Best Slicked Back Haircuts for Men 2024

Choosing the right slicked back haircut can elevate your style and confidence. Whether you prefer a classic, edgy, or modern look, there’s a slicked back style that suits you perfectly.

So go ahead, try one of these top picks for 2024, and make a statement wherever you go!

Choosing the Right Slicked Back Haircut for Your Face Shape

When it comes to slicked back haircuts, choosing the right style for your face shape can make all the difference. Each face shape has its own unique characteristics, and the right haircut can enhance your features and create a balanced look. Let’s explore the best slicked back haircuts for different face shapes.

Oval Faces: Best Styles and Why

Description: Oval faces are characterized by balanced proportions and a slightly rounded jawline, making them versatile for various hairstyles.

Best Styles:

• Classic Slick Back: Accentuates the balanced proportions of an oval face.

• Pompadour Slick Back: Adds volume and height, complementing the natural symmetry.

• Undercut Slick Back: The contrast between the top and sides highlights the oval shape.

Why These Work: The balanced nature of an oval face means that almost any slicked back style will look great. These styles enhance the natural symmetry without overwhelming the features.

Round Faces: Best Styles and Why

Description: Round faces have fuller cheeks and a rounded chin, with the width and length of the face being roughly equal.

Best Styles:

• High Fade with Slick Back: Adds height, creating the illusion of a longer face.

• Pompadour Slick Back: Provides volume on top, balancing the roundness.

• Slick Back with Side Parting: Adds angles and definition, breaking up the roundness.

Why These Work: These styles add height and structure, elongating the face and adding definition, which helps to balance out the roundness.

Square Faces: Best Styles and Why

Description: Square faces are defined by a strong jawline and equally broad forehead and jaw.

Best Styles:

• Classic Slick Back: Emphasizes the strong jawline while maintaining a sleek appearance.

• Low Fade with Slick Back: Softens the angular features with a gradual fade.

• Textured Slick Back: Adds a bit of texture to soften the overall look.

Why These Work: These styles highlight the strong jawline and provide a sleek look that complements the angular features of a square face.

Rectangular Faces: Best Styles and Why

Description: Rectangular faces are longer than they are wide, with a straight, narrow appearance.

Best Styles:

• Long Hair Slick Back: Keeps the length without adding extra height.

• Tapered Slick Back: Adds some width to balance out the length.

• Wavy Hair Slick Back: Adds texture and volume to the sides, creating a balanced look.

Why These Work: These styles add width and texture, balancing the elongated shape of a rectangular face.

Heart Faces: Best Styles and Why

Description: Heart-shaped faces have a broader forehead and a narrower chin.

Best Styles:

• Undercut Slick Back Man Bun: Draws attention away from the forehead and balances the chin.

• Slick Back with Side Parting: Softens the forehead while adding volume to the lower part of the face.

• Salt and Pepper Slick Back: Emphasizes the natural hair color and adds a sophisticated touch.

Why These Work: These styles balance the wider forehead and narrower chin, creating a harmonious look that highlights the best features of a heart-shaped face.

Choosing the right slicked back haircut for your face shape can enhance your natural features and create a balanced, stylish look. Whether you have an oval, round, square, rectangular, or heart-shaped face, there’s a perfect slicked back style for you. Experiment with these recommendations to find the one that best complements your unique features.

How to Maintain a Slicked Back Haircut

Maintaining a slicked back haircut requires some effort, but with the right products and techniques, you can keep your style looking sharp and polished every day. Here’s how to ensure your slicked back haircut stays in top condition.

Daily Care Tips

Keeping your slicked back haircut looking fresh involves using the right products and following proper styling techniques.

Products to Use:

1. Pomade: Choose a high-shine, strong-hold pomade for a classic slick look. Water-based pomades are easier to wash out.

2. Hair Gel: Ideal for a firmer hold, especially if you have thicker hair. Look for gels that don’t leave flakes.

3. Hair Spray: Use a light hold spray to set your style without making it too stiff.

4. Hair Comb: A fine-tooth comb helps achieve the sleek finish that defines a slicked back style.

Techniques for Maintaining Style:

1. Wash Your Hair Regularly: Clean hair is easier to style. Use a gentle mens hair shampoo and conditioner to keep your hair healthy and manageable.

2. Apply Product to Damp Hair: For best results, apply your styling product to slightly damp hair. This helps distribute the product evenly and allows for a smoother finish.

3. Comb Hair Back: Start from the forehead and comb hair straight back. For a side part, comb in the desired direction first before slicking back.

