Whether you are heading to a high-stakes business meeting or a casual weekend brunch, the slicked back style ensures you look put together. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the best slicked back hairstyles for men and how you can achieve them.
From short fades to long flows, there is a variation of this look for every hair type and face shape. We will break down the techniques and products you need to master this iconic aesthetic. Let’s dive into the world of slicked back hair.
Quick Comparison: Top Slicked Back Styles
| Hairstyle | Best Face Shape | Hair Type | Product Needed |
| Classic Slick Back | Oval, Square | Straight | High-Shine Pomade |
| Slick Back Fade | All Shapes | All Types | Matte Clay or Wax |
| Slick Back Undercut | Round, Square | Thick | Heavy Hold Pomade |
| Long Slick Back | Heart, Oval | Wavy, Long | Grooming Cream |
| Curly Slick Back | Square | Curly, Coily | Curl Defining Cream |
Popular Men’s Slick Back Haircuts
The beauty of the slick back is that it is not a one size fits all haircut. Over the years, it has evolved into dozens of different variations. Here are the most popular styles you should consider for your next trip to the barber.
Classic Slick Back
The classic slick back is the foundation of this entire trend. It is characterized by hair that is all roughly the same length and swept directly toward the back of the head. This look usually requires a high-shine pomade to achieve that vintage, polished appearance.
This style was popularized in the early 20th century and remains a symbol of timeless elegance. It works best for men with straight or slightly wavy hair. If you want a look that screams authority and tradition, the classic version is your best bet.
To style it, apply a generous amount of product to damp hair. Use a fine-tooth comb to pull every strand back. Ensure there are no stray hairs or flyaways for that perfectly groomed finish.Â
Modern Slick Back
If the classic look feels a bit too stiff for you, the modern slick back offers a more relaxed alternative. This version often utilizes matte products instead of high-shine gels. It focuses on volume and texture rather than a flat, wet appearance.
The modern version often incorporates a slight taper on the sides. This creates a more contemporary silhouette that fits well with today’s fashion trends. It is perfect for the man who wants to look stylish without appearing like he spent hours in front of the mirror.
Instead of a fine comb, try using your fingers to style this one. This adds a sense of movement to the hair. It keeps the hair in place while allowing it to look natural and touchable.
Long Slick Back
Long slicked back hairstyles for men are perfect for those who have spent months or years growing out their mane. This style is often referred to as a long hair sweep. It provides a rugged yet refined vibe.
With longer hair, weight becomes a factor. You will need a product with a strong hold to prevent the hair from falling into your face. Many men choose to tuck the hair behind their ears to keep the look secure throughout the day.
This style is excellent for highlighting your facial features. Because the hair is pulled away from the forehead, your jawline and eyes become the focal point. It is a bold choice that requires patience but pays off in style points.
Slick Back Fade
The slick back fade is perhaps the most requested version in modern barbershops. It combines the clean lines of a fade with the length of a slicked back top. This creates a sharp contrast that looks incredibly clean.
You can choose from a low, mid, or high fade depending on how dramatic you want the transition to be. The fade removes bulk from the sides, making the hair on top appear more voluminous. This is a great choice for men who want a low-maintenance side profile.
The fade also helps in keeping you cool during warmer months. By reducing the hair around the ears and neck, you get better airflow. It is a practical and stylish solution for the modern man.
Short Slick Back
Short slicked back hairstyles for men prove that you do not need long locks to pull off this trend. Even with only two or three inches of hair, you can create a sleek, swept-back effect. This is often the easiest version to maintain.
Short hair is lighter, meaning it requires less product to stay in place. A small amount of wax or clay is usually enough to keep the hair looking sharp all day. This is a great professional look for those in corporate environments.
It also works well for men who are starting to experience slight thinning. By combing the hair back, you can create a more uniform look. It is a smart way to manage your hair as it transitions through different lengths.
Slick Back Taper Fade
The taper fade offers a more conservative take on the traditional fade. Instead of taking the hair down to the skin, a taper leaves a bit of length that gradually gets shorter. This results in a sophisticated and subtle transition.
The slick back taper fade is ideal for men who want a professional look that still feels modern. It bridges the gap between a traditional business cut and a trendy street style. It is versatile enough for the office and the gym.
This style looks particularly good when paired with a clean shave. The focus remains on the hair’s silhouette. It provides a balanced look that suits most face shapes, especially oval and square.
