Transform your look with a sleek and polished slick back hairstyle. Whether you’re seeking a sophisticated style for a special occasion or a daily dose of dapperness, this iconic coiffure exudes timeless elegance and versatility. Embark on a journey to achieve the perfect slick back, where every strand is tamed and aligned, radiating confidence and style with every stride.
The essence of a pristine slick back lies in meticulous preparation. Wash and towel dry your hair, ensuring minimal dampness remains. Divide your hair into manageable sections, starting from the front and working your way towards the back. Apply a dollop of strong-hold pomade or gel to your palms and distribute it evenly through each section. Use a wide-toothed comb to gently distribute the product from roots to tips, working in small circular motions to tame any flyaways.
Once your hair is evenly coated, use a fine-toothed comb or brush to create a defined part. For a classic side part, brush your hair to the desired side, ensuring a clean and precise line. Alternatively, opt for a bold center part by dividing your hair down the middle. With a slick back, the parting serves as a focal point, framing your face and adding an element of finesse to your overall look.
Applying Product
To achieve the perfect slick back, it is essential to use the right products and apply them in a specific way. Here’s a detailed guide on how to apply product for a slick back:
1. Start with Dry Hair
Ensure your hair is completely dry before applying any products. Damp hair will prevent the product from adhering properly, resulting in a less-than-perfect hold.
2. Choose the Right Product
The choice of product depends on your hair type. Choose products that provide a strong hold, such as:
| Hair Type | Recommended Product |
|---|---|
| Thick, coarse hair | Heavy pomade or wax |
| Fine, thin hair | Lightweight mousse or gel |
3. Apply the Product Evenly
Use your fingers or a comb to distribute the product evenly throughout your hair. Start at the roots and work your way to the tips. Avoid overloading your hair with product, as this can make it greasy or stiff.
4. Comb Into Place
After applying the product, use a comb or brush to smooth your hair back into place. Start from the front of your hair and work your way back, ensuring that all strands are slicked back evenly.
5. Use a Blow Dryer (Optional)
To enhance the hold, you can use a blow dryer to heat the product. This will help it penetrate the hair shaft and provide a stronger hold. Use a low heat setting and blow dry from the roots to the tips, following the direction of your slick back.
Combing Your Hair Back
To create a slicked back style, you’ll need to start by combing your hair back. Use a fine-toothed comb to smooth out any tangles or knots, and make sure your hair is evenly distributed. If your hair is particularly thick or unruly, you may want to use a blow dryer to help straighten it out. Once your hair is combed, apply a small amount of pomade or gel to your hands and work it through your hair from the roots to the tips. This will help to keep your hair in place and give it a polished look.
There are a few different ways to comb your hair back. You can create a classic slicked back look by combing your hair straight back from your forehead. For a more modern take on the style, you can comb your hair back from the sides of your head, leaving the top slightly longer. You can also add a part to your hair before combing it back, for a more formal look.
Styling a Slicked Back with Different Hair Types
The techniques for styling a slicked back hairstyle can vary depending on your hair type. Here are some tips for getting the slicked-back look with different types of hair:
| Hair Type | Styling Tips |
|---|---|
| Straight hair | Use a strong-hold pomade or gel to keep your hair in place. Apply the product evenly from roots to tips, and comb your hair back firmly. |
| Wavy hair | Use a blow dryer to help straighten your hair before applying product. Apply a light-hold pomade or gel to your hair, and comb it back smoothly. |
| Curly hair | Apply a generous amount of pomade or gel to your hair, and use a fine-toothed comb to work the product through your hair from roots to tips. Comb your hair back firmly, and then use a hair dryer to help set the style. |
Using a Brush
Brushing is a classic method for achieving a slick back. Begin by towel-drying your hair to remove excess moisture. Apply a styling product, such as a gel or pomade, to your hair while it’s still slightly damp. This will help to control frizz and create a more polished look.