4. Blow Dry for Volume: If you want a bit more volume, use a blow dryer on a low setting while combing your hair back.

Hair Health

Maintaining hair health is crucial for any hairstyle, especially for slicked back haircuts where the hair’s condition is on full display.

Tips for Keeping Hair Healthy:

1. Avoid Overwashing: Washing your hair too often can strip it of natural oils, leading to dryness. Aim to wash your hair 2-3 times a week.

2. Use Quality Products: Invest in good quality shampoos, conditioners, and styling products that nourish your hair rather than damage it.

3. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water keeps your hair hydrated from the inside out.

4. Eat a Balanced Diet: Foods rich in vitamins and minerals, like leafy greens, nuts, and fish, promote healthy hair growth.

5. Protect from Heat: Minimize the use of heat styling tools, and always use a heat protectant spray if you do.

Barbershop Visits

Regular visits to your barber are essential to keep your slicked back haircut looking sharp.

How Often to Visit:

• Every 2-4 Weeks: For most slicked back styles, a trim every 2-4 weeks helps maintain the shape and keeps the sides and back neat.

What to Ask Your Barber:

1. Define the Look: Be specific about the slicked back style you want, whether it’s a classic slick back, an undercut, or a pompadour.

2. Discuss Length: Talk about the length you prefer on top and how you want the sides faded or tapered.

3. Maintenance Tips: Ask for advice on which products to use and how to style your hair at home.

Maintaining a slicked back haircut is all about consistency and using the right techniques and products. By following these daily care tips, keeping your hair healthy, and visiting your barber regularly, you can ensure your slicked back style remains impeccable.

Whether you prefer a classic look or a modern twist, these tips will help you keep your slicked back haircut looking its best.

Styling Products for the Perfect Slick Back

To achieve the perfect slicked back haircut, choosing the right styling products is essential. Different products offer various levels of hold, shine, and flexibility.

Here’s a guide to the best pomades, gels, and waxes for slicked back haircuts, along with some brand recommendations to help you get that impeccable look.

Pomades

Pomades are a classic choice for slicked back haircuts, offering a high shine and strong hold. They are ideal for achieving that sleek, polished appearance.

Best Pomades for Slicked Back Hair:

1. Suavecito Original Hold Pomade: Known for its strong hold and easy washability, this pomade is a favorite among slick back enthusiasts. It provides a medium shine that’s perfect for everyday wear.

2. Layrite Deluxe Original Pomade: This water-based pomade offers a high hold and medium shine, making it ideal for keeping your hair in place without feeling too stiff. It also washes out easily with water.

3. Baxter of California Clay Pomade: For those who prefer a more matte finish, this clay pomade provides a strong hold with a natural look. It’s great for adding texture and volume while maintaining control.

Key Benefits:

• High Shine: Perfect for a polished, sleek look.

• Strong Hold: Keeps hair in place all day.

• Easy to Wash Out: Most modern pomades are water-based, making them easy to rinse out.

Gels and Waxes

Gels and waxes offer different textures and levels of hold, catering to various slicked back styles.

Best Gels for Slicked Back Hair:

1. Beard Beasts Styling Gel: This alcohol-free gel provides a strong hold without flaking. It’s perfect for creating a firm, sleek look that lasts all day.

2. Johnny B. Mode Styling Gel: Known for its intense hold and high shine, this gel is ideal for more structured slicked back styles. It’s also easy to apply and distribute through the hair.

Best Waxes for Slicked Back Hair:

1. Hanz de Fuko Modify Pomade: This versatile wax-pomade hybrid offers a medium hold with a semi-matte finish. It’s great for adding definition and control without making the hair look overly greasy.

2. TIGI Bed Head for Men Matte Separation Workable Wax: With a strong hold and matte finish, this wax is perfect for creating textured, slicked back looks. It’s pliable, allowing for easy restyling throughout the day.

Key Benefits:

• Strong Hold: Ideal for structured styles that need to stay in place.

• Variety of Finishes: From high shine to matte, there’s a gel or wax to suit every preference.

• Versatility: Wax offers more flexibility and can be restyled, while gel provides a firmer hold.

Quick Comparison: Pomades vs. Gels vs. Waxes

Choosing the right styling product is key to maintaining a perfect slicked back haircut. Whether you prefer the high shine of pomades, the firm hold of gels, or the flexible control of waxes, there’s a product out there to suit your style needs.

Experiment with these top recommendations to find the perfect match for your hair type and desired look.

Frequently Asked Questions On Slicked Back Haircuts

Navigating the world of slicked back haircuts can raise a lot of questions. Here, we address some of the most common queries to help you achieve and maintain the perfect slicked back look.