Textured Brush Back
For a look that has a bit of messy charm, the textured brush back is the way to go. This style moves away from the flat, combed look. Instead, it uses products like sea salt spray or texturizing clay to give the hair life.
The slick back hair men brush technique is crucial here. Use a vented brush while blow-drying to lift the roots. This creates height and prevents the hair from looking limp or greasy.
Texture adds a youthful energy to the slick back. It is less about being perfect and more about looking effortlessly cool. This is a top choice for men with thick hair who want to show off their natural volume.
Cool Slick Back with Low Fade
A low fade starts just above the ears and follows the hairline around to the nape of the neck. When combined with a slick back, it creates a very grounded and masculine appearance. It is subtle but undeniably stylish.
The low fade acts as a frame for the longer hair on top. It is a cool choice because it does not feel overly aggressive like a high skin fade might. It is perfect for those who want to experiment with fades for the first time.
This style is also great for maintaining a balanced head shape. If you have a more prominent crown, the low fade helps smooth out the overall look. It is a reliable, go-to style for many grooming enthusiasts.
Slick Back Undercut
The undercut is a classic choice for the man who wants a high-contrast look. In an undercut, the sides are cut to a uniform short length, or even shaved, with no blending into the top. This makes the slicked back portion stand out significantly.
The slick back undercut has been a favorite in pop culture for years. It is edgy, bold, and modern. It works especially well for men who have thick hair that is difficult to manage on the sides.
By removing the bulk from the sides, you make the styling process much faster. You only have to worry about the hair on the top of your head. It is a time-saver that delivers a high-impact aesthetic.
Parted Slick Back Taper
Not every slick back has to go straight back. Adding a side part to your taper creates a more structured and architectural look. This is often called a side-parted slick back.
The part provides a clear point of interest. It adds a level of detail that makes the haircut look more intentional. This style is frequently seen on red carpets and in high-fashion settings.
You can ask your barber for a hard part which is shaved in with a razor. Or, you can simply use a comb to create a natural part every morning. This style is excellent for men with rectangular face shapes.
Long Hair Combed Back
This style is for the man who embraces his natural length but wants to keep things neat. Long hair combed back involves taking shoulder-length or longer hair and sweeping it away from the face. It is a regal and artistic look.
Unlike the slick back undercut, this style usually keeps the sides long as well. Everything is pulled back together. You might use a light leave-in conditioner to keep the hair soft and manageable.
This style requires regular trims to prevent split ends. Even though the goal is length, you want the ends to look healthy. It is a high-maintenance look that signals a man who takes pride in his grooming.
Slick Back Undercut Fade
This is a hybrid style that combines the disconnection of an undercut with the gradient of a fade. It offers the best of both worlds. You get the sharp edge of the undercut with the smooth transition of a fade near the ears.
The slick back undercut fade is highly customizable. You can ask for a skin fade at the bottom to make it more dramatic. Or, keep it a bit longer for a softer touch.
This look is particularly effective for men with darker hair. The contrast between the dark hair on top and the faded skin on the sides creates a striking visual. It is a modern masterpiece of barbering.
Voluminous Full Slick Back
If you want your hair to be the star of the show, go for volume. The voluminous full slick back uses a blow-dryer and a round brush to create a pomp effect before slicking the hair back. It adds inches to your height and a lot of personality to your look.
This style requires a bit more effort in the morning. You will need a pre-styler, like a volume mousse, and a hairspray to lock everything in. The result is a bold, 3D look that commands attention.
It is a great choice for men with rounder faces. The added height on top helps elongate the face, making it appear more oval and balanced. It is a power move in the world of hair grooming.
Slick Back with Beard
Nothing complements a slicked back hairstyle quite like a well-groomed beard. The combination of a sharp, clean hairline and a rugged beard creates a perfect balance of gentleman and outdoorsman.
When wearing a slick back with a beard, the transition at the sideburns is key. Ask your barber to taper the sideburns so the hair and beard flow into each other seamlessly. This creates a cohesive look from the top of your head to your chin.
Ensure your beard is as well-kept as your hair. Use beard oil and a brush to keep it soft and neat. A messy beard can ruin the sharp effect of a slick back, so keep both in check.
Slick Back with Drop Fade
The drop fade is a variation where the fade line drops behind the ear. This follows the natural curve of the head and creates a more ergonomic look. When you slick the hair back, the drop fade provides a very smooth silhouette.
