Best Pomade for Slicked Back Hair 10 Expert-Tested Picks 2025

Alright, let’s talk slicked-back hair! If you’re anything like me, you know the frustration of trying to achieve that classic, sharp, yet effortlessly cool look only to have your hair fall flat, get greasy, or simply refuse to cooperate. I’ve spent years experimenting with countless products, trying to find that holy grail pomade that delivers the perfect hold, the right amount of shine, and most importantly, keeps my slicked-back style looking sharp all day long. After putting a whole lot of different options to the test, I’m excited to share my top 10 expert-tested picks for the best pomade for slicked back hair. Whether you prefer a high-shine, old-school look, a more natural matte finish, or something in between, this guide will walk you through what works, what doesn’t, and which pomade will help you achieve your ideal slicked-back style. Let’s dive in!

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Suavecito Pomade Original Hold For Men 4 oz, 1 Pack…	View on Amazon
	UPPERCUT DELUXE Hair Pomade, 3.5 Ounces	View on Amazon
	Suavecito Pomade Firme (Strong) Hold 4 oz, 1 Pack -…	View on Amazon
	Elegance Hair Pomade, 4.73 Oz, Super Strong Hold Wax,…	View on Amazon
	Highland Glacial Hair Clay Pomade – Award winning hair…	View on Amazon
	Suavecito Pomade Matte (No Shine) Formula 4 oz, 1 Pack…	View on Amazon
	Hanz de Fuko Claymation – Premium Men’s Hair Styling Clay…	View on Amazon
	Victory Crown Slick Pomade High Hold & High Shine Natural…	View on Amazon
	Cremo Hair Pomade for Men – Premium Barber Grade Pomade,…	View on Amazon
	Suavecito Oil Based Pomade 3 oz Tin Can – Original…	View on Amazon

Our Top 10 Picks for Slicked Back Hair

Suavecito Pomade Original Hold For Men 4 oz

If you’re just starting your journey with slicked-back hair or prefer a more flexible, re-combable style, Suavecito Original Hold is a fantastic entry point. It’s got a reputation for a reason! This water-based pomade applies smoothly, giving your hair a nice, pliable definition and a healthy shine without feeling overly stiff or sticky. It’s forgiving enough for daily use and allows for easy restyling throughout the day. Plus, it washes out with absolute ease, which is a huge bonus.

• Adds pliable definition and a natural shine to all hair lengths.
• Water-based formula for easy application and washout.
• Allows for re-combing throughout the day.
• Iconic, masculine fragrance.
• Made in the USA.

Pros:
– Easy to apply and spread evenly.
– Provides a healthy, moderate shine.
– Very easy to wash out with just water.
– Flexible hold allows for re-styling.
– Pleasant, signature barbershop scent.

Cons:
– May not be strong enough for very thick or unruly hair, especially for a super-tight slick back.
– Hold can weaken in humid conditions.

Best for: Everyday wear, flexible slick-back styles, those new to pomades, or fine to medium hair types.

User feedback summary: Many users rave about its signature scent and how effortlessly it washes out. They appreciate the medium hold for a natural-looking slick back that doesn’t feel heavy or crunchy.

UPPERCUT DELUXE Hair Pomade, 3.5 Ounces

Uppercut Deluxe Pomade is a true classic in the grooming world, and for good reason. It was the first product in their range and quickly earned a cult following among discerning individuals who demand quality for their timeless looks. This pomade delivers a strong hold with a noticeable high shine, making it absolutely perfect for those classic, slicked-back styles, pomps, and side parts. Despite its strong hold, it sets without stiffness and, being water-based, washes out easily without leaving any residue.

• Strong hold with a high shine, ideal for classic, timeless looks.
• Water-based formula for easy, residue-free washing.
• Controls and defines styles like pomps, side parts, and slick backs.
• Suitable for all medium-length hair types.
• Sets firm but remains pliable without feeling stiff.

Pros:
– Delivers excellent, long-lasting strong hold.
– Provides a brilliant, high-shine finish.
– Washes out incredibly easily.
– Great for achieving defined, classic slick-back styles.
– Doesn’t dry out hair.

