How to Slick Your Hair Back (Short, Medium & Long Hair)

PDF download Download Article
The best way to get a slick back hairstyle with pomade or gel
PDF download Download Article

Slicked-back hair has been in style for over 100 years, and for good reason. The style can emphasize thick, rich hair, show off bone structure, and create an eye-catching look perfect for everything from business meetings to casual weekend outings. Not only is this classic look extremely appealing, but it’s also super easy to do. We’ll walk you through how to get a sleek, wet hair look. Plus, we’ll even direct you toward the best products and tools.

How to Do Slick-Back Hair

  1. Wash your hair and let it dry until it’s damp.
  2. Run pomade through your hair.
  3. Use a comb or brush to push your hair back from your forehead.
  4. Continue combing or brushing the hair back until you get the desired shape.
Method 1
Method 1 of 3:

Short Slicked Hair

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/ae\/Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-1-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-1-Version-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/a\/ae\/Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-1-Version-4.jpg\/v4-728px-Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-1-Version-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    The slicked-back look stays in place best when you start with damp hair. The hair will finish drying in a slicked position, helping it stay in place all day long. Shampoo your hair and towel it dry to begin.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/9e\/Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-2-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-2-Version-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/9e\/Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-2-Version-4.jpg\/v4-728px-Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-2-Version-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Coat your hair with pomade . Use your fingers to apply a liberal amount of strong-hold pomade to your hair, focusing on the top and sides. Pomade is the classic product used to create this sleek and shiny look, and it’ll help keep your hair slicked back until you wash it out. [1]
    • Pomade was classically oil-based. Oil-based pomade creates the classic sheen and holds that made the slicked look popular. [2] However, oil is difficult to wash out, so you may want to look for a strong-hold pomade that does not list oil as a main ingredient.
    • Gel is a good alternative if your hair isn't too thick. Gel typically results in a dryer hold and may take on a slightly crunchy texture. This works best with finer, lighter hair types since it may not be strong enough to hold heavier hair in place.
    Advertisement
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/0c\/Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-3-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-3-Version-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/0c\/Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-3-Version-4.jpg\/v4-728px-Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-3-Version-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Use a fine-toothed barber comb and comb your hair straight back from your forehead to the crown of your head. The classic slick does not include a part, so just run the comb straight back. Do this several times so the top of your hair lies flat from front to back. [3]
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/ee\/Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-4-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-4-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/ee\/Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-4-Version-3.jpg\/v4-728px-Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-4-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Place the comb at your right temple and run it to the back of your head. Then, do the same on the left side. The hair on the sides of your head should flow in a slicked pattern from front to back behind your ears.
  5. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/22\/Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-5-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-5-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/22\/Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-5-Version-3.jpg\/v4-728px-Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-5-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    In most cases, 6 or 7 comb-throughs (or “slicks”) should be enough to create this quick style. Aim to style your hair in as few slicks as possible to evenly distribute the pomade. If you handle it too much, it may begin to look messy.
    Rogelio Samson, Men Hair Expert

    Slicking your hair back with a high shine pomade is a great way to create a polished, retro look. Apply a nickel-sized amount evenly throughout dry hair, then use a comb to smoothly brush hair straight back. Focus the pomade application on the top and sides while leaving the ends natural for a textured finish.

    6. Advertisement
Method 2
Method 2 of 3:

Medium Slicked Hair

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/e4\/Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-6-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-6-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/e4\/Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-6-Version-3.jpg\/v4-728px-Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-6-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Shampoo your hair, blot it with a towel, and let it air dry until it’s damp. This style looks best on hair that is slightly damp. Your hair will dry in the modern slicked position, helping it stay in place throughout the day.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/16\/Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-7-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-7-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/1\/16\/Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-7-Version-3.jpg\/v4-728px-Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-7-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Use your fingers to run pomade through your hair, focusing on the top and sides. [4] For this style, you can use either maximum hold pomade or a medium hold product . Keep in mind that a medium hold will allow your hair to move more, creating a “messy” look. [5] For a neater look, use maximum hold.
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d7\/Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-8-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-8-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/d\/d7\/Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-8-Version-3.jpg\/v4-728px-Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-8-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Some prefer their slicked-back hair to have a part, while others don’t—do what you prefer! If you want to try a part, use a comb to part your hair .
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/9d\/Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-9-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-9-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/9d\/Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-9-Version-3.jpg\/v4-728px-Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-9-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Use a fine-toothed comb to brush your hair back from your forehead to the crown of your head. Just comb each section once. For this style, you want the roots to maintain some volume rather than lying completely flat.
    • With the modern slick, you can choose not to slick back the sides. This works particularly well if you have a faded haircut, with much shorter hair on the sides than on top.
    • If you have long hair on the sides, slick it from your temples to the back of your head.
  5. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/9d\/Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-10-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-10-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/9d\/Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-10-Version-3.jpg\/v4-728px-Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-10-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Hair stylist Martin Nepton recommends using your fingers to add volume and height to your hair, especially if you’re going for a modern, tousled look. After initially combing your hair back, put the comb down and use your fingers to achieve the look you want. Run your fingers through your hair and gently lift it at the roots so it doesn't lie flat.
    • Use a hair dryer set to low to help add volume while finger combing. Point the blow dryer away from your forehead toward your crown so your hair dries in a slicked-back position. [6]
    • Use more pomade as necessary to create the look you want. Then, finish with a little hairspray to help your hair keep its shape.
    • If you prefer a traditional slick back that’s flat against your head, no problem! Just skip this step.
    6. Advertisement
Method 3
Method 3 of 3:

