20 Slick Back Hairstyles for Men: Classic, Textured, and Modern Cuts

Slick back hairstyles do something rare in men’s grooming: it makes you look more competent.

That swept-back hair correlates with perceptions of leadership and attention to detail, qualities that matter whether you’re in a board meeting or a parent-teacher conference.

But here’s what makes the style endure: unlike trend-driven cuts that scream a specific era, slick back hair adapts.

The same fundamental style that worked in the 1950s now comes in modern variations, each suited to different hair types, face shapes, and life stages.

This guide breaks down the best slicked back options for men at every age. From classic iterations for conservative workplaces to textured, contemporary versions for creative professionals.

Why the Slicked Back Haircut Never Goes Out of Style

The enduring appeal of slicked back hair lies in its adaptability. It works across different settings and complements various face shapes and hair textures.

The style projects authority and attention to detail, qualities that transcend fleeting trends.

Modern iterations have expanded the classic formula, incorporating fades, undercuts, texture, and length variations.

This evolution keeps the slick back fresh and relevant for every generation of men who value sharp, purposeful grooming.

Top 20 Slick Back Hairstyles for Men:

1. Classic Slicked Back

The foundation of all slick back styles, this timeless cut features hair smoothed straight back from the forehead with a polished, uninterrupted finish.

It’s the gold standard for men who appreciate traditional grooming done right.

Best for: Straight to slightly wavy hair, medium length
Styling: Medium-hold pomade with natural shine
Maintenance: Requires daily styling, barber visits every 4-6 weeks
Ideal face shapes: Oval, square, rectangular

This cut works particularly well in professional settings where a refined appearance matters. The key is maintaining consistent length on top (3-5 inches) while keeping sides and back neatly trimmed.

2. Slick Back Hair with Taper

One of the most popular modern variations, this style combines the sophistication of slicked back hair with shorter tapered sides.

The gradual taper on the sides creates a contemporary contrast that enhances the swept-back top.

Best for: All hair types, medium to thick density
Styling: Water-based pomade or styling cream
Maintenance: Fade refresh every 2-3 weeks
Ideal face shapes: All, especially round and heart-shaped

The taper fade adds dimension without the stark contrast of a skin fade, making it versatile enough for both professional and casual environments.

Explore More: Taper Fade Haircut: Style Variations for Every Face Shape + Maintenance Tips

3. Long Hair Slicked Back

For men who’ve grown their hair longer, the slicked back style offers sophistication without sacrificing length.

This variation showcases the natural weight and movement of longer hair while maintaining a groomed, intentional appearance.

Best for: Straight or wavy hair, 5+ inches on top
Styling: Lightweight styling cream or natural oil
Maintenance: Regular conditioning, trims every 6-8 weeks
Ideal face shapes: Oval, rectangular, square

Long slicked back hair requires patience to grow and dedication to maintain.

The extra length provides versatility. You can wear it slicked back during the day and let it down for a more relaxed evening look.

Explore More: Men’s Long Haircuts for Every Face Shape

4. Messy Slick Back

Breaking away from rigid perfection, the messy slick back embraces controlled texture and natural volume.

This style maintains the backward flow while incorporating deliberate imperfection for a more relaxed, contemporary feel.

Best for: Wavy or textured hair, medium length
Styling: Matte clay or texture paste
Maintenance: Low-maintenance styling, barber visits every 4-5 weeks
Ideal face shapes: All shapes benefit from the added dimension

The messy hair works exceptionally well for men with naturally wavy or slightly curly hair.

Rather than fighting your hair’s natural texture, this style works with it, creating a modern, effortlessly cool appearance.

5. Slick Back with High Fade

Bold and eye-catching, the high fade slick back features a dramatic transition from shaved or very short sides to a full, swept-back top.

This high-contrast style makes a powerful statement.

Best for: Thick, straight hair
Styling: Strong-hold pomade or gel
Maintenance: Frequent fade touch-ups every 1-2 weeks
Ideal face shapes: Oval, rectangular (adds width)

The fade draws attention upward, making it particularly effective for men with longer face shapes who want to create more horizontal balance.

The stark contrast requires commitment to regular barber appointments.

6. Slick Back with Low Fade

A more subtle approach than its high fade counterpart, the low fade slick back offers clean lines with understated sophistication.

The fade begins just above the ears, creating a gentle transition to the slicked top.

Best for: All hair types
Styling: Medium-hold pomade
Maintenance: Fade refresh every 3-4 weeks
Ideal face shapes: All, particularly flattering for round faces

This variation strikes an ideal balance between classic and contemporary, making it workplace-appropriate while still feeling current.

It’s an excellent choice for men new to faded styles who want to ease into the look.

