Slicked-back hair is a timeless and versatile hairstyle that can be worn in various settings. It is a popular choice for men of all ages and has been sported by celebrities and fashion icons alike. Achieving the perfect slicked-back look is not as difficult as it may seem. With the right products and a little practice, you can easily create this stylish look at home.
To get started, you will need a few essential products. These include a good-quality pomade or wax, a fine-toothed comb, and a blow dryer. Pomade or wax provides the hold and control you need to keep your hair in place. A fine-toothed comb helps to distribute the product evenly and smooth out any tangles. A blow dryer can be used to help dry and style your hair.
Once you have gathered your products, you can start styling your hair. Begin by washing and conditioning your hair. Then, towel-dry your hair and apply a small amount of pomade or wax to your palms. Rub your hands together to warm the product and then apply it to your hair, starting at the roots. Use your fingers to work the product through your hair and slick it back. Once you have applied the product, use a fine-toothed comb to distribute the product evenly and smooth out your hair. You can then use a blow dryer to help dry and style your hair. Be sure to use the cool setting on your blow dryer to avoid damaging your hair.
Preparing Your Hair
Preparing your hair for slicking is essential for achieving a smooth, sleek finish. Here are some tips to prepare your hair:
Wash and Condition
Start with clean, freshly washed hair. Use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner to avoid stripping your hair of its natural oils. This will help to keep your hair healthy and prevent it from becoming frizzy or dry.
Towel Dry
After washing and conditioning, gently towel dry your hair to remove excess moisture. Do not rub your hair, as this can cause frizz and breakage. Instead, pat your hair dry or wrap it in a microfiber towel to absorb moisture.
Comb Through
Once your hair is towel dry, comb through it to remove any tangles or knots. Use a wide-toothed comb or a brush designed for wet hair to avoid snagging or damaging your hair.
Blow Dry (Optional)
If you want a smoother finish, you can blow dry your hair until it is about 80% dry. Use a round brush to create a sleek look, or a paddle brush for a smoother, straighter finish. Make sure to use a heat protectant spray to prevent heat damage.
| Hair Type | Preparation Tips |
|---|---|
| Fine | Use volumizing products, such as mousse or root lifter, to add volume and body. |
| Thick | Use a thick, creamy conditioner to hydrate and soften your hair. Consider using a hair mask for deep conditioning. |
| Curly | Use a wide-toothed comb or a detangling brush to gently remove knots and tangles. Consider using a leave-in conditioner to moisturize and define your curls. |
| Dry | Use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner. Apply a hair mask or deep conditioner before styling. |
Selecting the Right Products
Achieving the perfect slick hair look requires the right combination of styling products. Here’s a guide to help you choose the best products for your hair type:
1. Pomade
Pomade is a classic choice for slick hairstyles. It provides a strong hold and a high-shine finish. Gel is a water-based product that dries quickly and leaves a firm hold without the shine of pomade.
2. Hairspray
Hairspray is essential for locking in your slick style. Choose a strong-hold hairspray that will resist humidity and keep your hair in place all day. Consider the following factors when selecting hairspray:
Hold: Choose a hairspray with a strong hold to keep your hair in place without making it feel stiff or crunchy.
Finish: Select a hairspray that provides the desired finish, whether it’s a matte, natural, or high-shine look.
Ingredients: Look for hairsprays that contain nourishing ingredients like keratin or panthenol to protect your hair from damage.
3. Other Products
In addition to pomade, gel, and hairspray, here are some other products that can enhance your slick hair look:
| Product | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Pre-styling lotion | Prepares hair for styling, providing hold and reducing frizz. |
| Shine serum | Adds extra shine to your slick hair for a polished finish. |
| Hair oil | Nourishes hair, adds shine, and helps prevent dryness. |
Remember, the best products for you will depend on your individual hair type and desired look. Experiment with different products and combinations to find the perfect formula for your slick hairstyle.
Applying Hair Products
To achieve a slick hairstyle, it is essential to use the right hair products. These products will provide hold and shine, while also helping to keep your hair in place. The most common hair products used for slick hairstyles are pomades, waxes, and gels.
Pomades are oil-based products that provide a strong hold and high shine. They are ideal for creating classic slick hairstyles such as the pompadour or the side part. Waxes are water-based products that provide a medium hold and a natural shine. They are a good option for creating more casual slick hairstyles such as the messy slick back or the quiff.
Gels are water-based products that provide a strong hold and no shine. They are ideal for creating wet-look hairstyles such as the slick back or the mohawk.
| Product | Hold | Shine | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pomades | Strong | High | Classic slick hairstyles (e.g., pompadour, side part) |
| Waxes | Medium | Natural | Casual slick hairstyles (e.g., messy slick back, quiff) |
| Gels | Strong | None | Wet-look hairstyles (e.g., slick back, mohawk) |
Brushing and Combing
Brushing and combing are essential steps in preparing your hair for slicking. These techniques help to remove tangles, distribute natural oils, and smooth the cuticle.
