In the 1988 film Coming to America, the character Prince Akeem presents himself with a pronounced, glossy hairstyle that relies on a specific hair product. This look is part of the film’s broader visual storytelling, emphasizing status, cultural background, and character identity. The product used to achieve this style is typically a strong-hold, high-gloss pomade or styling wax. These products provide firm hold and a reflective sheen, making them suitable for structured, formal, or ceremonial appearances. The following sections explain the product type, its functional properties, application methods, and its cultural and cinematic significance.
What Kind of Product Is Used for That Style
The hairstyle in Coming to America reflects a deliberate styling choice that requires a product capable of firm hold and a high-gloss finish. The most likely category is a heavy-duty pomade or sculpting wax. These formulations are designed to reshape and lock hair into place while creating a noticeable sheen. Understanding the functional attributes of these products helps explain why they were chosen for the character’s appearance in a major comedy-drama.
Pomade and Styling Wax Basics
Hair pomade is a waxy or oil-based styling product that provides strong hold and a glossy finish. It is typically formulated with waxes, oils, and resins. There are two main types: water-based and oil-based. Water-based pomades offer a lighter hold and are easier to wash out, while oil-based pomades deliver stronger hold and more shine but can be heavier to wash out. Sculpting waxes are often firmer, providing tactile hold and texture without excessive shine, though high-gloss variants exist.
Key Ingredients and Their Roles
Common ingredients in high-gloss pomades include waxes such as beeswax or microcrystalline wax for structure, oils like mineral oil or lanolin for shine and conditioning, and resins such as glyceryl abietate for flexible hold. Some products may also include fatty alcohols to add body without excessive stiffness. The combination of these ingredients creates a product that can maintain a defined shape while reflecting light, resulting in the polished look seen in the film.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Product Type | Heavy-hold pomade or sculpting wax | General cosmetic classification |
| Hold Level | Strong to very strong | Formulation norm for styling waxes |
| Finish | High gloss | Characteristic of oil-based pomades |
| Key Ingredients | Waxes (beeswax, microcrystalline), oils (mineral oil, lanolin), resins | Standard cosmetic ingredient reference |
Cultural and Cinematic Context
Coming to America uses distinctive character styling to communicate background and personality. Prince Akeem’s hairstyle and its associated product contribute to a regal, formal presentation that aligns with his royal persona. The glossy, controlled look sets him apart visually from other characters and underscores the film’s themes of identity and adaptation. While exact product names are not highlighted in the film, the style itself indicates the use of a professional-grade styling product common in formal grooming routines at the time.
Practical Use and How to Apply
To replicate this style, start with clean, towel-dried hair for better product distribution. Dispense a small amount of pomade or wax—using too much can make hair appear stiff or overly greasy. Warm the product between palms and apply evenly from roots to ends, focusing on the sections that need shaping. Use a comb to define the structure and a blow-dryer on a medium setting to set the style. For long-lasting hold, finish with a light mist of setting spray if needed.
- Use a quarter-sized amount of product for short to medium hair; adjust for longer or thicker hair.
- Comb or brush through while warm to ensure even distribution.
- Style in the direction of growth for a natural, polished finish.
- Wash with a clarifying shampoo to remove residual wax and avoid buildup.
Product Performance Considerations
High-gloss pomades perform well in controlled environments but can be affected by humidity, causing hair to lose structure or appear frizzy. In humid conditions, a humidity-resistant variant or additional anti-frizz product may be necessary. The level of shine can be adjusted by using less product for a subtler look or more for a wetter appearance. Over time, repeated use of wax-based products may require a clarifying wash to prevent scalp irritation or clogged pores.
Alternatives and Comparisons
Other styling options exist for similar looks, each with different hold and finish profiles. Understanding these alternatives can help choose the right product for various hair types and desired outcomes.
| Product Type | Hold | Finish | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pomade (oil-based) | Very strong | High gloss | Structured, formal styles |
| Pomade (water-based) | Moderate to strong | Medium to high gloss | Everyday styles with easy washout |
| Styling Wax | StrongMatte to low gloss | Texture and definition | |
| Hair Gel | Strong to firm | Glossy or matte | Shape retention and sleek looks |
Choosing the Right Product for Your Hair
Hair type, desired style, and maintenance routine all influence product selection. Fine hair may benefit from a lightweight formula to avoid weighing down strands, while thick or coarse hair often requires a stronger hold product. Consider washout difficulty, shine level, and how the product interacts with humidity when deciding. Testing a small amount first can help determine compatibility with your hair and scalp.
Conclusion
The hair product used for the iconic hairstyle in Coming to America is most consistent with a high-gloss, strong-hold pomade or sculpting wax. These products provide the firm hold and reflective finish necessary to create the character’s polished appearance. Understanding product types, ingredients, and application techniques can help you achieve a similar look while selecting options that suit your hair type and styling goals.