The slick back: something that can make you look put together and clean without even having to wash your hair. It may sound great but there are many people who believe that it can be damaging our hair. Radiance has got to the bottom of this debate.
We’ve all been there; it’s day three of not washing your hair and it still doesn’t look THAT bad…so you slick it back. Then day four comes around and you run out of time and honestly, the slick back looked good the day before. So, you slick it back tighter… Then day five comes and-
Let’s say for the sake of the article that I would’ve washed it by then but anyone who says they haven’t done it more than three days in a row is lying, right?
The ’slick-back’ for those who aren’t familiar is a very tight ponytail or bun that keeps all the hairs out of your face.
The popular hairstyle may be trending but definitely isn’t a new thing.
My first memories with the slick back were me rushing out the door with a hairbrush and ending up with a greasy bumpy pony and extremely frustrated, or I remember wearing one for ballet- but I hated it, it made me look like an egg -head. Who would have thought I would be wearing one on purpose?
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Nowadays there are ‘slick back’ brushes, combs, gels, foams… Even different types: the Aussie slick back, the classic slick back pony, the slick back plait, etc.
Although like any trend it comes with its controversies.
Despite it having many fans it also has its haters. Many people say the overuse of slick backs can cause hair loss, a residing hairline and it can weaken your hair.
Traction alopecia (hair loss) is a type of alopecia that is caused by repetitive pulling and tension of the hair. According to the British Skin Foundation, this can be caused by tight hairstyles, like the slick back. It occurs when you apply to much force to your hair follicles during a prolonged amount time that eventually, causes the hair to weaken and break. This can happen in any part of your head, including your hairline. Luckily, this condition is usually reversible.
Hair gels and foams come hand in hand with slick backs. These products although useful should be used with precaution.
Firstly, always ensure you are not allergic to any of the ingredients as this causes irritation and potential hair loss, Kalon Dermatology says.
According to Head and Shoulders, the overuse of gels and foams can cause dandruff and greasiness, especially when you are not washing it out properly.
More greasiness leads to more slick backs… a vicious circle.
In conclusion, yes, the slick back can cause hair damage when not taking precautions and overusing it over the years.
However, like everything in life, most things are okay in moderation. So, for all the ‘slick back’ fans out there: Wash your hair, slick it back (sometimes), be careful and continue looking beautiful.