Cons:
– The high shine might be too much for those seeking a more subdued look.
– Can feel a bit heavy if too much product is used.

Best for: Classic, high-shine slick-back styles, medium-length hair, and those who need a strong hold that washes out easily.

User feedback summary: Users consistently praise its ability to hold a slick back firmly all day while providing a striking, shiny finish. They love that it rinses out completely without fuss.

Suavecito Pomade Firme (Strong) Hold 4 oz

If Suavecito Original Hold is your starting point, then Firme Hold is its big brother for when you need to lock that slick-back in place. This strong hold pomade is designed for maximum styling flexibility and a sturdy grip, making it an excellent choice for pompadours, side parts, and especially those tight slick-back styles that require a serious hold. It offers a moderate, healthy shine that’s not too overpowering and, like its Original counterpart, is water-soluble, ensuring easy wash-out without any greasy residue.

• Strong hold for maximum styling flexibility and grip.
• Provides a moderate shine; apply to damp hair for more, dry hair for less.
• Water-soluble for easy rinsing with just water.
• Combs in with ease, making styling frustration-free.
• Ideal for pompadours, slick backs, and side parts.

Pros:
– Provides a truly strong hold that lasts all day.
– Achieves a sturdy, defined slick-back look.
– Easy to apply and comb through.
– Washes out effortlessly with water.
– Leaves hair feeling clean, not greasy, after washing.

Cons:
– Might be too stiff for those who prefer a more natural, flexible feel.
– Can be a bit challenging to restyle once it sets.

Best for: Strong, lasting slick-back styles, thick or unruly hair, and anyone needing serious hold for their chosen look.

User feedback summary: Many users with thicker hair swear by Firme Hold for its incredible staying power. They appreciate the strong grip and moderate shine, noting it keeps their slick back perfectly in place through active days.

Elegance Hair Pomade, 4.73 Oz, Super Strong Hold Wax

Elegance Hair Pomade is a powerhouse for those who demand a super strong hold and a long-lasting shine for their slick-back. This transparent wax glides through hair effortlessly, making application a breeze, and delivers a robust hold that keeps your style locked in throughout the day. It promises no sticky residue or greasy feel, which is a major win. Its versatility means you can adjust the hold and shine by applying it to wet or dry hair, making it a customizable option for various slick-back looks.

• Super strong hold ensures your hairstyle stays in place all day.
• Provides a long-lasting shine that adds elegance to your look.
• Easy application with a smooth texture and residue-free formula.
• Great for all hair types, thick or thin, without feeling greasy or heavy.
• Customizable hold and styling options based on application to wet or dry hair.
• Convenient wash-out with just water.

Pros:
– Exceptional, super strong hold for unwavering slick-back styles.
– Delivers an attractive, long-lasting shine.
– Glides on smoothly and leaves no sticky or greasy feeling.
– Versatile for different hold and shine effects.
– Rinses out completely and easily with water.

Cons:
– The “super strong” hold might make re-combing difficult once set.
– Some users might find the shine a bit too intense.

Best for: Individuals seeking maximum, all-day hold for slicked-back styles, and those who desire a pronounced, elegant shine.

User feedback summary: Users are consistently impressed with its superior hold, especially for managing stubborn hair. They love that it doesn’t leave any nasty build-up and washes out so easily.

Highland Glacial Hair Clay Pomade – Award winning hair

Hold on, did someone say clay pomade for slicked-back hair? Absolutely! Highland Glacial Hair Clay offers a different take on the slicked-back look. While most traditional pomades go for high shine, this award-winning product (named ‘Best Hair Clay’ by Esquire) provides a medium hold with a low-shine (nearly matte) finish. It’s perfect for a more natural, textured slick back or if you want that classic shape without the glossy look. What really sets it apart is its commitment to hair and scalp health, packed with natural ingredients like Jojoba Oil and Kaolin Clay that nourish your hair with every use.

• Award-winning recognition for quality.
• Promotes hair & scalp health with plant-based and organic ingredients.
• Medium hold, low-shine (nearly matte) finish for a natural look.
• Perfect for all hair types & styles, including slick backs that need a matte finish.
• 100% natural ingredients, paraben-free, sulfate-free, and cruelty-free.
• Made in the USA with 100% recyclable packaging.

