Finding a hairstyle that feels both timeless and adaptable can be tricky when you’re living abroad. That’s why slicked back hairstyles have become a go-to choice for many expats. This classic look communicates confidence, tidiness, and versatility all at once. Whether you’re attending a professional meeting, heading out for a casual night with friends, or exploring a new city, a slicked back hairstyle adapts easily. In this guide, you’ll discover dozens of variations, practical styling tips, and product recommendations to help you create the perfect slick back wherever you are.
Moreover, living in another country often means adjusting to new climates, water quality, and local customs, including those related to barbershop practices. Knowing how to style your hair yourself, or at least describe exactly what you want, becomes essential. By understanding the different slick back variations, you can pick a style that suits your hair type, face shape, and lifestyle while still feeling like yourself.
Basics of Slicked Back Hairstyles: Everything you need to know
Before exploring all the variations, you should understand what makes slicked back hairstyles work. This section explains the core ideas behind the style and shows how you can adapt it to your own hair.
What Is a Slick Back?
Slicked back hairstyles feature hair on top combed straight back away from the forehead, creating a smooth, polished look. They can be shiny or matte, tight or loose, depending on the products and techniques you use.
Classic vs. Modern Slicked Back Hairstyles
The classic slick back uses high shine and clean lines, while the modern version often features texture, matte finishes, and softer edges. Understanding these differences helps you choose the right version for your personality. In addition, it shows you which products will give you the result you want.
Why Slicked Back Hairstyles Work for Every Man
Slicked back hairstyles flatter almost every face shape and hair type. They let you move effortlessly from the office to evening events without changing your look. With a simple product switch, you can shift from a glossy retro finish to a relaxed, textured style.
Some Slick Back Hairstyles
A quick showcase of popular slick back variations gives you inspiration for your next look, from classic polished styles to modern textured twists.
Classic Slick Back
If you picture an iconic mid-20th-century movie star, Classic slicked back hairstyles keep hair neat, polished, and versatile. These traditional men’s grooming styles work with different face shapes and hair textures and easily transition from day to night. As a result, they remain a timeless option for men looking for a clean, professional haircut that also suits casual settings.
To achieve this look, towel-dry your hair after a shower until it feels slightly damp. Then, work a small amount of pomade or cream through your strands and comb them straight back from the hairline to the crown. For extra hold, use a fine-tooth comb and lightly mist with hairspray. This process creates a polished, universally flattering style that easily transcends trends.
Modern Slick Back
The modern slick back takes the foundation of the classic style but adds texture and movement. Think of it as the minimalist’s answer to the old-school greaser look. Instead of maximum shine and perfectly combed lines, you’ll see softer edges and more volume at the crown.
This version is ideal for men who want a professional yet relaxed vibe. In this case, use a matte paste or clay instead of a shiny pomade. Blow-dry your hair while brushing it backward to build lift, then run your fingers through to break up any harsh lines. Consequently, the result feels intentional but not overly groomed, a perfect match for today’s flexible work environments.
Retro or Vintage Slick Back Styles
If you’re drawn to nostalgia or subculture aesthetics, retro and vintage slick back styles might be your sweet spot. Rockabilly quiffs, 1950s greaser hair, and even early James Bond looks all fall into this category. They often feature a stronger side part, exaggerated volume at the front, or a sculpted wave.
These styles work best with medium to longer hair lengths. To achieve them successfully, apply a firm-hold pomade to damp hair for that distinctive glossy structure. Use a round brush while blow-drying to create height, then shape the front with a comb for a dramatic curl or pomp. Therefore, whether you’re heading to a themed event or simply love the look, vintage slick backs make a bold statement.
Glossy / Shiny Slick Back
A glossy, slick back amplifies the shine to achieve a wet, polished finish. It’s a great option for evenings out, formal occasions, or anyone who likes a sleek, powerful presence. High-shine pomades or gels are your best friends here.
Apply your chosen product evenly through damp hair, then comb backward in smooth strokes. For an even glossier effect, mist your hair lightly with water or finishing spray once styled. This look complements sharp tailoring, leather jackets, and bold accessories, making it ideal for those who want their hair to be part of the outfit’s impact.
Textured / Brush-Back Slick Back
If you prefer a laid-back aesthetic, try the textured or brush-back slick back. Instead of aiming for perfect lines, you use a brush or even just your fingers to push the hair back, leaving visible separation between strands. The finish is matte or low-shine and works particularly well with naturally wavy or thick hair.
