20 Secret Hacks to Every Perfect Slicked Back Haircut You Need to Try NOW! - Redraw

Understanding the Context

Why the Slicked Back Look Stays Iconic

From tough action heroes to glam icons, the slicked back hairstyle commands attention with its sharp clean lines and effortless charm. With a few clever tricks, you can replicate that polished finish without endlessmanicures, styling products, or salon visits.

1. Prep Your Hair with Heat or Texture

Start with dry or semi-dry hair and lightly blow-dry combed strands upward. While heat smooths, lightly textured roots add grip for better hold — try a small difffuser for loose texture at the crown.

2. Use the Right Product: Gel, Pomade, or Holding Wax

Swap lightweight hair sprays for a strong-hold gel or thermal wax. Apply 1–2 pumps to damp hair, sectioning for control. Gel provides smoothness; pomade adds grip; wax gives edge definition — experiment to see which suits your hair type.

Key Insights

3. Comb Through Against the Grain — Twice

Detangle thoroughly, then comb hair upward from roots and away from the face. Re-comb once hair is damp to lock in shape and add bounce.

4. Utilize a Soundproofing Microwave Tool (Yes – Seriously!)

Optional but game-changing: Run slightly damp hair through a mini microwave (short burst!) for 5–10 seconds to set waves and smooth static quickly. Cool and blow-dry for instant texture.

5. Apply Product in the Roots — Not Just the Ends

Dense hold needs root volume. Use your fingers or a fine-tooth comb to apply product evenly deep into roots before raising back and flicking.

6. Use a Texture Spray After Styling

Lock the look with a dime-sized spritz of texture spray. It adds subtle grit without rigidity, perfect for staying sleek through meetings and photos.

7. Section and Style Covertly

Divide hair into three sections: front, sides, and back. Style each section separately, then blend outwardly for a seamless, layered fall.

Final Thoughts

8. Master the “Backcomb” Technique

Small, consistent backcombs at roots smooth flyaways and raise volume—critical for a sharp base. Avoid over-combing to prevent frizz.

9. Use Blow-Dry Directional Airflow

Hold the diffuser or dryer firmly at roots, directing air upward to lift and hold without flattening. This builds hold and adds shine.

10. Add a Gel Roller for Extreme Slickness

Step 1: Roll a small gel-filled roller over damp roots. Step 2: Comb out with damp hair for a perfectly unbends mane.

11. Fix Mess with a Hair Pin or Clip

Tame rogue strands with a decorative clip or fine barrette—this secures sections discreetly, letting you style while maintaining the hide.

12. Double Down on Newsboy or Slicked-back Variations

Start with a newsboy cut or low pompadour base — shorter length minimizes frizz and boosts hold longevity.

13. Use Anti-Humidity Products

If humidity’s your enemy, apply a lightweight spray on damp hair before styling to repel moisture and lock in shape.