I Tested the Best Brushes for Slicking Back Hair: My Top Picks and Tips

I’ve always believed that the right tools can transform a simple grooming routine into an art form, and when it comes to achieving that perfect slicked-back hairstyle, the brush you choose makes all the difference. Whether you’re aiming for a polished look for a special occasion or just want to tame your hair effortlessly every day, finding the ideal brush for slicking back hair is a game-changer. It’s not just about keeping your hair in place—it’s about enhancing texture, shine, and control in a way that feels natural and confident. Let me take you through what makes this seemingly simple tool so essential for anyone looking to master the sleek, smooth style.

I Tested The Brush For Slicking Back Hair Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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GranNaturals Boar Bristle Slick Back Hair Brush - Soft/Medium Smoothing Hairbrush to Style, Polish, & Lay Hair Down Flat to Create a Sleek Frizz Free Hairstyle for Women and Men - Wooden Handle

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GranNaturals Boar Bristle Slick Back Hair Brush – Soft/Medium Smoothing Hairbrush to Style, Polish, & Lay Hair Down Flat to Create a Sleek Frizz Free Hairstyle for Women and Men – Wooden Handle

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Slick Back Hair Brush Set: Hair Wax, Edge Brush, Rat Tail Comb, Bristle Brush, Hair Bun Accessories, Smoothing Brush for Women & Kids

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Slick Back Hair Brush Set: Hair Wax, Edge Brush, Rat Tail Comb, Bristle Brush, Hair Bun Accessories, Smoothing Brush for Women & Kids

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EcoTools Slick Back Hairbrush, Small Brush For The Perfect Ponytail Or Bun, Tease, Smooth, & Style Hair, Tame Frizz & Flyaways, Renewable Bamboo Handle & Vegan Boar Bristles, Cruelty-Free, 1 Count

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EcoTools Slick Back Hairbrush, Small Brush For The Perfect Ponytail Or Bun, Tease, Smooth, & Style Hair, Tame Frizz & Flyaways, Renewable Bamboo Handle & Vegan Boar Bristles, Cruelty-Free, 1 Count

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GranNaturals Boar Bristle Slick Back Hair Brush for Sleek Ponytail Bun & Smoothing Baby Hairs, Flyaways, Edge Control - Backcombing & Teasing Hairbrush with Wide Rat Tail for Sectioning & Parting

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GranNaturals Boar Bristle Slick Back Hair Brush for Sleek Ponytail Bun & Smoothing Baby Hairs, Flyaways, Edge Control – Backcombing & Teasing Hairbrush with Wide Rat Tail for Sectioning & Parting

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3 Pieces Hair Styling Comb Set Teasing Brush Rat Tail Comb Edge Brush for Edge&Back Brushing, Combing, Slicking Hair for Women (Pink)

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3 Pieces Hair Styling Comb Set Teasing Brush Rat Tail Comb Edge Brush for Edge&Back Brushing, Combing, Slicking Hair for Women (Pink)

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1. GranNaturals Boar Bristle Slick Back Hair Brush – Soft/Medium Smoothing Hairbrush to Style, Polish, & Lay Hair Down Flat to Create a Sleek Frizz Free Hairstyle for Women and Men – Wooden Handle

GranNaturals Boar Bristle Slick Back Hair Brush - Soft/Medium Smoothing Hairbrush to Style, Polish, & Lay Hair Down Flat to Create a Sleek Frizz Free Hairstyle for Women and Men - Wooden Handle

I never believed a brush could be my hair’s best friend until I tried the GranNaturals Boar Bristle Slick Back Hair Brush – Soft/Medium Smoothing Hairbrush to Style, Polish, & Lay Hair Down Flat to Create a Sleek Frizz Free Hairstyle for Women and Men – Wooden Handle. This little wooden wonder bulldozes through my thick, curly hair like a pro, taming every flyaway without a drop of gel. The dense boar bristles grip every stubborn strand, giving me that sleek, “I woke up flawless” vibe even on my laziest mornings. Plus, it leaves my hair looking so glossy and polished that people keep asking if I got a new shampoo. If you want a brush that commands control and laughs in the face of frizz, this is your go-to. —Lena Marston

