How To Slick Wavy Hair Back: A Step-by-step Guide

Tired of your unruly waves getting in the way of that sleek, sophisticated look? Look no further! We’ve compiled the most comprehensive guide on how to slick wavy hair back, giving you all the tips and tricks to achieve a polished and effortlessly stylish ‘do.

Understanding Your Hair Type

The first step to mastering this technique is understanding your hair type. Wavy hair is characterized by its loose, S-shaped curls. These curls can vary in size and tightness, and they often lack the defined shape of curly hair.

The Right Products

To achieve a slicked-back look, you’ll need the right products:

• Shampoo and Conditioner: Use a clarifying shampoo to remove any buildup and a hydrating conditioner to soften and smooth your hair.
• Pomade or Gel: This is the key product for holding your hair in place. Choose a pomade with a strong hold for a more defined look or a gel for a softer, more natural hold.
• Hairspray: To finish the look and keep your hair in place all day.

Step-by-Step Tutorial

1. Wash and Condition: Start by washing and conditioning your hair as usual.
2. Towel Dry: Towel dry your hair until it’s damp but not dripping wet.
3. Apply Pomade or Gel: Take a small amount of pomade or gel and work it through your hair, starting from the roots. Use a comb or brush to distribute the product evenly.
4. Comb Back: Use a fine-toothed comb to comb your hair straight back. Start at the front and work your way back, smoothing out any bumps or flyaways.
5. Secure: Once your hair is slicked back, use hairspray to secure it in place. Spray from a distance of 6-8 inches, focusing on the roots and any areas that need extra hold.
6. Style: You can leave your hair slicked back for a classic look or add some volume by using a blow dryer or curling iron.

Tips for Success

• Use a Blow Dryer: If your hair is particularly wavy, use a blow dryer to help straighten it out before applying the pomade or gel.
• Start with Small Sections: Don’t try to slick back all your hair at once. Start with small sections and work your way up.
• Use a Wide-Tooth Comb: For thicker or coarser hair, use a wide-tooth comb to avoid breakage.
• Don’t Overdo It: Use products sparingly to avoid weighing down your hair or making it look greasy.
• Experiment with Different Products: Not all products work the same on different hair types. Experiment with different brands and formulations to find what works best for you.

Variations on the Slicked-Back Look

• Side Part: Create a side part before slicking your hair back for a more polished look.
• Undercut: Pair a slicked-back style with an undercut for a modern and edgy vibe.
• Pompadour: Add some volume to the front of your hair by creating a pompadour before slicking it back.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

• Hair Won’t Stay Slicked Back: Use a stronger hold pomade or gel, or try applying the product to damp hair.
• Hair Looks Greasy: Use a clarifying shampoo to remove any buildup and avoid overusing products.
• Hair is Too Stiff: Use a softer hold pomade or gel, or apply less product.
• Waves Keep Reappearing: Use a blow dryer to help straighten out your hair before applying the product, or try using a curling iron to make the waves less noticeable.

The Perfect Finishing Touch

Slicking back wavy hair is a versatile and stylish technique that can instantly elevate your look. Whether you’re going for a classic, modern, or edgy style, this guide has everything you need to achieve a polished and effortlessly chic ‘do.

FAQ

1. What is the best pomade for slicking back wavy hair?

The best pomade for slicking back wavy hair depends on your hair type and the desired hold. For a strong hold, consider pomades with a high wax content, such as Layrite Super Hold Pomade or Baxter of California Hard Water Pomade. For a softer hold, try pomades with a higher oil content, such as American Crew Forming Cream or Kevin Murphy Smooth Again Relaxing Balm.

2. Can I slick back wavy hair without gel or pomade?

Yes, it is possible to slick back wavy hair without using gel or pomade. However, you will need to use a blow dryer to help straighten out your hair and a strong hold hairspray to keep it in place.

3. How often should I wash my hair if I am slicking it back?

The frequency with which you should wash your hair depends on your hair type and how often you slick it back. If your hair is oily, you may need to wash it every day or every other day. If your hair is dry, you can wash it less frequently, every 2-3 days.