Thick hair is a blessing when it comes to styling. It offers natural volume, body, and structure—making slicked back hairstyles look fuller and more defined. Whether you prefer a classic, polished finish or a modern, textured vibe, slicked back styles allow you to control bulk while highlighting your hair’s natural density. With the right cut and product, thick hair can be transformed into a sharp, refined look suitable for work, formal events, or casual outings.
Slicked back hairstyles have evolved far beyond the traditional, glossy look. Today’s styles combine fades, undercuts, texture, and even messy finishes to create versatile options for every personality. Below, you’ll find 25 of the best slicked back hairstyles for men with thick hair, complete with style variations to inspire your next barber visit.
1. Classic Slicked Back (Traditional, Polished Style)
The classic slicked back hairstyle remains timeless for men with thick hair. This style keeps the sides slightly shorter while leaving length on top to comb straight back with pomade. Thick hair holds the shape exceptionally well, giving the look structure and natural volume without falling flat.
This style works beautifully for formal settings, business environments, and elegant occasions. Use a medium-to-high shine pomade for that traditional glossy finish, or opt for a matte product if you prefer a more contemporary interpretation.
2. Slicked Back Undercut (Bold, High-Contrast Style)
The slicked back undercut creates a dramatic contrast between the long top and closely shaved sides. For men with thick hair, this style removes excess bulk from the sides while allowing the top to remain dense and full.
Because thick hair provides strong volume, this look appears especially sharp and defined. Pair it with a high-hold pomade to keep everything controlled, or add texture for a slightly relaxed, modern finish.
3. Slicked Back Fade (Low, Mid & High Fade Styles)
A slicked back fade blends the hair gradually on the sides while keeping the top long and brushed back. Thick hair makes the transition appear seamless and smooth, particularly with a mid or high fade.
This style is versatile enough for both professional and casual wear. The fade reduces heaviness on the sides, helping thick hair look balanced instead of bulky.
4. Textured Slicked Back (Modern, Matte Finish Style)
For a contemporary twist, try a textured slicked back hairstyle. Instead of combing the hair perfectly flat, you use your fingers to create movement and separation while pushing it backward.
Thick hair enhances this look because it naturally holds texture. Use a matte clay or paste to avoid stiffness and create a soft, touchable finish.
5. Long Slicked Back Hair (Flowing, Layered Style)
Men with longer thick hair can slick it back for a dramatic, flowing appearance. Layers help remove weight while keeping volume intact, making the style easier to manage.
This look pairs well with beards and suits men who prefer a slightly rugged yet sophisticated aesthetic. A lightweight cream works best to maintain flexibility and movement.
6. Short Slicked Back (Clean, Minimal Style)
A shorter slicked back hairstyle offers easier maintenance while still looking refined. The top remains long enough to comb back, but not overly dramatic.
For thick hair, this is ideal if you want structure without excessive styling time. A light pomade keeps everything in place without making the hair stiff.
7. Slicked Back Pompadour (Voluminous, Retro Style)
The slicked back pompadour adds height at the front before sweeping the hair backward. Thick hair provides the lift needed to achieve that bold, voluminous effect.
This retro-inspired style looks striking with faded or tapered sides. Blow-drying upward before styling enhances the volume even more.
8. Slicked Back Taper (Subtle, Professional Style)
A taper keeps the sides neat while maintaining length near the top. When paired with a slicked back style, the result is clean and workplace-friendly.
Thick hair benefits from the taper by reducing bulk gradually rather than dramatically. This is perfect for men who want sophistication without extreme contrast.
9. Messy Slicked Back (Relaxed, Casual Style)
The messy slicked back look embraces natural texture and movement. Instead of perfect lines, the hair is loosely brushed back using fingers.
Thick hair makes this style appear intentionally tousled rather than unruly. A matte styling product enhances separation while maintaining control.
10. Slicked Back with Beard (Masculine, Balanced Style)
Pairing slicked back hair with a full beard creates a balanced and masculine look. Thick hair on top complements facial hair, creating harmony.
Keep the sides trimmed to avoid overwhelming your features. This combination works especially well for men wanting a bold yet refined appearance.
