The slicked-back hairstyle has long been a symbol of sophistication, confidence, and timeless style. Whether you’re preparing for a formal event or simply want to add a polished touch to your everyday look, this hairstyle offers a versatile option for men of all ages. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to achieve the perfect slicked-back hairstyle, provide tips for different hair types, and share styling techniques that will keep your hair looking sharp all day long.
What is a Slicked-Back Hairstyle?
The slicked-back hairstyle is a classic men’s look that features neatly combed hair swept away from the face, often with a shiny finish. This hairstyle has evolved over the years, making appearances in everything from the 1950s greaser culture to modern-day red carpets. The key to the slicked-back look is smooth, controlled hair that stays in place without looking stiff or unnatural.
This style is flexible enough to be worn with various hair lengths and types, making it a go-to choice for many men who want a sleek, well-groomed appearance. In this guide, we’ll teach you how to achieve that perfect slicked-back look, no matter what hair texture or length you have.
Essential Tools for a Slicked-Back Hairstyle
Before diving into the step-by-step process, it’s essential to gather the right tools for achieving the slicked-back hairstyle. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
Shampoo and Conditioner: Clean hair is key to a neat style. Make sure to wash your hair with a good-quality shampoo and conditioner to keep your hair healthy and manageable.
Towel: Use a towel to gently dry your hair after washing.
Hair Comb: A wide-tooth comb or a fine-tooth comb works well for styling, depending on your hair type.
Hair Gel, Pomade, or Wax: These products will help you achieve the smooth, shiny look of a slicked-back hairstyle.
Blow Dryer (Optional): A blow dryer can help you shape your hair and add volume if needed.
Hairbrush: A brush can help distribute the product evenly and smooth out any flyaways.
Having these tools on hand will make it much easier to achieve a polished look.
Step-by-Step Guide to Achieving a Slicked-Back Hairstyle
Step 1: Wash and Condition Your Hair
The first step in any good hairstyle is starting with clean hair. Use a high-quality shampoo and conditioner to cleanse your hair. Depending on your hair type, you might opt for a product that adds volume or one that smooths and strengthens your hair.
Rinse thoroughly, ensuring all the product is out. Gently towel-dry your hair to remove excess water. Hair that is too wet may not hold the style, while hair that is too dry can become difficult to manage.
Step 2: Apply the Right Product
The product you choose will play a big role in achieving the slicked-back look. There are several different types of products that work well for this style:
Hair Gel: If you want a strong hold and a shiny finish, hair gel is a popular option. It’s great for slicking hair back and ensuring that it stays in place all day.
Pomade: Pomade provides a medium to strong hold with a natural shine. It’s a great choice if you want a more flexible hold, allowing your hair to move slightly but still stay in place.
Hair Wax: Hair wax provides a more matte finish with a strong hold. It’s ideal for shorter hair or if you want a less glossy finish but still need control.
Start by applying a small amount of product to your palm, rubbing your hands together, and then working it through your damp hair. Begin at the roots and spread the product evenly to the ends of your hair.
Step 3: Blow Dry (Optional but Recommended)
For added volume and better control, use a blow dryer to help shape your hair. Blow-drying your hair on a medium heat setting can help give it a bit more lift and make it easier to style.
If you’re looking for more volume, tilt your head forward while blow-drying, then flip it back to style. For a sleeker look, blow-dry your hair in the direction you want it to lay. Be sure to keep the blow dryer at a safe distance to avoid damaging your hair.
Step 4: Comb Your Hair Back
Once your hair is dry, it’s time to comb it. Use a fine-tooth comb or a wide-tooth comb depending on your hair type. Start at the front and comb your hair backward. Keep the comb steady to ensure that all the hair is smoothly swept back and even. Work your way from the front to the back of your head, making sure your hair is aligned and positioned exactly where you want it.
If you’re aiming for a side part, comb the front portion of your hair to the side first, and then smooth the rest back.