Is the Slick Back Hairstyle Attractive?

Yes, the slick back hairstyle is highly attractive! This timeless look exudes confidence and sophistication, making it a popular choice for men of all ages. Its clean and polished appearance suits various settings, from professional environments to casual outings. The versatility of slicked back haircuts allows for customization, so you can tailor the style to fit your personality and preferences.

Key Points:

• Timeless Appeal: A classic look that never goes out of style.

• Versatile: Suitable for both formal and casual settings.

• Polished: Creates a clean and refined appearance.

How Do You Ask for a Slick Back Haircut?

When visiting your barber, it’s important to communicate clearly to get the perfect slick back haircut. Here’s how you can ask for it:

1. Specify the Style: Mention that you want a slicked back haircut. Be specific about whether you prefer a classic slick back, undercut, or pompadour variation.

2. Discuss Length: Talk about the desired length on top and how you want the sides and back to be cut. For example, you might ask for a high fade, low fade, or tapered sides.

3. Show a Picture: Bringing a photo of the style you want can help your barber understand your vision.

4. Mention Texture and Products: Let your barber know if you prefer a textured look or a sleek finish and ask for product recommendations.

Example Request: "I’d like a slicked back haircut with a medium length on top and a low fade on the sides. Can you also recommend a good pomade for a high-shine finish?"

Who Suits Slicked Back Hair?

Slicked back haircuts are versatile and can suit many different face shapes and hair types. Here’s a quick guide on who looks great with slicked back hair:

• Oval Faces: Almost any slicked back style works well.

• Round Faces: High fade and pompadour slick backs add height and definition.

• Square Faces: Classic slick backs and low fades enhance strong jawlines.

• Rectangular Faces: Long hair slick backs and tapered styles add width.

• Heart Faces: Side partings and undercut man buns balance forehead and chin proportions.

Hair Types:

• Straight Hair: Ideal for achieving a smooth, sleek finish.

• Wavy Hair: Adds natural texture and volume.

• Thick Hair: Can be slicked back with the right products to manage volume.

How Long Should Your Hair Be for a Slick Back?

To achieve a slicked back hairstyle, your hair should ideally be 3 to 5 inches long on top. This length allows you to comb it back smoothly and ensures the style holds well with the appropriate products. If your hair is shorter, you might need to let it grow out a bit before attempting a slick back.

Quick Reference:

• Minimum Length: 3 inches on top.

• Optimal Length: 4 to 5 inches for more styling versatility.

Can Thick Hair Be Slicked Back?

Absolutely! Thick hair can be slicked back effectively with the right techniques and products. Here’s how to manage and style thick hair:

1. Use Strong Hold Products: Opt for strong hold pomades, gels, or waxes to keep your hair in place.

2. Apply Product Evenly: Distribute the product evenly through damp hair for better control.

3. Blow Dry: Use a blow dryer to help set the style and add volume if desired.

4. Regular Trims: Keep the sides and back trimmed to manage the overall volume and maintain the shape.

Tips for Thick Hair:

• Opt for Layered Cuts: Ask your barber for layered cuts to reduce bulk and make styling easier.

• Consider an Undercut: An undercut can help manage thickness while keeping the top long for slicking back.

Slicked back haircuts are a stylish and versatile choice for men, suitable for a range of face shapes and hair types. With the right products and techniques, you can easily maintain and perfect this classic look.

Whether you’re going for a sleek, polished finish or a textured, modern variation, slicked back haircuts offer endless possibilities for a sharp, confident style.

Conclusion

Slicked back haircuts are a timeless and versatile choice that can elevate any man’s style. From their historical roots to their modern-day resurgence, slicked back haircuts continue to be a symbol of sophistication and confidence. With the variety of styles available, there's a slicked back look to suit every face shape, hair type, and personal preference.

Key Takeaways

• Versatility: Whether you prefer a classic slick back, a textured modern look, or something in between, there’s a style for everyone.

• Styling Products: Choosing the right products, like pomades, gels, and waxes, is crucial for achieving and maintaining the perfect slick back.

• Hair Health: Regular care, including using quality products and visiting your barber, keeps your hair healthy and your style sharp.

• Face Shape Matters: Certain slicked back styles complement different face shapes better, so choose accordingly.

Quick Reference Table

Final Thoughts

Embracing a slicked back haircut can transform your appearance and boost your confidence. This classic yet modern style offers endless possibilities, whether you’re heading to the office, a social event, or just a casual day out. With the right approach to maintenance and styling, you can keep your slicked back look fresh and impeccable every day.