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What is a Slick Back?
A Slick Back is a timeless, sophisticated hairstyle where the hair is combed straight back from the forehead using pomade, gel, or wax to create a sleek, polished appearance. Popular since the 1920s and worn by everyone from James Dean to David Beckham, the Slick Back remains one of men's most versatile and elegant styles—equally at home in a boardroom or on a red carpet.
Slick Back examples
Browse real examples to find the perfect variation for your style. Tap any image to enlarge.
These slick back examples showcase different variations including straight hair, curly hair, and wavy textures. Each style demonstrates how the fade can be customized for different face shapes and hair types. Save your favorite to show your barber!
Try Slick Back on yourself
Upload a clear selfie and see exactly how this haircut will look on you. Our AI preserves your natural face, skin tone, and lighting.
Formats
PNG or JPG (≤5MB)
Resolution
200px–4090px each side
Face
Keep face clear & ~10%+ of frame
Angle
Front-facing, within ~30° turn
100% Private
Photos are processed securely and never stored or shared with anyone.
Best Results
Use a front-facing photo with good lighting and your full head visible.
Realistic Preview
See the haircut on your actual face before visiting the barber.
Who does a Slick Back suit?
Use this as a quick checklist before committing to the cut.
Best for oval, square and rectangular face shapes
Elongates round faces by adding height and pulling focus upward
Heart-shaped faces look great with a bit of volume on top
Ideal for straight to wavy hair textures
Works with medium to thick hair density
Curly hair can work but may need relaxing or blow-dry straightening
Perfect for professionals, executives, and formal occasions
Great for men who want a polished, put-together daily look
Requires 3-5 minutes of daily styling time
Easy to medium styling difficulty with the right products
Requires minimum 3 inches of length on top to hold back
Blow-drying technique helps achieve volume and hold
How to ask your barber for a Slick Back
Getting the perfect Slick Back haircut is about maintaining the right length on top while choosing your preferred sides treatment. Here's exactly what to tell your barber.
Key phrases to use
- 1Ask to keep 4-6 inches on top for maximum slicking back flexibility
- 2Choose your sides: undercut, low fade, mid fade, or tapered
- 3Request weight left in the hair—avoid thinning shears on top
- 4Ask for a square or natural neckline based on your preference
- 5Mention if you want a hard part line (optional)
- 6Show them a reference photo—use the AI preview from this tool!
"I'd like to grow out a slick back look. Keep 5 inches on top and leave the weight in. Low fade on the sides, starting at the temples. Trim up the neckline but keep it natural. I'll be combing it straight back with pomade."
💡 Pro tips for the best result
- • Show a photo – Use your AI preview from this page! It's worth a thousand words.
- • Speak up during the cut – If something looks off, it's easier to fix mid-cut than after.
- • Build a relationship – Same barber = better results over time.
- • Tip well – 15-20% for good service keeps your barber motivated.
How to maintain a Slick Back
A simple routine to keep your slick back looking sharp between barber visits.
- 1Start with towel-dried, damp hair for best product distribution.
- 2Apply a coin-sized amount of pomade or gel and work through evenly.
- 3Use a fine-tooth comb to slick hair straight back from the forehead.
- 4Blow-dry on medium heat while combing back for extra hold and volume.
- 5Finish with a light hairspray for all-day hold if needed.
- 6Carry a small comb for touch-ups throughout the day.
Slick Back: common questions
Quick answers to the most common questions about this haircut.
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