Pomade was classically oil-based. Oil-based pomade creates the classic sheen and hold that made the slicked look popular. However, oil is difficult to wash out, so you may want to look for a strong-hold pomade that does not list oil as a main ingredient. Gel is a good alternative if your hair isn’t too thick. Gel typically results in a dryer hold and may take on a slightly crunchy texture. This works best with finer, lighter hair types, since it may not be strong enough to hold heavier hair in place.
With the modern slick, you can choose not to slick back the sides. This works particularly well if you have a fade haircut, with much shorter hair on the sides than on top. If you do have long hair on the sides, slick it from your temples to the back of your head.
You can use a hair dryer set to low to help add volume as you finger comb. Be sure to point it from your forehead toward your crown so that your hair dries in a slicked back pattern. Use more pomade as necessary to create the look you want. Then, finish with a little hairspray to help your hair keep it’s shape.
Use a wide-toothed comb to help diffuse the product over the length of your hair. This will keep you from having a defined product line by creating a slow transition between the parts with product and the parts without.