Pros:
– Provides a natural, matte finish, ideal for a modern slick back.
– Actively nourishes and strengthens hair and scalp.
– Versatile for various hair types and lengths.
– Made with an impressive list of all-natural, healthy ingredients.
– Easy to wash out despite containing beeswax.

Cons:
– Medium hold might not be sufficient for extremely unruly hair trying to achieve a super-tight slick back.
– Low shine isn’t for those who prefer a traditional glossy slick back.

Best for: Matte, natural-looking slick-back styles, individuals prioritizing hair health, and those with fine to medium hair who want texture without shine.

User feedback summary: Users love its natural feel and matte finish, appreciating that it keeps their hair healthy while providing a decent hold. Many mention the quality ingredients and pleasant, subtle scent.

Suavecito Pomade Matte (No Shine) Formula 4 oz

For those who love the Suavecito brand but prefer a slicked-back look without any shine, their Matte Formula is your go-to. This product is specifically designed to give you that classic slick-back shape, but with a completely shine-free finish. It’s for the “hombres who never forget where they came from” – a nod to a timeless style with a modern, understated twist. The formula is designed for effortless styling, allowing you to achieve a clean, well-groomed look without any gloss.

• Shine-free pomade for a slicked-back look without a high shine effect.
• Designed from the ground up to give effortless style.
• Acknowledges a desire for a classic look with a modern finish.
• Likely water-soluble for easy washing (consistent with Suavecito’s other pomades).

Pros:
– Delivers a true matte finish for a natural slick back.
– Provides a good hold for shaping and defining.
– Applies smoothly and allows for easy styling.
– Washes out cleanly (typical of Suavecito’s water-based products).

Cons:
– Not suitable for those who desire any level of shine.
– Hold might not be as strong as the Firme Hold for extremely stubborn hair.

Best for: Matte slick-back styles, individuals who want a clean, no-shine finish, and those who appreciate Suavecito’s consistency but desire a different look.

User feedback summary: Users praise its consistent Suavecito quality with the added benefit of a truly matte finish. They find it effective for creating neat, non-greasy slick backs.

Hanz de Fuko Claymation – Premium Men’s Hair Styling Clay

Hanz de Fuko Claymation is another fantastic clay product that steps up the hold game for a matte slick back. This best-selling styling clay has garnered a cult following for its super high hold and shine-free matte finish, making it ideal for textured looks that need to last all day. What’s impressive is its “limitless styling possibilities” and “ultimate pliability” for endless re-shaping potential, which is rare for such a high-hold product. Plus, it’s rich in botanical ingredients like Jojoba oil and Castor seed oil, promoting healthy hair while styling.

• Super high hold with a shine-free matte finish.
• Offers ultimate pliability for endless re-shaping potential.
• Rich in botanical ingredients like Jojoba and Castor seed oil to promote healthy hair.
• Easy to apply, lasts all day, and rinses out clean.
• Ideal for textured looks that need to last.

Pros:
– Provides exceptional, super high hold for matte slick backs.
– True matte finish, perfect for a modern, natural look.
– Unique pliability allows for re-styling despite high hold.
– Contains beneficial ingredients that strengthen and moisturize hair.
– Rinses out easily with water.

Cons:
– Can be a bit pricey compared to other options.
– May require vigorous rubbing to activate the product for smooth application.

Best for: Super strong, matte slick-back styles, textured looks, individuals who want hair health benefits, and those needing all-day hold with re-styling capability.

User feedback summary: Customers frequently highlight its incredible hold and genuinely matte finish, even for fine or difficult hair. They appreciate that it’s easy to work with and washes out without residue.

Victory Crown Slick Pomade High Hold & High Shine Natural

Victory Crown Slick Pomade delivers exactly what its name promises: a slick look with high hold and high shine. Crafted with naturally derived ingredients, this premium formula provides a firm yet flexible hold without the heavy, greasy feel often associated with traditional pomades. It’s a versatile solution perfect for creating classic slick backs, pompadours, or even textured styles, making it suitable for a wide range of hair lengths and textures. Its water-soluble nature ensures an effortless wash-out, leaving your hair healthy and residue-free.

