Step into the realm of effortless elegance with the iconic slick back bun. This timeless hairstyle exudes an air of sophistication and polish, making it a perfect choice for both formal and casual occasions. Whether you’re seeking a sleek and streamlined look for a special event or a chic and practical option for everyday wear, the slick back bun is an incredibly versatile style that complements a wide variety of face shapes and hair types. Embark on a styling journey with us as we delve into the techniques and essential steps involved in creating this timeless masterpiece.
To achieve a flawless slick back bun, begin by preparing your hair. Thoroughly brush your tresses to remove any knots or tangles, ensuring a smooth and manageable base. Apply a small amount of hair gel or mousse to damp hair, distributing it evenly from roots to tips. This will help to create hold and prevent flyaways. Divide your hair into two sections: a top section and a bottom section. Secure the top section with a hair clip or elastic band. This section will form the slicked-back portion of the bun.
Now, focus on the bottom section. Brush it thoroughly to smooth out any remaining tangles and create a sleek foundation. Gather the hair into a ponytail at the desired height, securing it tightly with a hair elastic. Opt for a hair elastic that matches your hair color for a more seamless and polished look. Once the ponytail is in place, gently smooth down any stray hairs using a boar bristle brush or a wide-tooth comb. The key to a successful slick back bun lies in creating a smooth and taut base, so don’t hesitate to use additional hair gel or mousse as needed to control flyaways and achieve a sleek finish.
Selecting the Right Hair Products
Mastering the slick back bun requires the right hair products to achieve a sleek and polished look. Consider the following essential items:
1. Hairspray
High-hold hairspray is the key to keeping your bun in place all day long. Choose a firm-hold formula that provides both flexibility and staying power. Opt for sprays with a fast-drying time to prevent smudging or transferring onto clothing. Additionally, consider hairspray with humidity resistance to combat frizz and preserve the style.
| Hold Level | Drying Time | Humidity Resistance |
|---|---|---|
| Firm Hold | Fast Drying | Yes |
| Super Hold | Quick Drying | High |
| Extreme Hold | Instant Drying | Excellent |
Also, explore hairsprays with UV protection to shield your hair from sun damage, especially when rocking the bun outdoors.
2. Mousse
Volume-boosting mousse adds fullness and texture to your bun. Apply a generous amount to damp hair before blow-drying, focusing on the roots and mid-lengths. This will create a foundation for a voluminous and smooth bun.
3. Gel
For a sleek wet-look effect, opt for a strong-hold gel. Apply a small amount evenly throughout damp hair before using a comb or brush to distribute it evenly. Gel helps tame flyaways and enhances the overall shine of the bun.
Preparing Your Hair
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Step 1: Shampoo and Condition
Prepare your hair by thoroughly cleansing it with a high-quality shampoo and conditioner. This will remove any impurities or excess oils that could hinder styling.
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Step 2: Towel Dry and Detangle
Use a soft towel to gently pat dry your hair, removing excess moisture. Once towel-dried, use a wide-toothed comb or detangling brush to remove any knots or tangles. This will create a smooth base for the slick back bun.
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Step 3: Apply a Hair Styling Product
To achieve the sleek, slicked-back look, apply a hair styling product that provides hold and shine. Gels, pomades, or creams work well for this purpose. Distribute the product evenly throughout your hair, concentrating on the roots to ensure a firm hold.
| Product Type | Hold Level | Shine Level |
|---|---|---|
| Gel | Strong | High |
| Pomade | Medium to Strong | Medium to High |
| Cream | Light to Medium | Low to Medium |
Creating the Slick Back
Gather Your Tools
To create a slick back bun, you’ll need the following tools: a brush, a comb, a strong-hold gel or pomade, hairspray, and a hair tie.
Brush and Comb Your Hair
Start by brushing your hair to remove any tangles or knots. Then, using a comb, create a clean part down the center of your head. This will help you divide your hair into two equal sections for the slick back.
Apply Product
Take a generous amount of gel or pomade and apply it to the roots of your hair. Use your fingers to distribute the product evenly, ensuring that every strand is coated. Using a strong-hold product is crucial to keep your slick back in place all day long.
Slick Back Your Hair
Once the product is applied, use your comb or a brush to slick back your hair. Start from the front of your head and work your way backward. Use smooth, even strokes to create a sleek and polished look. Avoid using too much force, as this can damage your hair.
Tie Your Hair into a Bun
Once your hair is slicked back, gather it all at the nape of your neck. Use a hair tie to secure it into a tight and high bun. The higher the bun, the slicker the back will appear.
Secure the Bun
To keep your slick back bun in place, use hairspray to set it. Spray the hairspray all over the bun, making sure to focus on the areas that are prone to frizz or flyaways. You can also use bobby pins to secure any loose strands around the edges of the bun.
