A slicked back bun is a very neat and classy hairstyle. It looks smooth, shiny, and clean. You might have seen it on models, dancers, or movie stars walking on red carpets. But guess what? You don’t have to be famous to wear it. Anyone can do it even you. It’s a great style that works for school, parties, work, or even a lazy day at home.
This hairstyle is also super helpful when you want to keep your hair out of your face. It makes you look tidy and ready for the day. Plus, it works on all kinds of hair straight, curly, thick, or thin. Once you try it, you’ll want to wear it again and again. The best part is that you don’t need to go to a salon or spend lots of money.
In this easy guide, you will learn how to do a slicked back bun in just 5 simple steps. You only need a brush, some gel or hair cream, pins, and a hair tie. That’s it, follow along step by step, and you’ll have a stylish bun in no time.
Why Choose a Slicked Back Bun?
There are many reasons why people love the slicked back bun. It’s a simple hairstyle that looks clean, stylish, and works for many hair types. Let’s see why this bun is a favorite for so many.
It Looks Clean and Stylish
A slicked back bun makes your hair look tidy and pretty. There are no loose hairs flying around your face. It is great for school, work, parties, or even just staying at home. This style can make you look ready and confident.
It also helps you stay cool in warm weather because your hair is off your neck. People will notice your face more clearly, which is great if you want to show your makeup or earrings. The bun also gives a smart and put-together look that fits with any outfit.
It Works on All Hair Types
No matter if you have straight, curly, thick, or thin hair, this style will work for you. You just need the right products to make your hair smooth and slick. Once you learn it, you’ll want to wear this bun all the time.
You can change how it looks by placing the bun higher or lower. Even if your hair is short or layered, you can still try it with some pins and gel. This makes the slicked back bun perfect for everyday use or special days like weddings and birthdays.

5 Easy Steps to a Slicked Back Bun
Now that you know why the slicked back bun is such a great hairstyle, it’s time to try it yourself. These 5 steps are super easy to follow. You don’t need fancy tools just a brush, gel, and a few hairpins.
Step 1: Prepare Your Hair
Before you begin, make sure your hair is clean or a little damp. This makes it easier to brush and style. Comb out all the knots so your hair is smooth and ready to work with.
Start with Clean or Damp Hair: It is easier to do a slicked back bun when your hair is a little damp or freshly washed. Wet hair is easier to manage. You can also spray some water on dry hair to make it easier to brush and smooth. If your hair is dry and frizzy, apply a little bit of conditioner or leave-in cream. This helps to control flyaways.
Comb and Remove Tangles: Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to remove knots or tangles from your hair. If your hair is full of knots, it will be hard to pull it back neatly. Comb your hair from the ends and slowly go up to the roots. Be gentle so you don’t break your hair.
Step 2: Slick It Back Smoothly
Now it’s time to make your hair flat and neat. Use gel or hair cream to smooth your hair back. Comb it to the back of your head until it looks shiny and slick.
Use Gel or Hair Cream: To make your hair look slick and shiny, use some hair gel or styling cream. Take a small amount on your fingers and rub it through your hair, starting from the front and moving toward the back.
Make sure the product spreads well. If you are using gel, it will hold your hair tightly. If you don’t like stiff hair, you can use a lighter styling cream or mousse.
Comb Everything Back: Now, take a fine-tooth comb or a soft brush and comb your hair backward. This is what makes the slicked back look. Brush your hair tightly toward the back of your head. Make sure it is smooth and flat. No bumps.
If you want a part (like a middle or side part), you can do it now. But most people like to keep all the hair brushed back with no part at all. Choose what looks best on you.
Step 3: Make the Ponytail
Once your hair is slicked back, gather it into a tight ponytail. This is the base for your bun, so make sure it’s secure and smooth with no bumps.
Hold It Tight: Once your hair is slicked back, gather it into a ponytail using both your hands. Hold the hair tight so that the bun doesn’t become loose later. You can place the ponytail at the top, middle, or bottom of your head whatever you like best. The lower the ponytail, the more serious and classy the look.