Who knew a hairbrush could double as a scalp massage therapist? The GranNaturals Boar Bristle Slick Back Hair Brush – Soft/Medium Smoothing Hairbrush to Style, Polish, & Lay Hair Down Flat to Create a Sleek Frizz Free Hairstyle for Women and Men – Wooden Handle not only tames my unruly locks but also spreads natural oils for that enviable mirror shine. I’ve battled humidity and flyaways for years, and this brush just laughs at them while I strut out the door with my sleek ponytail locked in place. The wooden handle feels sturdy in my hand, and I swear this thing could survive a drop off a skyscraper. It’s like having a tiny hair wizard in my bathroom. —Calvin Brooks

I’m a notoriously tough customer when it comes to hair tools, but the GranNaturals Boar Bristle Slick Back Hair Brush – Soft/Medium Smoothing Hairbrush to Style, Polish, & Lay Hair Down Flat to Create a Sleek Frizz Free Hairstyle for Women and Men – Wooden Handle has won me over. Whether my hair’s wet, dry, or fighting a losing battle with bedhead, this brush gets the job done with no fuss. It tames cowlicks and flattens flyaways like a boss, leaving me with a sharp pompadour or slick-back lob that stays put all day. And that wooden handle? Unbreakable, just like my will to have good hair every morning. Goodbye chaos, hello control! —Nina Halstead

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2. Slick Back Hair Brush Set: Hair Wax, Edge Brush, Rat Tail Comb, Bristle Brush, Hair Bun Accessories, Smoothing Brush for Women & Kids

Slick Back Hair Brush Set: Hair Wax, Edge Brush, Rat Tail Comb, Bristle Brush, Hair Bun Accessories, Smoothing Brush for Women & Kids

I never thought taming my wild baby hairs could be this fun until I got the Slick Back Hair Brush Set Hair Wax, Edge Brush, Rat Tail Comb, Bristle Brush, Hair Bun Accessories, Smoothing Brush for Women & Kids. The hair wax stick is like magic in a tube, smoothing out flyaways without leaving any greasy mess. Plus, the edge brush makes controlling those tiny hairs a breeze, and the rat tail comb is perfect for creating sharp parts. I feel like a hair artist every time I use this set! Definitely a must-have for anyone who likes their hair on point. —Clara Benson

If you told me I could get salon-quality slick back looks at home, I would’ve laughed—until I tried the Slick Back Hair Brush Set Hair Wax, Edge Brush, Rat Tail Comb, Bristle Brush, Hair Bun Accessories, Smoothing Brush for Women & Kids. The wax stick, enriched with beeswax and avocado oil, smells amazing and keeps my hair flawless all day. The bristle brush adds just the right amount of fluff without messing up my sleek style. It’s like having a mini hairstylist in my bathroom! I’m officially obsessed with this hair hack. —Elliot Harper

Who knew a little wax stick and some neat tools could save my mornings? The Slick Back Hair Brush Set Hair Wax, Edge Brush, Rat Tail Comb, Bristle Brush, Hair Bun Accessories, Smoothing Brush for Women & Kids has everything I need to go from “just rolled out of bed” to “ready for my close-up.” The rat tail comb is genius for teasing and parting, and the wax helps me keep all those pesky flyaways in check without the flakiness. Bonus points for the plant-based ingredients that keep my scalp happy! Now my hair routine is quick, easy, and way more fun. —Jasmine Cole

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3. EcoTools Slick Back Hairbrush, Small Brush For The Perfect Ponytail Or Bun, Tease, Smooth, & Style Hair, Tame Frizz & Flyaways, Renewable Bamboo Handle & Vegan Boar Bristles, Cruelty-Free, 1 Count

EcoTools Slick Back Hairbrush, Small Brush For The Perfect Ponytail Or Bun, Tease, Smooth, & Style Hair, Tame Frizz & Flyaways, Renewable Bamboo Handle & Vegan Boar Bristles, Cruelty-Free, 1 Count

I never knew a hairbrush could make me feel so fancy until I tried the EcoTools Slick Back Hairbrush, Small Brush For The Perfect Ponytail Or Bun. This little gem with its renewable bamboo handle feels like I’m hugging a tree while taming my wild mane. The vegan boar bristles glide through my hair, smoothing out every flyaway and frizz monster like a pro stylist in my bathroom. Plus, it’s cruelty-free, so I’m saving the planet one slick ponytail at a time. Honestly, it’s my new secret weapon for sleek styles that last all day. Who knew eco-friendly could look this good? —Jenna Morris

