Slicked back hairstyles are stylish and ideal for men seeking a fresh trendy look.
Originating in the 20th century, slicked-back hairstyles for men have evolved into various styles. Ranging from pompadours to military crops, it ultimately depends on your individual taste. Texas-based expert barber Sonya Hernandez advises, “Always assess the hair texture and growth pattern. It may be challenging to train the slicked back hair to go against its natural growth direction.”
Slick backs suit all hair lengths – short, medium, and long. And the great news is that it’s simple to achieve! If you have sufficient hair on top, the only step left is to coat your locks with styling products. Sonya favors Layrite products. Her top choice for a stronghold with a matte finish would be the Layrite Cement Clay. For a glossy appearance, she suggests the Layrite Superhold.
Hernandez encourages you to determine how high or low you prefer your fade. “For example, if the fade is too high on the sides, the strands on top may not be long enough to slick back men’s hair. Select a skilled barber to deliver the cut and style you want,” she recommends.
Before your upcoming haircut or visit to the barber, take a look at these images of the most sought-after slick back hairstyles for men!
#1 Slicked Back Haircut with Skin Fade
Combing your hair back results in a polished slicked back look. But what if you elevate this hairstyle with a crisp fade? This skin fade paired with a slicked back haircut will definitely enhance your fine, bronde locks.
#2 Stylish Long Slicked Back
Running out of inspiration for your long men’s hairstyle this time? A charming long slicked back hair, paired with a gray color plus a beard, will resolve your dilemma. It isn’t the classic long-length slick hairstyle for men but features a contemporary twist. You can’t go wrong as you brush your hair to the back with gentle waves for styling.
#3 Stylish Mid-Length Slick
A stylish mid-length slick back is a timeless look that many men can pull off. The hair has been cut with scissors using the short graduation technique. This will keep the hair long at the front and short at the edges. You will notice that it has been tapered at the sideburn. This is commonly used for those without beards. This is a low-maintenance cut. I would say 6-8 weekly visits, depending on how long you can handle it. A good pomade will keep it in place and create a glossy finish.
#4 Stylish Curly Hair with a Sleek Back Look
High fades are quite trendy; this stylish curly hair with a sleek back look is no exception. Men with curly hair should consider this coif as it keeps unruly sides in check while showcasing (and taming) texture on top. This cut looks fabulous with or without facial hair, but if you are sporting a beard, ask for a line-up.
Related: Top mens curly hairstyles.
#5 Styled Back with Facial Hair
Effortlessly casual, yet meticulously arranged and perfect for a day at the office or an evening out, that’s what this styled back with facial hair represents. Share this image with your barber or ask for a slicked back look with a taper around the ears and neck. As a professional, I suggest using a pomade or a styling cream to maintain this style slicked back and secure all day long.
#6 Short Straight Hair Slicked Back
There’s always something appealing about dark, straight hairstyles slicked back for men. This timeless style features a flawless finish and is perfect for thick hair.
#7 Polished Back Undercut
The polished back undercut is a contemporary take on an undercut. The skin-tight fade around the side provides a clear distinction at the partial ridge from the top and sides. The polished back incorporates ample product to maintain the hair’s shape. Request your barber to lower the fade slightly at the back. This adjustment allows the hair at the back to rest perfectly on the darkest or thickest section of the fade, achieving a smooth transition.
#8 Sleek and Polished Hairdo
This sleek and polished hairdo is a contemporary twist on the classic pompadour. Most of the cut will have been done with scissors leaving a tight slick back taper on the ear. My advice is to blow dry some volume spray into the top to give you height when styling. You can use different holding products depending on whether you want a glossy or a matte finish when you use a finishing product, apply it from root to tip and then comb it into place.
#9 Sleek Back with a Mid Fade
Sleek back with a mid fade is an eye-catching variation to a mid fade. It’s crucial to remember not to take too much fullness when transitioning to the sleek back. The hair won’t lay properly and can spoil the entire haircut. This cut is a sharp, professional appearance for young men to consider.
#10 Elegant High Fade Slick Back for Fine Hair with Receding Hairline
What could be more refined and stylish than the short, slicked back styles? Seeing your black hair styled neatly in one direction looks impeccable, which complements the clean sides and nape. This high fade cut is perfect for men with fine hair or a receding hairline.
#11 Effortlessly Textured Slick Back
Achieve the textured slicked back hairstyle that men admire for a beautifully unkempt appearance. The low fade integrates smoothly into the stylishly textured sides and top, giving finer hair a fuller look. Think about using Murdock London sea salt spray to enhance your waves on both wet and dry hair.
#12 Timeless Slicked Back Hairstyle with Facial Hair
Explore the elegance of this slicked back hairstyle! A slicked back look paired with a beard creates an iconic appearance. Dark and thick hair enhances your overall style. For the best results, towel dry your damp hair for a fresh base before applying gel or pomade.
#13 Textured Slicked Back Pompadour
A textured slicked back pompadour is an excellent versatile haircut. The high and tight skin fade remains a popular fade selection. Combine it with the striking style of a pompadour, and you’ll elevate this entire haircut.
