Slicked Back Hairstyles: Style Guide for Men & Women

Slicked back hairstyles have become a favorite for people who want a neat, polished, and confident look. This hairstyle works by combing the hair straight back, often with the help of gel, pomade, or cream to hold it in place. It’s a style that has stood the test of time, worn by movie stars, models, athletes, and everyday people who appreciate its bold yet simple charm.

Slicked back hairstyles are a great choice for any occasion, whether you’re going to work, a formal event, or out with friends. It suits short, medium, and long hair, and works well with all hair textures, from straight to curly. With just a few tools and the right technique, you can create a look that is both elegant and modern, all while showing off your natural features.

What Are Slicked Back Hairstyles?

Slicked back hairstyles offer a slick, polished finish. The hair is combed towards the back, away from the face. This style works for men and women. It suits short, medium, or long hair. Stylish icons like Gigi Hadid and David Beckham.

This style gives a neat, clean look. It feels professional yet relaxed. You can wear it to work, a night out, or even casual events. The slicked back hairstyle adds confidence. It can show off facial features like cheekbones or jawline. It helps frame the face nicely.

Different textures respond well to this style. Straight hair glides back smoothly. Wavy or curly hair adds depth and volume. You can choose a wet finish or a soft sheen. It all depends on the look you want. With some simple care and the right product, slicked back hairstyles can become your go‑to signature.

Why Choose Slicked Back Hairstyles?

Slicked back hairstyles bring versatility. You can wear it in a low bun, high ponytail, or down with sleek finish. Men have options like the side part, pompadour, undercut, and taper. This flexibility means it works well for almost any event.

This style is easy to style. Use gel, pomade, or creams on damp hair. Comb back and add hairspray. You are ready to go. With short steps, you get a neat and structured look.

Hairstyles that are slicked back make you look polished and sure of yourself. They highlight your face and neck. Many celebs and professionals go for this look because it shows refinement and boldness

Types of Slicked Back Hairstyles for Men

Classic Slicked Back Men’s Hairstyle

This style is even in length. The hair is combed straight back. It reached peak popularity in the 1950s with Gordon Gekko (Wall Street). It’s sleek, polished, and timeless. Works best on hair that is straight or has a little wave. Keep it firmer with pomade or gel.

Slicked Back Pompadour

This one adds volume. Hair is lifted over the forehead, then slicked back. Men like David Beckham pull it off elegantly. Use pomade for hold and structure.

Slicked Back Undercut

The hair on top is long and slicked back. Sides are shaved or faded. This bold style highlights contrast. Add a beard to it to make it look sharper.

Slicked Back with Fade or Taper

Improve your slicked back look with fades. Options include mid-taper, high fade, or bald fade. This gives a strong shape and neat sides. The taper draws attention to the slicked top.

Slicked Back Curly or Wavy

Curly or wavy hair works too. Use strong-hold gel to define texture without flattening it. Let nature add movement. It gives a softer, more casual feel.

Types of Slicked Back Hairstyles for Women

Classic Sleek Back

Women like Gigi Hadid and Blake Lively go for full slickness. Apply gel on wet hair. Comb back and let hair fall loose or in a ponytail. Elegant and bold.

Wet “Glass” Look

This look uses gel for damp, glossy hair. Celebs like Lizzo wear it on red carpets. It makes a statement with minimal styling.

Low Chignon or Bun

A smooth bun at the nape works well on long or medium hair. It is neat, classy and easy to manage.

Half-Up, Half-Down

Slick roots back, leave ends free. Adds structure and volume. Works great with ponytails or twists.

Geometric or Spiked

Use gel to style spikes or shapes, like Megan Thee Stallion. This artistic style keeps hair sleek but redistributes volume creatively.

Step-by-Step Styling Guide

Start with clean, freshly washed hair. Towel dry until damp. This helps products spread easily.

Choose your product. Gel gives a shiny sleek finish. Pomade or cream gives softer hold. For thin hair, pick lighter products. For thick or curly hair, pick a strong hold.

Rub the product on your palms. Apply evenly through hair. Start at the roots and work to the end. Use a comb to brush back from forehead to crown.

Create volume if needed by lifting the front before combing back. Use a round brush and blow dryer. Set the shape there.

Choose a structure: loose, bun, ponytail, or half up. Keep combing to smooth stray hair.

Finish with light hairspray. Keeps looking in place and stops flyaways. Avoid touching hair too much.

Choose the Right Product

Hair Type	Best Product	Effect
Thin & Straight	Lightweight cream	Natural, non-greasy hold
Thick & Curly	Strong hold pomade	Control and defined texture
Oily/Dirty Hair	Wet-look gel	Polished, holding style
Medium Wavy Hair	Medium hold gel + spray	Sleek + flexibility

Products shape the hairstyle feel and finish. Lighter creams work for sleek subtle looks. Gel gives shine but can look greasy if too much used.

Care Tips & Common Mistakes

Keep your hair healthy. Over-styling can cause breakage. Tight buns may cause traction alopecia. Change up your hairstyles and let your hair down to protect your scalp.

Avoid excess products. Too much can age you, make hair stiff or greasy. Use the right amount and wash regularly.

Match your face shape. Slicked back can accentuate face shape. If unsure, consider a soft side part.

Trim often. Keep sides neat and ends fresh. Fades or tapers look sharp when maintained.

Protect from heat. Use sprays before blow drying or curling to lock in style and keep hair healthy.

Conclusion

Slicked back hairstyles are a smart and stylish choice for any occasion. They are easy to create, work with most hair types, and suit all face shapes. With just a few products and steps, you can get a clean, sleek look in minutes.

Whether you’re going for a classic or modern style, slicked back hair always makes a bold statement. It’s tidy, adaptable, and gives you a polished, self-assured appearance. With regular care and the right styling, this timeless look will never let you down.

FAQ

What type of hair works best for slicked back hairstyles?
Most hair types work well. Straight or wavy hair gives clean results. Curly hair adds texture and volume. Thin hair does slick well with lightweight cream. Medium to thick hair needs a stronger hold.

Will slicked back hairstyles damage my hair?
No, if done right. Avoid tight styling daily. Alternate styles, use heat protection, and avoid excess product. Too tight buns may cause hair loss from pulling.

How do I make slicked back hair last all day?
Use the right product, comb back firmly, and finish with flexible hairspray. Avoid touching your hair. Carry a small comb or spray to refresh the look later.

Can women wear a slicked back hairstyle with short hair?
Absolutely. Short hair can be slicked into a mini ponytail or bun. Even jaw-length hair pulls back for a polished, elegant look.

How often should I wash my hair when styling slicked back?
Wash every 2–3 days depending on oil and product buildup. Too frequent washing dries hair. Too little and the product builds up. Clean, damp hair styles best.