This is a great option for men who have a flatter back of the head. The drop fade adds some visual depth and shape to the profile. It is a subtle detail that makes a big difference in how the haircut sits.
Styling this is identical to a standard slick back. However, the way the sides curve down gives it a more custom feel. It is a professional choice with a hint of creative flair.
Wet Look Slick Back
The wet look is the most traditional way to wear a slick back. It involves using a high-shine gel or oil-based pomade. The hair looks as if you just stepped out of a pool or the shower, but it stays perfectly in place.
This is a very formal look. It is often the choice for black-tie events, weddings, or high-profile parties. It exudes a sense of luxury and high-end grooming.
Be careful not to use too much product, or the hair can look greasy rather than wet. Start with a small amount and build up until you reach the desired shine. It is a bold look that requires a certain level of confidence to pull off.
Short Slick Back with Mid Skin Fade and Beard
This is a specific, high-contrast look that is very popular in urban environments. The mid skin fade removes the hair down to the skin halfway up the head. This makes the short, slicked top really pop.
The addition of a beard adds a layer of masculinity to the look. Because the fade is so short, the beard helps fill in the bottom half of the face. It creates a very strong, geometric appearance.
This style requires frequent trips to the barber to keep the skin fade looking fresh. Once the hair starts to grow back on the sides, the pop factor begins to fade. It is a high-maintenance but high-reward style.
Curly Slick Back
Many men think that if they have curly hair, they cannot wear a slick back. This is a misconception. The curly slick back is one of the most interesting and unique ways to wear the style.
Instead of a perfectly smooth surface, you get a beautiful ripple effect. The curls add natural texture and volume that straight-haired men can only dream of. You will need a strong-hold cream or pomade that can tame curls without making them crunchy.
Apply product while the hair is quite damp to lock in the curl pattern. Comb it back gently, allowing the natural waves to show. It is a sophisticated way to manage unruly curls.
Medium Slick Back Fade
If you are in the in-between stage of growing your hair out, the medium slick back fade is perfect. It works with hair that is roughly four to six inches long. This length allows for a good amount of sweep-back without the weight of long hair.
The medium length provides enough hair to create some flow. When combined with a fade, it looks modern and energetic. It is a great everyday haircut for the average man.
You can style this with a medium-shine pomade for a balanced look. It is not too shiny, and not too matte. It is the just right version of the slick back.
Slick Back Man Bun
When your slicked back hair gets long enough, you might want to tie it up. The slick back man bun involves combing the hair back smoothly and securing it in a knot at the crown or the nape.
This is a very practical style for men with long hair who lead active lifestyles. It keeps the hair completely out of the eyes while maintaining a groomed appearance. It is the ultimate cool guy long hair look.
To keep it looking professional, ensure the sides are smoothed down with a bit of wax. This prevents baby hairs from sticking out around the bun. It is a functional and fashionable choice.
Edgy Rockabilly Slick Back
The rockabilly slick back takes inspiration from the 1950s greaser culture. It often features a lot of height at the front, almost like a pompadour, but everything is swept strictly back. It is an edgy, retro look.
This style is all about attitude. It pairs perfectly with leather jackets and denim. You will need a heavy-duty pomade to keep that front height from collapsing throughout the day.
While it is a throwback style, it still feels very relevant today. It is for the man who wants his hair to make a statement. It is a celebration of vintage rebellion.
Slick Back Side Part Fad
Combining a side part with a fade and a slick back creates a very sharp, military-inspired look. The part gives the hair a clear direction and a sense of order. The fade keeps it looking modern and fresh.
This is a highly structured hairstyle. It works well for men with very straight hair that likes to lay flat. The part provides the break needed to give the style some character.
It is a great choice for men with diamond or heart-shaped faces. The part helps to broaden the appearance of the forehead, balancing out a narrower chin. It is a precise and calculated grooming choice.
Long, Messy Slick Back
The long, messy slick back is the definition of rugged. It involves long hair that is swept back but allowed to have some stray strands and natural movement. It is the look of a man who just ran his hands through his hair.
This style works best with matte clays or sea salt sprays. You want to avoid any shine that might make the hair look oily. The goal is a dry, textured finish.
It is a great choice for creative professionals or those in more relaxed work environments. It shows style and effort without appearing too fussy. It is comfortable and undeniably masculine.