Explore More: 25 Low Taper Fade Haircuts for Men: Trending Hairstyles Guide

7. Slick Back Undercut

The disconnected undercut creates maximum contrast by pairing closely cropped or shaved sides with substantial length on top.

There’s no gradual blend, just a sharp, deliberate separation that commands attention.

Best for: Thick, straight hair
Styling: High-hold pomade for structure
Maintenance: Undercut maintenance every 2-3 weeks
Ideal face shapes: Oval, square

The undercut slick back has become iconic in contemporary men’s hairstyling.

It provides maximum versatility. You can slick the top back, push it to the side, or even wear it down for different looks throughout the week.

Explore More: 15+ Undercut Hairstyles for Men of All Ages

8. Slick Back with Mid Fade

Finding the middle ground between low and high fades, the mid fade begins roughly halfway up the sides. This creates a balanced, proportional look that works in virtually any setting.

Best for: All hair types, medium length on top
Styling: Water-based pomade
Maintenance: Fade touch-ups every 2-3 weeks
Ideal face shapes: All, especially versatile for heart and diamond shapes

The mid fade is arguably the most versatile fade height, complementing the greatest range of face shapes and personal styles.

It provides enough contrast to feel modern without appearing overly aggressive.

9. Slick Back Pompadour

Combining the height and drama of a pompadour with the smooth finish of a slick back, this style makes a bold statement.

The front is lifted and rolled back rather than simply combed flat, creating impressive volume.

Best for: Thick hair with body
Styling: Blow dryer + high-hold pomade
Maintenance: Daily blow-drying, regular trims every 4-5 weeks
Ideal face shapes: Round, heart (adds vertical dimension)

The slicked back pompadour requires more styling time than other variations but delivers maximum impact.

It’s particularly effective for formal events or when you want your hairstyle to be a focal point of your overall look.

10. Textured Slick Back

Modern and dimensional, the textured slick back incorporates visible separation between hair strands rather than a uniform, smooth surface.

This adds depth and contemporary edge to the traditional slick back formula.

Best for: Medium to thick hair with natural texture
Styling: Matte clay or fiber cream
Maintenance: Moderate daily styling, trims every 4-6 weeks
Ideal face shapes: All, adds interest to any face shape

Texture gives the slick back a more relaxed, less formal appearance while maintaining structure.

This style works particularly well for men transitioning from messy, casual styles to something more refined but not overly polished.

11. Short Slicked Back Haircut with Zero Fade

You don’t need significant length to pull off a slicked-back look. This variation works with just 2–3 inches on top, relying on shape and taper rather than volume.

The shorter length keeps maintenance low while still delivering a sharp, controlled backward sweep.

Best for: All hair types, especially fine hair
Styling: Light to medium-hold pomade
Maintenance: Low-maintenance styling, trims every 3-4 weeks
Ideal face shapes: All, particularly good for round faces (creates vertical lines)

The short slicked back is ideal for men who want the style’s sophistication without the commitment of growing and maintaining longer hair or for men with a receding hairline or thinning hair.

12. Slick Back with Natural Side Part

Adding a defined side part introduces classic barbershop precision to the slick back. The part creates a clear line of demarcation, guiding the hair’s direction and adding architectural interest.

Best for: Straight or slightly wavy hair
Styling: Comb + medium-hold pomade
Maintenance: Regular maintenance of the part line
Ideal face shapes: Oval, square, rectangular

The side part slick back channels vintage Hollywood elegance while remaining entirely relevant for contemporary style.

Have your barber create a razor part for maximum sharpness, or simply comb in a natural part for a softer approach.

Explore More: Side Part vs. Comb Over: Key Differences & Styling Guide

13. Relaxed Slick Back for Wavy Hair

Rather than straightening naturally wavy hair, this style embraces those waves while directing them backward. The result is a slick back with movement, dimension, and organic texture.

Best for: Naturally wavy hair, medium length
Styling: Light cream or sea salt spray + pomade
Maintenance: Minimal styling, work with natural texture
Ideal face shapes: All, adds softness to angular faces

Wavy hair is actually an advantage for slicked back styles, adding built-in volume and texture that straight hair often needs extra product to create.

The key is sticking to lightweight, flexible products that enhance the wave without weighing it down or killing the flow.

14. Slick Back Man Bun

For men with significant length, combining a slick back with a man bun offers both style and practicality. The hair is smoothed back from the face and secured in a bun at the crown or back of the head.

Best for: Hair 6+ inches long
Styling: Styling cream or light pomade + hair tie
Maintenance: Regular conditioning, occasional trims to maintain shape
Ideal face shapes: Oval, square (lengthens the face)

This style provides the polished appearance of a slick back with the functionality of keeping long hair secured.

