How to Slick Hair Back

A smooth, slicked back hairstyle is a sophisticated yet simple look that can be worn by either men or women. It is a style that is well suited for casual occasions or even as a hairstyle complement to formal dress. Although it may seem simple enough to accomplish, failure to use the right technique to slick it back can leave your hair looking frizzy or messy.

What You Need:

• Spray bottle


• Towels


• Wide tooth comb


• Pomade, mousse or gel


• Fine tooth comb


• Coated hair band


• Leave-in conditioner


• Hair dryer


• Silicone serum or holding spray


• Brush

Wet Hair:

1. Shampoo and condition your hair. If your hair is already clean but dry, fill a spray bottle with clean water and wet your hair thoroughly with it. Keep a towel around your neck so that you do not get your clothes wet.


2. Towel blot your hair if it is dripping wet. It should be damp, but not overly wet. 


3. Comb your hair using a wide tooth comb to remove any tangles or knots.


4. Decide on gel, mousse or hair pomade.


5. Put a small amount of gel, mousse or pomade in your hands. Rub your hands together so that it is on both hands and then rub your palms over your hair, smoothing it back and away from your face.


6. Use a fine tooth comb to distribute the gel through your hair while also directing it towards the back of your head. Use the comb to create a side part if desired. If your hair is long, secure it in place with a coated band and allow it to dry.

Dry Hair:

1. Shampoo and condition your hair for a clean start.


2. Towel blot your hair and comb out any tangles.


3. Spray a leave-on conditioner and comb it through for added strength and protection.


4. Blow dry your hair using a hair dryer and a brush or a hair dryer that has a brush or pick attachment. Direct your hair going towards the back of your head.


5. Apply a small amount of silicone smoothing serum to your hair or spray it with hairspray.


6. Brush your hair back, adding more spray or serum to smooth out any flyaway hair and to help it lay smooth.


7. Secure your hair in place using a coated band.