To style it, apply a lightweight cream or sea-salt spray to damp hair, then brush backward loosely. Blow-dry on a medium setting while scrunching sections to enhance natural texture. As a result, this method creates a relaxed, effortless effect that still keeps hair away from your face.
Thick / Voluminous Slick Back
Men with dense hair can turn a potential challenge into a major advantage by embracing a thick or voluminous look within slicked back hairstyles. Instead of forcing your hair to lie flat, you emphasise lift and movement for a bold, masculine silhouette.
Start with clean, slightly damp hair. Apply a volumising mousse or a strong-hold cream from roots to ends. Blow-dry while lifting the hair at the crown with a vent brush. Once dry, lightly comb back the sides but leave the top more airy. The result is a powerful yet controlled style that looks full and healthy rather than weighed down.
Slick Back Fade
A slick back fade combines two barbering classics into one modern look. The hair on top is combed back smoothly, while the sides gradually taper down to the skin or very short stubble. This contrast, between the polished top and the faded sides, creates a clean and modern finish.
To get it, ask your barber for a fade that blends seamlessly from the temples downwards. At home, style the top with pomade or cream, then comb backward to emphasise the length difference. Consequently, the fade keeps the look sharp and fresh even as it grows out.
Slick Back High Fade
The high fade version takes the taper up above the temples, leaving only a narrow strip of hair at the sides before meeting the slicked-back top. This makes the style stand out and can give the illusion of extra height on the crown.
It works especially well for people with thick hair or strong facial features. Therefore, use a blow dryer to lift the top as you brush it back, then set with a medium or strong hold product. The high fade’s stark contrast draws attention upward, so your styling on top really matters.
Slick Back Mid Taper Fade
The mid taper fade offers a softer approach than the high fade. Instead of starting high near the temples, the fade begins around the midpoint of the head. This gives a balanced look that’s professional but still trendy within slicked back hairstyles.
It’s a great option for men working in business or formal settings who still want a touch of modern style. Comb the top back with a matte cream for daytime or switch to a glossy pomade for evenings. The moderate fade makes maintenance easier, too.
Slick Back Low Taper
If you’re new to fades or prefer subtle changes, the low taper slick back is ideal. The fade begins just above the ears and gradually blends downwards. The top stays longer and slicked back, but the sides don’t have an extreme contrast.
This style works with almost any face shape because it’s understated yet clean. For a natural finish, use a lightweight styling cream and brush instead of a comb. Moreover, the low taper also grows out more gracefully between haircuts.
Slick Back Skin Fade
A slick back skin fade is one of the sharpest takes on the look. The sides are clipped right down to the skin before blending into the slicked-back top. Because of this, the contrast is dramatic and instantly eye-catching.
Ask your barber to take the fade down to zero at the base, then keep a little more length at the crown so you have styling flexibility. As a result, the top stays polished while the skin fade gives a clean, edgy outline.
Slick Back Taper Fade
The taper fade slick back is a more gradual version where the hair on the sides shortens smoothly but never fully disappears. It gives a softer profile than a skin fade while still looking neat.
In practice, this is a great choice for men who want an everyday style that’s easy to maintain. Simply work a light hold cream through damp hair, comb it back, and let the taper do the rest. Consequently, you get a style that bridges casual and formal perfectly.
Slick Back Burst Fade
The burst fade slick back is for anyone who likes a touch of uniqueness. Instead of tapering evenly all around, the fade bursts out around the ears in a semicircle. This creates a striking shape that stands out from traditional cuts.
For best results, combine this fade with a textured slick-back top. Blow-dry backward using your fingers, apply a matte paste, and let some natural separation show. Therefore, you end up with a barbershop-level style that still feels individual.
Slick Back Drop Fade / Line Up
A drop fade slick back lowers the fade at the back of the head, following the natural curve of the skull. Adding a line up at the forehead or temples can make the edges even crisper.
This combination of a dropped fade and a precise line-up frames the face beautifully. Style the top as sleek or as textured as you like. Moreover, the drop fade also allows more length at the occipital area, which gives the slick back a stronger profile from the side.
Side-Parted Slick Back / Side Slick
If you like a touch of old-school formality, a side-parted slick back is the way to go. You still comb most of the hair back, but you leave a defined side part for structure.
To do this, draw a clean part on damp hair, apply your chosen product, then comb the top diagonally back. As a result, you get a look that sits somewhere between a classic side part and a modern slick back, making it versatile for business or casual.
