How to Do Slick Back Hair: Step-by-Step Guide

Table of contents

• Slick Back Hair Style — 5 Simple Steps

• Do the prep work

• Choose your slick back hair style

• Pre-style your hair

• Brush and secure your hair

• Touch-up frizz and flyaways

• Best Products For Slick Back Hair

• References

Slicking back hair in glossy buns and ponytails is no longer a trend; it’s a go-to minimalist style. Its fan base spans all hair types and age groups, storming the Internet with DIY hacks, product recommendations, and hairstyle variations. Styled in minutes, it is perfect for keeping up with your hair all day.

Jessica Fitzpatrick, texture specialist and owner of Beyond Texture in Brooklyn, told Bustle — “The slicked-back bun became more popularized back in the ’90s. It's a very polished look that can easily be dressed up with a beautiful accent of earrings and makeup, or dressed down to run errands.”

This one’s for all frizzy-hair girls and boys. Since the trend is going nowhere till you try it at least a billion times, learn how to create slick back hair at home and achieve a salon-like style. Get ready for all occasions, from business meetings to casual evening outings, with the best products for slick back hair.

Slick Back Hair Style — 5 Simple Steps

Slick back hair has now become a staple for red carpets and is approved by celebrities like Harry Styles and Brad Pitt. Here, we tapped hairstylists and salon experts to clue you in on getting a sleek and fresh style that’s everything but greasy.

Do the prep work

First and foremost, opt for the following hair care ritual to prepare the mane for a stunning hairstyle. Indulge in a safe prep session with the best products for slick back hair, including sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner.

1. Clean — Wash your hair with shampoo and towel-dry. This helps in getting rid of product buildup and unwanted residue. Stylist Gregorio Ruggeri told GQ Magazine, “The greasier the hair, the flatter it will become and the quicker the slick look will become undone.”
2. Condition —Grab a conditioner to hydrate and nourish your tresses. This is an essential step for healthy-looking slick back hair. Use a sulfate-free product like Moehair Protein Infused Conditioner for an ultra-smooth finish.
3. Detangle — With the help of a wide-toothed comb, detangle knots and eliminate unruly hair. Split the strands into sections and brush from root to end.

Choose your slick back hair style

Decide where and how you want to part your hair — side, middle, or fade. Consider your outfit and how you will spend the day to make the right choice. Look for options like a low ponytail with a high collar for an office meeting or a sleek bun with urban wear for a coffee sesh.

Pre-style your hair

Protecting your hair from heat is essential, mainly if you use styling tools like blow dryers and straighteners. Invest in Moehair Heat Protectant Spray and add a defensive layer over each strand. The spray adds shine and moisture to your tresses, making them less susceptible to heat damage.

Brush and secure your hair

Comb your hair from the hairline to the back of your head. If you want the middle or side parting with a ponytail, brush your strands through the crown to the nape of your neck. Secure the hair using bungee hair ties and clips of your choice.

Touch-up frizz and flyaways

Being the best products for slick back hair, hair serum and gel are commonly used to ensure flexible hold and touch-up flyaways. Dispense an adequate amount of Hair Serum or Flexx Gel on your palm. Rub your hands together to activate the magic potion, then gently apply it to your hair. These are leave-in products ideal for gleaming hairstyles. They help tame unruly strands and add shine to your tresses. Run your hands through the mane to distribute the elixir evenly. Depending on the type of slick back hair style, you can also apply the frizz-ease serum before brushing and securing your hair.

Best Products For Slick Back Hair

First things first, you need to tap on the right products for your desired hairstyle. Whether you use serum, gel, or paste, ensure that your chosen regimen suits your hair type and texture. The best products for slick back hair are the ones free of toxins — sulfate, phosphate, and paraben. Nevertheless, we have done the groundwork, so you don’t have to panic.

• For Curly Hair — Having truckloads of curly hair means you would mind compromising the natural texture. Thus, it is better to use a lighter product, preferably a creamy texture, to achieve an adequate amount of hold. You can also straighten the curls and use a spray to touch up baby strands.
• For Long Hair — Pomade expertly holds the hairstyle and keeps everything in place for an extended period. It is an aromatic oil-like substance that gives a shiny, slick appearance.
• For Thick Hair — Maintaining hydration of thick hair is vital, as it is more susceptible to breakage and damage. Hence, one can apply leave-in conditioner or mask before styling to nourish the tresses without weighing them down.
• For Thin Hair — Opt for a lightweight product and keep strain at bay. Pastes and creams are the best products for slick back hair for your thin strands. Brew shine and luster while adding volume to the mane.

References:

How we reviewed this article:

Our experts continually monitor the fashion and beauty space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.

• Current Version

• April 12, 2024

Written By -

Upasana Kakati

Upasana Kakati is a lifestyle writer with 7+ years of experience in writing in the beauty and haircare industry.

Edited By -

Saima Ahmed

Saima Ahmed with 8+ yrs of experience, specializes in crafting engaging content focused on Hair care, lifestyle, and beauty.