Men who want a classic and professional hairstyle with a modern touch may want to consider slicked-back hair. It’s a versatile look that screams old-school elegance, as well as one that’s suitable for a variety of occasions. It’s also a very simple hairstyle to achieve, but having the right tools and techniques is essential to perfecting it.
In this article, we’ll teach you how to achieve this fantastic look as well as why it continues to be a hit.
Table of Contents
What is a slicked-back hairstyle?
How to create the slicked-back look
Trending slicked-back hairstyles
Conclusion
What is a slicked-back hairstyle?
A slicked-back hairstyle features hair from the front of the head that is slicked back, usually with a comb, creating a polished and smooth appearance. Gel or a similar product is usually used to hold the hair in place and create a nice shine. Slicked-back hairstyles can be styled in a number of ways depending on the length of the hair, making it a timeless choice for men. The structured finish and clean lines make this hairstyle suitable for formal and casual settings, which has helped it to maintain its popularity.
How to create the slicked-back look
Oozing a sophisticated and timeless look, slicked-back hair is popular among men of all ages, and there are a few different ways it can be presented, depending on hair texture and length. However, the core of this look is always the same. Let’s delve into how it is achieved:
Tools needed:
- Hairbrush
- Blow dryer
- Fine-tooth comb
- Gel or high-hold pomade
- Hair spray (optional)
- Pre-styling cream (optional)
Step 1: Cleaning the hair
To start, wash the hair with shampoo and conditioner to remove excess oils. This process also helps to create a smooth base. When drying the hair, use a towel to ensure the hair is still damp but not soaking wet.
Step 2: Pre-styling product
For extra volume or hold, apply a small amount of pre-styling cream to the damp hair. This step is optional and dependent on individual preference.
Step 3: Blow drying
Use a blowdryer and a hairbrush to direct the hair away from the forehead by brushing it backward. This will create the foundation of the slicked-back hairstyle and help to add shape and volume.
Step 4: Apply the styling product
Once the hair has been slicked back, use a small amount of gel or high-hold pomade, warming it between the palms. Then distribute it evenly throughout the hair, with a particular focus on the sides and top.
Step 5: Comb the hair
Using a fine-toothed comb, start to smooth the hair back, away from the forehead. For a modern appearance, use fingers or a wider comb to create a looser finish. Many people enjoy a more classic look, which involves combing the hair tightly against the scalp.
Step 6: Setting the style
Use more styling product where needed to secure any loose hairs before using a blow dryer on a low setting to keep the style in place. For extra hold, especially in humid conditions or if the style is being worn for a long period of time, use hair spray as well.
Trending slicked-back hairstyles
Although the slicked-back hairstyle is relatively straightforward, there are many different ways in which it can be presented. This will depend on the hair length, texture, and individual preference, but there are a few styles that stand out as the most popular among men.
According to Google Ads, “slick back” has 823,000 average monthly searches. Keep reading to find out which slicked-back hairstyles are the most desired among consumers.
Slick-back with undercut
The slick-back with an undercut is a modern version of the traditional slick-back. It combines the longer hair on top with shaved or closely trimmed sides to create a bold and sharp look. The focal point of this hairstyle is the slicked-back hair, and this version offers a clean but edgy aesthetic not seen in other styles, making it particularly fashion-forward.
Classic slick-back
When people think of a slick back, they have visions of neatly combed hair styled with gel. The classic slick-back has never lost its popularity among men, as it provides a sleek and polished finish for a professional appearance. Its glossy finish and clean lines make it the perfect choice for formal or business settings. It’s also a versatile choice as it can be styled with different hair lengths, but a tight finish on top is essential to pull off this look.
Textured slick-back
A unique take on the classic slick-back is the textured slick-back. This look combines traditional sleekness with tousled and casual hair to add an extra layer of dimension and volume to the hair. It offers a relaxed vibe that’s much less rigid than the classic look, which is why it’s so popular among trendy men. This modern slicked-back hairstyle is ideal for special occasions as well as everyday wear, making it a versatile choice for many.
Conclusion
Slicked-back hair is an easy-to-maintain and versatile choice of hairstyle for men. It doesn’t take long to style and can be achieved at home with the right products and know-how. It can be worn in different variations, depending on hair texture and length, but all rely on the longer hair on the top being pulled back from the forehead with a comb and being held in place with a styling product such as gel. All in all, it’s safe to say that the slicked-back look won’t be falling out of favor any time soon.
