A slick back is about as classic as men’s styling gets, but pairing it with a fade keeps it from looking dated. The fade removes bulk from the sides so the combed-back top appears fuller, and the type of fade sets the mood. This gallery runs from a soft low taper and a mid fade that suits most workplaces to a burst fade pompadour, a disconnected skin fade, a short Godfather-style slick back and even a slicked mullet.
You need some length on top, usually at least three to four inches, for the hair to fold back properly. Straight and slightly wavy hair is easiest to slick; curly hair can be worn in a looser, messier version or smoothed with a stronger gel. A slick back adds height and draws attention to the forehead and cheekbones, so it is especially flattering on oval, square and round faces, while very long faces may prefer a lower, flatter finish without a tall pompadour.
Skin and burst fades need refreshing every two to three weeks; low tapers can stretch longer.
1. Low Fade with Slicked Back Hair
Combed-back hair over a clean low fade gives a mature, confident look. Lifting the roots as you comb the hair back makes the top appear fuller and thicker, while the low fade keeps the sides tidy without going too short.
Inspiration: @razortrim
2. Mexican Fade Slick Back
A longer top is swept back into a voluminous comb-over above faded sides and nape. A crisp line-up around the hairline adds polish, giving this bold style an elegant, well-groomed finish. Ask your barber to sharpen the line-up every couple of weeks to keep it crisp.
Inspiration: @modernfreshfades
3. Pomp Taper Fade
A pompadour slicked back over a modern taper fade adds height that visually lengthens the face. The taper softens the overall look, so the volume feels contemporary rather than showy or overdone. Blow-dry the front upward before adding pomade to build lasting lift.
Inspiration: @kivarkarthik
4. Skin Fade Slick Back
Short hair slicked back with a hydrating oil and a wide-tooth comb evokes classic Godfather style. Apply the product, comb the hair into shape, set it with a strong-hold spray and pair it with a skin fade for a razor-sharp finish.
Inspiration: @__tru___
5. Slick Back with Low Drop Fade
A low drop fade curves behind the ear and down to the nape beneath a slicked-back quiff. Comb the front back neatly and use pomade to achieve a glossy, refined look that holds well throughout the day.
Inspiration: @yourbarberconnect
6. Slick Back Pomp with Burst Fade
A slicked-back pompadour with a burst fade around the ear blends classic and modern styling. It is a good choice for those who enjoy experimenting, and the burst fade should be refreshed every two to three weeks to stay clean.
Inspiration: @il.magri
7. Mid Fade Slick Back
Smoothed-back hair and a mid fade make a smart style popular with men of every age. It is a good middle ground for anyone not ready for very short sides who still wants a cut that is simple to maintain.
Inspiration: @oldhead_studio
8. Slick Back Undercut
A classic slick back gains an edgier feel with an undercut beneath. The disconnection adds attitude, yet the overall style remains professional enough for the office when the top is combed neatly. Keep the undercut short with clipper touch-ups every three weeks or so.
Inspiration: @triplec_cuts
9. Clean Fade Slick Back with Beard
Slick-back cuts pair well with beards, balancing boldness with sophistication. Here the hair sits over a clean drop fade; for a smooth, tight finish rather than a loose comb-back, use a men’s styling gel. Keep the beard trimmed so its outline matches the clean fade.
Inspiration: @sergiobarron_
10. Low Taper with Slick Back
A subtle low taper at the sides and nape refreshes a slick back without dramatic change. Tapers need less upkeep than many fades but still give the haircut sharp, tidy edges. It is a sensible pick for conservative workplaces or a first slick back.
Inspiration: @chino.chopz
11. Wavy Slicked Back Taper
Wavy hair is combed back with a slight wave shape over a graduated taper fade. Use a small amount of pomade for shine and hold, guide the hair back with a comb, and finish with hairspray to keep the waves in place.
Inspiration: @il.magri
12. Disconnected Skin Fade
A light, voluminous slick back sits above a disconnected skin fade. Apply a matte pomade or clay first, then blow-dry with a round brush while lifting at the roots so the shape stays put once dry.
Inspiration: @allencheng0104
13. Messy Slick Back Fade
Curly hair on top is swept back in a messy, textured way, with tapered or shaved sides and an undercut design for detail. You need decent length on top to create this loose style, so be prepared to grow it out.
Inspiration: @almighttyzeus
14. Bald Fade Slick Back Hair
A longer slicked-back top contrasts with a bald fade in an edgy disconnected cut. Wear it swept in one direction or with a hard part, and keep facial hair neatly trimmed to complete the look.
Inspiration: @barbarianstyle_net
15. Slick Back Mullet
Mid-length hair is loosely slicked back into a modern mullet with a fade. It keeps hair off the face while still showing volume and movement, especially if you add a gentle tousle with your fingers.
Inspiration: @juice.the.barber
16. Skin Fade and Beard Trim
Sides shaved high toward the top, with length kept on the crown, create a striking slick back with a neat beard. More length on top gives more options, including tying it into a man bun or ponytail.
Inspiration: @dyedhappy.byholly
17. Classic Slick Back
A super sleek classic slick back over a mid fade is easy to master with a good gel or mousse. If you ever want a change, simply grow out the top while keeping the sides tapered.
Inspiration: @roman_santa_ana
18. Side-Swept Medium Slick Back
This mid-length wavy slick back, created by Sergio Slavnov, is swept to the side for a modern, confident look. To recreate it at home, apply volumising mousse for texture and finish with a firm-hold hairspray to keep it flawless.
Inspiration: @bestmenshaircutsnyc
19. Comb-Over Fade
A classic comb-over gets a modern twist with a nape fade, tapering the hair down the back of the neck. The style looks sophisticated and suits men of any age who want a polished, timeless cut.
Inspiration: @joysbirththebarbershop
20. Gangster Slicked Back Cut
There are no hard lines in this slicked-back cut, which transitions gradually from a longer top to a bald nape. The seamless graduation blends traditional slick back styling with a fresh, trend-led feel. Ask for the fade to be blended high so the transition stays smooth.
Inspiration: @barbers.and.brothers
Matching the product to the finish
- Oil-based pomade: high shine and a classic, wet-look slick back that can be recombed through the day.
- Water-based pomade: similar shine with easier washing out, good for daily wear.
- Gel: a firm, flat, ultra-smooth result; ideal for thick or curly hair that resists lying back.
- Matte clay or paste: a natural, textured slick back with volume and no greasy look.
- Mousse plus hairspray: lift and definition for longer or wavy styles.
Blow-drying for a fuller slick back
Apply a pre-styler to towel-dried hair, then blow-dry while brushing the hair up and back with a round or vent brush to lift the roots. Once the shape is set, work your styling product through with your fingers and comb it back, using a wide-tooth comb for texture or a fine comb for a sleek finish. Lock it in with a firm-hold spray if you want it to last all day.