Slicked-Back Hair for Men: How to Do It and Easy Ways to Rock It

Check out this tutorial to learn how to create a slicked-back hairstyle.

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Asian man with slicked back for men smiling hair

Looking for an easy but smart-looking hairstyle? Try the slicked-back hair for men. It is one of the quickest hairstyles you can do using just a few products. And even if you’re a hairstyling newbie, you can create this ‘do right in your own home. Ready? Here are the steps to create and style a slick back haircut.

5 Steps to Create Slicked-Back Hair for Men

1

Get some pomade.

Begin the slick back hair men style by putting a small amount of pomade on your palms. If you think it’s not enough, you can add a little more until you get the amount you need. 

slick back hair men: model is seen putting putty on his palm

Don’t know what product to use? Try Axe Ice Chill Pomade to give your slick back haircut a maximum control and a firm hold that’s easy to wash at the end of the day.

2

Apply it to your hair.

Spread the pomade evenly on your hair, as this step is key in nailing slicked-back hair for men. Use your hands to style direct hair backward.

Model is spreading the putty on his hair
3

Comb your slicked-back hair.

Smoothen your hairstyle by combing your hair from front to back using a fine-toothed comb. As you do this, your hair will stay in shape with the help of the pomade.

slick back hair men: Guy is combing his hair with a fine-toothed comb
4

Finish with spray

Spritz hairspray on your hair to make sure your slicked-back hair stays in place. Try TRESemmé Compressed Micro Mist Smooth Hold Hairspray. It gives your hair light coverage and an invisible hold that helps your hair stay in place all day.

Model is spraying on hairspray on his slicked-back hair for men
TRESemme Compressed Micro Mist Level 2 Smooth Hold
5

All done!

Try this ‘do when you’re gunning for a smart and polished look. You can style your hair this way for the office, for romantic dates, or when you’re meeting your friends in a bar on a Friday night.

 

Asian man with slicked-back hair for men hairstyle

Slicked-Back Hairstyles to Try

1. Slicked-Back Hair With Fade

Asian man with slicked-back hair wearing eyeglasses
Looking for a hairstyle that looks great with eyeglasses? Try this ‘do. Credit: Shutterstock

Faded sides help create a clean and fresh look. They also draw attention to the long, brushed-back top section of your hair.

2. Slicked-Back Comb Over Hairstyle

Asian man with a neat and clean hairstyle
You can use either a fine-tooth comb or your fingers to style your hair this way. Credit: Dennie Ramon

To create this hairstyle, part your hair on one side. Then, on the side with more hair, comb your strands diagonally backward. Apply pomade to your hair to finish your look.

Go for this type of slicked-back hairstyle if you have a receding hairline. Your hair is combed back neatly without looking too pulled back from your hairline, creating the illusion of volume.

Dove Men + Care Strengthening Shampoo

Editor’s tip: Dealing with thinning or falling hair? Use Dove Men + Care Strengthening Shampoo. Its nourishing formulation helps make hair stronger to lessen hair fall due to breakage. This shampoo also has Trichazole Actives which address hair fall from the roots and caffeine which is known to enhance hair growth.

3. Man Bun

Asian man with long, slicked-back hair in a bun
Put your long hair up in a sleek man bun on hot, summer days. Credit: Shutterstock

Got long hair? Pull your hair back with a sleek man bun. This hairstyle keeps your hair off your face and neck. It makes you feel presko on hot and humid days. And when you’re busy, you don’t need to worry about your hair, because the bun keeps it in place.

4. Casual Slick Back Haircut

Asian man with long hairdo
Look more laid-back with this type of slicked-back hairstyle. Credit: Shutterstock

Want more texture and movement? Use less pomade to create a more relaxed slicked-back hairstyle. You can also use hair putty instead. It’s great for weekends when you don’t need to look polished from day to night.

5. Slicked-Back Hair With Undercut

Man with slicked-back hair and an undercut
Nail an undercut with a clear, flake-free scalp. Credit: Shutterstock

Make your slick back haircut edgy with an undercut. Similar to a fade, an undercut also has a long top section, but the sides and back are shaved or cut more closely. It creates a contrast between a voluminous top and extremely short sides and back, with the scalp looking almost exposed.

CLEAR Cool Sport Menthol Anti-Dandruff Shampoo for Men

Editor’s tip: Men are more prone to dandruff because their scalps produce more oil or sebum. Fight these flakes with CLEAR Cool Sport Anti-Dandruff Shampoo for Men. Formulated with Triple Anti-Dandruff Technology, this shampoo removes, resists, and prevents dandruff. It also gets rid of dirt, grime, and grease, leaving your hair clean and your scalp refreshed. 

6. Finger Combed Side Swept Hair

Man in suit with a dapper hairstyle
This is your go-to style for that perfect blend of casual chic and dapper charm. Credit: Royal Anwar from Pexels

To achieve this style, simply use your fingers to gently comb through and direct your hair towards one side, creating a natural, slightly tousled appearance. This slick back haircut works wonders on most hair types and lengths and can easily transition from a laid-back daytime look to a refined evening ensemble.

7. Neat Slick Back Haircut with Fade and Beard

Man with glasses and beard and a floral button-down polo
Sleek, sharp, and steeped in style. Credit: Denniz Futalan from Pexels

This style involves cleanly slicked-back hair that seamlessly transitions into a meticulously maintained fade, creating a sleek, polished look. Adding a well-groomed beard heightens this timeless style, making it a bold statement of sophistication and rugged charm.

8. Slick Back Haircut with Low Fade

Smiling Asian man with slicked back hairstyle in a hoodie
Go for a hairstyle that strikes a harmonious balance between traditional and contemporary cool. Credit: Armin Rimoldi from Pexels

The slicked-back hair with a fade is pretty much the denim jeans of haircuts – classic, comfy, goes with just about anything. This cut screams cool and casual, and is perfect for dudes who want a no-fuss style that still looks super sleek.

Choose from these slicked-back hair ideas the next time you style your hair. Then, face your day with a clean, smart, and polished look.