The Slick Back in Dubai: Products, Upkeep, and How to Make It Work
The slick back is one of the more demanding styles to maintain in Dubai's heat — the product that holds it in London melts on the commute from JVC to DIFC. This post covers which products survive Dubai's climate and how the cut itself needs to be set up to make it last.
The Slick Back in Dubai's Climate
A slick back works when the product grips the hair and holds it behind the crown. In Dubai, most pomades and waxes with an oil base soften in the heat — the style loses hold by mid-morning outdoors. The solution is water-based product, not oil-based, and the right haircut underneath.
The Cut That Makes It Work
A slick back needs length on top — at least 3 to 4 inches — and short sides that taper or fade to reduce the weight that pulls the top forward. If the sides are too long, the hair falls out of the slick-back position as it grows. Most men at Barberhood who wear a slick back pair it with a mid skin fade or a tapered undercut.
Product Guide for Dubai
Water-based pomade — holds in humidity, washes out cleanly. Best for true slick-back with strong hold.
Lightweight gel — fast-drying, high hold in heat, but crunchy finish.
Avoid oil-based pomade in summer (May-September) — melts above 35 degrees.
Avoid heavy wax — same problem as oil-based in extreme heat.
The Morning Routine That Holds
Dry hair first. Apply water-based pomade to damp-not-wet hair and comb straight back. Finish with a light-hold hairspray over the top — not for stiffness, but to lock the water-based product in place when humidity rises. Sobhy at Barberhood demonstrates this for clients who want the style but keep losing it by 11am.
Getting the Right Foundation Cut
Men's haircut — from AED 60 for taper, AED 70 for skin fade, includes wash, blow-dry, and style.
Open daily 10am to midnight. 400+ Google reviews. 5.0 rating. Book at barberhood.ae/book.
Located in Lavender 2, Emirates Gardens, we're easily accessible from Al Khail Road and a short 3-minute drive from Circle Mall JVC.
Frequently asked questions
How do I keep a slick back style in Dubai's heat?
Use a water-based pomade rather than oil-based — oil-based products soften above 35 degrees and lose hold. Apply to damp hair, comb back, and finish with a light hairspray to lock the hold in humidity.
What haircut do I need for a slick back?
At least 3 to 4 inches on top, with short tapered or faded sides. A mid skin fade or tapered undercut is the most common foundation for a slick back at Barberhood JVC. Haircuts start from AED 60.
Does a slick back work for all hair types in Dubai?
Straight and wavy hair works well. Curly or very thick hair needs a stronger-hold product and usually a longer top length to maintain the direction. Mohammad at Barberhood advises on product choice at the visit.