Create a flawless, slick back ponytail with smooth roots, pulled tight and glossy from crown to hairline. This slicked-back ponytail sharpens features, lifts contours and asserts authority. Done right, it relies on control and tension over heavy product.
Follow our step-by-step guide for how to do a slick back ponytail to achieve slicked-back hair that holds from day to night. Designed for the disciplined and unapologetically bold, this high ponytail delivers impact and precision. It’s reserved for those with no interest in introducing themselves.
SHOP THE LOOK
GHD STRAIGHT ON - STRAIGHT & SMOOTH SPRAY
GHD THE SECTIONER - TAIL COMB
GHD BODYGUARD - HEAT PROTECT SPRAY FOR ALL HAIR TYPES
GHD CHRONOS MAX BEST WIDE PLATE HAIR STRAIGHTENER (43MM PLATE) BLACK
GHD THE DRESSER - OVAL DRESSING BRUSH
GHD STRAIGHT ON - STRAIGHT & SMOOTH SPRAY
GHD THE SECTIONER - TAIL COMB
GHD BODYGUARD - HEAT PROTECT SPRAY FOR ALL HAIR TYPES
GHD CHRONOS MAX BEST WIDE PLATE HAIR STRAIGHTENER (43MM PLATE) BLACK
GHD THE DRESSER - OVAL DRESSING BRUSH
STEP-BY-STEPS
PREP & HEAT PROTECTION
SECTION THE HAIR
SMOOTH THE HAIR
BRUSH BACK THE HAIR
SECURE THE PONYTAIL
WRAP THE BASE
REFINE AND FINSIH
FINAL LOOK
TOP TIPS TO REFINE THE FINISH
- Preparation does the heavy lifting. The smoother the hair before it’s secured, the cleaner the finish.
- Layer hairspray while continuously brushing – controlled strokes refine the finish for a sleek, polished result.
- Brush from multiple angles. Work over and underneath the hair to eliminate bumps at the crown.
- Use a brush to apply product precisely, lifting the roots for a clean, snatched ponytail.
- Take your time before securing the ponytail. Once it’s in place, refinement should be minimal.
WHO THIS STYLE WORKS BEST FOR
This slicked-back ponytail works particularly well on longer hair, where length adds impact and balance to the silhouette. It’s especially effective on thick or naturally textured hair, as the smoothing technique enhances control and shine without relying on excess product.
The look suits anyone drawn to a face-focused style that sharpens features, particularly those choosing a slick back high ponytail for a clean, controlled finish. While the technique can be adapted for different hair types, the emphasis never shifts - preparation, tension and precise placement.
COMMON STYLING QUESTIONS ANSWERED BY OUR EXPERT GRANT WILLIAMS
Q: Is a sleek ponytail the same as a slick back ponytail?
Not quite. They are often used interchangeably, but a slick back ponytail is more exacting, with a high-shine, tightly smoothed finish through the roots and hairline. A sleek ponytail can be softer.
Q: Should you slick back wet or dry hair?
Dry hair. This look is built on completely dry, smoothed hair, which gives a cleaner, longer-lasting finish than working on wet hair. Wet styling tends to dry flat and can crease as it sets.
Q: What should you use to slick back a ponytail?
A heat protectant, a straightener to smooth the lengths and a dressing brush to control the hairline, finished with a flexible hairspray. Tension and a good brush do most of the work, so you do not need heavy gel.
Q: Do I need long hair for a slick back ponytail?
No, but length adds impact. Long hair gives the strongest result, especially high on the head, while medium lengths still work if you keep the base clean and tightly controlled at the roots.
Q: How do I stop flyaways at the hairline?
Preparation does most of it. Smooth the hair thoroughly before securing, then layer a little hairspray over the hairline with a brush. A small amount of smoothing oil refines any last pieces without overloading the hair.
Q: Should a slick back ponytail be high or mid-height?
High works best. A higher placement sharpens the silhouette, lifts the features and keeps everything face-focused. Mid-height softens the effect if you want something more relaxed.