The slicked-back hairstyle has maintained its popularity for over a century, and for good reason. This versatile style can accentuate thick, rich hair, highlight your facial structure, and create a striking appearance suitable for various occasions, from business meetings to casual outings. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the slick back is surprisingly easy to achieve. This tutorial will guide you through the steps to create a sleek, wet hair look.
The foundation of a successful slick back lies in starting with damp hair. The hair will finish drying in a slicked position, helping it stay in place all day long. Shampoo your hair, blot it with a towel, and let it air dry until it’s damp. This style looks best on hair that is slightly damp. If your hair is long, use a hair dryer to rough dry your hair until it’s about 70 percent dry. Use a wide-toothed comb to comb your hair and remove tangles.
Pomade and gel are two common and effective products. Coat your hair with pomade. Use your fingers to apply a liberal amount of strong-hold pomade to your hair, focusing on the top and sides. Pomade was classically oil-based. Gel is a good alternative if your hair isn't too thick. Gel typically results in a dryer hold and may take on a slightly crunchy texture. You can slick back your hair with water or apply a plant-based styling product. You can make a natural gel with flaxseed. For this style, you can use either maximum hold pomade or a medium hold product. Apply a little at a time, warming the product in your hands first and then running it through your hair with your fingers.
Use a fine-toothed barber comb and comb your hair straight back from your forehead to the crown of your head. The classic slick does not include a part, so just run the comb straight back. Place the comb at your right temple and run it to the back of your head. Then, do the same on the left side. In most cases, 6 or 7 comb-throughs (or “slicks”) should be enough to create this quick style. Aim to style your hair in as few slicks as possible to evenly distribute the pomade. If you handle it too much, it may begin to look messy.
With the modern slick, you can choose not to slick back the sides. After initially combing your hair back, put the comb down and use your fingers to achieve the look you want. Use a hair dryer set to low to help add volume while finger combing. Use more pomade as necessary to create the look you want. If you prefer a traditional slick back that’s flat against your head, no problem! Some prefer their slicked-back hair to have a part, while others don’t-do what you prefer! Use a fine-toothed comb to brush your hair back from your forehead to the crown of your head. Just comb each section once.
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Slicking your hair back with a high shine pomade is a great way to create a polished, retro look. Apply a nickel-sized amount evenly throughout dry hair, then use a comb to smoothly brush hair straight back.
Putting your hair into a ponytail or bun can help your hair stay in place and create a neater appearance.
Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist based in Milledgeville, Georgia. She has been working as a hair stylist since 2007 and began a career as a cosmetology teacher in 2013. She worked as a teacher at Arrojo Cosmetology School, teaching cosmetology practices, hairstyling, and hair color application. She also brought her cosmetology expertise to her work as a staff writer for fashion blog Style Noted, writing pieces related to hair and fashion. She received an MFA in Creative Writing from Georgia College & State University, where she was also an English Teaching Fellow. Rogelio Samson, Men Hair Expert.
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