Use a firm-bristled brush to smooth your hair back from the front of your head towards the crown. Apply even pressure as you brush, and try to avoid tugging on your hair too much. Once you reach the crown, continue brushing in the same direction, but use less pressure to avoid creating a harsh line or ridge in your hair.
To create a more voluminous slick back, lift your hair up slightly at the roots as you brush. This will give your hair a more textured and dynamic look. You can also use a blow dryer to add volume, but be sure to use a low heat setting to avoid damaging your hair.
Once you’ve brushed your hair back, use your fingers to smooth down any loose hairs and create a more defined shape. You can also use a small amount of hairspray to hold the style in place, but be careful not to overdo it, as this can make your hair look stiff or crunchy.
Tips for Using a Brush to Create a Slick Back
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use a firm-bristled brush | This will help to smooth your hair and create a more polished look. |
| Apply styling product before brushing | This will help to control frizz and create a more defined shape. |
| Brush in the direction of hair growth | This will help to avoid creating a harsh line or ridge in your hair. |
| Lift your hair up slightly at the roots | This will help to create a more voluminous slick back. |
| Use a small amount of hairspray to hold the style in place | Be careful not to overdo it, as this can make your hair look stiff or crunchy. |
Holding Your Hair in Place
To ensure your slick back stays in place all day, you’ll need to use strong-hold products and techniques. Here are some effective methods:
1. Using a Pomade or Gel
Apply a generous amount of pomade or gel to your dry hair, working it through from roots to tips. Use a comb to distribute the product evenly.
2. Blow Drying Your Hair
Use a blow dryer on the low or medium setting to dry your hair while brushing it back with a comb or brush. This will help to set the hair in place and prevent it from becoming frizzy.
3. Using Hairspray
Once your hair is dry, apply a thin layer of hairspray to hold it in place. Avoid using too much spray, as it can make your hair look stiff and unnatural.
4. Using a Hairdryer and Comb
Use a hair dryer to blow-dry the roots of your hair. While blow drying, run a comb through your hair and use your fingers to create the shape of the slick back.
5. Using a Hairspray and Boar Bristle Brush
Apply a strong-hold hairspray to your hair and brush it through using a boar bristle brush. This will help to distribute the product evenly and give your hair a smooth, glossy finish.
| Product | Benefits |
|—|—|
| Pomade | Strong hold, high shine |
| Gel | Medium hold, low shine |
| Hairspray | Strong hold, quick-drying |
| Boar bristle brush | Distributes products evenly, creates smooth finish |
Using a Hairspray
Hairspray is a key component in achieving a sleek back, as it provides hold and shine. Here’s how to use hairspray effectively:
1. Choose the Right Hairspray
Opt for a high-hold or extra-hold hairspray with a strong mist to ensure maximum hold and prevent flyaways.
2. Spray from a Distance
Hold the hairspray nozzle about 10-12 inches away from your hair. This will help distribute the product evenly without weighing it down.
3. Focus on the Roots
Start spraying at the roots and work your way towards the ends. This will create a foundation for hold and prevent the hair from falling out of style.
4. Use Short Bursts
Apply hairspray in short, even bursts. Avoid spraying excessively, as this can make the hair look crunchy and stiff.
5. Let it Set
After spraying, let the hairspray set for a few minutes before brushing or combing to allow it to fully adhere.
6. Advanced Tips for Fine or Thin Hair
For fine or thin hair, additional steps may be necessary to achieve a secure hold:
| Tip | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Use a Pre-Styling Agent | Apply a volumizing mousse or root lifter before blow-drying to create more volume at the roots. |
| Blow-Dry Upside Down | Flip your hair upside down and blow-dry to lift the roots and create a more voluminous base. |
| Hold the Sprayer Higher | Spray the hairspray from a higher angle, aiming towards the roots, to provide extra lift and support. |
| Use a Texturizing Spray | A light spritz of texturizing spray before applying hairspray can add grip and prevent the hair from becoming too slick. |
Styling Tips
1. Start on clean, damp hair: Lightly towel dry your hair to get rid of excess water. This will help the products distribute evenly and hold better.