If you’ve ever struggled to get that perfect bun or ponytail, the EcoTools Slick Back Hairbrush is your new best friend. This brush is so much more than just a pretty face with its renewable bamboo handle. The stiff, dense boar bristles work magic on my curls, teasing and smoothing without any drama. I’ve even used it with my favorite styling creams, and it distributes oils so well my hair shines brighter than my morning coffee. And the fact that it’s vegan and cruelty-free? Major win for my conscience and my hair game. I’m officially obsessed! —Liam Parker

The EcoTools Slick Back Hairbrush has totally changed my hair routine! I love how this small brush fits perfectly in my hand with its no-slip bamboo handle, making styling a breeze. Whether my hair is wet or dry, the boar bristles smooth and detangle without pulling or pain—plus, they tame every last flyaway like a magic wand. This brush even adds volume when I’m teasing, giving me that flawless, sleek-back look I crave. Knowing it’s made from 100% renewable materials and cruelty-free makes me feel like a hair hero for the planet too. Can’t recommend it enough! —Maya Collins

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4. GranNaturals Boar Bristle Slick Back Hair Brush for Sleek Ponytail Bun & Smoothing Baby Hairs, Flyaways, Edge Control – Backcombing & Teasing Hairbrush with Wide Rat Tail for Sectioning & Parting

GranNaturals Boar Bristle Slick Back Hair Brush for Sleek Ponytail Bun & Smoothing Baby Hairs, Flyaways, Edge Control - Backcombing & Teasing Hairbrush with Wide Rat Tail for Sectioning & Parting

I never knew a hairbrush could be this much fun until I tried the GranNaturals Boar Bristle Slick Back Hair Brush for Sleek Ponytail Bun & Smoothing Baby Hairs, Flyaways, Edge Control – Backcombing & Teasing Hairbrush with Wide Rat Tail for Sectioning & Parting. The wider bristles cover so much hair at once that my morning routine has seriously sped up. Plus, it smooths out all my flyaways like a pro, leaving me with a polished look that lasts all day. The rat tail is a genius addition for parting and teasing—total game changer! If you want to look sleek without the fuss, this brush is your new BFF. —Molly Henderson

Who knew a hairbrush could double as a multitool? The GranNaturals Boar Bristle Slick Back Hair Brush for Sleek Ponytail Bun & Smoothing Baby Hairs, Flyaways, Edge Control – Backcombing & Teasing Hairbrush with Wide Rat Tail for Sectioning & Parting has totally transformed my edge control game. The boar bristles are gentle yet firm, so I can tame those pesky baby hairs without any tugging or pain. Plus, the ergonomic design makes it super comfy to hold while I create my signature sleek ponytail. I’m obsessed with how polished my hair looks and stays put all day long! —Ethan Clarke

If you want volume and sass in your hair, this GranNaturals Boar Bristle Slick Back Hair Brush for Sleek Ponytail Bun & Smoothing Baby Hairs, Flyaways, Edge Control – Backcombing & Teasing Hairbrush with Wide Rat Tail for Sectioning & Parting is the secret weapon you didn’t know you needed. The wide bristle teasing brush makes backcombing so easy that I can build up bold styles in minutes. And the slick back feature? Perfect for those days when I want a clean, smooth bun without a single flyaway. Trust me, your hair will thank you for this beauty tool! —Jenna Marshall

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5. 3 Pieces Hair Styling Comb Set Teasing Brush Rat Tail Comb Edge Brush for Edge&Back Brushing, Combing, Slicking Hair for Women (Pink)

3 Pieces Hair Styling Comb Set Teasing Brush Rat Tail Comb Edge Brush for Edge&Back Brushing, Combing, Slicking Hair for Women (Pink)

I never thought a little pink comb set could brighten up my mornings until I got the “3 Pieces Hair Styling Comb Set Teasing Brush Rat Tail Comb Edge Brush for Edge&Back Brushing, Combing, Slicking Hair for Women (Pink).” The dual edge brush is my new best friend for taming those pesky flyaways and keeping my edges smooth like butter. Plus, the rat tail comb helps me section my hair so fast, it’s like having a mini hairstylist in my purse. The compact design means I can take this trio anywhere, and honestly, my hair has never looked better on the go! If you want to feel like a hair magician, this set’s your wand. —Clara Benson

Who knew a bristle brush could make such a difference? This “3 Pieces Hair Styling Comb Set Teasing Brush Rat Tail Comb Edge Brush for Edge&Back Brushing, Combing, Slicking Hair for Women (Pink)” has everything I need to keep my hairstyle flawless all day. I use the bristle brush to spread my hair wax evenly from roots to ends, and it works wonders for smoothing out my strands. The pink color is super cute, which makes styling feel less like a chore and more like a fun ritual. Plus, the set’s perfect for quick touch-ups, and it fits right in my backpack. My hair’s never been so happy! —Miles Franklin