Thick Slick Back with High Taper Fade
Men with thick hair often struggle with bulk. The high taper fade solves this by thinning out the hair high up on the sides and back. This leaves a thick, luscious patch on top that is perfect for a slick back.
Thick hair has a natural bounce that makes the slick back look very full. You may not even need a lot of product to get volume. A simple wax or clay will keep the strands together and headed in the right direction.
This is a very alpha look. It looks strong, healthy, and vibrant. It is a great way to manage a thick head of hair while keeping it looking elite.
Long Brush Back with Low Fade
This style focuses on the brush back technique. The hair is kept long on top and brushed back with a blow-dryer to create a soft, flowing look. The low fade provides a clean finish around the edges.
It is a very soft and approachable version of the slick back. It does not have the harshness of an undercut or a high skin fade. It is elegant and understated.
This is a favorite among actors and models because it looks great from every angle. It provides a full, healthy look to the hair while keeping the neckline tidy. It is a premium grooming choice.
Edgy Slick Back Fade with Line Up
A line up is when the barber uses a straight razor or trimmers to create perfectly straight lines at the temples and forehead. When you add this to a slick back fade, the result is incredibly sharp.
This is a high-definition hairstyle. Every line is crisp, and every hair is in place. It is an edgy look that feels very current and fresh out of the chair.
Because the lines are so precise, they grow out quickly. You will need to touch up the edges every week or two to keep the look crisp. It is a style for the man who is dedicated to his grooming routine.
Wavy Combed Back Hair
If your hair has a natural wave, don’t fight it. Wavy combed back hair uses that natural texture to create a sense of flow and rhythm. It is a very dynamic look that changes slightly as you move.
Use a medium-hold cream that allows the waves to exist without frizzing. The waves add a layer of sophistication that straight hair simply cannot replicate. It looks very high-end and intentional.
This style is perfect for a coastal or summer vibe. It feels light and breezy. It is a great way to embrace your natural hair type while still looking groomed.
Slick Back Flow
The flow is a popular term for hair that looks like it is moving even when it is still. A slick back flow focuses on longer hair that is swept back but has a lot of natural weight and swing.
This style often skips the heavy pomades. Instead, use a light hair oil or a grooming cream. You want the hair to be able to move if a breeze hits it.
It is a very youthful and energetic style. It is often associated with athletes and those with an active, outdoor lifestyle. It is a celebration of healthy, long hair.
Slick Back with Short Sides and Beard
This is a variation of the slick back that uses a traditional short back and sides haircut rather than a fade. It is more classic and less trendy. When paired with a beard, it creates a very solid, dependable look.
The sides are usually cut with scissors or a higher clipper guard. This avoids showing skin on the sides of the head. It is a more modest and mature version of the style.
It is a fantastic choice for older men who want to stay stylish but don’t want a youthful fade. It is dignified, masculine, and easy to maintain.
Mullet Slick Back
The mullet has made a massive comeback, and the mullet slick back is the modern way to wear it. The hair on top is slicked back, while the hair at the back is left long to flow over the neck.
It is a bold, fashion-forward choice. It breaks the traditional rules of grooming in a way that is currently very trendy. It is for the man who is not afraid to stand out in a crowd.
Keep the sides very short to emphasize the contrast between the slicked top and the long back. It is a fun, rebellious style that has reclaimed its place in the grooming world.
Slicked Back Undercut Asian Men
Hair textures vary greatly across different ethnicities. For Asian men, hair is often thicker, straighter, and can grow outward rather than downward. This makes the slicked back undercut asian men style particularly effective.
The undercut removes the hair on the sides that tends to poke out. This leaves the top hair easy to manage. To style this, you will need a strong-hold, water-based pomade that can keep the thick strands in place.
Pre-styling with a blow-dryer is essential here. You need to train the roots to lay back. Without the heat, the hair might try to spring back to its original position.
What Is A Slick Back?
A slick back is a hairstyle where the hair on the top of the head is combed or brushed from the forehead toward the back of the neck. Historically, it was achieved using heavy oils and greases to ensure the hair stayed flat and shiny.
Today, the definition has expanded. A slick back can be matte, voluminous, textured, or messy. The slick part of the name refers more to the direction of the hair than the actual texture of the product used.