• Premium Natural Formula with high-quality, naturally derived ingredients.
• Delivers a firm yet flexible hold and brilliant shine.
• Versatile Styling Solution for classic slick backs, pompadours, or textured styles.
• Long-Lasting Hold without a heavy, greasy feel.
• Effortless Wash-Out with a water-soluble formula.
• Barber-Approved Quality for professional-grade results.

Pros:
– Excellent high hold and striking high shine for classic slick backs.
– Natural formula feels lighter than some traditional pomades.
– Provides reliable, all-day styling support.
– Washes out completely with just shampoo.
– Versatile enough for different hair types and styles.

Cons:
– The high shine might not appeal to everyone.
– “Flexible hold” might not be as stiff as some users prefer for an iron-clad slick back.

Best for: Classic, high-shine slick-back styles, those who prefer natural ingredients, and anyone seeking a strong hold that still feels relatively light.

User feedback summary: Users love the professional finish and healthy shine it provides. They report that it holds well throughout the day and is a breeze to wash out, making it a new favorite for their slick-back routines.

Cremo Hair Pomade for Men – Premium Barber Grade Pomade

Cremo Hair Pomade is a premium, barber-grade option designed to help you achieve a slick, polished look with its high hold and high shine. It’s particularly tailored for thick or longer hair, providing exceptional hold for curls and diverse styles, ensuring your hair stays in place all day. What’s neat is its versatility: use it on wet hair for a strong, gel-like hold that avoids crispness, or on dry hair for a firmer, more natural finish. You can even combine it with other Cremo products to customize your shine and hold, giving you ultimate control over your slick back.

• High hold and high shine for a slick, polished look that lasts all day.
• Perfect for thick hair, providing great hold for curls and diverse styles.
• Versatile styling option: use on wet hair for strong, gel-like hold, or dry for a firmer finish.
• Customizable with other Cremo styling products.
• Barber-grade quality crafted for daily use and reliability.

Pros:
– Provides excellent, long-lasting high hold, especially for thick hair.
– Delivers a noticeable, polished high shine.
– Highly versatile for different application methods and desired effects.
– Prevents crispness when used on wet hair.
– Professional quality ensures a reliable, consistent finish.

Cons:
– Might be too heavy for very fine hair.
– The high shine and strong hold may be too intense for subtle looks.

Best for: Individuals with thick or longer hair seeking a high-hold, high-shine slick back, and those who appreciate barber-grade quality and versatility.

User feedback summary: Users with thick and unruly hair are particularly impressed with Cremo’s ability to tame their locks and provide a strong hold for their slick backs. They often comment on the high-quality feel and lasting shine.

Suavecito Oil Based Pomade 3 oz Tin Can – Original

Completing our Suavecito trio, we have their Oil-Based Pomade. This is a nod to the traditional pomades of yesteryear, formulated with petroleum jelly and wax. If you’re looking for that truly old-school slick-back feel with incredible resilience and a classic medium-to-high shine, this is it. Unlike water-based options, oil-based pomades offer superior hold and are less affected by humidity or sweat, making them ideal for styles that need to endure. However, be aware that this traditional formula does not wash out as easily as its water-based counterparts – it often requires a few washes or specific degreasing shampoos.

• Oil-Based Pomade containing petroleum jelly & wax for traditional hold.
• Provides a medium-to-high shine for a classic look.
• Features the Original Suavecito Fragrance.
• Offers superior hold and resilience against humidity.

Pros:
– Provides an extremely strong, long-lasting hold.
– Excellent for achieving a true, old-school slick back.
– Highly resistant to sweat and humidity.
– Gives a classic, prominent shine.
– Can be built up over days for even more hold.

Cons:
– Significantly harder to wash out than water-based pomades.
– Can leave a greasy feeling if too much is used or not properly washed out.
– Might not be suitable for those with oily scalps or prone to acne.

Best for: Traditional, old-school slick-back enthusiasts, very thick or coarse hair, and those needing a style that can withstand elements and heavy activity.