#14 The Impact of Volume on Slicked Back Hairstyles
Slicked back hair with added volume and texture significantly enhances your look. You can effortlessly achieve this slicked back trend with medium-length, dark brown hair on top and tidy sides. Although the styling process of a slick back haircut may require some patience in front of the mirror, the volume effect will undoubtedly reward your effort.
#15 Slicked Back Hipster Hairstyle
Mastering this slicked back hipster hairstyle requires a daring and fashionable approach. Shave three lines from each sideburn and style your hair over the head with a touch of volume and texture. This hipster look is the slicked back style you should embrace to stay on trend and elevate your brown hair.
#16 Sleek Pomp with Skin Fade
A sleek pomp with skin fade is a modern take on a timeless men’s hairstyle. Ideal for both business and professional appearances, while still remaining fashionable, a sleek pomp can be customized for any event. Be sure to consult with your stylist or barber on how to adapt to your head shape and styling preferences.
#17 Sleek Finger-Combed Back Haircut
The sleek finger-combed back haircut is perfect for individuals who appreciate length. It features a tight fade around the base of the cut, smoothly transitioning into a substantial top. Regular upkeep is essential to maintain this style throughout the day. Using a blow-drier along with styling paste will ensure it stays looking sharp all day.
#18 Subtle Low-Faded Slick Back
A timeless hairstyle that remains relevant is the low fade slick back. The fade has been maintained low and disconnected to preserve enough length and weight to slick back the top. You can adjust the style by raising the fade according to your preferences. For instance, elevate the fade to your temples, keeping it tighter. Pomade is the ideal product for this style because it offers a strong hold and imparts a classic glossy finish.
#19 Casual Slicked Back Style with Curly Texture
This curly slicked back look will let you showcase your natural hair texture. Similar to your typical messy appearance, this casual slicked back hairstyle on curly hair provides the same elegance but in a tidier variation. Make sure your sides and nape are faded to highlight your textured brown slicked-back hair on top.
#20 Sleek Slicked Back Haircut with Beard Fade
When you’re looking for a hairstyle that maintains some length on top, consider this sleek slicked back with a beard fade. Not only do you gain a bit of length on top to keep your hair intriguing, but you also achieve a slick back fade on the sides to minimize excess hair to manage. Consult your barber for a suitable length on top that complements your hair texture for the best look.
#21 Expertly Styled Slicked Back
Consider this expertly styled slicked-back look if you’re in search of a fresh hairstyle. Refrain from keeping your sideburns too bushy to ensure this look is polished for any event.
#22 Slicked-Back Style for Short Hair
A sharp and straightforward look to maintain is the slicked-back style for short hair. It’s perfect for the man who needs to be ready in no time. The top has been separated from the sides to preserve its length and weight for a secure back hold. The crisp fade on the sides completes the appearance nicely, ensuring it stays fresh and neat. I would recommend a thick pomade to provide a strong hold.
#23 Sleek Pomp for Fine Hair
The sleek pomp is a great choice for men with fine hair. This classic look involves making long hair on top slicked-back. It adds volume and looks polished, especially for those with fine hair. This hairstyle suits men with shorter to medium-length hair. It gives a clean, put-together look for formal and casual events. To get the sleek look, apply a styling gel or pomade to wet hair. Start at the roots and go to the ends. Use a comb to style.
#24 Timeless Medium-Length Slicked Back Style
If you have medium-length hair and are seeking a hairstyle that allows for a sleek back, request your barber for pomp. This allows you to maintain length on top while blending into the sides. Utilizing a strong pomade will help keep your hair styled and add a glossy finish. Ask your barber to incorporate a short low taper fade on the sides and back to ensure your haircut looks sharp!
#25 Sleek Back Bun
A sleek back bun is ideal for anyone with an active lifestyle who desires long hair. Longer hair can be challenging to manage with an active routine, but a sleek back bun simplifies everything. Your choices are a shaved or faded side up to the partial ridge, as preferred. Toss the top into a bun, and you’re ready to go.
#26 Sleek Back with Subtle Fade
A sleek back with a subtle fade is an excellent choice for achieving a polished look. It is neatly tapered around the edges to maintain the fullness and body of the hair when styled. Request your barber to incorporate some razor work or texturize the top for better fall and a quicker styling process.
#27 Sleek Side Part Hairstyle
A sleek side part is an excellent choice for a polished business look. When you incorporate a well blended fade and side part, it offers a touch of personal flair while maintaining professionalism.
#28 The Stylish Gangster Slick Look
How impressive is this slicked back haircut? The gangster slicked back style is a statement in itself with those shaved lines on the sides. The slick back and dark hair on top don’t always need to be flat. Resembling a pompadour style can make a significant difference.
#29 Stylish Slicked Back Undercut with Longer Top Hair
This stylish slicked back undercut is very much in vogue! It complements you, particularly if you have dark, thick hair for a more voluminous look. Observe the striking difference between the longer hair on top and the tidy cut on both sides behind the ears. A quality pomade and sufficient hairspray will keep the style intact throughout the day.
#30 Sleek and Wavy
This stylish wavy hair with tidy sides and nape is simply amazing! It showcases a timeless, polished look that enhances your charm. To achieve a relaxed slick back hairstyle, begin by combing your dark blonde hair back and allow your natural texture to shine through.
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