It is a style that has been worn by everyone from 1920s jazz musicians to 1980s Wall Street bankers to modern-day celebrities. Its longevity is due to its ability to make any man look instantly more put together.
Whether you have an undercut, a fade, or long hair, the act of slicking it back changes your silhouette. It opens up your face and provides a clean, unobstructed view of your features.
Does Slicked Back Hair Look Good?
The short answer is yes, absolutely. But like any hairstyle, its effectiveness depends on your face shape and hair type. The slick back is widely considered one of the most flattering styles for men with oval, square, and rectangular faces.
Because the style removes hair from the sides of the face, it emphasizes the jawline. If you have a strong jaw, a slick back will make it look even more prominent. If you have a rounder face, adding volume to your slick back can help stretch your features for a more balanced look.
One concern men often have is whether it works for a receding hairline. In many cases, a slick back can actually look better than trying to hide a receding line with a fringe. It shows confidence and looks intentional.
Ultimately, a slick back looks good because it signals that you care about your appearance. It is a controlled, groomed look that suggests discipline and style.
How To Slick Back Hair
Mastering the slick back is a skill that every man should have in his grooming arsenal. While it may look simple, there is a technique to ensuring it stays in place all day without looking like a helmet.
Step 1: Start with Damp Hair
The best time to style a slick back is right after a shower. Towel-dry your hair until it is damp but not dripping wet. Damp hair is more pliable and will take to the product much better than dry hair.
If your hair is too dry, the product will clump. If it is too wet, the product will be diluted and won’t have enough hold. Aim for that perfect middle ground.
Step 2: Apply a Pre-Styler
If you want volume or extra hold, apply a pre-styler. This could be a sea salt spray or a volume mousse. Work it through your hair from root to tip.
This step is especially important for the slick back hair men brush technique. The pre-styler provides a foundation for the rest of your products. It helps your hair stand up and stay back.
Step 3: Blow-Dry in Direction
Use a blow-dryer on a medium heat setting. Use a brush or your fingers to pull the hair back as you dry it. This sets the hair in the direction you want it to go.
By blow-drying, you are using heat to change the shape of the hair. This means you won’t have to rely entirely on product to keep your hair back. It results in a much more natural-looking style.
Step 4: Apply Your Main Product
Now it is time for the heavy lifting. Take a small amount of pomade, wax, or clay. Rub it between your palms until it is warm and melted.
Start applying it at the back of your head and move forward. This prevents you from putting too much product right at your hairline, which can look greasy. Ensure you coat every strand.
Step 5: Comb or Brush
For a classic look, use a fine-tooth comb to create those iconic comb lines. For a modern or textured look, use a wide-tooth comb or just your fingers.
Pull everything back smoothly. If you have very thick hair, you may need a stronger product here to keep the strands from springing out. Use the brush to smooth down any flyaways.
Step 6: The Finishing Touch
If you need your hair to last through a long day or an event, finish with a light mist of hairspray. This acts as an insurance policy for your style.
Check the back of your head with a hand mirror to ensure everything is smooth. Once you are satisfied, leave it alone. The more you touch it throughout the day, the more likely it is to fall apart.
Troubleshooting Common Slick Back Issues
Even with the right technique, you might face some challenges. Here is how to fix them.
Issue: Hair Keeps Falling Forward
Solution: You likely didn’t use enough heat during the blow-drying phase. The heat trains the hair follicles. Also, ensure you are using a product with a high enough hold for your hair weight.
Issue: Hair Looks Too Greasy
Solution: Start with less product. You can always add more, but you can’t easily remove it. Switch from an oil-based pomade to a water-based one or a matte clay.
Issue: Hair Looks Flat and Lifeless
Solution: Use a volume-boosting pre-styler. Blow-dry your hair upside down or with a round brush to get more lift at the roots before you slick it back.
Conclusion
The slicked back hairstyle is more than just a trend; it is a grooming milestone. It offers a level of versatility that few other haircuts can match. Whether you prefer the sharp lines of a slick back fade or the rugged appeal of a long hair sweep, there is a version that fits your personality.
By understanding the different variations and mastering the styling process, you can elevate your personal appearance and boost your confidence. Remember that the best hairstyle is the one that makes you feel like the best version of yourself.
Experiment with different products and techniques to find your signature look. The world of hair grooming is vast, but the slick back remains one of its most powerful and enduring styles. Now, grab your brush and start styling.
