How to Achieve a Slicked-Back Look
The slicked-back hairstyle is timeless and versatile, offering a sleek and polished look perfect for formal events, work, or a night out. Whether you’re aiming for a classic wet look or a more modern, matte finish, achieving the perfect slicked-back style is easier than you think. Here’s a step-by-step guide to nailing this sophisticated look.
1. Start with Clean, Damp Hair
- Why It’s Important: For a slicked-back style, starting with clean, damp hair allows the product to distribute evenly and helps create a smooth base.
- Tip: Wash your hair with a balancing shampoo and conditioner to remove any buildup. Towel-dry your hair to remove excess water but keep it slightly damp for easy styling.
2. Apply a Smoothing Serum or Pomade
- Why It’s Important: The key to achieving a slicked-back look is using the right styling products. A smoothing serum or pomade adds shine, holds the hair in place, and controls frizz.
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Recommended Products:
- Serum: For a glossy, wet look, use a serum like Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum. This product smooths hair and provides shine without making it greasy.
- Pomade: For a more structured and controlled slicked-back style, use a pomade like American Crew Pomade. It offers a flexible hold with a medium shine finish.
3. Distribute the Product Evenly
- How to Do It: Rub the product between your palms and distribute it evenly through your hair, starting at the roots and moving towards the ends. Make sure to coat the entire length of your hair for a uniform look.
4. Use a Fine-Tooth Comb for Sleekness
- Why It’s Important: A fine-tooth comb helps achieve the sleek, smooth finish that characterizes the slicked-back look. It ensures that your hair lies flat and eliminates any visible gaps or uneven sections.
- Tip: Comb your hair straight back, starting at your forehead and moving towards the nape of your neck. For a tighter slick-back, use the comb to press the hair closer to your scalp as you comb.
5. Set with Hairspray for Extra Hold
- Why It’s Important: To keep your slicked-back style intact throughout the day, finish with a light mist of hairspray. This adds extra hold without making your hair stiff.
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Recommended Product:
- L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Extra Strong Hold Hairspray: This classic hairspray provides strong hold with a soft finish, ensuring your style stays put.
6. Adjust for Different Finishes
- For a Wet Look: To achieve the classic wet look, apply more product, focusing on serums or gels that add shine. You can also mist your hair with a bit of water to enhance the wet effect.
- For a Matte Look: Use a matte pomade or styling clay, such as Hanz de Fuko Claymation, which provides hold without shine, for a more understated, modern slick-back.
7. Maintenance Tips for a Slicked-Back Look
- Touch Up as Needed: Carry a small comb or brush to touch up your style throughout the day. A quick comb-through can easily restore the sleekness if your hair starts to lose shape.
- Avoid Touching Your Hair: To maintain the style, avoid touching your hair frequently, as this can disrupt the product and cause frizz.
8. Suitable Hair Types and Variations
- Straight to Wavy Hair: The slicked-back look works best on straight or wavy hair as it’s easier to smooth down.
- Curly Hair: If you have curly hair, consider straightening or blow-drying it first for a smoother base before slicking it back.
- Undercuts and Fades: This look pairs well with undercuts and fades, emphasizing the sleek top while keeping the sides clean.