What is best to use to slick back hair
Honestly, getting that slicked-back look takes more than just running your fingers through your hair and hoping for the best. The right product totally depends on your hair type, how tight you need the hold to be, and what kind of finish you're after. For the classic, old-school slick back, you can't beat a high-hold, high-shine pomade. But if you're chasing that extreme wet look, a strong gel is probably your best bet. Want something more natural? A clay or water-based pomade gives you a solid hold without looking greasy.
The trick is finding something that gives you control without turning your hair into a crunchy, flaky mess. Modern stuff is way better than what our dads used—it actually nourishes your hair while keeping it in place.
What are the different types of products for slicking back hair?
There's a whole bunch of products out there for slicking hair back. Which one's right for you depends on the vibe you want and how you want your hair to feel.
| Product Type | Hold Level | Shine Level | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pomade (Oil-based) | Medium to Firm | High | Classic, wet-look styles; thick or coarse hair; all-day hold that restyles easily. |
| Pomade (Water-based) | Firm to Strong | Medium to High | Versatile styles; easy washout; good for all hair types; less greasy feel. |
| Hair Gel | Very Strong | High | Extreme hold; wet, glossy looks; short to medium hair; stays in place all day. |
| Hair Clay | Firm to Strong | Matte to Low | Natural, textured slick backs; fine or thin hair; matte finish without shine. |
| Hair Wax | Medium to Firm | Medium | Flexible hold; adding texture; restyling throughout the day. |
| Hair Cream | Light to Medium | Low to Medium | Light hold; natural look; taming flyaways; good for longer, softer styles. |
What is the best product for a wet look slick back?
If you're after that super-glossy, wet-looking style, go for a high-gloss gel or an oil-based pomade. These things give you that intense shine and the kind of hold that won't let your hair budge. Gels tend to dry hard—sometimes it feels like a helmet. Oil-based pomades are more forgiving, letting you mess with your hair during the day.
"For a true, glossy wet look, many barbers recommend a high-shine gel applied to damp hair. For a more refined, less rigid finish, a high-shine pomade applied to dry hair is the better option."
What is the best product for a matte slick back?
Maybe shine isn't your thing. For a more modern, natural look, grab a high-hold clay or a matte pomade. These soak up extra oil and keep your hair back without that wet, greasy appearance. Guys with finer hair love this stuff because it adds volume and texture without weighing everything down.
How to do it? Take a little clay, work it into towel-dried hair, comb it back, and either let it air dry or hit it with a blow dryer on low for some extra volume.
What is the best product for thick or curly hair?
Thick or curly hair is a beast. You need serious control and moisture. A strong-hold oil-based pomade or a heavy-duty gel is your friend here. These things can actually tame those unruly curls and keep your hair flat and slicked back. Look for stuff with shea butter or argan oil—keeps your hair from snapping.
- For coarse, thick hair: Oil-based pomade gives you the strongest hold and best control.
- For wavy or curly hair: A strong-hold gel on damp hair, followed by a boar bristle brush, helps straighten and smooth things out.
- For fine or thin hair: A lightweight clay or water-based pomade holds without weighing your hair down.
How to apply product for a perfect slick back?
Applying it right is half the battle. Here's a simple checklist for the best results:
- Start with clean, damp hair: Wash it, towel-dry it until it's damp but not dripping.
- Apply a heat protectant (optional): If you're using a blow dryer, spray some protectant on first.
- Emulsify the product: Rub a little between your palms to warm it up and make it spread easier.
- Apply evenly: Work it from front to back, make sure it's everywhere.
- Comb or brush back: Use a fine-tooth comb or a boar bristle brush to smooth it all back.
- Blow dry for hold (optional): For extra staying power, use a blow dryer on low while brushing it back.
- Finish with hairspray (optional): A light mist of strong-hold spray locks it in for the whole day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use hairspray to slick back my hair?
Yeah, hairspray can set the style, but don't use it alone. Put a pomade or gel in first to shape your hair, then hit it with hairspray to lock everything in place and maybe add a bit of shine.
Is pomade or gel better for slick back hair?
Depends on what you want. Gel gives you a harder, wetter look with more shine—extreme stuff. Pomade is more flexible and natural-looking, less crunchy, and easier to restyle. For most guys, a good water-based pomade is the way to go.
How do I keep my slick back hair from falling flat?
Don't want it flat? Apply product to damp hair and use a blow dryer to lift the roots. Lift the hair at the crown while drying to create some volume. A volumizing mousse or texturizing spray before your main product also helps keep it up.
What is the best product for a slick back with long hair?
For longer hair, you need a strong-hold gel or a heavy-duty oil-based pomade. They give you the weight and control to keep those long strands back. A hair cream works for a lighter look, but it might not hold all day.
Short Summary
- Best Overall: A high-hold, high-shine water-based pomade is the most versatile and user-friendly option for most hair types.
- For Wet Look: A high-gloss gel or oil-based pomade delivers the classic, glossy slick back with maximum hold.
- For Matte Look: A strong-hold hair clay or matte pomade provides a natural, texture-rich finish without shine.
- For Thick Hair: An oil-based pomade or heavy-duty gel offers the control and moisture needed to tame unruly hair.