Styling Tips
For a more polished look, you can add a headband or hair accessory to your slick back bun. If you have shorter hair, you can use a strong-hold hairspray to keep it in place without the need for a bun.
Maintaining the Slick Back
To keep your slick back bun looking its best, regular maintenance is crucial. Here are some tips to extend its longevity and maintain its sleek appearance:
Moisturize Your Hair
Start by keeping your hair hydrated and conditioned. This will prevent dryness, reduce frizz, and make your hair easier to style. Apply a leave-in conditioner or hair oil daily to help moisturize and protect your hair. Deep conditioning treatments once a week can also provide intense hydration and nourishment.
Use a Stronghold Hairspray
Secure your slick back with a strong hold hairspray. Apply it liberally to the hair around your temples and forehead where flyaways are most likely to occur. Look for a product specifically designed for a strong or extra strong hold to keep your hair slicked back in place all day. To avoid clumps, hold the spray can about 8-10 inches away from your head when applying. You can use a fine-tooth comb or a boar bristle brush to distribute the hairspray evenly.
Retouch as Needed
Throughout the day, your slick back may start to lose its shape due to factors like humidity or wind. To freshen up your style, lightly mist your hair with a small amount of water or a hair refresher spray. Use a boar bristle brush or a comb to smooth out any flyaways and tame frizz. You can also apply a small amount of hairspray to specific areas that need extra hold. By following these maintenance tips, you can keep your slick back bun looking polished and secure all day long.
Slick Back Bun Variations
Messy Slick Back Bun
This variation adds volume and texture to the sleek ponytail. To achieve it, start by spraying the hair with a texturizing spray. Then, brush the hair back into a ponytail and secure it with a hair tie. Use your fingers to gently pull and loosen the bun, creating a messy and undone look.
Braided Slick Back Bun
Incorporate a braid into your slick back bun for an elegant and intricate touch. Start by braiding a section of hair at the nape of the neck. Secure the braid with an elastic band and brush the remaining hair back into a ponytail. Wrap the braid around the base of the ponytail and pin it in place to create a wrapped bun.
Textured Slick Back Bun
For a bun with more depth and dimension, add some texture to the hair before pulling it back. Use a curling iron or wand to create loose waves throughout the hair. Brush the hair back into a ponytail and secure it with a hair tie. Backcomb the bun at the base to create volume and lift, and use bobby pins to secure the shape.
Half-Up Slick Back Bun
Create a chic and effortless look with a half-up slick back bun. Divide the hair into two sections, taking the top half of the hair and pulling it back into a slick ponytail. Secure the ponytail with a hair tie and smooth the hair down with a brush or comb. Leave the bottom half of the hair down or style it in waves or curls.
Low Slick Back Bun
For a sleek and sophisticated look, try a low slick back bun. Brush the hair back into a low ponytail at the nape of the neck. Secure the ponytail with a hair tie and wrap the hair around the base of the ponytail to create a bun. Use bobby pins to secure the shape and smooth down any flyaways with hairspray or gel.
| Slick Back Bun Variation | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Messy Slick Back Bun | Volume, texture |
| Braided Slick Back Bun | Elegance, intricacy |
| Textured Slick Back Bun | Depth, dimension |
| Half-Up Slick Back Bun | Effortless, chic |
| Low Slick Back Bun | Sleek, sophisticated |
Tips for a Flawless Finish
Achieving a sleek and flawless slick back bun requires meticulous attention to detail. Here are some additional tips to elevate your bun to perfection:
Section 6: Hair Care and Maintenance
Maintaining the health and smoothness of your hair is crucial for a polished and long-lasting bun. Here’s a comprehensive guide to hair care and maintenance for a slick back bun:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Wash and condition your hair regularly with products suitable for your hair type. Avoid over-washing, as it can strip your hair of natural oils. |
| 2 | Use a leave-in conditioner or hair serum to smooth flyaways and add shine. |
| 3 | Brush your hair thoroughly before styling to remove tangles and create a smooth base. |
| 4 | Consider using hairspray to set your bun and prevent frizz. |
| 5 | If your hair tends to be oily, apply dry shampoo before styling to absorb excess oil and create a more manageable base. |
| 6 | Avoid touching or pulling your bun too much, as it can disrupt the sleek finish. |
Styling with Different Hair Textures
Type 1: Straight Hair
Straight hair is the easiest to slick back into a bun. Simply apply a gel or pomade to damp or dry hair, comb it back into a high or low ponytail, and secure it with an elastic band. Twist the ponytail around itself and wrap it into a bun, securing it with bobby pins.
Type 2: Wavy Hair
Wavy hair has a bit more volume than straight hair, so you may need to use a stronger hold gel or pomade. Comb your hair back into a high or low ponytail and secure it with an elastic band. Twist the ponytail around itself and wrap it into a bun, securing it with bobby pins. You can also use a hairspray to keep the bun in place.