Long Slicked Hair

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/90\/Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-11-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-11-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/90\/Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-11-Version-3.jpg\/v4-728px-Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-11-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    If your hair is long, use a hair dryer to rough dry your hair until it’s about 70 percent dry. Alternatively, towel dry your hair to get it ready for styling.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/35\/Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-12-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-12-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/35\/Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-12-Version-3.jpg\/v4-728px-Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-12-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Use a wide-toothed comb to comb your hair and remove tangles. This will help keep the final look neat.
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/96\/Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-13-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-13-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/96\/Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-13-Version-3.jpg\/v4-728px-Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-13-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Use your fingers to apply pomade to the top and sides of your hair (or the areas you want to slick back). Nepton suggests avoiding adding product to the ends of your hair, as it could weigh it down or make it look greasy.
    • Consider using a wide-toothed comb to help diffuse the product over the length of your hair. This will keep you from having a defined product line by creating a slow transition between the parts with product and those without.
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f7\/Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-14-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-14-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/f\/f7\/Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-14-Version-3.jpg\/v4-728px-Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-14-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Use a fine-toothed comb to brush back your hair from your forehead and temples to the back of your head. Finger-comb your hair to add volume and achieve the look you want. [7]
    • The more “slicking” you do with the comb, the neater the look will be.
    • The more you tousle your hair with your fingers, the messier the look will be.
  5. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/3d\/Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-15-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-15-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/3d\/Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-15-Version-3.jpg\/v4-728px-Slick-Your-Hair-Back-Step-15-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Putting your hair into a ponytail or bun can help your hair stay in place and create a neater appearance. You could also do a half-ponytail or even a long braid—the choice is up to you! [8]
    6. Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    How do I get my hair to slick back naturally?
    Laura Martin
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist in Georgia. She has been a hair stylist since 2007 and a cosmetology teacher since 2013.
    Laura Martin
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Expert Answer
    You can slick back your hair with water or apply a plant-based styling product. You can make a natural gel with flaxseed.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 19 Helpful 8
  • Question
    What do you use to slick your hair back?
    Laura Martin
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist in Georgia. She has been a hair stylist since 2007 and a cosmetology teacher since 2013.
    Laura Martin
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Expert Answer
    Pomade and gel are two common and effective products. Pommade gives a softer, more flexible hold than gel.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 11 Helpful 6
  • Question
    How do you slick back your hair in a ponytail?
    Laura Martin
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist in Georgia. She has been a hair stylist since 2007 and a cosmetology teacher since 2013.
    Laura Martin
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Expert Answer
    Start with damp, towel-dried hair and use a brush to smooth your hair back. You can also add gel to the roots for extra sleekness. Secure your hair with an elastic.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 8 Helpful 3
See more answers
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Video

      Tips

      • Nepton recommends using Blend from Kenue (which can be found in cosmetic and drug stores) to get a wet, slicked-back look as the product smooths well, doesn’t look greasy, and smells like candy.
        Thanks
      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
      Advertisement

      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Use Pomade
      How to
      Do a Quick Weave
      How to
      Make a Bun
      The Two Block Haircut: What to Ask For, Styles, Maintenance & More
      What is a Low Taper Fade? (Plus, How to Ask for One)
      How to Grow and Style a Flow Hairstyle
      5 Easy Hair Buns for Beginners: Messy, Ballerina, & More
      How to
      Get Curtain Hair
      What Is Ice Cream Hair & How Do Get It?
      How to Do a French Twist Updo in a Few Simple Steps
      How to Style a Wolf Cut: Shaggy, Sleek, & Straight Options
      How to
      Get a Wet Look Hairstyle for Men
      How to
      Style Your Hair
      How to
      Do Half Up Half Down Hairstyles
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ https://youtu.be/TLtQCETQDwI?t=143
      2. ↑ https://youtu.be/TLtQCETQDwI?t=98
      3. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/shorts/mKgZKfwxFYU?t=10&feature=share
      4. ↑ https://youtu.be/ovx-yQoi4yE?t=240
      5. ↑ https://youtu.be/dFNfk5_Uot8?t=237
      6. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/shorts/mKgZKfwxFYU?t=15&feature=share
      7. ↑ https://youtu.be/NEeHzNpQDhk?t=356
      8. ↑ https://youtu.be/NEeHzNpQDhk?t=394

      About This Article

      In other languages
      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 203,139 times.
      If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission .

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement