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Gen Z trendsetters might want to slow down on the slick-back styles — lest they have no more hair left to slick back at all.
“Slick-back” buns and ponytails have been a staple of “it girls” like Bella Hadid since the early 2020s. To get the look, strands are pulled back as tightly as humanly possible, then smoothed with product for a polished, face-sculpting coif that’s camera ready.
Only one problem — these can prompt the unintended consequence of a thinned-out hairline, according to hair loss experts.
Tina Mui, a master hairstylist, certified trichologist and haircare brand owner, told The Post that while she understands the appeal of the “clean girl aesthetic” popularized style, which can “double as a quick facelift,” it can create tension where hair is usually more fragile.
“The risk with a tight slick-back is traction alopecia, which is hair loss caused by repeatedly pulling the follicle, usually around the hairline and temples,” Mui explained.
“This type of hair loss isn’t instant; it’s generally caused by extended periods of consistent, tight styling,” she continued.
Mui added that while too many long-worn slick-backs can contribute to balding, they’re not typically the main culprit — and that in the last few years, she’s seen an uptick in female hair loss for women of all ages for a variety of reasons.
“More commonly, I see thinning caused by hormonal and nutritional imbalances,” said Mui. “Our lifestyles are becoming increasingly hectic, and factors like significant stress, illness, weight loss from GLP-1s, changes in medication, or even chronic lack of sleep can all disrupt the hair growth cycle and cause symptoms like shedding.”
Shaina Rainford, a board-certified nurse practitioner and haircare brand owner, told The Post that often, women don’t even realize their hair is thinning until the problem becomes significantly noticeable — which can pose a psychological shock in the mirror.
“It may feel sudden to them, even though the damage has been developing over time,” said Rainford. “By that point, it can affect their confidence and self-esteem. Hair is deeply personal, so noticing that your edges look thinner or your hairline has changed can be upsetting.”
When it comes to slick-backs in particular, which can lead to broken hairs, less fullness around the edges or a gradually receding hairline if worn too tightly and too often, Rainford’s first recommendation is to “reduce the tension” when pulling hair back.
“Loosen the hairstyle, alternate with styles that don’t pull on the hairline, and be gentle when brushing and styling,” Rainford advised. “If a hairstyle hurts or causes stinging or scalp irritation, take it down.”
But that doesn’t mean all hope is lost for lovers of the sleek beauty statement.
Thinning caused by the popular style can be improved with proper haircare and scalp care. However, if it continues even after the proper precautions are taken, Rainford shared it’s best to visit to a board-certified dermatologist, who can properly identify the cause and determine whether further treatment is needed.
In the meantime, slick-back styles are still fair game — so long as the wearer styles it with care.
“[Slick-backs] are practical, versatile, and easy to dress up or down.” said Rainford. “My hope is that women become more mindful of how they achieve the look, using less tension and giving their hair a break between styles.“
“The message I want women to remember is simple: sleek does not have to mean tight.”