11. Side-Part Slicked Back (Classic Gentleman Style)
Adding a subtle side part gives structure to a traditional slicked back hairstyle. Thick hair makes the part more defined and prominent.
This style works perfectly in corporate settings and formal events. Use a fine-tooth comb to achieve precision and sharpness.
12. Slicked Back with Hard Part (Sharp, Defined Style)
A hard part adds a razor-defined line that enhances contrast. Combined with slicked back thick hair, the result is striking and clean.
The shaved part gives the style structure and makes maintenance easier by guiding the direction of the hair.
13. Curly Slicked Back (Natural Texture Style)
Men with thick, slightly curly hair can still rock a slicked back style. Instead of flattening curls, embrace their natural texture while pushing them backward.
Use a curl-enhancing cream to prevent frizz while keeping volume intact. The result is modern and full of personality.
14. Slicked Back with Drop Fade (Edgy, Trendy Style)
The drop fade curves around the ear, creating a unique silhouette. When paired with slicked back thick hair, it offers a stylish and youthful look.
This cut enhances the natural density on top while maintaining sharp edges on the sides.
15. Wet Look Slicked Back (High-Shine, Glamorous Style)
The wet look is achieved using high-shine pomade or gel. Thick hair responds well to this style because it maintains structure even with product.
This is ideal for formal events or high-fashion aesthetics where a sleek, glossy finish stands out.
16. Slicked Back Quiff (Lifted, Stylish Look)
A quiff focuses on volume at the front before sweeping back. Thick hair provides the height needed for dramatic effect.
Blow-dry upward and back for maximum lift, then secure with a strong-hold product.
17. Disconnected Slicked Back (Modern Contrast Style)
A disconnected cut separates the long top from the shaved sides without blending. Thick hair makes this contrast even more pronounced.
This bold option works best for men who enjoy statement hairstyles.
18. Slicked Back with Line Design (Creative, Urban Style)
Adding a shaved line or design enhances individuality. Thick hair on top contrasts beautifully with artistic details on the sides.
Keep the design subtle for everyday wear or go bold for maximum impact.
19. Slicked Back with Low Fade (Subtle Modern Style)
A low fade keeps the haircut conservative while adding a modern edge. Thick hair remains the focus on top.
This is an excellent option for men who want a professional yet stylish look.
20. Slicked Back Faux Hawk (Edgy, Bold Style)
The faux hawk adds height through the center while keeping the sides shorter. Slicking it back softens the traditional mohawk shape.
Thick hair makes this style appear strong and full rather than thin.
21. Brushed Back with Volume (Natural, Soft Style)
Instead of a sleek finish, this style focuses on natural volume. Thick hair creates effortless body.
Use a lightweight mousse before blow-drying for airy movement.
22. Slicked Back Man Bun (Long, Modern Style)
Men with very long thick hair can slick it back into a man bun. This keeps hair controlled while maintaining a stylish appearance.
It’s practical for busy days yet still trendy and masculine.
23. Slicked Back with Mid Fade (Balanced Style)
The mid fade creates a balanced transition between bold and subtle. Thick hair on top keeps the look dynamic.
This cut suits most face shapes and lifestyles.
24. Layered Slicked Back (Lightweight, Controlled Style)
Layers reduce heaviness in thick hair, making it easier to slick back. This prevents stiffness and adds natural movement.
Ask your barber for texturizing to avoid bulk.
25. Slicked Back with Skin Fade (Clean, Sharp Style)
A skin fade creates maximum contrast with thick hair on top. The shaved sides emphasize volume and structure.
This is one of the most striking slicked back styles, ideal for men who prefer sharp, modern haircuts.
Final Thoughts
Slicked back hairstyles for men with thick hair offer incredible versatility—from classic polished looks to edgy modern fades. Thick hair naturally enhances volume and shape, making these styles easier to achieve and maintain with the right cut and product. Whether you prefer a sleek professional appearance or a bold statement style, there’s a slicked back variation that will suit your personality and lifestyle.
Choosing the right version depends on your face shape, maintenance preference, and daily routine. Consult with a skilled barber who understands how to manage thick hair properly, and experiment with different finishes—matte, glossy, textured, or structured—to find the look that truly defines your style.
