Slick Back with Pomade: Guide to a Clean Look
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The slick back is a clean men's hairstyle: the hair lies back, the sides are smooth and the contours are neat. A well-groomed slick back comes from preparation, comb direction and the right amount of product.
This guide takes you through the styling step by step.
What a slick back needs to start with
A slick back works best when the hair on top is long enough to be laid back.
- Fine hair: a light, modern slick back works well.
- Medium-thick hair: a good starting point for a classic slick back.
- Thick hair: pre-treating with a blow dryer helps with shaping.
- Curly hair: can also be laid back and looks softer.
Product and tools
- Fine-tooth comb for clean lines and smooth transitions
- Wide-tooth comb or brush for the initial direction
- Pomade with pliable hold and some shine for the classic look
- Water for dampening and for the contours
- Optionally a blow dryer to set the roots in the desired direction
Pomade Pure Lemongrass is oil-based with a strong, pliable hold and a silky shine. That suits a look that should appear sleek but stay flexible.
Slick back with pomade: the steps
Step 1: Prepare the hair
Start with towel-dried to dry hair. Towel-dried hair usually follows the comb more easily; dry hair looks a little more textured.
With unruly hair, a short pre-treatment with the blow dryer helps. Dry the roots in the desired direction.
Step 2: Use the right amount
For short hair a pea-sized amount of pomade is enough, for medium-length hair a hazelnut-sized amount. Rub it completely between your palms.
Step 3: Work from roots to lengths
Apply the pomade first at the front hairline and on top. Then work backwards. Spread a little product on the sides.
Step 4: Pre-comb with the wide comb
First comb the hair roughly back. Make sure the hair runs back evenly on both sides.
Step 5: Smooth with the fine comb
Draw the hair from front to back in calm, long strokes. Start at the roots and work through strand by strand.
Step 6: Close the contours
Go over the sides and hairline with damp fingertips or a slightly dampened comb. Then leave the hairstyle alone.
Tips for a clean result
- The hair falls forward: blow-dry the roots in the target direction before applying and add a very small amount at the front hairline if needed.
- The hairstyle looks too flat: lift the roots slightly while blow-drying.
- The shine is uneven: rub the pomade thoroughly between your palms and apply it evenly.
- The hairstyle needs a refresh: a slightly dampened comb helps with restyling.
Modern slick back or classic look?
The classic slick back is smooth, shiny and strictly combed back. It looks formal and suits business and special occasions.
The modern slick back leaves individual strands looser and gives the top more movement. Both variations are based on the same basic direction and differ in the finish.
Frequently asked questions about the slick back with pomade
How long does the hair need to be?
On top, the hair should be long enough to lay back. The sides can stay short.
How much pomade do I need?
Start with a pea-sized amount and add a small portion after the first comb-through if needed.
Can I style a slick back on wet hair?
Yes. Wet or towel-dried hair gives smoother contours and more shine. Dry hair gives more lift and texture.
How do I restyle the slick back the next day?
Dampen your hands slightly, recomb the contour and close the sides with the flat of your hand. Add a small amount of pomade if needed.