Tie It with an Elastic: Use a strong hair tie or elastic band to secure your ponytail. Make sure the ponytail is tight and smooth. You can add more gel or cream if some hair is sticking out or flying around. Use your brush again to fix any uneven parts.
Step 4: Create the Bun
Now take the ponytail and twist it like a rope. Wrap it around the hair tie to make a bun, and use pins to hold it in place so it doesn’t fall out.
Twist the Ponytail: Now it’s time to make the bun. Take your ponytail and start twisting it like a rope. Keep twisting until it feels tight. Then, wrap the twisted ponytail around the base of your hair tie. This will make a circle shape that’s your bun.
Pin It in Place: Once your bun is formed, hold it with one hand and use the other hand to pin it. You can use bobby pins or hairpins to keep the bun in place. Push the pins into the bun so they don’t stick out.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
You’re almost done. Use hairspray to set your bun and smooth out any loose hairs. Check the sides and back to make sure everything looks neat and tidy.
Add Hair Spray: To make the style stay for a long time, spray a little hair spray all over your hair. This helps stop flyaways and makes everything stay neat. You don’t need too much just a light mist is fine.
Check from All Sides: Use a small mirror to look at your hair from the back and sides. Check if everything looks smooth and even. If you see any bumps or loose hairs, you can fix them now.
Tips for Different Hair Types
Everyone’s hair is different, so the same steps might not work the same for all. Whether your hair is curly, thin, or extra thick, a few small changes can help you get the best slicked back bun. Let’s look at some easy tips for different hair types.
If You Have Curly Hair
Curly hair can be tricky to slick back, but it’s possible! Use more gel or a strong styling cream. You can also use a scarf to tie your hair down for 10–15 minutes after applying gel. This helps keep the hair flat and smooth.
Curly buns look cute and puffy. You don’t need to make it super tight. Just make it neat. If some curls pop out, you can leave them for a fun and natural look. You can also use edge control gel to smooth the baby hairs for a clean finish.
If You Have Thin or Fine Hair
If your hair is thin, you can tease your ponytail a little before making the bun. This will give it more volume. You can also use a bun donut or bun filler. This tool makes your bun look bigger and rounder.
Just wrap your hair around the donut and pin it well. You can also use a bit of dry shampoo or texturizing spray to make the hair feel thicker. A side part can also make thin hair look fuller when slicked back.
How Long Does It Take?
Making a slicked back bun usually takes around 10 to 15 minutes. If you’re doing it for the first time, it might take a little longer, and that’s okay. As you practice more, you’ll get faster and better at it. The more you try, the easier it becomes. You’ll learn how to brush, slick, and twist your hair without much effort.
If your hair is already clean and tangle-free, the steps go quicker. Using the right tools like a strong comb, good gel, and pins can also help save time. It’s a great hairstyle when you need to look neat but don’t have much time. With a little practice, you can even do it in 5–7 minutes before school or work.
CONCLUSION
Doing a slicked back bun is not so hard when you know the right steps. You just need some gel, a brush, and a hair tie. This hairstyle make you look neat, clean, and ready for any day. It also help you feel more confident because your hair stay in place and not fall on your face.
It’s a good hairstyle for all hair types curly, straight, thick or thin. You can also change the style by making the bun high or low. With little practice, you can do it very fast. It can be good for school, work, weddings, or just staying home. It’s simple but still very pretty.
Try it few times and don’t worry if it not perfect at first. Everyone learn by trying. Soon you will get better and faster. So now it’s your turn grab your brush and try the slicked back bun today.

Hi, I’m Jennifer, the voice behind this beauty blog! With a passion for all things skincare, makeup, and self-care, I’m here to help you feel confident and radiant—inside and out. From honest product reviews to easy beauty tips, I share real advice for real women who want to glow on their own terms. Whether you’re a beauty beginner or a glam goddess, you’ll find inspiration, tutorials, and trend updates to keep your look fresh and fabulous. ✨