How to Achieve the Perfect Slicked-Back Hairstyle: A Step-by-Step Guide

Slick, black hair has become a must-try trend for multiple reasons. Not only does it exude sophistication and elevate your look, but it's also an excellent way to conceal greasy or unwashed hair.

Brandie Devillier, a Hair Color Sales/Education Partner for Aveda Hair Color Purefessional, platform educator at the Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute, and certified color educator at Elevate Hair, shares that the slicked-back hairstyle, whether in a half-up style, ponytail, bun, or worn down, keeps the hair sleek and out of your face. “It’s a popular trend thanks to the 'clean girl aesthetic' that’s been on the rise since last year—plus, it’s simple, classy, and offers a polished look with minimal effort,” says Devillier.

Surprisingly, the slicked-back hairstyle first rose to fame in the 1920s, but it’s made a strong comeback due to its adaptability and bold aesthetic. “It’s also incredibly simple to pull off,” says Andrew Fitzsimons, a renowned celebrity hairstylist. “This look is perfect for those in-between wash days too.”

There are several ways to wear the slicked-back hair style—whether down, in a bun, ponytail, or half-up half-down. Below, we asked several experts to walk us through the process of achieving each variation of the slicked-back look.

How to Achieve the Slicked-Back Hair Down Look

Step 1: Begin with clean, damp hair. Apply a smoothing balm to prevent frizz and blow-dry with a round brush. “Depending on your hair type, it’s a good idea to follow up with a few strokes of a flat iron,” explains Jamie Brice, a professional hairstylist and amika Pro Educator.

Step 2: Smooth a shine cream from your roots to mid-lengths. Use a grooming brush and light hairspray to direct the hair in the desired shape. “A pro tip I recommend is using flat clips to keep everything in place,” advises Brice.

Step 3: Once everything is perfectly positioned, generously apply hairspray, focusing on the roots and mid-lengths. Allow a moment for the style to set, then remove the clips.

Best Products for Achieving the Slicked-Back Hair Down Look

1. amika Velveteen Dream Smoothing Balm

For a flawless slicked-back style, you need a smooth finish, and this amika product does just that. It works to tame frizz and flyaways, ensuring your hair stays sleek while you style.

2. Mane The Three Way Multi-Use Flat Iron

If your hair is wavy or curly, consider flat ironing your hair before styling it in a slicked-back look. You can also use the flat iron to straighten the back sections after you’ve styled the front.

3. amika Supernova Moisture and Shine Cream

The key to a perfect slicked-back hairstyle is shine. This amika cream is perfect for adding that touch of gloss, especially if your hair tends to be dry or lacks luster. Apply it from the roots down to the mid-shaft for a sleek finish.

4. Andrew Fitzsimons Hard Strong Hold Hairspray

For those who need extra hold, the Andrew Fitzsimons Hard Strong Hold Hairspray is your go-to for a look that will stay intact all day long.

How to Create a Slicked-Back Ponytail

Step 1: Start by deciding if you want a part or not for your ponytail look. “Middle parts are still trendy, but side parts are making a comeback too,” says Devillier. Use a paddle brush to smooth your hair back in sections, applying product for hold. Once your hair is slicked back, secure it with a ponytail holder—use two if your hair is thicker.

Step 2: This step is all about perfecting the look. Spray any stray hairs, flyaways, or baby hairs to smooth them down. “I recommend using a fine-toothed comb to get that sleek finish,” advises Devillier. “I love spraying the comb with hairspray before combing through.”

Step 3: Finish off by spraying your hairstyle for extra hold. “Bows, clips, and bobby pins are super in right now—if you want to add some extra flair, throw in some cute accessories,” Devillier suggests.

Extra Tip: For any loose baby hairs, Devillier recommends using a mascara wand or spoolie to smooth them out further. Spray the wand with hairspray, place the baby hairs where you want them, then finish with another spray for added hold.

Best Products for Achieving the Slicked-Back Ponytail

1. Aveda Wooden Paddle Brush

A hairbrush is a must-have for nearly every slicked-back look. This Aveda wooden paddle brush is perfect for smoothing your hair and is crafted with high-quality materials that will stand the test of time.

2. Aveda nutriplenish™ Deep Moisture Treatment Mask

Devillier suggests using your slicked-back ponytail look as an opportunity for a hair mask treatment. “Instead of using gel, try applying your favorite deep conditioning mask and use that as your styling product,” she recommends.

How to Create a Slicked-Back Bun

Step 1: Begin by applying a heat protectant, then use a blow dryer and a paddle brush to smooth out your hair. “Depending on your hair's wave pattern and whether you're planning to create a ponytail, you might want to follow up with a few passes of a flat iron to achieve a sleek and smooth finish,” says Brice. “In addition to heat protection, a bit of hair oil will enhance the shine.” If your hair is nearing the end of your wash cycle, skip this step, as oil on dirty hair can make it look greasy. Instead, try applying dry shampoo at the roots to absorb excess oil.

Step 2: Use a grooming brush to smooth your hair back. Apply about a nickel-sized amount of shine cream, emulsified in your hands, to your hair. This will not only tame flyaways but also give you more control as you secure your ponytail.

Step 3: Secure your ponytail with a bungee. “These are my go-to because they help prevent bumps, lumps, and sagging in your ponytail or bun,” says Brice.

Step 4: Twist your ponytail around its base to form a bun, then secure it in place with bobby pins.

Step 5: Take a small detailing brush and a touch of hairspray to smooth down any flyaways and tame any baby hairs.

Best Products for Achieving the Slicked-Back Bun

1. amika Water Sign Hydrating Hair Oil

This amika hair oil not only provides heat protection up to 450°F but also adds a glossy shine that’s perfect for your slicked-back bun look.

2. Andrew Fitzsimons Discreet AF Dry Shampoo

If your hair is excessively oily and greasy, try applying some of Andrew Fitzsimons' dry shampoo at the roots before you style your slicked-back bun.

How to Achieve the Slicked-Back Half-Up Half-Down Style

Step 1: Start by applying a generous amount of gel or styling cream to the top half of your hair.

Step 2: Use a hairbrush to gather the top half of your hair and pull it back into a small ponytail.

Step 3: “If the bottom section of your hair needs some extra styling, you can curl it or use a texture spray to add movement and volume,” suggests Jenna Spino, a hairstylist at Maxine Salon in Chicago. “Finish with hairspray if needed.”

Best Products for Achieving the Slicked-Back Half-Up Half-Down Look

1. Oribe Rock Hard Gel

Spino prefers Oribe Rock Hard Gel because it works wonders for keeping hair slicked back and ensures that everything stays perfectly in place.

2. Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray

For adding texture to the bottom section of your hair after securing it in a half-up half-down style, Spino recommends Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray. “It’s my go-to for boosting texture in styles,” she shares.