Using a Brush
Before brushing, wet your hair slightly to soften it. Start by brushing the ends of your hair, gradually working your way up towards the roots. Use a brush with soft, flexible bristles to avoid damaging your hair. Gently detangle any knots or tangles by brushing in the direction of hair growth.
Using a Comb
After brushing, use a fine-toothed comb to further smooth your hair. Hold the comb flat against your scalp and gently glide it through your hair. Start at the roots and move down towards the ends. Repeat this process several times until your hair is completely smooth and free of tangles.
Choosing the Right Brush and Comb
The type of brush and comb you use can make a difference in the effectiveness of your slicking routine. Here are some tips for selecting the right tools:
| Brush | Comb |
|---|---|
| Choose a brush with soft, flexible bristles. | Select a fine-toothed comb with rounded teeth. |
| Avoid brushes with metal bristles, as they can damage hair. | Wide-toothed combs are not suitable for slicking, as they can create frizz. |
| Use a brush specifically designed for detangling. | Opt for a comb made from high-quality materials like carbon or ceramic. |
Achieving Slickness with a Comb
Preparation:
Begin with towel-dried hair, ensuring it’s slightly damp but not soaking wet. Avoid using a blow dryer, as this can cause frizz and hinder slickness.
Product Application:
Apply a generous amount of pomade or styling gel to your hands, distributing it evenly. Work the product through your hair from roots to tips, ensuring every strand is coated.
Combing Technique:
Use a fine-toothed comb to gently comb your hair backward, smoothing it down as you go. Start at the front of your head and work your way back, applying gentle pressure with each stroke. Avoid pulling or tugging, as this can damage your hair.
Creating a Sleek Part:
Once your hair is combed back, use the comb to create a sleek part. Hold the comb parallel to your desired part line and firmly press it into your scalp. Run the comb down the part, applying even pressure, to create a defined and clean line.
Finishing Touches:
To enhance the slickness, apply a small amount of hairspray to your comb and lightly mist it over your hair. This will help hold your style in place without making it stiff or crunchy. Finish by lightly patting down your hair to smooth out any stray strands.
Maintaining Slickness with Styling Gel
Styling gels are an essential tool for maintaining a slick hairstyle. They provide strong hold without weighing hair down, making them ideal for creating a sleek and polished look. Here’s how to use styling gel to keep your slick hairstyle in place:
1. Apply to damp hair
Start by applying styling gel to damp hair. This will help the gel distribute evenly and avoid clumps. Use a dime-sized amount of gel for short hair and a quarter-sized amount for longer hair.
2. Distribute evenly
Use your fingers or a comb to distribute the gel evenly from roots to tips. Be sure to comb the gel through the back and sides of your hair as well.
3. Style as desired
Once the gel is evenly distributed, use your hands or a comb to style your hair as desired. You can create a slick back, side part, or any other style that you like.
4. Set with hairspray
To set your style and prevent frizz, apply a light mist of hairspray. This will help keep your hair in place all day long.
5. Touch up as needed
If your hair starts to lose its slickness throughout the day, you can touch it up with a small amount of styling gel. Simply apply the gel to the areas that need it and style as desired.
6. Wash hair regularly
To prevent product buildup and maintain healthy hair, it’s important to wash your hair regularly. Be sure to use a clarifying shampoo to remove any remaining gel or other styling products. Here’s a table summarizing the benefits of using styling gel for slick hairstyles:
| Benefit | Description | |
|---|---|---|
| Strong hold | Keeps your hair in place all day long | |
| No weigh down | Leaves your hair feeling light and airy | |
| Versatile | Can be used to create a variety of slick hairstyles | |
| Easy to use | Simply apply and style as desired |
Using Pomade for a High-Shine Finish
Pomades are thick, oil-based products that offer the strongest hold while providing a wet or high-shine finish. They work best on short to medium-length hair and can be applied on dry or towel-dried locks. Here’s a step-by-step guide to using pomade for a sleek and shiny style:
Step 1: Wash and Dry Your Hair
Start with clean and completely dry hair to ensure the pomade adheres properly.
Step 2: Apply a Pea-Sized Amount
Take a pea-sized amount of pomade and warm it up between your fingers.
Step 3: Distribute Evenly
Apply the pomade evenly throughout your hair, starting from the roots and working your way to the tips.
Step 4: Comb or Brush
Use a fine-toothed comb or brush to distribute the pomade further and create a smooth, even finish.
Step 5: Slick Back
Use your comb or brush to slick your hair back, creating the desired shape and style.
Step 6: Style and Set
Once you’ve slicked back your hair, use your hands to refine the style and set it in place.
