TL;DR
- Best for: Men who want a bold, confident, timeless look
- Avoid if: You have a very round face or receding hairline
- Ask your barber: "Leave 3–5 inches on top for a slicked back, [fade/taper/undercut] on sides"
- Maintenance: Daily styling, trim every 3–4 weeks
Who Does It Suit?
The slicked back is a power move. It says "I'm in control" without saying a word.
Ideal for:
- Executives, entrepreneurs, leaders
- Men attending formal events frequently
- Anyone with strong facial features worth showcasing
- Men with thick, cooperative hair
- Those who appreciate classic masculine aesthetics
Hair types:
- Straight: Ideal—holds the slick look effortlessly
- Wavy: Adds interesting texture to the classic shape
- Thick: Perfect volume and hold potential
Avoid If...
- Round face → slicked back removes volume that helps elongate
- Receding hairline → emphasizes hairline, shows more forehead
- Very fine or thin hair → may look flat or greasy instead of polished
- You hate daily styling → this requires product and effort; try a bro flow for a no-product alternative
- Cowlicks at the front → constant battle against natural growth
What is a Slicked Back?
All hair is combed directly backward from the forehead and held in place with product. No part, no fringe, no hair falling forward. The forehead is fully exposed, creating a clean, powerful silhouette.
Think Gordon Gekko, Mad Men executives, or modern iterations like David Beckham. The style has survived a century because it works.
Slicked Back Variations
| Classic Slicked Back | Undercut Slick | Slicked Back Fade | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sides | Tapered | Shaved/Disconnected | Gradual fade |
| Contrast | Low | High | Medium |
| Vibe | Classic, timeless | Modern, edgy | Balanced |
| Maintenance | Medium | High | Medium-High |
Measurements
- Top: 3–5 inches (enough length to lay flat)
- Sides: Varies by variation (fade, taper, or undercut)
- Back: Matches sides, tapered into neck
- Trim: Every 3–4 weeks to maintain shape
Face Shape Tweaks
The slicked back is demanding—it exposes everything. Adjust accordingly.
- Oval: Ideal canvas—go bold with full slick
- Square: Perfect match—emphasizes strong jawline
- Diamond: Works well, balances cheekbones
- Heart: Be careful—may emphasize wide forehead
- Round: Generally avoid—removes needed side volume
- Oblong: Keep some volume at sides to balance
Hair Type Tweaks
- Straight: Use medium-hold pomade for natural shine
- Wavy: Work with the wave—don't fight it, let it add texture
- Thick: May need blow-dry first to train hair back
- Fine: Use matte products—avoid shine that shows scalp
- Curly: May need relaxing treatment or accept textured variation
Getting the Right Shine
The slicked back exists on a spectrum from wet-look to matte.
High Shine (Wet Look):
- Products: Classic pomade, gel, or high-shine wax
- Vibe: 1920s gangster, Mad Men, formal events
- Best for: Evening events, bold statements
Medium Shine (Natural):
- Products: Cream pomade, light wax
- Vibe: Modern professional, everyday polish
- Best for: Office, dates, most occasions
Matte (No Shine):
- Products: Clay, matte paste, fiber
- Vibe: Contemporary, casual sophistication
- Best for: Younger crowds, creative industries
What to Tell Your Barber
"I want a slicked back style. Leave 4 inches on top, [taper/fade/undercut] on sides. I'll be styling it straight back with [product type]."
How to Style
Daily (3–5 minutes):
- Start with damp hair (not soaking wet)
- Apply product evenly through hair
- Comb straight back from forehead
- Use blow dryer on medium heat, directing back
- Set with light hairspray if needed
Pro tip: Comb in direction of hair growth first, then redirect back.
Product Guide
For Strong Hold + Shine:
- Classic oil-based pomade
- Water-based pomade
For Hold + Flexibility:
- Cream pomade
- Styling cream
For Hold + Matte:
- Clay
- Matte paste
- Fiber wax
Usage amount: Start with dime-sized, add more if needed. Too much = greasy.
Maintenance Timeline
- Morning: Style fresh daily
- Midday: Quick comb to refresh if needed
- Evening: Washes out easily with water-based products
- Weekly: Clarifying shampoo to prevent buildup
- Every 3–4 weeks: Barber visit for shape
Common Mistakes
-
Too much product Fix: Start small, add as needed—you can't subtract product
-
Wrong product for hair type Fix: Fine hair needs lighter products, thick hair can handle heavier
-
Fighting natural growth patterns Fix: Blow dry to train hair, work with cowlicks not against them
-
Ignoring hairline reality Fix: If receding, consider side part or textured styles instead
-
Flat on top Fix: Lift roots while blow drying, don't plaster down