User feedback summary: Fans of classic grooming adore this pomade for its authentic feel and incredible hold, especially appreciating its resistance to humidity. They acknowledge the wash-out challenge but find it a worthy trade-off for the performance.

Helpful Comparison Insights for Your Slicked Back Style

When you’re trying to achieve that perfect slick-back, the differences between pomades really matter. Let’s break down some key distinctions to help you choose the best pomade for slicked back hair based on your specific needs.

For hold strength, the range is quite broad. If you have finer hair or prefer a flexible, re-combable slick back, Suavecito Original Hold offers a pliable definition that’s great for daily wear. But if your hair is thick, unruly, or you need that iron-clad, all-day slick back, then products like Suavecito Firme Hold, Elegance Hair Pomade, Cremo Hair Pomade, or Hanz de Fuko Claymation are your powerhouses. Uppercut Deluxe also provides a strong hold that’s very reliable. The Suavecito Oil Based Pomade stands out for its traditional, superior hold that’s incredibly resilient, though it comes with a trade-off in washability.

Now, let’s talk shine. This is where your personal aesthetic truly comes into play for a slick back. For a classic, high-shine slick-back that makes a statement, Uppercut Deluxe, Elegance Hair Pomade, Victory Crown Slick Pomade, and Cremo Hair Pomade deliver impressive gloss. Suavecito Original Hold and Firme Hold offer a more moderate, healthy shine that’s less intense but still polished. If you’re leaning towards a modern, natural, or understated slick-back look, then the matte options are your friends. Highland Glacial Hair Clay Pomade provides a low-shine, nearly matte finish, while Suavecito Matte Formula and Hanz de Fuko Claymation offer a true shine-free matte finish, perfect for that sophisticated, non-greasy appearance.

Washability is a major factor for many. The good news is that most of my top picks are water-based pomades, which means they rinse out effortlessly with just water, leaving no residue. This includes all the Suavecito water-based lines (Original, Firme, Matte), Uppercut Deluxe, Elegance, Victory Crown, Cremo, Highland Glacial (surprisingly for a clay), and Hanz de Fuko Claymation. The sole exception is the Suavecito Oil Based Pomade. While it offers incredible hold and shine, be prepared for a more involved wash routine, often requiring multiple shampoos or specific degreasing products.

Consider your hair type. For thick or coarser hair that needs significant taming for a slick back, Cremo Hair Pomade and Suavecito Firme Hold are excellent choices. Elegance Hair Pomade also boasts suitability for all hair types with its super strong hold. If you have fine to medium hair, you have more flexibility, but you might appreciate the lighter feel of Suavecito Original Hold or the hair-health benefits of Highland Glacial Hair Clay.

Finally, think about ingredients and benefits. If natural ingredients and hair health are a priority, Highland Glacial Hair Clay Pomade and Hanz de Fuko Claymation are packed with nourishing components. Victory Crown also uses a natural formula. These are great if you want your pomade to do more than just style.

Final Verdict: Finding Your Slicked Back Star

Choosing the best pomade for slicked back hair really comes down to what you prioritize. There’s no single “best” for everyone, but there’s definitely a best for you.

If you’re chasing that classic, high-gloss, old-school slick back that demands attention and stays put, you can’t go wrong with Uppercut Deluxe Hair Pomade or Cremo Hair Pomade. Both offer strong hold and brilliant shine, with Cremo being particularly great for thicker hair. For an even more traditional, resilient feel (and you don’t mind a tougher wash-out), the Suavecito Oil Based Pomade is an authentic choice.

For a modern, understated, or natural slick back with no shine, your top contenders are the Hanz de Fuko Claymation for its super high matte hold, or the Suavecito Matte Formula if you prefer a solid, shine-free finish from a trusted brand. The Highland Glacial Hair Clay Pomade is also fantastic for a medium-hold, natural-looking matte slick back that nourishes your hair.

If all-day, unshakeable hold is your absolute priority for a sleek, tight slick back, then Suavecito Firme (Strong) Hold and Elegance Hair Pomade (Super Strong Hold) will lock your hair in place, ensuring it doesn’t budge.