Step 7: Finish with Hairspray (Optional)
For a stronger hold and to prevent flyaways, apply a light mist of hairspray over your slicked-back style. However, if you want a more natural, less crunchy finish, you can skip this step.
Utilizing Hair Spray for Hold
Hair spray is an essential tool for keeping slick hairstyles in place. Choose a strong-hold hair spray to ensure your style lasts all day.
Follow these steps to apply hair spray effectively:
1. Hold the Can About 6 Inches Away from Your Hair
This distance will allow the spray to distribute evenly without creating buildup or weighing your hair down.
2. Spray in Short Bursts
Aim the nozzle at your hair and spray in short, controlled bursts. This will prevent the hair spray from clumping or leaving visible residue.
3. Focus on the Roots
Spraying the roots of your hair will provide the most hold and prevent your style from falling flat.
4. Spray the Lengths and Ends
Once the roots are secure, spray the lengths and ends of your hair to smooth flyaways and add extra hold.
5. Use Multiple Layers
For maximum hold, apply multiple layers of hair spray. Allow each layer to dry before applying the next for a buildable hold.
6. Avoid Overspraying
Excessive hair spray can make your hair stiff and crunchy. Spray in moderation and only as needed.
7. Use a Comb to Distribute
After spraying, use a fine-toothed comb to distribute the hair spray evenly and remove any excess product.
8. Tips for Slick Hair with Hair Spray
- For a sleek and glossy finish, use a high-shine hair spray.
- To create a matte, textured look, use a dry hair spray with a firm hold.
- Reapply hair spray throughout the day as needed to maintain hold and prevent frizz.
Perfecting the Slick Hair Look
1. Start with Clean Hair
Wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove any product buildup. Use a conditioner to hydrate your hair and make it more manageable.
2. Towel Dry Your Hair
Gently towel dry your hair to remove excess moisture. Avoid rubbing your hair vigorously, as this can cause frizz.
3. Apply a Styling Gel
Choose a water-based styling gel that provides strong hold. Apply a generous amount of gel to your hair, starting at the roots and working your way to the ends.
4. Comb Your Hair
Use a fine-tooth comb to smooth your hair and distribute the gel evenly. Comb your hair in the direction you want it to lay.
5. Use a Brush
Once your hair is combed, use a boar bristle brush to smooth it out and remove any tangles. Brush your hair in the same direction as you combed it.
6. Smooth with Your Hands
Run your hands over your hair to smooth it down and flatten any flyaways. You can also use your fingers to define individual strands.
7. Use a Hairspray
Apply a strong-hold hairspray to your hair to keep it in place. Spray your hair from a distance of 6-8 inches to avoid over-spraying.
8. Finish with a Shine Serum
If desired, apply a shine serum to your hair to add a glossy finish. Rub a small amount of serum between your palms and then run your hands through your hair.
9. Slick Hair for Different Hair Types
| Hair Type | Tips |
|---|---|
| Thick, Coarse Hair | Use a strong-hold gel and comb your hair in small sections to ensure even distribution. |
| Fine, Thin Hair | Use a volumizing gel and comb your hair in the opposite direction you want it to lay to create volume. |
| Curly Hair | Use a gel specifically designed for curly hair and comb your hair in small sections to define curls. |
| Wavy Hair | Use a medium-hold gel and comb your hair in the direction you want it to wave. |
How to Slick Hair
Slick hair is a classic, sophisticated look that can be achieved with a few simple steps. Here’s a guide on how to slick your hair:
1. Start with clean, damp hair. Wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo and conditioner to remove any product buildup or dirt. Towel-dry your hair to remove excess moisture.
2. Apply a styling product. Use a pomade or gel to slick back your hair. Apply the product evenly from the roots to the tips, using a comb or your fingers to distribute it evenly.
3. Comb your hair back. Use a fine-toothed comb to comb your hair back from your forehead. Keep combing until your hair is smooth and free of tangles.
4. Secure your hair. Once your hair is combed back, use a hairspray or mousse to secure it in place. Spray the product evenly over your hair, holding the can about 6 inches away from your head.
5. Style your hair. You can style your slicked-back hair in a variety of ways. You can leave it as is, or you can add a part or some waves. You can also use hair accessories, such as a headband or hair clips, to add some extra flair.
People Also Ask About How To Slick Hair
How to slick hair without gel?
You can slick your hair without gel by using a pomade, wax, or mousse. These products will give your hair the hold and shine you need to achieve a slick look.
How to slick hair back long hair?
To slick back long hair, you will need to use a stronger hold product, such as a pomade or wax. Apply the product evenly to your hair, from the roots to the tips. Then, use a comb or your fingers to comb your hair back into a slick style.
###How to slick hair back with a blow dryer?
To slick hair back with a blow dryer, you will need to use a brush or comb to help you style your hair. Start by applying a styling product to your hair, then use the blow dryer to dry your hair while brushing it back. Keep brushing until your hair is dry and slicked back.