Type 3: Curly Hair
Curly hair can be more challenging to slick back into a bun, but it’s still possible. Apply a curl-defining cream or mousse to damp hair and comb it back into a high or low ponytail. Secure the ponytail with an elastic band and twist it around itself. Wrap the ponytail into a bun and secure it with bobby pins. You may need to use a hairspray to keep the bun in place.
Type 4: Coily Hair
Coily hair is the most difficult to slick back into a bun. You may need to use a strong hold gel or pomade and a brush or comb to help distribute the product evenly. Comb your hair back into a high or low ponytail and secure it with an elastic band. Twist the ponytail around itself and wrap it into a bun, securing it with bobby pins. You may need to use a hairspray to keep the bun in place.
| Hair Texture | Styling Tips |
|---|---|
| Type 1: Straight | Use a gel or pomade to comb hair back into a ponytail and secure with an elastic band. Twist the ponytail around itself and wrap it into a bun, securing it with bobby pins. |
| Type 2: Wavy | Apply a high-hold gel or pomade and comb hair back into a ponytail. Secure with an elastic band, twist the ponytail, and wrap it into a bun. Secure with bobby pins and hairspray to keep in place. |
| Type 3: Curly | Use a curl-defining cream or mousse on damp hair and comb back into a ponytail. Secure with an elastic band, twist the ponytail, and wrap it into a bun. Secure with bobby pins and hairspray to maintain. |
| Type 4: Coily | Apply a strong-hold gel or pomade with a brush or comb. Comb hair back into a ponytail, secure with an elastic band, twist the ponytail, and wrap it into a bun. Secure with bobby pins and finish with hairspray. |
Troubleshooting and Avoiding Common Mistakes
8. Avoiding Messy Strands
Achieving a sleek, polished look requires meticulous attention to detail. Stray hairs can detract from the bun’s overall appeal. To prevent this, follow these tips:
- Use a Stiff Hairspray: Spritz a strong-hold hairspray onto your brush before smoothing the hair into the ponytail. This will help keep flyaways in place.
- Employ a Smoothing Serum: Apply a small amount of anti-frizz serum to your hair before styling to tame any unruly strands.
- Tighten the Ponytail: Secure the ponytail as tightly as possible without causing discomfort. This will reduce any slack that may allow hair to escape.
- Smooth the Edges: Once the bun is formed, use a fine-toothed comb or your fingers to smooth away any protruding hairs around the base and the upper part of the bun.
- Pin Down Flyaways: If any stray strands persist, use bobby pins to secure them discreetly against the scalp or tuck them under the bun.
- Avoid Overbrushing: Excessive brushing can create static and cause hair to become tangled, making it more prone to frizz.
- Use a Small Brush: Choose a small, narrow brush for applying hairspray and smoothing the hair, as it allows for greater precision and control.
- Section the Hair: Divide the hair into smaller sections and work on one section at a time to prevent tangles and ensure proper hairspray coverage.
Slick Back Bun
The slick back bun is a classic hairstyle that is both stylish and versatile. It can be worn for a variety of occasions, from casual to formal. To create a slick back bun, you will need the following supplies:
- Brush or comb
- Gel or pomade
- Hairspray
- Elastic band
To create a slick back bun, follow these steps:
- Brush or comb your hair to remove any tangles.
- Apply gel or pomade to your hair and brush it through to distribute the product evenly.
- Pull your hair back into a high ponytail and secure it with an elastic band.
- Wrap the remaining hair around the base of the ponytail and secure it with bobby pins.
- Finish with a light mist of hairspray to hold the bun in place.
Incorporating the Slick Back into Different Hairstyles
The slick back bun can be incorporated into a variety of different hairstyles. Here are a few ideas:
Slick Back Bun with Bangs
This hairstyle is perfect for those with bangs. Simply slick back the rest of your hair and leave your bangs down. You can also use a headband or bobby pins to keep your bangs in place.
Slick Back Ponytail
This hairstyle is a great option for a casual or sporty look. Simply slick back your hair and tie it into a ponytail. You can leave the ponytail loose or wrap it around the base of the ponytail for a more polished look.
Slick Back Bob
This hairstyle is perfect for those with short hair. Simply slick back your hair and use bobby pins to keep it in place. You can also add a headband or other accessory to complete the look.
Slick Back Half-Up
This hairstyle is perfect for achieving both a casual and elegant look. Slick back the top half of your hair and leave the bottom half down. You can also use bobby pins to add a bit of extra volume to the top half of your hair.
Slick Back Braid
This hairstyle is perfect for those who love braids. Simply slick back your hair and braid it into a ponytail. You can use a variety of different braids, such as a French braid, a Dutch braid, or a fishtail braid.