It’s particularly popular among men in creative fields or those with active lifestyles who need their hair out of the way.

15. Slick Back with Skin Fade

The most dramatic fade option, the skin fade tapers all the way down to bare skin on the sides and back. This creates maximum contrast with the slicked top and demands precision from your barber.

Best for: Dark hair (shows contrast best), thick density
Styling: Strong-hold pomade
Maintenance: Weekly fade maintenance for optimal appearance
Ideal face shapes: Oval, rectangular (adds width at the temples)

The skin fade slick back makes a bold statement and requires commitment to frequent barbershop visits.

16. Curly Hair Slick Back

Curly-haired men can absolutely rock a slick back. It simply requires working with curls rather than against them.

The hair is directed backward while maintaining curl definition, creating a unique textured slick back appearance.

Best for: Naturally curly hair, medium to long length
Styling: Curl-defining cream + light-hold gel or pomade
Maintenance: Regular deep conditioning, embrace natural texture
Ideal face shapes: All, adds distinctive character

The key to a successful curly slick back is adequate length (curls need more length to reach backward when styled) and products that enhance rather than eliminate natural curl pattern.

This style celebrates your natural texture while maintaining a groomed appearance.

17. Slick Back with Drop Fade

The drop fade follows the natural curve behind the ear, dropping lower at the back than a traditional fade. When paired with a slick back, this creates an elegant, tailored silhouette from every angle.

Best for: All hair types, medium length on top
Styling: Water-based pomade
Maintenance: Fade refresh every 2-3 weeks
Ideal face shapes: All, particularly flattering from profile view

The drop fade adds an extra dimension of sophistication to the slick back by following your head’s natural contours.

It’s a detail-oriented choice that demonstrates attention to grooming precision.

18. Brushed Back Hair

Similar to a slick back but with more natural texture and less product shine, brushed back hair maintains the backward flow while appearing more casual and effortless.

Best for: All hair types, medium length
Styling: Light-hold cream or mousse
Maintenance: Quick daily styling, regular trims
Ideal face shapes: All

The brushed back style offers the structure of a slick back without the formal polish.

It’s ideal for casual Friday at the office or weekend activities when you want to look put-together without appearing overly styled.

19. Slick Back with High Taper

The high taper begins the fade near the top of the sides, creating significant contrast while maintaining slightly more length than a high fade. This offers a middle ground between dramatic and subtle.

Best for: Thick hair, medium to long on top
Styling: Medium to strong-hold pomade
Maintenance: Taper refresh every 2-3 weeks
Ideal face shapes: Oval, rectangular

The high taper provides much of the impact of a high fade while being slightly less aggressive in appearance.

It’s an excellent choice for professional environments that appreciate contemporary style but require some restraint.

20. Wet Look Slick Back

Achieving maximum shine and sleekness, the wet look slick back uses high-gloss products to create a reflective, just-out-of-the-shower appearance that epitomizes classic sophistication.

Best for: Straight, thick hair
Styling: Gel or high-shine pomade
Maintenance: Daily product application, regular cuts
Ideal face shapes: All, especially square and oval

The wet look represents slick back styling at its most traditional and formal.

It’s particularly effective for black-tie events, formal photography, or any situation where classic elegance is the goal.

How to Choose the Right Slick Back Haircut

Selecting your ideal slick back variation depends on several key factors:

Hair Type and Texture

• Straight hair: Works well with all slick back variations, especially classic and wet look styles
• Wavy hair: Excels with textured, messy, or natural slick backs that embrace wave patterns
• Curly hair: Best with longer lengths that allow curls to be directed back while maintaining definition
• Thick hair: Can handle any style, particularly high-volume variations like pompadours
• Fine hair: Works best with shorter slick backs or styles using lighter products

Face Shape Considerations

• Oval: The most versatile shape—virtually any slick back variation works
• Round: Choose styles with height (pompadour slick back) or angular elements (high fade) to elongate
• Square: Opt for styles that soften angles, such as textured or wavy slick backs
• Rectangular/Oblong: Select styles that add width rather than height, like long slick backs or low fades
• Heart: Look for styles that balance a wider forehead with volume at the sides

Lifestyle and Maintenance

• High maintenance: Skin fade slick back, pompadour slick back, wet look—require daily styling and frequent barber visits
• Moderate maintenance: Classic slick back, fade variations, undercut—need regular styling and monthly trims
• Low maintenance: Short slick back, brushed back, textured slick back—minimal daily effort

Professional Environment

• Conservative workplaces: Classic slick back, side part slick back, low fade variations
• Creative industries: Undercut slick back, textured variations, slick back bun combinations
• Versatile settings: Mid fade slick back, tapered slick back, brushed back styles

How to Style a Slicked Back Haircut: Step-by-Step

Achieving the perfect slick back requires the right technique and products.

