Joseph Gordon-Levitt’s 2016 Hairstyle: A Soft Slick Back

Product update: By Vilain Powermade has been improved and reformulated as By Vilain Flow Pomade. The original images have been retained and may show the former Powermade product.

Joseph Gordon-Levitt’s gala-inspired 2016 hairstyle combines a longer swept-back top with softly graduated sides. The Slikhaar version keeps some volume and movement, making it different from a flat, heavily gelled slick back.

What to ask your barber for

The original cut uses roughly 12 cm at the front and 10 cm through the top. Side lengths graduate from about 1.5 to 3 cm; the back from about 1 to 4 cm. These measurements describe the tutorial model. Ask for enough front length to sweep back comfortably and a connected transition around the head.

Prepare the hair and tools

Keep a reference photo, a suitable comb or brush, a dryer if you use one, and your chosen styling product nearby. Start with hair that is free of heavy buildup. If shampooing, follow with conditioner where your lengths need it and rinse as directed. Blot rather than rub with a towel.

Set the direction before adding the finish

Start at the front and guide the hair backwards with a brush as you dry. Lift at the roots before directing the ends back. Keep the sides closer to the head so the top has definition without becoming a high pompadour.

Choose the hold and shine

Apply Flow Pomade sparingly for shine and flexible control. Work it through the lengths before refining the surface with a comb. For hair that collapses easily, use less pomade and spend more time establishing the shape during drying.

Adjust the result to your hair

If your hair springs forward, it may be too short at the front or fighting its natural direction. If it separates into shiny strips, reduce the amount of finishing product. A looser, slightly side-swept finish is a useful alternative.

Use the original tutorial as a reference

The retained Slikhaar images document the original version of this look. Show the haircut details to your barber and use the styling sequence as a starting point. Cutting, graduation and selective weight removal are barber decisions; home styling begins with the finished haircut.

Original videos and style references

• Watch the original video

Related guides

• Michael Fassbender Haircut: The Classic 2016 Side Part
• G-Eazy Slick-Back Haircut: Cut, Part and Styling Steps