Slick Back Updo
This hairstyle is perfect for special occasions. Slick back your hair and pin it up into a bun or other updo. You can also use bobby pins to add a bit of extra glamour to the look.
Slick Back with Shaved Sides
Slick back the top of your hair and shave the sides. This hairstyle is perfect for those who want a edgy look.
Slick Back with Faded Sides
Slick back the top of your hair and fade the sides. This hairstyle is perfect for those who want a more subtle look.
Slick Back with Undercut
Slick back the top of your hair and undercut the sides. This hairstyle is perfect for those who want a more dramatic look.
| Hairstyle | Description |
|---|---|
| Slick Back Bun with Bangs | Slick back the rest of your hair and leave your bangs down. |
| Slick Back Ponytail | Slick back your hair and tie it into a ponytail. |
| Slick Back Bob | Slick back your hair and use bobby pins to keep it in place. |
| Slick Back Half-Up | Slick back the top half of your hair and leave the bottom half down. |
| Slick Back Braid | Slick back your hair and braid it into a ponytail. |
| Slick Back Updo | Slick back your hair and pin it up into a bun or other updo. |
| Slick Back with Shaved Sides | Slick back the top of your hair and shave the sides. |
| Slick Back with Faded Sides | Slick back the top of your hair and fade the sides. |
| Slick Back with Undercut | Slick back the top of your hair and undercut the sides. |
Pairing the Slick Back with Accessories
Styling with Headbands
Headbands add a touch of elegance or boldness to the slick back bun. Wide, embellished headbands create a statement look, while thin, delicate headbands provide a subtle touch. Experiment with different colors and textures to complement your outfit and personal style.
Adorning with Hair Clips
Hair clips are a versatile accessory that can elevate the slick back bun. From simple barrettes to ornate jewels, the possibilities are endless. Use hair clips to secure the bun, add a pop of color, or create an elaborate design.
Embellishing with Hair Jewelry
Hair jewelry is the ultimate accessory for a sophisticated slick back bun. Tiaras, hair vines, and combs adorned with crystals, pearls, or intricate metalwork will transform your hairstyle into a work of art. Consider the occasion and your personal taste when choosing hair jewelry.
Hair Clip Considerations
When selecting hair clips, consider the following factors:
| Factor | Considerations |
|---|---|
| Size | Choose clips that are appropriate for the size of your bun and hair. |
| Material | Metal, plastic, or fabric clips offer different textures and finishes. |
| Color | Match the color of the clips to your outfit or hair color for a cohesive look. |
| Design | Experiment with different designs, such as geometric shapes, floral motifs, or animal prints. |
How to Create a Slick Back Bun
Elevate your style with a polished and sophisticated slick back bun. This hairstyle effortlessly combines sleekness with a touch of edge, making it perfect for both formal and casual occasions. Here’s a step-by-step guide to achieving this timeless and trendy look:
- Prepare your hair: Start with damp or dry hair. If your hair is dry, dampen it slightly to make it more pliable.
- Apply styling products: Apply a generous amount of mousse or gel to your hair, distributing it evenly from roots to ends. This will create hold and keep your hair in place.
- Brush your hair back: Using a wide-tooth comb or brush, brush your hair straight back from your forehead. Make sure to smooth out any tangles or flyaways.
- Slick your hair back: Using a sleek brush or comb, gently brush your hair back, starting from the front and working your way to the nape of your neck. Apply more gel or mousse as needed to create a wet, slicked-back effect.
- Gather your hair: Once your hair is slicked back, gather it into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck. Secure it tightly with an elastic band.
- Create the bun: Take the ponytail and wrap it around the elastic band, securing it with bobby pins. If desired, you can use a donut-shaped hair bun shaper to create a fuller bun.
- Smooth out any imperfections: Use a small amount of gel or hairspray to smooth out any flyaways or loose strands. You can also use a fine-toothed comb to gently tease the bun for added volume.
- Set your look: To ensure your slick back bun stays in place all day, apply a strong-hold hairspray.
People Also Ask About How To Do A Slick Back Bun
What hair types are best suited for a slick back bun?
A slick back bun can work well on most hair types, but it is particularly flattering on straight or slightly wavy hair. Curly or coily hair may require more effort to achieve a sleek finish.
How can I make my slick back bun look more voluminous?
To create a more voluminous slick back bun, you can use a donut-shaped hair bun shaper to add volume to the base of your bun. Additionally, teasing the bun gently with a fine-toothed comb can help to add height and texture.
How do I keep my slick back bun from getting frizzy?
To prevent frizz, apply a small amount of anti-frizz serum or hair oil to your hair before styling. Once your bun is in place, you can use a smoothing brush or comb to gently tame any flyaways.
