Best Slicked Back Hair For Women Tutorial Ideas That Actually Work

Last weekend I was getting ready for a brunch with my sister‑in‑law, and we both wanted a look that screamed polished yet effortless. I reached for my go‑to styling routine and, after a quick brush, I had my hair sleek, glossy, and pinned back in under ten minutes – the perfect “slicked back hair for women tutorial” that turned heads without any fuss. If you’ve ever stared at your mirror wondering how to achieve that runway‑ready smoothness, you’re in the right place. Below is the exact step‑by‑step guide I use on clients and on myself, complete with product specifics, timing, and troubleshooting tips.

What You Will Need (Before You Start)

• Shampoo & Conditioner: TRESemmé Smooth & Silky Shampoo ($9.99, 13 oz) and Conditioner ($10.99, 13 oz) – they add slip and tame frizz.
• Heat Protectant Spray: ghd Heat Protect Spray, 150 ml – $14.99.
• Blow‑dry brush: Revlon One-Step Hair Dryer & Volumizer, 1 ft – $59.99.
• Styling product: American Crew Fiber (2 oz) – $12.99, or for a stronger hold, Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray (1 oz) – $28.
• Finishing serum or oil: Moroccanoil Treatment Light, 3.4 fl oz – $44.
• Fine‑tooth comb or a rat‑tail brush – $6.
• Hair clips: a set of 2 non‑slip alligator clips – $4.
• Optional: a light mist of hairspray (Kenra Professional 24 hr Flexible Hold, $11 per 8 oz) for extra longevity.

All these items together cost roughly $180, but you can swap in more budget‑friendly alternatives (e.g., Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Serum for $5) without sacrificing the sleek finish.

Step 1 – Cleanse, Condition, and Prep

Start with freshly washed hair. Apply TRESemmé Smooth & Silky Shampoo, focusing on the scalp, then rinse. Follow with the conditioner, concentrating on mid‑lengths to ends – this adds moisture that prevents the hair from drying out after the heat styling. Let the conditioner sit for 2–3 minutes, then rinse with cool water to seal the cuticle.

While still damp, spray the ghd Heat Protect Spray evenly – about 3–4 sprays for medium length hair (≈15 ml). This creates a barrier that reduces heat damage by up to 40 % according to the brand’s lab tests.

Step 2 – Blow‑Dry for a Smooth Base

Section your hair into three layers: two side sections and a top “crown” section. Clip the top layer up with an alligator clip. Using the Revlon One‑Step, attach the nozzle to medium heat (around 350°F) and a medium airflow setting.

Start at the roots, directing the airflow down the shaft. This “blow‑out technique” smooths the cuticle and prevents the classic “wet‑look” after styling. Work each side for about 2–3 minutes; the whole process should take no longer than 8 minutes for shoulder‑length hair.

Once the hair is 80 % dry, release the top layer and continue drying until the hair is completely dry and has a slight natural volume at the crown – this gives the slicked back style a subtle lift rather than a flat pancake.

Step 3 – Apply Styling Product

Take a pea‑size amount (≈0.5 g) of American Crew Fiber for a medium hold, or double that if you have thicker hair. Warm the product between your palms for 5–7 seconds until it becomes pliable. Distribute evenly through the hair, starting at the back and moving forward. For extra shine, add 2–3 drops of Moroccanoil Treatment Light and work it in the same motion.

If you prefer a lighter, more flexible finish, swap the fiber for Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray. Hold the spray about 8 inches from the hair and mist lightly – about 2 seconds of spray per 5 inches of hair. This gives a “wet‑look” sheen without the heaviness.

Step 4 – Create the Slicked Back Shape

Using a fine‑tooth comb, pull the hair straight back from the forehead to the occipital bone. As you comb, the product will help the strands adhere together. For a classic, low‑profile look, gather the hair at the nape and secure with a small elastic (1‑inch, black). For a more relaxed vibe, let the hair fall naturally without an elastic, smoothing any stray flyaways with the comb.

To add a subtle “edge,” use a rat‑tail brush to gently press the hair against the scalp at the hairline, creating a clean line. Finish with a light mist of Kenra 24 hr Flexible Hold Hairspray (≈1–2 sprays) if you expect humidity or a long day out.

Step 5 – Finishing Touches

Run a tiny amount of Moroccanoil Treatment Light (about 1 drop) over the palms and lightly pat over the hair to boost shine. Avoid rubbing as this can cause frizz. Inspect the style in different lighting – the hair should look glossy, with no visible product flakes.

Take a quick photo for reference; it’s amazing to see the transformation from “just washed” to “runway ready” in under ten minutes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using too much product: One mistake I see often is loading the hair with a full dollop of gel or pomade. This makes the hair look greasy and heavy. Stick to the recommended pea‑size amount and add more only if needed.
• Skipping the heat protectant: Heat damage can cause the hair to become brittle, leading to breakage after a few weeks of styling. The ghd spray is inexpensive but essential.
• Blowing the hair up instead of down: Directing airflow upward lifts the cuticle, creating frizz. Always aim the dryer down the hair shaft.
• Neglecting the crown: The crown area tends to stick up. If you leave it untouched, the overall look appears uneven. Use the clip and focus extra drying time there.
• Choosing the wrong hold level: Thick hair needs a stronger hold like American Crew Fiber; fine hair benefits from a lighter spray. Using a high‑hold product on fine hair can make it look flat.

Troubleshooting and Tips for Best Results

Hair feels too stiff? Lightly mist with water (about 2 ml) and reapply a dab of Moroccanoil Treatment Light. This restores flexibility without sacrificing shine.

Flyaways after a humid day? A quick spritz of the Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray followed by a gentle comb can tame humidity‑induced frizz within seconds.

Need more volume at the roots? Before applying product, lift the hair at the crown with a round brush and a low heat setting for 10 seconds. Then proceed with the styling steps; the lift will stay subtle but noticeable.

Transitioning to a night out look? Swap the elastic for a sleek low bun. Use the same product base, then twist the hair into a low bun and secure with bobby pins. The smooth texture makes the bun appear polished.

For inspiration on how to pair this look with other styles, check out our twisted updo hairstyle tutorial or the easy updos for medium length hair guide.

FAQ

Summary

Mastering the slicked back hair for women tutorial boils down to three pillars: clean, protected hair; the right amount of product; and precise combing. By following the five steps above, you can achieve a runway‑ready sleek look in under ten minutes, whether you have fine, medium, or thick hair. Remember to avoid common pitfalls like over‑producting, and keep a few troubleshooting tricks handy for humidity or flyaway emergencies. With the right tools – a good heat protectant, a reliable styling product, and a quality brush – you’ll walk out of the house feeling confident, polished, and ready for any occasion. Happy styling!