Step 5: Finish the Look
Once your hair is in place, you may want to apply a small amount of product again to ensure that everything stays in place. If you prefer a more natural look, you can use a light-hold product to keep the hair soft and movable.
If you want to add extra shine, use a small amount of pomade or a shine spray. This will give your hair a polished, glossy finish that is characteristic of a traditional slicked-back style.
Step 6: Set with Hairspray (Optional)
To keep your slicked-back style in place for longer, finish off with a light mist of hairspray. This will provide additional hold and ensure that your hair stays sleek throughout the day. Be careful not to overdo it with hairspray, as this can cause your hair to look stiff and unnatural.
Tips for Different Hair Types
While the basic steps remain the same, different hair types may require slightly different approaches to achieve the perfect slicked-back look. Here’s how to style your slicked-back hairstyle based on your hair type:
Straight Hair
Straight hair is naturally easier to style and tends to stay in place once you apply product. If you have straight hair, follow the steps above, but you may want to use a bit more gel or pomade to ensure your hair stays sleek and smooth throughout the day.
Wavy Hair
For men with wavy hair, a slicked-back style can sometimes be a bit trickier. You’ll need to apply enough product to smooth out the waves while still maintaining some of the texture. Using a blow dryer can help manage your waves and give you better control over the shape. Avoid over-applying product, as this can weigh down your hair.
Curly Hair
Curly hair may require a bit more effort to achieve a slicked-back look. Start with a leave-in conditioner or curl cream to manage frizz. You may need to use a stronger hold gel or pomade to keep your curls in place. Additionally, a blow dryer with a diffuser can help you shape the curls without disrupting their natural texture.
Thick Hair
Thick hair may need extra product to keep everything in place. Start with a generous amount of gel or pomade, and be prepared to use a bit more product if needed. Blow-drying your hair can help tame thick strands and give you a more manageable texture.
Thin Hair
If you have thin hair, avoid heavy products like wax, as they may weigh down your hair. Opt for a lightweight pomade or gel with a flexible hold. Blow-drying thin hair can add volume and help it stay lifted, giving the slicked-back style a fuller, more natural appearance.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While styling a slicked-back hairstyle may seem straightforward, there are a few common mistakes to avoid:
Using Too Much Product: It’s tempting to load up on product, but too much can make your hair look greasy or stiff. Start with a small amount and add more as needed.
Not Using the Right Product for Your Hair Type: Different hair types require different products. For example, thick hair may need a stronger hold, while thin hair benefits from lighter products.
Over-Brushing: Brushing your hair too much can disrupt the style and cause flyaways. Use a comb to create a smooth look, and only brush if necessary.
Not Letting the Hair Dry Properly: Make sure your hair is sufficiently dry before styling. Damp hair can lead to a less durable hold, and the style may not last as long.
Variations of the Slicked-Back Hairstyle
While the classic slicked-back hairstyle is a timeless look, there are variations that can add a modern twist or suit your personal style:
Undercut Slicked-Back: This variation features short sides and back, with longer hair on top that is slicked back. The contrast between the short and long hair gives the style a more contemporary edge.
Pompadour Slicked-Back: The pompadour involves adding height to the front of the hair, creating volume while still keeping the sides slicked back.
Textured Slicked-Back: If you prefer a more natural, relaxed look, consider adding some texture to your slicked-back hairstyle. This can be achieved with a light-hold product that lets your hair move without looking too stiff.
Slicked-Back with a Side Part: A side part adds dimension to the slicked-back look. It’s ideal if you prefer more structure in your style.
Conclusion
The slicked-back hairstyle is a classic choice for men looking for a sleek, stylish look that exudes sophistication and confidence. With the right products, techniques, and a little practice, you can achieve the perfect slicked-back style that suits your hair type and personal taste. Whether you’re heading to work, a formal event, or just out for the day, the slicked-back hairstyle is a versatile and timeless option that will never go out of style.
