What is best for slick back hair for men
Getting that perfect slick back isn't just about running a comb through wet hair and hoping for the best. Honestly, it's a whole thing. What works for you depends on your hair type, how much hold you actually need, and whether you want to look like you just stepped out of a 1950s barbershop or something more modern. For most guys, a strong-hold, high-shine pomade is the go-to. But honestly? Water-based clays and gels have their own moments too. Let's get into the weeds on this.
What is the best product for a slick back with strong hold?
If you want your slick back to actually stay put from morning coffee to last call without feeling like you've got a helmet on, you want a high-hold water-based pomade. Oil-based ones are fine, sure, but they're a pain to wash out. Water-based? Much easier. Look for stuff with beeswax or microcrystalline wax for structure, and maybe castor oil or glycerin if you want some shine. It's not complicated, but it matters.
Top picks for strong hold:
- Suavecito Firme Hold Pomade: Classic water-based stuff. Medium-high shine, strong hold that lasts all day. Dries a bit hard but you can reactivate it with water if needed.
- Layrite Superhold Pomade: Really strong hold with a natural shine. Lightweight too—won't weigh down finer hair.
- Reuzel Grooming Tonic: Water-based, firm hold, but matte finish. Good for guys who want the slick back look without looking greasy.
What is the best for thin or fine hair?
Thin hair is tricky. You need volume and texture, but heavy stuff just flattens everything into a sad, greasy mess. Heavy pomades are your enemy here. Instead, go for lightweight gels or volumizing pomades. Polymers are your friend—they add memory and lift without the weight.
Best options for fine hair:
- American Crew Firm Hold Gel: Strong, clean hold with medium shine. Lightweight, no flaking. Does the job.
- Bumble and Bumble Sumotech: It's like a pomade-gel hybrid. Adds texture and hold but doesn't leave your hair stiff. Works great for fine to medium hair.
- Hanz de Fuko Claymation: Water-based clay. Matte finish, strong hold, and it actually adds volume. Perfect if your fine hair needs a lift.
What is the best for thick or curly hair?
Thick or curly hair is a different beast entirely. You need serious control. Like, industrial-strength hold. Oil-based pomades are usually the answer here—they've got that superior grip and can smooth down even the most unruly strands. But some water-based ones with high wax content can work too.
Best options for thick/curly hair:
- Murray's Superior Hair Dressing Pomade: The classic oil-based pomade. Extremely strong hold, high shine. Great for thick, coarse hair but good luck washing it out.
- Reuzel Pink Pomade: Heavy-hold, high-shine water-based pomade that actually works on thick hair. Strong lasting hold without the grease of oil-based ones.
- Suavecito Original Pomade: Medium-hold, high-shine water-based. You can layer it for extra control on thick hair. Easy to wash out too.
How to apply slick back hair for best results?
Application matters more than you think. Mess it up and you'll look like you fought a tub of hair product and lost. Follow these steps:
- Start with damp, towel-dried hair. Product spreads way easier this way.
- Take a small amount—like a dime-sized for short hair, more for longer hair—and rub it between your palms.
- Run your hands through your hair from front to back. Make sure every strand is covered.
- Use a fine-tooth comb to comb it straight back from your hairline to the crown. Or use your fingers for a more natural, less perfect look.
- Let it dry and set. Want extra hold? Hit it with a blow dryer on low heat while combing.
What is the difference between-based and oil-based pomades?
This comes up a lot. The main differences are hold, shine, and how easy they are to wash out. Here's the breakdown:
| Feature | Water-Based Pomade | Oil-Based Pomade |
|---|---|---|
| Hold | Medium to strong, can be reactivated with water | Strong to very strong, holds all day |
| Shine | Medium to high | High to very high (glossy) |
| Washability | Easily washes out with water and shampoo | Requires multiple washes or special shampoos |
| Best for | Fine to medium hair, daily use | Thick/curly hair, special occasions |
| Residue | Minimal, dries slightly hard | Can leave greasy residue, stays pliable |
"For a classic, all-day slick back, start with a strong-hold water-based pomade and a fine-tooth comb. The key is to work the product through damp hair and let it set naturally." - Professional Barber, Mark Anthony
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use gel for a slick back?
Yeah, you can. Gel works if you want a super strong hold and high shine. But be warned—it dries hard and can flake or crack. For something more natural and flexible, pomade or clay is usually better.
How often should I wash my hair if I use pomade daily?
If you're using water-based pomade, you can wash it out daily with a gentle shampoo. Oil-based? Wash every 2-3 days to avoid buildup. Throw in a clarifying shampoo once a week to keep things clean.
What is the best for a matte slick back?
Go with a clay or matte pomade. Hanz de Fuko Claymation, Baxter of California Clay Pomade, or American Crew Forming Cream are all solid choices. They give you hold without the shine.
How long should my hair be for a slick back?
Ideally, at least 3-4 inches on top. Shorter hair can still work but it'll look more like a comb over. Longer hair—6 inches or more—lets you pull off a more dramatic sweeping look.
Short Summary
- Best overall product: A water-based pomade with strong hold and medium shine works for most hair types.
- For fine hair: Use a lightweight gel or volumizing pomade to avoid weighing hair down.
- For thick/curly hair: Choose an oil-based or high-wax water-based pomade for maximum control.
- Application tip: Apply to damp hair, comb back, and let it set naturally for a polished look.