A slicked-back bun looks simple. In theory, you create one by just pulling your hair back and twisting it into a knot. Voilà: instant model-off-duty elegance, right?
In reality, you’re standing in front of a mirror a half hour after you were supposed to be out the door with a mysterious bump and countless flyaways. The entire point of the style is for every strand to look intentionally (and impossibly) in place, which can make achieving it feel like a test of both patience and upper-body strength.
Despite the frustrations that come with creating one, a truly sleek bun doesn’t require growing a third arm and relentless yanking of your strands. The right styling products and tools from prep to finish will do most of the work. We spoke with hairstylists and Allure editors who regularly wear their hair in the updo about what makes the difference between a smooth, polished bun and a messy, uncooperative lump. Ahead, they break down exactly which products to use at each step, with tips tailored to different hair types.
Meet the experts
Prep
To get the best results, you can’t just jump into yoinking back your strands. If you prioritize the prep process and tailor it to your hair type, you can help ensure a smoother experience with less damage. Hairstylist Chris Russell recommends first spritzing your strands with a heat-protectant spray, then rough-drying your hair. (The Bumble and Bumble Heat Shield Thermal Protection Hair Mist is one of our favorites for reducing frizz and defending against breakage.) Then he suggests running a thermal brush (like the Sutra IR Infrared Thermal Brush) through your hair, saying it helps ensure “even texture, controlled shine, and a seamless finish before pulling your hair back.”
Our resident slicked-back-bun pros and Allure editors don’t all reach for a hot tool after drying their hair. Allure content director Sophie Panych, whose hair is naturally fine and straight, will occasionally touch things up with a flat iron. Social media manager Bianca Richards, who blew out her thick, naturally wavy hair before creating her slicked-back bun, says she reaches for the Wavytalk Thermal Brush for added sleekness. Commerce production assistant Hailey Roy, who has 3C curls, actually skips a hot tool altogether. “I’ve always done slicked-back buns with my natural hair,” she says, adding that she tries her best to keep her strands away from heat.
