Slick Back with Taper Fade: Guide to the Modern Classic

The slick back with taper fade is the modern classic among men's hairstyles. Shiny and combed back on top, short on the sides and fading softly towards the nape. Unlike the undercut, there's no hard edge and the transition is smooth. Here's how to ask for it and style it.

Taper fade or undercut?

With an undercut, the sides are shaved evenly short and the top falls over them with a clear edge. With a taper fade, the hair gets gradually shorter at the temples and nape. It looks softer and grows out less noticeably. The undercut version is at undercut with pomade.

What to tell your barber

• Top at least 8 to 10 cm so it can be laid back.
• Taper at the temples and nape, sides getting longer towards the top.
• Low taper for a subtle look, mid taper for more contrast.
• Clean outline around the ears and at the nape.

How to style a slick back with taper fade

1. Prepare: wash your hair and let it towel-dry. For more volume, blow-dry it back briefly.
2. Warm the pomade: rub a pea-sized amount between your fingers.
3. Spread it: work it in from the back of your head to the front roots. The short sides need hardly any product.
4. Comb: guide the top back with a fine comb. Lay the line on the sides neatly.
5. Finish: for more shine, add a small amount and comb through once more.

Variations

• Classic glossy: close to the head, lots of shine, like in the 1920s.
• With volume: some height at the front, combed back. More towards a pompadour.
• Loose: styled with fingers instead of a comb for a relaxed look.

Which product works best is covered in the best pomade for a slick back.

The right pomade

NO STYLIST Pomade Pure Lemongrass is oil-based and combines petrolatum, beeswax and lanolin. It gives you a strong, pliable hold, a silky shine and a water-repellent texture. The scent comes only from lemongrass oil, patchouli oil and lavender extract. Handmade in small batches in Germany, free shipping to Germany and Austria. To try it, there is a 10 g size with a 30-day satisfaction guarantee.

Frequently asked questions

How often do I need the taper fade touched up?

About every three to four weeks to keep the transition clean.

How long does the top need to be?

At least 8 to 10 cm. Shorter than that, it won't lie back cleanly.

Does the look work for the office?

Yes, especially with a silky rather than a strong shine. More looks at business hairstyles for men.