A modern slicked-back hairstyle is an easy way to style any hair length. Start with clean, towel-dried locks and use a firm hold product on damp hair while styling for volume and shape. Slicked-back hair sends the message that you are confident, polished, and ready to tackle whatever comes your way. With the appropriate products and techniques, it can elevate any outfit.
Classic
For the classic look, pair a low or high fade with a slicked-back hairstyle and use an oil-based pomade for more shine and hold; switch it out for water-based ones for a lighter feel and easier rinse out. This sleek back hairstyle is the ideal way to show off your face and shoulders, whether thin or thick hair. Additionally, this style works well with various facial structures and looks excellent with beards. David Beckham took the slicked-back class and gave it his own personal twist, creating his signature pompadour style with its sleek back, taper fade sides, and small quiff swept to one side and up into an elegant high-volume style – ideal for any formal event or any social gathering.
Gravity-Defying
With the help of an accomplished stylist, even a messy, slicked-back hairstyle can become an artful runway look. A high pompadour with loose waterfall-style hairspray creates an eye-catching gravity-defying style perfect for nightclub events; or for something more laidback consider allowing your locks to naturally unravel for a “wake up like this” vibe; just be sure to use plenty of hairspray so as not to dent your style too much!
Thick Hair
Though some men may associate the slicked-back hairstyle with straight-haired guys with well-groomed beards, it works for all hair types. The key to creating it successfully is choosing an effective styling product to manage volume and texture in the locks before combing through. This messy taper-slicked back hairstyle is ideal for thicker locks and suits most face shapes. It combines elements of both pompadours and classic slick backs, leaving the top fuller while the sides and back remain short and tapered for a tidy, sophisticated finish. Easy maintenance makes for an eye-catching yet fashionable style! For rounded faces, this style can also provide more shape and balance to your facial features. To achieve optimal results, begin with freshly washed and towel-dried hair that is slightly damp; this will enable pomades or other products to adhere more readily to the locks.