For everyday versatility and ease of use, especially if you’re new to pomades or want a more flexible look, Suavecito Pomade Original Hold is a fantastic, user-friendly option that delivers a natural shine and washes out effortlessly. Victory Crown Slick Pomade also offers a great balance of hold, shine, and natural ingredients for daily wear.

Ultimately, whether you’re aiming for a casual slick back, a sharp business look, or a bold classic statement, one of these expert-tested pomades will help you achieve your desired style with confidence.

Comprehensive FAQ Section

Q1: What is the main difference between water-based and oil-based pomades for slicked back hair?
A: The primary difference lies in their ingredients and washability. Water-based pomades are generally easier to apply, wash out cleanly with just water (leaving no residue), and often offer a moderate to strong hold. They’re great for everyday use. Oil-based pomades, like the Suavecito Oil Based Pomade, are made with petroleum jelly and waxes, offering superior, often more resilient hold and shine, especially against humidity. However, they are significantly harder to wash out and can leave a greasy feel, sometimes requiring multiple washes or special shampoos. For most looking for the best pomade for slicked back hair that’s also convenient, water-based is the go-to.

Q2: How do I apply pomade for a classic slick back hairstyle?
A: Start with clean, towel-dried hair (slightly damp for more shine, dry for more hold and a matte finish). Scoop a small, pea-sized amount of pomade and rub it vigorously between your palms to emulsify it. Then, apply it evenly throughout your hair, starting from the back and working your way forward, ensuring all strands are coated. Use a comb to slick your hair straight back, adjusting the part if desired. For extra hold, you can add a bit more product.

Q3: How much pomade should I use for my slick back?
A: Less is often more! Start with a pea-sized amount. If your hair isn’t holding or you need more shine, add a tiny bit more. Using too much pomade, especially with higher-shine or oil-based products, can make your hair look greasy or heavy. It’s easier to add more than to take away.

Q4: Can these pomades work for all hair types and lengths when doing a slick back?
A: While most pomades are versatile, some are better suited for specific hair types. For example, Cremo Hair Pomade is excellent for thick or longer hair due to its strong hold. Clay pomades like Highland Glacial and Hanz de Fuko are great for adding texture and a matte finish to various hair types. For very fine hair, lighter holds or matte finishes might be better to avoid weighing it down. Always check the “Best for” section in our reviews to find the ideal best pomade for slicked back hair for your specific hair characteristics.

Q5: Will these pomades damage my hair or scalp?
A: Generally, no. Most modern pomades, especially water-based ones, are formulated to be safe for daily use. Products like Highland Glacial Hair Clay and Hanz de Fuko Claymation even include natural ingredients that promote hair and scalp health. However, prolonged use of oil-based pomades without proper washing can lead to build-up or potentially clog pores for some individuals. Always wash your hair thoroughly to prevent residue.

Q6: How can I achieve a slick back with a matte finish?
A: To achieve a matte slick back, you’ll need to choose a pomade specifically labeled as “matte” or “no shine.” Products like Suavecito Matte Formula, Highland Glacial Hair Clay Pomade, and Hanz de Fuko Claymation are perfect for this. Apply them to dry hair for the truest matte effect. This avoids the glossy look while still providing the strong hold needed for a clean slick back.

Q7: Can I restyle my hair throughout the day with these pomades?
A: It depends on the pomade’s hold strength and type. Water-based pomades with a “pliable” or “flexible” hold, like Suavecito Original Hold, are generally easy to re-comb and restyle with a bit of water. Stronger hold pomades, especially once they’ve set, will be harder to restyle without adding more product or re-wetting your hair. Oil-based pomades offer excellent re-style ability due to their non-drying nature, but they can feel heavier.

Q8: What’s the best way to get an oil-based pomade out of my hair?
A: Removing oil-based pomade requires a bit more effort. A popular method is the “conditioner first” technique: apply conditioner to dry hair, let it sit for a few minutes to break down the oils, then rinse. Follow with shampoo, and you might need a second round of shampoo to fully strip it out. Some also recommend specialized degreasing shampoos. Patience is key!