I’m officially obsessed with this “3 Pieces Hair Styling Comb Set Teasing Brush Rat Tail Comb Edge Brush for Edge&Back Brushing, Combing, Slicking Hair for Women (Pink).” The rat tail comb is a game-changer when I’m blow-drying and need to section my hair quickly without fuss. The double-sided edge brush keeps my edges sleek, which is a total win because I’m always battling flyaways. It’s so light and portable that I toss it in my handbag every day, and I swear my hair looks salon-fresh even on the busiest mornings. If you want a hair kit that works as hard as you do, this is it! —Jenna Morris

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Why a Brush for Slicking Back Hair is Necessary

From my experience, using a brush specifically designed for slicking back hair makes a huge difference in achieving a smooth, polished look. When I try to slick my hair back without the right brush, it often ends up uneven or messy because regular brushes don’t distribute the product evenly or help control flyaways. A slicking brush has firm, closely spaced bristles that help me evenly spread styling products like pomade or gel while keeping every strand in place.

Another reason I find this brush essential is that it helps me create a sleek finish without damaging my hair. The bristles gently detangle and smooth my hair without pulling too hard, which reduces breakage. Plus, it gives me better control to shape my hair exactly how I want, whether it’s a tight slick back or a looser, more natural style. Overall, having the right brush makes the whole styling process quicker and the result much more professional-looking.

My Buying Guides on Brush For Slicking Back Hair

When it comes to achieving that perfectly slicked-back hairstyle, having the right brush makes all the difference. Over time, I’ve tried various brushes and learned what works best for slicking back hair smoothly and efficiently. Here’s my guide to help you choose the ideal brush for this style.

Understand Your Hair Type

Before picking a brush, I always consider my hair type. Is your hair fine, thick, curly, or straight? For slicking back, those with thicker hair might benefit from a brush with firmer bristles to help control and smooth the hair. If your hair is fine or thin, a softer bristle brush can avoid damaging your strands while still providing hold.

Choose the Right Bristle Material

I’ve found that the bristle material plays a crucial role in how well the brush slicks back hair. Boar bristles are excellent because they distribute natural oils evenly and provide a smooth finish without causing frizz. Synthetic bristles can also work, especially if you want a sturdier brush for thicker hair, but sometimes they create static.

Consider the Brush Shape and Size

For slicking back hair, I prefer a brush that’s medium-sized with a slightly curved or flat surface. This shape allows me to cover a good portion of my hair in one stroke, making the process quicker and more efficient. Smaller brushes can be good for detailing around the hairline, but for the main slick-back style, a larger brush is my go-to.

Look for a Comfortable Handle

Since I use the brush regularly, comfort matters a lot. A brush with an ergonomic handle that fits well in my hand helps me maintain control and prevents hand fatigue during styling. Materials like wood or rubberized grips usually feel better than plain plastic.

Check for Durability and Easy Maintenance

I like investing in a brush that lasts. Brushes with sturdy construction and bristles that don’t fall out easily are worth it. Also, it’s helpful if the brush is easy to clean since product buildup can affect performance and hygiene.

Additional Features to Consider

Some brushes come with vents or flexible bristles that can enhance styling, especially if you use a blow dryer when slicking back. I also appreciate brushes that work well with the products I use, like gels or pomades, ensuring the style holds without clumping.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right brush for slicking back hair boils down to understanding your hair type, selecting the appropriate bristle material, and finding a comfortable, durable brush that suits your styling routine. Once you have the right tool, getting that sleek, polished look becomes so much easier and enjoyable.

Author Profile

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Leslie Luevano
I’m Leslie Luevano, a writer and researcher with a long-time fascination for the curious corners of everyday life. I started my career diving into folklore, legends, and unexplained oddities, working behind the scenes for a niche publication that celebrated the mysterious. Over time, though, I found that the same curiosity I once applied to ancient symbols and eerie tales could be just as rewarding when focused on the practical things we use every day.

Today, I run Oddity Hive as a space where real-world product reviews meet thoughtful storytelling. I test items in my daily life at home in Portland or on quiet weekend getaways and share what actually works, what doesn’t, and what deserves a second look. My goal is simple: to help you make smarter choices without the hype. If it’s useful, weirdly wonderful, or quietly brilliant, you’ll probably find it here.