Whether you want to go back to the 1950s or just like the aesthetic, slicked-back hair can really pull your look together. It’s easy enough to accomplish, and you only need a few simple-to-get products to get it. 

However, most men will want the slicked-back look without the greasiness that can occasionally accompany it. Follow this guide to look your best without putting the “grease” in “greaser.”

How to Slick Back Your Hair Without it Looking Greasy

A lot of hair types for men are out there, but new vintage is certainly coming back in style. For slicked-back hair, here are the steps to follow. 

1. Wash Hair

The first step is to wash your hair thoroughly. That involves using a high-quality shampoo and conditioner to get out all of the grime. 

When you’re finished with your shower, get out and briefly towel dry. You want to leave it slightly damp so that it’s malleable enough to use product. 

2. Apply Styling Product to Your Palms

Next, you want to work your chosen styling product into your palms. Generally speaking, you don’t want to use a ton. A little goes a long way, and using too much can end up making your hair look greasy. 

You only need to apply a pea- or dime-sized amount. Rub it around your palms so that it’s ready to go into your hair. 

3. Apply Styling Product to Hair

You want to gently pat the styling product into your hair, but you want to ensure you stick with the surface. There’s no reason to get it down into the roots right away.

Instead, let it stay on the top of your hair initially before you work your way down.

4. Use a Setting Spray

With the product applied, you’re ready to comb it back. This is easy enough, and you can slick it back until you get the exact look you’re aiming for. 

Once it’s at a place you like, you want to use a setting spray. You’ll naturally be busy during any given day, and throughout your adventures, slicked-back hair may become undone.

A setting spray ensures you enjoy your look all day long. An optimal setting spray should also add volume so that your hair appears light instead of heavy. 

Choosing the Right Styling Product For Your Hair

Different styling products are out there to keep your hair in place all day long. However, different hair types can necessitate different products to ensure the best results.

Pomade

Pomade is commonly used for slicking back hair. It doesn’t weigh it down, and it’s optimal for damp hair. 

There are oil- and water-based pomades. Most men will want to opt for the latter since it’s easier to rinse out and reduces your chances of dealing with dandruff down the road.

Wax

Wax is great when you don’t want to lose your hair’s volume, but it doesn’t produce as much shine.

Clay

Clay has risen in popularity in recent years. It’s recommended for men with oily hair since it dries out locks.

You just want to make sure you don’t use too much at any given time, as too much can damage your hair.

How to Style Slicked-Back Hair

There are many ways to style slicked-back hair. You can opt for the finger combed back swept, which offers old-school vibes with a modern twist. 

Then again, you may want something like the messy slicked look, which combined put-together vibes with rebellion. It’s really up to you, and you can experiment with different styles to determine which one works best for you.

References:

Hurley, Adam. “How to Slick Your Hair Back.” GQ, 26 Apr. 2019. https://www.gq.com/story/how-to-slick-back-your-hair

Mannah, Johnny. “20 Best Slicked Back Hairstyles for Men.” The Trend Spotter. https://www.thetrendspotter.net/8-mens-slicked-back-hairstyles-to-rock-for-any-occasion/