Daily Styling Process

1. Start with damp hair – Towel-dry after washing, leaving hair slightly damp for even product distribution
2. Apply pre-styler (optional) – Sea salt spray adds texture and volume; heat protectant if blow-drying
3. Apply styling product – Use a dime-to-quarter-sized amount depending on length. Warm between palms, then distribute evenly from roots to ends
4. Use the right tool:
   • Sleek finish: Fine-toothed comb, working from front to back
   • Texture: Fingers or wide-toothed comb for separation
   • Volume: Blow-dry while brushing back, directing airflow from roots to tips
5. Set the style – Apply a second light layer for high hold, or add shine serum for maximum sleekness

Product Guide by Style

• Classic slick back: Medium to high-hold pomade with natural shine (water-based)
• Textured/messy: Matte clay or fiber cream for hold without shine
• Wet look: High-shine gel or oil-based pomade
• Natural/brushed back: Light-hold cream or mousse
• Curly slick back: Curl cream + light-hold gel combination

Maintaining Your Slicked Back Haircut

Home Care Routine

• Washing: 2-3 times per week to preserve natural oils. Over-washing dries hair and complicates styling
• Conditioning: Deep condition weekly for longer styles. Focus on mid-lengths to ends
• Nighttime: Sleep on silk/satin pillowcase to reduce friction. Loosely tie longer styles
• Scalp health: Massage regularly, exfoliate monthly, maintain protein-rich diet

Barbershop Schedule

• Skin fades: Every 1-2 weeks
• High/mid/low fades: Every 2-3 weeks
• Taper: Every 3-4 weeks
• Classic slick back (no fade): Every 4-6 weeks
• Undercut: Every 2-3 weeks for disconnect maintenance

Getting the Right Haircut for Slick Back Styling

When asking your barber for a haircut for slick back hair, bring reference photos from multiple angles and clearly communicate:

• Top length preference (2-3 inches for short, 3-5 inches for classic, 5+ for long)
• Desired fade height and style
• Texture preferences (blunt cut for sleek, point-cut for dimension)
• Disconnected or blended transition

The right haircut for slick back styling creates proper weight distribution, making daily maintenance significantly easier.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Too much product: Start small. Too much product creates greasy, stiff hair
• Applying to dry hair: Always use damp hair for even distribution
• Ignoring hair health: Tight pulling causes traction alopecia. Vary your styling occasionally
• Wrong product choice: Match product to desired outcome (gel for shine, clay for matte)
• Skipping heat protectant: Essential when blow-drying regularly
• Inconsistent barber visits: Maintain your schedule or lose the shape entirely
• Fighting natural texture: Work with your hair type, not against it

Slick Back Haircut FAQs

Q: How long does my hair need to be for a slick back? A: Minimum 2-3 inches on top for short slick back styles. Classic versions work best with 3-5 inches. Long slick backs require 5+ inches.

Q: Will slicking my hair back daily cause hair loss? A: Not if done correctly. Avoid pulling too tightly, maintain hair health, and occasionally vary your styling.

Q: What’s the difference between pomade, gel, and wax? A: Pomade provides shine and medium hold; gel offers strong hold with high shine; wax gives texture with matte finish.

Q: Can I slick back thinning hair? A: Yes. Choose textured slick backs or styles with volume on top rather than flat, sleek versions that expose the scalp.

Q: How do I slick back thick, coarse hair? A: Use stronger-hold products and blow-dry while styling for better control. Thick hair holds slick back styles exceptionally well once styled.

Q: Is a slick back appropriate for professional settings? A: Absolutely. Classic slick backs, low fades, and side part variations are highly professional. Avoid extreme high skin fades in conservative environments.

Q: How do I add volume to a flat slick back? A: Blow-dry while brushing back, use sea salt spray as pre-styler, and add texture rather than completely smooth finish.

Q: What if my slick back falls flat throughout the day? A: Use stronger-hold product, apply to damp (not wet) hair, and keep travel-size product for midday touch-ups.

Finding Your Signature Slick Back

Remember that the best slick back is one you can maintain consistently.

Choose a variation that fits your daily routine, invest in quality styling products suited to your hair type, and establish a regular maintenance schedule with a skilled barber who understands your vision.

The slick back isn’t just a hairstyle. It’s a style that can help you improve your confidence, attention to detail, and timeless masculinity.

Master your chosen variation, and you’ll have a go-to look that serves you well in any setting, from professional presentations to evening social occasions.

Choose your style, commit to the maintenance, and enjoy the confidence that comes with one of men’s grooming most enduring looks.

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—Edited by Fernando Lahoz-García, a men’s fashion art director with over 15 years of experience across international markets.