Deep Side Part Slick Back
Taking the side part even deeper exaggerates the contrast and gives a more dramatic, vintage vibe. This works especially well on medium to thick hair because the heavier section can sweep across with more volume.
In addition, a deep side part can help balance certain face shapes by adding asymmetry. Use a fine-tooth comb to keep the part crisp and a medium-shine pomade to lock it in. Consequently, the style feels bold without straying too far from timeless appeal.
Wavy Slick Back / Wavy Combed Back
Men with naturally wavy hair can let their texture show through in a wavy slick back. Instead of forcing perfectly straight lines, you brush the hair backward but allow the waves to stay visible.
For styling, apply a curl-friendly cream or light mousse, then blow-dry on low heat while guiding the hair back with your fingers. As a result, you’ll have a relaxed yet refined slick back that enhances your natural pattern.
Curly Slick Back
A curly slick back uses the same principle as the wavy version, but with tighter curls. The idea is to control the front and sides just enough to keep them neat while still showcasing curl definition.
In this case, work a curl cream or gel evenly through damp hair, then gently comb back only the top layer. Moreover, avoid too much tension so your curls keep their spring. The outcome is a modern, distinctive twist on a classic men’s hairstyle.
Slick Back Undercut
The slick back undercut combines long hair on top with drastically shorter or even clipped sides. Because of this, the contrast looks edgy and modern while still referencing vintage barbershop styles.
For styling, keep the top at least three to four inches long. Blow-dry backward using a round brush for control, then finish with a medium-hold pomade. Consequently, you’ll get a clean separation between the top and the sides that highlights the slick back effect.
Slick Back With Undercut Fade
This variation softens the undercut by blending it into a fade. Instead of an abrupt transition, the sides gradually taper from short to shorter. In turn, this makes the cut easier to wear for work or formal events.
Apply a light cream or gel to damp hair, comb it back, and let the faded sides show through. As a result, you achieve the coolness of an undercut with the refinement of a fade.
Hipster / Edgy Rockabilly Slick Back
Inspired by mid-century rockabilly culture, this slick back has attitude. The top is often exaggerated in height or wave, and the sides may be buzzed or tightly tapered. In fact, it’s a style that looks great with vintage outfits but also pairs surprisingly well with modern streetwear.
Use a high-shine pomade to get that classic, greased finish. Moreover, don’t be afraid to sculpt the front into a small quiff for extra flair.
Slick Back Quiff / Pompadour
The slick back quiff merges two iconic shapes. You keep the hair brushed back but lift the front into a quiff or mini pompadour. This combination gives more presence than a flat slick back while staying neat on the sides.
Blow-dry the front upward before pushing it back, then set with a medium-hold product. As a result, you get a hairstyle that’s both polished and voluminous.
Short Slick Back Mohawk
For men who like bolder choices, a short slick back mohawk keeps the hair longer in a strip along the center but slicked back instead of spiked. Therefore, it looks rebellious yet surprisingly tidy.
Fade or clip the sides very short for contrast. In practice, this cut is easy to maintain since you’re only styling the central strip.
Slick Back With Short Sides
This is the everyday, easygoing version of the undercut. The top stays a manageable length while the sides are cut short but not faded or shaved. As a result, the overall look is clean without being extreme.
Simply comb the top back with a matte cream for daytime or add a little shine for night. Moreover, this style works for almost every face shape.
Long Slick Back
Men with longer hair can also wear a slick back for a dramatic, flowing look. Instead of heavy products, use a lightweight cream to maintain movement. For example, a styling cream or serum will keep frizz at bay without stiffness.
Comb the hair back while still damp, then let it air-dry for a natural finish. Consequently, you’ll have a sleek style that still feels effortless.
Mid-Length Slick Back / Flow
This cut hits the sweet spot between short and long. Medium-length hair slicked back creates a surfer-meets-business vibe. Because of this, it’s one of the most versatile lengths you can have.
Blow-dry backward for volume, then finish with a low-shine product. As a result, you’ll get a flowing shape that can look casual or dressed up depending on the occasion.
Long, Messy Slicked Back hairstyles
This version lets you loosen up the look. You still comb the hair back, but you leave some strands and layers falling naturally. In fact, this can make long hair look even more stylish.
Apply a lightweight mousse or salt spray, blow-dry backward with your fingers, and skip the comb for a tousled effect. Moreover, the contrast between the slicked base and messy texture on top creates an effortlessly cool finish.
Slick Back Man Bun / Slick Back Bun
This variation takes long hair and pulls it back into a bun after slicking the top. Because of this, you get a neat, professional front with the practicality of tied-up hair at the back.
