For men looking to achieve the classic slicked-back hairstyle, the right hair product is essential. Whether you prefer a sleek high-shine finish or a natural texture with flexible hold, this guide highlights top-rated hair creams, pomades, waxes, and pastes that cater to various hair types and styling preferences. Below is a summary table featuring key products ideal for slicked-back styles.
| Product | Brand | Hold | Shine | Hair Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cremo Hair Styling Cream | Cremo | Medium | Medium | All Hair Types |
| American Crew Men’s Hair Pomade | American Crew | Medium | High | Straight to Highly Textured |
| Brylcreem 3-in-1 Original Hair Cream | Brylcreem | Light | High | All Hair Types |
| Woody’s Pomade Strong Hold | Woody’s | Medium | Healthy Shine | All Hair Types |
| Cremo Hair Pomade High Hold | Cremo | High | High | Thick or Long Hair |
Cremo Hair Styling Cream, Barber Grade

The Cremo Hair Styling Cream offers medium hold flexibility that allows you to maintain a natural, effortlessly slicked back look. Its flexible control means you can restyle throughout the day without stiffness. This versatile cream works on all hair types and is especially convenient by applying it to dry hair for textured or “slept-in” styles. Additionally, it can revive styles on unwashed hair, making it easy to manage your slick-back without hassle.
American Crew Men’s Hair Pomade, Medium Hold & High Shine

American Crew Pomade is a popular choice for men wanting a slicked back style with a medium hold and a high shine finish. It provides a modern and flexible alternative to gels and is suitable for curly, straight, and highly textured hair. The pomade works well on various textures to give a classic look while maintaining control without stiffness, making it ideal for versatile slicked-back hair styling.
Brylcreem 3-in-1 Original High Shine Men’s Hair Cream

This Brylcreem 3-in-1 hair cream provides a light hold with high shine and nourishment, making your hair look healthy, soft, and manageable. It replicates the classic slicked-back look with the hold of wax but without the stickiness of gels or greasiness of pomades. Its alcohol-free formula ensures your hair stays moisturized, avoiding dryness that can compromise style longevity.
Woody’s Pomade for Men Strong Hold, High Shine

Woody’s Pomade boasts a medium all-day hold with a polished, healthy shine finish that enhances your natural hair texture. Its water-soluble formula simplifies application and cleanup, ensuring no residue buildup. This pomade supports versatile styling suitable for slicked-back looks and other classic hairstyles without stiffness.
Cremo Hair Pomade for Men – Premium High Hold & Shine

The Cremo Hair Pomade High Hold is designed for men with thick or longer hair, delivering a strong, polished hold with high shine. It allows you to sculpt sleek hairstyles that last all day without stiffness or crispness. Suitable for application on wet hair, it balances the intensity of a gel with the natural finish of pomade, ideal for standout slicked-back styles and curls.
Buying Guide for Slicked Back Hair Products for Men
Choosing the best product for slicked back hair involves considering several factors:
Hold Strength
Products range from light to high hold. For slicked back styles, medium to high hold is typically preferred to keep hair in place throughout the day without stiffness or flaking.
Shine Level
Traditional slick backs often feature a high shine finish to give a polished, classic appearance. Creams and pomades usually provide this sheen, while waxes and pastes lean toward matte or low shine.
Hair Type Compatibility
Thick, curly, or coarse hair often requires stronger hold formulas like high hold pomades or waxes, while straight or fine hair can work well with lighter creams and medium hold gels.
Product Ingredients and Texture
Water-soluble formulas like Woody’s pomade offer easy washout. Alcohol-free products prevent dryness, while beeswax-based options add texture and pliability. Consider products that don’t leave residue or greasiness.
Styling Flexibility
If you prefer to restyle your hair during the day, flexible products like Cremo Hair Styling Cream allow for touch-ups and adaptability without reapplication of heavy product layers.
Ease of Use
Look for products that are easy to apply and evenly distribute through dry or damp hair. Some products offer all-in-one sets or finishing sticks to tame flyaways and maintain a polished look.