now and it is a great product for any guy that needs his hair styled without the gunky mess of some other products. It smells great to, I will even get compliments about my cologne smelling good but I tell them its the hair product. I will always buy this product!
CHVerified purchase
★★★★★February 17, 2026
Good buy
Great product, we buy often, not sticky and really holds.
CheriVerified purchase
★★★★★March 7, 2026
Worth the extra money!
Love this stuff!
BradVerified purchase
★★★★★June 6, 2026
Smells AMAZING
Smells great! Holds Great!
TicTakVerified purchase
★★★★★May 8, 2026
Works great
I love the smell, and it does exactly what it's supposed to.
Dane ManneVerified purchase
★★★★★July 6, 2026
You won’t regret it!
Great product! Works well and hold hair in place. My hair feels healthier than it has in years. My wife goes crazy over its scent every time I use it! Added bonus! First hair product she wants me to wear to bed!
Robert CatonVerified purchase
★★★★★May 14, 2026
Smells nice
Nice product smells great
Rod BowenVerified purchase
★★★★★May 23, 2026
Great product
I’ve been using this stuff for years and years. Every time I put a dollop on my finger to style my hair my sense go crazy with how good this stuff smells. Please never change the formula.
Easy-eVerified purchase
★★★★★December 25, 2025
Great product
My hairstylist using this. And I loved it so much I had to buy some for home as well. Lasts through a 5am to 4pm shift perfectly. Doesn't leave a sticky residue on hands after applying. Looks great holds without the look of greasy. And washes out with ease.
Kindle CustomerVerified purchase
★★★★★April 9, 2026
Smells great
This pomade has a great semi-strong hold and smells amazing!
Amazon CustomerVerified purchase
★★★★★February 26, 2026
This product goes on dry not oily!
This product goes on dry not oily, has a great hold, great volume, and flexible to styling.
ROBERTVerified purchase
★★★★★February 8, 2026
Great stuff, does just the right amount of hold, love the aroma
Wonderful 👍
Amazon CustomerVerified purchase
★★★★☆November 9, 2025
Light hold
Does make my scalp itch and dry out though
jzVerified purchase
★★★★☆June 2, 2026
Solid hold and nice sheen, but wife hates the sweet tobacco smell.
Got this clay 2 weeks ago. Needed styling help. Hold is great. Gives nice subtle sheen, not greasy. Hair stays put all day. Problem is the scent. Heavy sweet tobacco. I am on the fence, but my wife hates it. Says I smell like a dusty pipe shop. Works well. Just prepare for the strong smell.
Chris MVerified purchase
★★★★☆May 29, 2026
Good
Great scent, and it’s light, do seem to have a stray/fly away or two though
Summit SpartanVerified purchase
★★★☆☆July 2, 2026
Tobacco, yes, but not in a good way.
Not a bad product but not a good product. First, the initial odor is mild but then you're hit with intense old tobacco and not in a good way. Like an old ashtray. Second, the hold is light. Not using it.
christopher b.Verified purchase
★★★☆☆June 19, 2026
More perfume than pomade
It's good stuff, but if your hair is longer than about 2 inches you'll need to use more than a little bit for any appreciable hold, and the scent is so intense you and your coworkers will get sick of it. Good for a night out or used very sparingly.
JohnVerified purchase
★★★☆☆March 9, 2026
Too stiff
This pomade is just a little too stiff for me. Not really crazy about the fragrance either.
Wild StreetVerified purchase
★★☆☆☆March 7, 2026
100% price increase
I was paying $13 for this a few months ago. $26 is insane. I will find another product. For $13 this product is great
Fred WarnerVerified purchase
★★☆☆☆May 12, 2026
Something changed, not as good as it used to be
Seems like the formula has changed, I use to love this styling product but now it has absolutely no hold and makes your hair look kind of greasy.
Amazon CustomerVerified purchase
★☆☆☆☆May 27, 2026
Formula has changed - not the same product!
Not the same formula! Doesn’t hold like it used to. $26 for a bottle of (now) oil based gunk that kinda smells good. Been buying for years but no more. Darn.
Jessica HVerified purchase
★☆☆☆☆February 20, 2026
Pure Grease
This is not a wax, this is hardened canola oil. You need a microwave to get it soft enough to use, and then after you use it, it'll take at least 4 rounds of shampoo to get the majority of the grease out of your hair.
cVerified purchase
★☆☆☆☆February 14, 2026
Allergic reaction
The scent is overpowering to the point of being nauseating. It also made my scalp break out.
urwrstnitemare
★☆☆☆☆June 22, 2026
Bad product
Only makes your hair frizzy. Weird texture. Strong smell.
18.21 Man Made Clay Sweet Tobacco Hair Clay is made from a blend of clay, wax and elastic fibers that give your hair extra thickness and a natural, shine-free look. Ideal for fine or limp hair, this high-quality clay is paraben-free and will hold your hair in a non-sticky, soft-touch style all day. 18.21 Man Made Clay Sweet Tobacco features a signature aroma inspired by sweet Virginia pipe tobacco and the rowdy spirit of Prohibition-era chic bars. A water-soluble mixture of clay, wax and elastic fibers will add roughness to the hair, allowing it to be easily shaped and thickened. This high-quality styling product is ideal for guys with fine or thinning hair textures who want to create both structured and unstructured medium hold hairstyles. It works best on short to medium length hair without weighing it down. Sweet Tobacco styling clay contains exclusive oils that have a lasting aroma. The composition includes saffron and dried fruits, which are softened by hints of tonka bean, manuka honey and dark vanilla. Together they combine sweet tobacco, exotic woods and powdery musk.
Scoop a small amount from the jar, apply to damp or dry hair, then shape with fingers, comb or brush. Apply to damp hair and blow dry to add volume. Pinch hair for finer definition or buff hair for more active texture.
