Mastering The Perfect Slick Back Bun: Your Guide To A Flawless Look
Do you ever dream of that sleek, polished hairstyle you see everywhere, the one that just seems to stay put all day, no matter what? So, you might have tried to create a slick back bun yourself, only to find your hair has bumps, or flyaways refuse to stay down, and the bun either falls apart or feels uncomfortably tight. It's a common frustration, really. You have tried gel, brushed it over and over, and still it looks like a bit of a struggle, doesn't it?
Many people wonder how to get that effortlessly chic appearance. The slick back bun is a trending yet timeless look that's achievable with any hair type, and it's something a lot of folks want to master. We've heard the calls, and this is the long awaited and highly requested slick back bun tutorial you've been hoping for.
This style is a versatile choice that can be customized for every occasion, from a casual day out to something more formal. We will show you how to easily achieve this look, helping you fix those common hair woes and create a slick back bun that is smooth, stays in place, and actually looks good in real life. Here's how to do a slicked back bun here, with advice from pro stylists, so you’ll be snatched in no time.
Table of Contents
- What is a Slick Back Bun?
- Why the Slick Back Bun is So Popular
- Common Challenges with the Slick Back Bun
- Essential Tools for Your Slick Back Bun
- Step-by-Step: Achieving Your Perfect Slick Back Bun
- Slick Back Bun Variations
- Tips for Different Hair Types
- Keeping Your Slick Back Bun Flawless All Day
- Frequently Asked Questions About the Slick Back Bun
What is a Slick Back Bun?
A slick back bun, sometimes called a ballerina bun, is a hairstyle where all the hair is pulled back smoothly from the face and gathered into a bun at the back of the head. It is a very clean and polished look, really. This style is quite versatile, as you can opt for a high, low, messy, or polished version, and this hairstyle will have a distinct feel. It is a classic choice that has been around for a long time, and yet it feels very current, too.
The main idea is to get rid of any stray pieces or bumps, making the hair look very neat against the scalp. It is a style that works for almost any hair length, though some variations depend on how long your hair is. You can experiment with different looks, from a messy bun to a polished sleek bun with frontal curls, so there's a lot of room for personal expression.
Why the Slick Back Bun is So Popular
This hairstyle has seen a big surge in popularity lately, appearing on social media feeds, like the tiktok video from leah smith (@realleahsmith) with 98 likes, and in everyday life. It is, in a way, the ultimate old money and quiet luxury hairstyle. This means it gives off an impression of effortless elegance and a refined taste, without being overly flashy. People are drawn to its clean lines and how it makes a person look put together, even when they are busy.
The slick back bun is also a favorite because it works for nearly any situation. You can wear it to a formal event, to the office, or just for running errands. It keeps your hair out of your face, which is very practical, and it makes you look quite chic at the same time. This style is also a good choice for when your hair might not be freshly washed, as it helps to manage any oiliness and still look great.
Common Challenges with the Slick Back Bun
Many people find it a bit tricky to get the slick back bun just right. A very common issue is having bumps in the hair, especially around the crown or sides, which ruins the smooth look. Then there are the flyaways, those little strands of hair that refuse to stay down, no matter how much you brush them. They can make the style look less polished, which is something we all want to avoid.
Another problem is the bun itself. Sometimes it falls apart too easily, or it feels uncomfortably tight, causing a headache. You have tried gel, brushed it over and over, and still it looks like it is not quite there. Creating a perfectly sleek bun, from detangling to molding the hair, is a process, and it can be frustrating when it doesn't turn out as expected. But thankfully, the pros have a few tips on how to make bringing the style to life easier.
Essential Tools for Your Slick Back Bun
To get that really sleek, polished hairstyle that stays in place, you will need a few basic tools. These things will help you achieve the look with much less fuss, so it's worth having them ready. First, a good brush is quite important. A boar bristle brush, for instance, is often recommended because it helps to distribute natural oils and smooth the hair surface. A fine-tooth comb is also very useful for getting those precise, clean lines.
You will also need some hair ties or elastics. Choose ones that are gentle on your hair but strong enough to hold it securely. Bobby pins are nearly always a must-have for securing the bun itself and tucking away any stubborn pieces. For hold, a strong-hold gel or pomade is key. Some people also use a hairspray or a finishing stick to tame flyaways and add shine. Having these items on hand makes the whole process much smoother, you know.
Step-by-Step: Achieving Your Perfect Slick Back Bun
If you have ever wondered how to do a slick back bun, you are in the right place. This step by step guide will walk you through various types of slick back buns and how you can achieve them. Discover how to create a sleek, effortless slicked back bun in just five steps, and this guide ensures your style stays all day. Here’s the right way to slick your bun, according to a professional hairstylist, so you can feel confident.
Preparing Your Hair
Before you even think about gathering your hair, a little preparation goes a long way. Start with hair that is either clean and dry or, perhaps, a day or two old. Sometimes, hair that is not freshly washed has a bit more grip, which can be helpful. If your hair is tangled, gently brush it through to remove any knots. This step is very important for getting a smooth base, so take your time with it.
Next, you might want to apply a small amount of a smoothing product or leave-in conditioner. This helps to make the hair more manageable and reduces frizz. Distribute it evenly from the roots to the ends. If your hair is particularly dry or prone to flyaways, a little bit of hair oil on the ends can also make a difference.
Creating the Base
Now, for the actual slicking back part. Decide where you want your bun to sit: low, midi, or top. Everything here depends on the length of your hair and the look you want. For a high bun, you will want to pull your hair up towards the crown of your head. For a low bun, aim for the nape of your neck. Use your brush, like a boar bristle brush, to pull all your hair back smoothly. Start from your hairline and brush straight back, keeping the tension even.
