120+ Men’s Slicked Back Hairstyles That Rule in 2023

Introduction

Slicked back hairstyles have been a timeless classic for men for decades. From the suave sophistication of Cary Grant to the rebellious charm of James Dean, this versatile hairstyle has graced the heads of countless style icons throughout history. In recent years, the slicked back look has made a roaring comeback, and it’s not going anywhere anytime soon.

Why Slick Back Hairstyles Are So Popular

So, what’s the allure of slicked back hairstyles? Here are just a few reasons why they’re so popular:

• Versatility: Slicked back hairstyles can be tailored to suit any face shape and hair type. They can be worn short or long, messy or polished, and with or without a part.
• Timelessness: Slicked back hairstyles never go out of style. They’ve been around for centuries and continue to be relevant in today’s fashion landscape.
• Confidence: A well-executed slicked back hairstyle exudes confidence and charisma. It’s a hairstyle that says, “I know I look good.”
• Low-maintenance: Slicked back hairstyles are surprisingly easy to maintain. With the right products and a little practice, you can achieve a salon-quality slick back in minutes.

How to Style a Slicked Back Hairstyle

Styling a slicked back hairstyle is relatively straightforward, but it does require some practice. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get the perfect look:

1. Start with clean hair. Wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove any product buildup.
2. Apply a pre-styling product. A pre-styling product will help to add volume and texture to your hair, making it easier to style.
3. Blow-dry your hair. Blow-dry your hair in the direction you want it to be slicked back. Use a round brush to create volume and shape.
4. Apply a pomade or gel. Work a small amount of pomade or gel into your hair, starting at the roots and working your way back.
5. Slick back your hair. Use a comb or brush to slick your hair back into place. Start at the front of your head and work your way back.
6. Secure your hair. If necessary, use hairspray or a bobby pin to secure your hair in place.

Different Types of Slicked Back Hairstyles

There are many different types of slicked back hairstyles, each with its own unique look. Here are a few of the most popular:

• Classic slick back: The classic slick back is a timeless hairstyle that is characterized by its sleek, polished look. It is typically worn with short to medium-length hair.
• Messy slick back: The messy slick back is a more relaxed and effortless variation of the classic slick back. It is typically worn with longer hair and has a more textured, tousled look.
• Undercut slick back: The undercut slick back combines the slick back hairstyle with an undercut. The sides and back of the hair are shaved or cut short, while the top is slicked back.
• Side-swept slick back: The side-swept slick back is a variation of the classic slick back in which the hair is swept to one side. It is a great option for men with long or medium-length hair.
• Pompadour slick back: The pompadour slick back is a high-volume slick back that is characterized by its height and shape. It is typically worn with medium to long-length hair.

Slicked Back Hairstyles for Different Hair Types

Slicked back hairstyles can be tailored to suit any hair type. Here are a few tips for styling slicked back hairstyles on different hair types:

• Fine hair: Fine hair can benefit from a volumizing pre-styling product. Blow-dry your hair in the opposite direction you want it to be slicked back to create volume. Use a light to medium-hold pomade or gel to avoid weighing your hair down.
• Thick hair: Thick hair can handle a heavier pomade or gel. Blow-dry your hair straight down to smooth out any frizz. Use a strong-hold pomade or gel to keep your hair in place.
• Curly hair: Curly hair can be more challenging to slick back, but it is possible with the right products. Use a curl-defining cream or gel to define your curls. Blow-dry your hair with a diffuser to help elongate your curls. Use a strong-hold pomade or gel to slick your curls back into place.

Slicked Back Hairstyles for Different Face Shapes

Slicked back hairstyles can also be tailored to suit different face shapes. Here are a few tips for styling slicked back hairstyles on different face shapes:

• Oval face: An oval face is considered the ideal face shape. Slick back hairstyles that add width to the face, such as the undercut slick back and the pompadour slick back, look best on oval faces.
• Round face: A round face is characterized by its width and roundness. Slick back hairstyles that add length to the face, such as the classic slick back and the side-swept slick back, look best on round faces.
• Square face: A square face is characterized by its strong jawline. Slick back hairstyles that soften the jawline, such as the messy slick back and the side-swept slick back, look best on square faces.
• Triangular face: A triangular face is characterized by its narrow forehead and wide jawline. Slick back hairstyles that add volume to the forehead, such as the high pompadour slick back, look best on triangular faces.

Slicked Back Hairstyles for Different Occasions

Slicked back hairstyles are versatile enough to be worn for any occasion. Here are a few tips for styling slicked back hairstyles for different occasions:

• Formal occasions: For formal occasions, such as weddings and black-tie events, a classic slick back or a pompadour slick back is a timeless choice. Use a strong-hold pomade or gel to keep your hair in place all night long.
• Casual occasions: For casual occasions, such as parties and weekend outings, a messy slick back or a side-swept slick back is a great option. Use a light to medium-hold pomade or gel to create a more relaxed and effortless look.
• Work occasions: For work occasions, a classic slick back or an undercut slick back is a professional and polished choice. Use a strong-hold pomade or gel to keep your hair in place all day long.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Styling Slicked Back Hairstyles

Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when styling slicked back hairstyles:

• Using too much product: Using too much product can weigh your hair down and make it look greasy. Start with a small amount of product and add more as needed.
• Not blow-drying your hair: Blow-drying your hair in the direction you want it to be slicked back is essential for creating a smooth and polished look.
• Slicking back wet hair: Slicking back wet hair will cause your hair to dry in that position, which can lead to frizz and breakage. Always blow-dry your hair before slicking it back.
• Not using a strong-hold product: If you have thick or curly hair, using a light or medium-hold product will not be enough to keep your hair in place. Use a strong-hold pomade or gel to ensure that your slick back hairstyle lasts all day long.
• Slicking back your hair too tightly: Slicking back your hair too tightly can damage your hair and cause breakage. Be gentle when slicking back your hair and avoid pulling or tugging on it.

Conclusion

The slicked back hairstyle is a versatile and timeless classic that can be tailored to suit any face shape, hair type, and occasion. With the right products and a little practice, you can achieve a salon-quality slick back in minutes. So what are you waiting for? Try a slicked back hairstyle today and see for yourself why it’s one of the most popular hairstyles for men.

FAQs

Q: What is the best pomade for slicked back hairstyles?

A: The best pomade for slicked back hairstyles depends on your hair type and the desired hold. For fine hair, a light to medium-hold pomade is best. For thick or curly hair, a strong-hold pomade is necessary. Some of the most popular pomades for slicked back hairstyles include:

• Suavecito Pomade
• Layrite Super Hold Pomade
• American Crew Firm Hold Styling Gel

Q: How do I slick back my hair without it getting greasy?

A: To slick back your hair without it getting greasy, follow these tips:

• Use a clarifying shampoo to remove any product buildup from your hair.
• Blow-dry your hair in the direction you want it to be slicked back.
• Apply a small amount of pomade or gel to your hair, starting at the roots and working your way back.
• Use a comb or brush to slick your hair back into place