2. Apply product: Choose the best hair product for your hair type and desired hold. Work it through your hair evenly, focusing on the roots and back sections.
3. Brush your hair back: Use a firm brush to brush your hair straight back and reach the desired smoothness.
4. Use a comb to perfect: Once you’ve brushed your hair back, use a comb to smooth out any flyaways and refine the slicked-back look.
5. Use a hair dryer: Use a hair dryer on cool settings to set your slick back and prevent frizz.
6. Finish with hairspray: For extra hold and shine, apply a hairspray to your slick back. Choose a hairspray that suits your hair type and hold requirements.
7. Here’s a detailed guide to styling your slick back with different types of hair:
| Hair Type | Styling Instructions |
|---|---|
| Thick, Coarse Hair | Use a strong hold gel or pomade. Comb through your hair with a wide-toothed comb to distribute the product evenly. Blow dry your hair on low heat to set the slick back. |
| Thin, Fine Hair | Apply a volumizing mousse to your hair and comb through. Use a light-hold gel or pomade to slick back your hair. Brush your hair with a soft-bristled brush to avoid snagging. |
| Curly or Wavy Hair | Apply a styling cream to wet hair and comb through to detangle. Use a strong hold gel or pomade to slick back your hair. Use a blow dryer with a diffuser attachment to stretch out curls and prevent frizz. |
Maintaining Your Slick Back
Maintaining a slick back requires regular care and attention to detail. Here are some tips:
1. Wash and Condition
Use a gentle shampoo and conditioner to cleanse and hydrate your hair. Avoid over-washing, as it can strip your hair of its natural oils.
2. Apply Pomade
Start by applying a small amount of pomade to your palms and work it evenly through your hair, from roots to tips. Use a comb or brush to distribute the pomade and create a smooth, sleek look.
3. Style
Once the pomade is applied, use a comb or brush to style your hair into the desired slick back shape. Use a firm hold hairspray to keep the style in place.
4. Touch Up
Throughout the day, you may need to touch up your slick back by applying a small amount of pomade or hairspray on areas that need it.
5. Avoid Product Buildup
Over time, product buildup can weigh down your hair and make it look greasy. Use a clarifying shampoo once a week to remove product buildup and keep your hair clean and healthy.
6. Get Regular Haircuts
Regular haircuts will help to remove split ends and keep your hair looking fresh and healthy. It also helps to maintain the shape of your slick back.
7. Avoid Heat Styling
Heat styling can damage your hair and make it more difficult to achieve a slick back. Avoid using hot tools such as hairdryers, flat irons, or curling irons on your hair.
8. Use a Wide-Tooth Comb
A wide-tooth comb is essential for maintaining a slick back without damaging your hair. Use it to gently detangle your hair and distribute the pomade evenly. Avoid using a brush, as it can create frizz and break your hair.
9. Take Care of Your Hair
A healthy scalp and hair are essential for a successful slick back. Eat a healthy diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Get regular exercise and get enough sleep to promote healthy hair growth.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Encountering difficulties while styling a slick back? Here are some troubleshooting tips to address common issues:
1. Hair is too short
A slick back requires hair of a certain length to achieve the desired effect. If your hair is too short, it may not be able to hold the style properly.
2. Hair is too fine
Fine hair can be more challenging to slick back due to its lack of volume and hold. To work with fine hair, use a stronger hold product and consider using a blow dryer to add some lift to your roots.
3. Hair is too thick
Thick hair can also present challenges as it requires more product and effort to keep it in place. Use a generous amount of pomade or gel and brush your hair thoroughly to distribute the product evenly.
4. Hair is too dry
Dry hair is more prone to breakage and may not hold a slick back style well. Use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner and apply a leave-in conditioner before styling.
5. Hair is too oily
Oily hair can make it difficult to achieve a clean and sleek slick back. Wash your hair more frequently and use a clarifying shampoo to remove excess oil.