This is where you really focus on getting rid of those bumps. Use your comb to refine the sections, making sure there are no stray pieces sticking up. If you find a bump, brush it out and try again. Once you have a smooth ponytail in the desired position, secure it tightly with a hair tie. Make sure it is snug, but not so tight that it causes discomfort.
Forming the Bun
With your ponytail secure, it is time to create the bun itself. There are a few ways to do this, depending on the look you want. For a classic, polished bun, twist the ponytail tightly. Then, coil the twisted hair around the base of your ponytail. As you coil, keep the shape neat and compact. Once you have formed the bun, secure it with bobby pins. Place the pins around the bun, pushing them into the base to hold it firmly.
If you prefer a slightly messier, yet still slicked-back, look, you can gently tease the ponytail before coiling it. This adds a bit of volume. Then, coil it loosely and secure it. For a sleek bun with frontal curls, you would leave out some pieces of hair around your face before gathering the rest into the ponytail. You can then curl these pieces once the bun is complete.
Taming Flyaways and Adding Hold
Even after brushing and securing, you might find some tiny hairs, or flyaways, trying to escape. This is where your gel, pomade, or finishing stick comes in handy. Take a small amount of product on your fingertips or a clean spoolie brush. Gently smooth down any stray hairs around your hairline, temples, and the nape of your neck. Work the product in small sections to avoid applying too much, which can make your hair look greasy.
For an extra layer of hold and to ensure your style stays all day, finish with a light mist of hairspray. Hold the can a good distance from your head and spray evenly. This creates a protective layer that helps keep everything in place, even if you are moving around a lot. These things will help you get a sleek, polished hairstyle that stays in place, which is something we all want, right?
Slick Back Bun Variations
The beauty of the slick back bun is its adaptability. There are low, midi, and top slicked back buns, and everything here depends on the length of your hair and the look you want. A low bun, positioned at the nape of your neck, often gives a very sophisticated and understated feel. It is a classic choice for formal occasions, or when you want a quiet elegance.
A midi bun sits somewhere in the middle, typically around the back of your head, just below the crown. This position is quite versatile and works well for both casual and dressier looks. It is a popular choice for everyday wear because it is comfortable and looks put together. Then there is the top bun, which sits high on the crown of your head. This style tends to be more playful and modern, and it can make your face look lifted.
Beyond placement, you can also play with the texture of the bun itself. You can have a very polished, tight bun where every strand is in place, or a slightly messy bun that still has that slicked-back front but a more relaxed feel in the back. Some people like to pull out a few face-framing pieces or add frontal curls, as mentioned before, to soften the look. This lets you experiment with different styles, making it truly your own.
Tips for Different Hair Types
The slick back bun is achievable with any hair type, which is quite wonderful, but different textures might need a little extra care. For those with curly hair, the key is to ensure the curls are well-moisturized and detangled before you start. This helps prevent frizz and makes the hair easier to smooth back. You might want to use a curl-defining cream or a strong-hold gel specifically designed for curly hair to keep those strands in line. Dive into the world of slick back bun styles with our latest blog, from curly hair hacks to trendy variations, we have got all the tips you will need.
If your hair is very fine or thin, you might find it hard to create a bun with much volume. In this case, you can use a bun donut or a hair net to help create a fuller shape. You can also gently backcomb the ponytail before forming the bun to add some body. For thick hair, the challenge can be getting it to stay put without feeling too heavy or bulky. Use extra bobby pins and strong hair ties. You might also find it easier to twist the hair into a tighter coil to manage the volume.
For those with shorter hair, a top or midi bun might be difficult to achieve, but a low slick back bun is often very doable. You might need more pins to secure shorter pieces, especially around the nape of the neck. Sometimes, using a strong pomade or wax can help gather those shorter strands effectively. Learn more about hair care tips on our site, and link to this page for more styling ideas.
Keeping Your Slick Back Bun Flawless All Day
Once you have created your perfect slick back bun, the goal is to make it last. A good quality hairspray, as mentioned, is your best friend here. A light, even mist all over helps to set the style without making it feel stiff. If you are going to be very active, or if it is a humid day, you might want to use a stronger hold spray, you know.
Throughout the day, if you notice any small flyaways starting to appear, a touch-up stick or a tiny bit of gel on your fingertips can quickly smooth them back down. Keep a few extra bobby pins with you, just in case a section feels loose. Avoiding touching your hair too much also helps to keep the style intact. The more you play with it, the more likely it is to loosen or get messy. This guide ensures your style stays all day, which is quite the promise.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Slick Back Bun
How do I make my slick back bun stay?
To make your slick back bun stay, use a strong-hold gel or pomade on your hair before brushing it back. Secure your ponytail very tightly with a good quality elastic. Then, use plenty of bobby pins to secure the bun itself, pushing them into the base. Finish with a strong-hold hairspray. These steps help keep everything in place, even with movement.
What products do you use for a slick back bun?
For a slick back bun, you will typically use a smoothing gel or pomade to get that sleek look. A good hairspray is also quite important for hold. Some people also use a finishing stick or wax for flyaways. A leave-in conditioner can help prepare the hair, making it smoother and easier to work with.
Can you do a slick back bun with short hair?
Yes, you can absolutely do a slick back bun with short hair, especially a low bun. It might be a bit more challenging to gather all the hair, and you will likely need more bobby pins to secure shorter pieces. Using a strong gel or wax can help to keep those shorter strands neatly tucked in. It is a very achievable look, even with less length.
For more hair care inspiration, you might find some useful tips on Allure's hair care section.
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