Styling long hair into a sleek, clean look can be tricky. You don’t just need the right cut—you need the right product too. The best slick back products give you control, texture, and hold without that greasy, shiny finish. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the products I tested myself. They’re all water-based, easy to wash, and ideal for natural styling.
This article shares my experience using top picks like Hanz de Fuko Heavymade(56g), Reuzel Extreme Hold Matte Pomade (113ml), Moroccanoil Texture Clay (75ml), Kevin Murphy Free Hold (100g), Uppercut Deluxe Clay(100ml), and Uppercut Deluxe Matte Pomade(100ml). I’ll explain each one in detail based on performance, hold, texture, and washability.
Hanz de Fuko Heavymade: Starting with a Natural Hold
This product gives a medium hold but stays light on the hair. It is water washable and comes in a 9/10 matte finish. But the hold strength is just 4/10, which is not so good when it concerns long-term style. There is not much flexibility and the smell is low, with only 3/10.
On the positive side, it applies easily, and provides a dry finish, which suits you in case you do not like shiny stuff. The biggest downside is you need to use a large amount for proper styling. For those who want best slick back products with a very matte look, this might still be worth trying once.
Reuzel Extreme Hold Matte Pomade: Strong and Firm Style
This is one of the best slick back products if you want your hair to stay in place all day. It scores 9/10 in hold and 7/10 in matte finish. The downside? It dries hard and is not flexible. You can’t restyle your hair once it sets.
Despite its drawbacks in flexibility, it applies easily and holds up through long hours. You’ll notice less volume due to its heavy texture, but if you prefer tight slicked-back looks, it delivers. The washout score of 8/10 also makes it easy to clean off.
Moroccanoil Texture Clay: Ultra Matte Finish
This clay shines when it comes to matte texture. It delivers a full 10/10 in matte effect and still offers an 8/10 hold. It is flexible, touchable and easy to use with a very soft hold that you can adjust or reform. It does very well as finger-styling as opposed to combing.
One concern is the scent, which some may find too neutral or plasticky. Still, the texture is smooth, and the product sticks well without making the hair too hard. It’s easily one of the bestest slick back products for those who like flexibility with a clean look.
Kevin Murphy Free Hold: Lightweight and Flexible
This product is all about movement and comfort. It gives you 8/10 flexibility and scores 9/10 on smooth stickiness, meaning you can easily fix your style later. The hold, however, is weaker at just 4/10. It’s better for medium-length hair or casual, softer slick-back looks.
Its best features include easy washability at 9/10 and very light scent. It doesn’t make your hair hard or stiff, which is ideal if you like touching up your look throughout the day. Among best slick back products, this one is more about ease than strength.
Uppercut Deluxe Clay: All-Day Strength
This clay is perfect if you need strong control. With a 9/10 hold and 8/10 flexibility, it works great for long or thick hair. The matte level sits at 8/10, and the product keeps its effect throughout the day.
Its smell scores only 4/10, and it’s not the easiest to wash out, scoring 6/10. Still, it’s reliable when it comes to keeping your hair in place without hardening it too much. It also helps prevent flyaways and adds volume at the roots.
Uppercut Deluxe Matte Pomade: Natural-Looking Finish
If you want your hairstyle to look completely natural, this one’s a winner. It scores 9/10 for matte finish and doesn’t show any visible product on the hair. Hold strength is 7/10, and it keeps your hair neat for hours.
Though it’s very easy to apply, washability is a downside with just 1/10. You’ll need shampoo to get it all out. But if you prefer soft, matte styles that don’t look overly styled, it’s still one of the top most slick back products you can try.
Final Thoughts:
After testing them all, Reuzel Clay Matte Pomade ranks the highest for me. It delivers hold, natural texture, and flexibility without any plastic-like stiffness. If you need something ultra-matte, Moroccanoil Texture Clay is another solid choice. On the other hand, if you want complete restyling freedom with a soft touch, go with Kevin Murphy Free Hold.
Finding the best slick back products means matching your hair type, styling routine, and preferred finish. From matte to firm hold, the options above offer great choices for every style need.Select well-and remember to put it to use properly.
