Introduction
The slicked-back haircut is a timeless classic that has graced the heads of men for centuries. From the silver screen icons of old Hollywood to the contemporary runways of Milan, this versatile style exudes sophistication and masculine charm. Whether you’re looking for a polished look for a special occasion or a casual, effortless style for everyday wear, the slicked-back haircut can cater to your needs.
History of the Slicked Back Haircut
The slicked-back haircut has its roots in the Victorian era, where it was favored by gentlemen of wealth and status. During the early 20th century, the style gained popularity among Hollywood actors, who used it to create a sophisticated and alluring image on the silver screen. In the 1950s, the slicked-back haircut became associated with the rebellious greaser subculture, popularized by iconic figures like James Dean and Marlon Brando. Today, the slicked-back haircut continues to be a popular choice for men of all ages and professions.
Types of Slicked Back Haircuts
There are numerous variations of the slicked-back haircut, each with its own unique characteristics. Some of the most popular include:
Classic Slick Back
The classic slick back is characterized by its sleek, straight lines and polished finish. The hair is combed straight back from the forehead, with no part or fringe. This style is ideal for men with thick, straight hair and a strong jawline.
Undercut Slick Back
The undercut slick back combines the classic slick back with a shaved or closely cropped undercut on the sides and back of the head. This style creates a striking contrast between the long, slicked-back hair on top and the short, disconnected hair on the sides. The undercut slick back is a popular choice for men who want a modern and edgy look.
Pompadour Slick Back
The pompadour slick back features a voluminous, swept-back front that gradually transitions into a shorter, slicked-back back. This style is reminiscent of the pompadours popular in the 1950s and 1960s. The pompadour slick back is a great option for men who want to add height and volume to their hair.
Side-Parted Slick Back
The side-parted slick back is created by parting the hair on one side and slicking it back on the other. This style allows for more versatility than the classic slick back, as the part can be placed anywhere from the center of the head to the side. The side-parted slick back is a good choice for men with a receding hairline or a round face.
How to Style a Slicked Back Haircut
Styling a slicked-back haircut is relatively straightforward, but it does require a few key products and some practice. Here are the steps involved:
- Start with clean, damp hair. The best way to prevent your slicked-back haircut from looking greasy is to start with clean hair. Wash your hair with a volumizing shampoo and conditioner, then towel-dry it to remove excess moisture.
- Apply a pre-styling product. Pre-styling products, such as volumizing foam or mousse, help to create volume and texture in your hair. Apply a small amount of pre-styling product to your damp hair and distribute it evenly throughout.
- Blow-dry your hair. Blow-drying your hair will help to set the pre-styling product and give your hair a smooth, polished finish. Use a round brush to blow-dry your hair back from your forehead, creating volume at the roots.
- Apply pomade or gel. Pomade or gel is essential for holding the slicked-back style in place. Apply a small amount of pomade or gel to your palms and distribute it evenly throughout your hair. Start at the roots and work your way to the tips, using a comb to smooth the hair back.
- Slick back your hair. Use a comb or brush to slick your hair straight back from your forehead. For a classic slick back, keep the hair as straight as possible. For a more modern look, you can create a slight wave or curl in the hair.
- Secure the style with hairspray. Hairspray will help to keep your slicked-back style in place all day long. Spray a light mist of hairspray over your finished hairstyle to set it.
Tips and Tricks for Styling a Slicked Back Haircut
Here are a few tips and tricks for styling a slicked-back haircut:
- Use a high-quality pomade or gel. The quality of the products you use will have a big impact on the hold and shine of your slicked-back style. Invest in a high-quality pomade or gel that is designed for slicked-back hairstyles.
- Apply pomade or gel to damp hair. Pomade or gel is more effective when applied to damp hair. Towel-dry your hair after washing it, then apply a small amount of pomade or gel to your palms and distribute it evenly throughout your hair.
- Use a comb to slick back your hair. A comb will help you to achieve a smooth, polished finish. Start at the roots of your hair and work your way to the tips, using the comb to slick your hair straight back.
- Secure the style with hairspray. Hairspray will help to keep your slicked-back style in place all day long. Spray a light mist of hairspray over your finished hairstyle to set it.
Slicked Back Haircuts for Different Hair Types
The slicked-back haircut can be adapted to suit all hair types, from thick and straight to thin and curly. Here are a few tips for styling a slicked-back haircut for different hair types:
- Thick, straight hair: Thick, straight hair is ideal for a classic slick back or an undercut slick back. Use a strong-hold pomade or gel to keep the hair in place and create a polished finish.
- Thin, straight hair: Thin, straight hair can benefit from a volumizing pre-styling product to create the illusion of thicker hair. Use a light-hold pomade or gel to avoid weighing the hair down.
- Curly hair: Curly hair can be a bit more challenging to style into a slick back, but it is possible with the right products and techniques. Use a leave-in conditioner to define your curls, then apply a strong-hold pomade or gel to slick the hair back. You may also need to use a comb to tame any flyaways.
Slicked Back Haircuts for Different Face Shapes
The slicked-back haircut can flatter all face shapes, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Here are a few tips for choosing a slicked-back haircut for your face shape:
- Oval face: An oval face is considered the ideal face shape, and it can wear any type of slicked-back haircut.
- Round face: A round face can be softened by a slicked-back haircut with a side part. This will help to elongate the face and make it appear slimmer.
- Square face: A square face can be balanced by a slicked-back haircut with a long, side-swept fringe. This will help to soften the angles of the face.
- Heart-shaped face: A heart-shaped face can be flattered by a slicked-back haircut with a pompadour. This will help to add volume to the forehead and make the face appear more balanced.
Conclusion
The slicked-back haircut is a versatile and timeless style that can be adapted to suit all hair types and face shapes. Whether you’re looking for a classic, polished look or a modern, edgy style, the slicked-back haircut can help you to achieve the perfect look.
Hair Type | Styling Products | Styling Tips |
---|---|---|
Thick, straight hair | Strong-hold pomade or gel | Use a comb to slick back the hair and create a polished finish. |
Thin, straight hair | Light-hold pomade or gel | Use a volumizing pre-styling product to create the illusion of thicker hair. |
Curly hair | Strong-hold pomade or gel, leave-in conditioner | Use a leave-in conditioner to define your curls, then apply a strong-hold pomade or gel to slick the hair back. |
Wavy hair | Medium-hold pomade or gel | Use a comb to slick back the hair and create a natural, textured finish. |
Face Shape | Ideal Slicked Back Haircuts | Reason |
---|---|---|
Oval face | Any type of slicked-back haircut | An oval face is considered the ideal face shape, and it can wear any type of slicked-back haircut. |
Round face | Slicked-back haircut with a side part | A slicked-back haircut with a side part will help to elongate the face and make it appear slimmer. |
Square face | Slicked-back haircut with a long, side-swept fringe | A slicked-back haircut with a long, side-swept fringe will help to soften the angles of the face. |
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