Use a lightweight styling cream before brushing the hair back. As a result, flyaways are controlled and the bun stays sleek all day without feeling heavy.
Half-Up Half-Down Slicked Back hairstyles (Long Hair Variation)
If you don’t want to commit to a full bun, try a half-up, half-down slick back. You slick only the top section and secure it while leaving the rest loose. In practice, this balances polish and movement.
Apply a small amount of product to the top section before tying. Moreover, this approach lets you show off your hair’s natural length while keeping it out of your face.
Wet Look Slicked Back hairstyle
The wet look slick back gives instant drama and shine while staying true to classic slicked back hairstyles. To achieve it, apply a high-shine gel or pomade on damp hair and comb it straight back for a smooth finish. As a result, you’ll get a glossy, runway-ready style that channels modern slick back haircuts and classic Hollywood vibes. In addition, this look works well for evening events or whenever you want a sharper edge to your style.
Wet Look Ponytail / Low Ponytail
Another option for longer hair is the wet look ponytail. Slick everything back tightly and secure it at the nape of your neck. This combination keeps hair completely controlled and highlights facial features.
For best results, use a firm-hold gel for a glassy finish. Consequently, you get a style that’s minimalist yet striking.
How to Slicked Back Hairstyles
To master slicked back hairstyles, start with freshly washed hair and towel-dry until slightly damp. Then, apply your chosen product evenly from roots to tips. Comb backward using a fine-tooth comb for precision or your fingers for texture.
Blow-dry in the direction you want the hair to set. Therefore, you lock in the shape and get a longer-lasting hold without stiffness.
Best Products for Slicked Back Hairstyles
The right product makes or breaks a slick back hairstyle. Light creams or mousses give natural movement, while pomades and gels add shine and hold. For example, a matte paste is ideal for daytime, whereas a glossy pomade suits evening wear.
Moreover, investing in a good vent brush or comb will help distribute product evenly and create a smoother finish.
How to Choose the Right Slicked Back Hairstyles for Your Face Shape
Different slicked back hairstyles variations flatter different face shapes. Square faces can carry a fuller, textured look, while round faces benefit from added height at the front. In fact, even small changes like a side part or fade height can shift the entire effect.
As a result, when you understand your face shape, you can pick a slick back that enhances your features instead of fighting them.
Conclusion
Slicked back hairstyles aren’t just one look; they’re a whole family of styles that let you express your personality while staying polished. From classic versions to fades, undercuts, and even long, flowing variations, each option can be adapted to your hair type, lifestyle, and face shape. Because of this, you never have to settle for a one-size-fits-all cut; you can build a slick back that feels authentically you.
When you combine the right cut, the right product, and a few easy styling habits, these looks become surprisingly easy to maintain. As a result, you’ll have a hairstyle that transitions seamlessly from work to evening events, looking timeless yet modern every day. By experimenting with different finishes and small tweaks, you can keep your slicked-back style fresh and versatile for years to come.
Faq’s
What haircut should you get for a slick back?
Choose a cut with medium length on top (3–6 inches) so you have enough hair to brush back. The sides can be left longer for a classic look or tapered, faded, or undercut for a modern style. Tell your barber you want length on top and shorter, blended sides to make slicking easier.
How to do slicked back hair?
Start with freshly washed, towel-dried hair that’s slightly damp. Work a pomade, cream, or matte paste evenly from roots to ends. Comb or brush the hair straight back from the forehead to the crown. Blow-dry in the same direction for more hold, and finish with a light mist of hairspray if needed.
What is the Gen z haircut called?
There isn’t just one Gen Z haircut, but the most talked-about style is the flow or curtain haircut’ longer layers with a center or off-center part that frame the face. Other popular Gen Z styles include textured crops, mullets, and modern fades.
Does slick back hair suit everyone?
Almost anyone can wear a slick back, but the version matters. Classic glossy slick backs flatter oval or square faces, while textured or voluminous versions suit round or softer faces. Adjusting the finish (matte vs. shiny) and adding a part can make it work for your hair type and face shape.
Why won’t my hair stay slicked back?
Usually it’s one (or a mix) of these factors:
- Hair is too short on top to stay back.
- Product choice doesn’t match your hair type (use stronger hold for thick or wavy hair).
- Hair wasn’t prepped properly (should be damp, not wet or dry).
- You didn’t set it with heat; blow-drying helps train the shape.
Switching to a firmer pomade/gel or adding a quick blow-dry after styling usually fixes the problem.
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