6. Product is not strong enough
If your slick back is not holding in place, you may be using a product that is not strong enough. Choose a pomade or gel with a strong hold factor.
7. Product is applied incorrectly
Applying product incorrectly can prevent your hair from staying slicked back. Be sure to distribute the product evenly throughout your hair and brush it through thoroughly.
8. Hair is brushed too much
Over-brushing can cause hair to become dry and damaged, making it more difficult to style. Brush your hair gently and only as much as necessary.
9. Product is applied to wet or damp hair
Applying product to wet or damp hair will dilute the product and make it less effective. Be sure to towel dry your hair completely before styling.
| Solution | Problem |
|---|---|
| Use a damp brush | Hair becomes frizzy after brushing |
| Apply a small amount of hairspray | Slick back does not hold in high humidity |
| Use a boar bristle brush | Hair becomes greasy quickly |
| Let hair dry completely before applying product | Product becomes diluted and ineffective |
| Use a toothbrush or mascara wand | Create precise lines and details |
Tips for Straight, Fine Hair
Straight, fine hair has less body and texture, making it more difficult to slick back. To achieve a sleek look on this hair type, follow these steps:
- Start with freshly washed and dried hair.
- Apply a volumizing mousse to the roots to create lift and make hair appear thicker.
- Use a small amount of pomade and work it through the mid-lengths and ends.
- Comb hair straight back and secure it with a stronghold hairspray.
Tips for Wavy, Curly Hair
Wavy, curly hair tends to be frizzy and difficult to control. To get a slicked-back look on this hair type, try the following:
- Wash and condition hair with a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner.
- While hair is still wet, apply a leave-in conditioner or curl cream to define curls.
- Use a wide-toothed comb to gently detangle hair.
- Apply a strong-hold gel or pomade and work it evenly through hair.
- Comb hair straight back and secure with hairspray.
Tips for Coily Hair
Coily hair is coarse and can be very dry. To slick it back, use these tips:
- Start with pre-washed hair. Do not dry hair after washing.
- Apply a generous amount of moisturizing hair cream and work it through hair.
- Use a styling brush to comb hair straight back.
- Apply a small amount of pomade or gel and smooth it over hair.
- Secure hair with a strong-hold hairspray and allow it to dry completely.
How To Get A Slick Back
A slick back is a classic hairstyle that is both stylish and easy to achieve. It is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re going to a formal event or just running errands. To get a slick back, you will need the following:
- A comb
- Hair gel or pomade
- A blow dryer (optional)
First, comb your hair back from your forehead. Then, apply a small amount of hair gel or pomade to your hair. Start at the roots and work your way to the tips. Use your comb to evenly distribute the product throughout your hair. If you want a more polished look, you can use a blow dryer to dry your hair while you comb it back. This will help to smooth out any flyaways and give you a more defined slick back.
People Also Ask
What is the best hair gel for a slick back?
There are many different hair gels that you can use to achieve a slick back. Some of the most popular include:
- American Crew Firm Hold Styling Gel
- Layrite Super Hold Pomade
- Reuzel Extreme Hold Pomade
- Baxter of California Clay Pomade
- BluMaan Cavalier Clay
The best hair gel for you will depend on your hair type and desired hold. If you have thick, coarse hair, you will need a strong hold gel. If you have fine, thin hair, you can use a lighter hold gel. Experiment with different gels to find the one that works best for you.
How do I get a slick back with short hair?
Getting a slick back with short hair is a bit more challenging than with long hair, but it is still possible. The key is to use a strong hold gel and to comb your hair back firmly. You may also want to use a blow dryer to help set the style.
How do I keep my slick back in place all day?
To keep your slick back in place all day, you will need to use a strong hold hair gel or pomade. You may also want to use a spray wax or hairspray to help lock in the style. If you are going to be in a humid environment, you may want to reapply your hair gel or pomade throughout the day to keep your slick back in place.
