Brushed back hairstyles have long represented timeless elegance and masculine sophistication. Whether you’re aiming for a suave, red-carpet look or a clean everyday style, the brushed back haircut offers unmatched versatility. With over 25 years of hands-on experience in haircutting and styling, I’ve watched this classic look evolve into modern interpretations tailored to all hair types, textures, and lengths.
In this guide, discover how to achieve the perfect brushed back hairstyle, tailored tips for various hair conditions like thinning or receding hairlines, and the best techniques for styling and maintenance.
Contents
- 1. Brushed Back Hairstyles for Men with Thin Hair
- 2. Brushed Back Fade
- 3. Modern Brushed Back Hair
- 4. Combed Back vs. Brushed Back: What’s the Difference?
- 5. Brushed Back with Low Fade
- 6. Brushed Back for Receding Hairline
- 7. Brushed Back Bob
- 8. Brushed Back Disconnected Undercut
- 9. Brushed Back with Drop Fade
- 10. Brushed Back Short Hair
- Quick Guide: Brushed Back Hairstyle Maintenance
- Top 5 Products for Brushed Back Styles
- Final Thoughts
What is a Brushed Back Hairstyle?
The brushed back hairstyle involves combing or brushing the hair backwards from the forehead toward the crown. It doesn’t require a parting, making it a clean and seamless look suitable for both formal and casual occasions.
Core Features:
- Hair is styled backwards (not slicked, unless using wet products)
- Works best with medium to longer lengths on top
- Often paired with fades, undercuts, or tapered sides
Benefits of the Brushed Back Hairstyle
- Timeless Appeal – Suitable for all ages and professions
- Customisable – Works with low fade, drop fade, undercut, and natural side taper
- Low Maintenance – Once cut correctly, it requires minimal daily effort
- Versatile for All Hair Types – From thick and wavy to thin and straight
1. Brushed Back Hairstyles for Men with Thin Hair
For gents with thinning hair, the brushed back style offers a clever way to add structure without drawing attention to sparse areas.
Tips:
- Use a volumising mousse or lightweight matte clay to avoid weighing the hair down.
- Avoid slick, shiny products – they highlight scalp exposure.
- Blow-dry while lifting the roots to create the illusion of fullness.
Recommended Style:
Brushed Back with Low Fade – creates contrast on the sides to make the top appear fuller.
2. Brushed Back Fade
This style combines the clean finish of a fade with the elegance of brushed back styling.
Popular Variants:
| Fade Type | Best For | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Low Fade | Conservative workplaces | Subtle blend into skin at the ears |
| Drop Fade | Fashion-forward individuals | Curves naturally behind the ears |
| High Fade | Bold, edgy looks | Strong contrast; great for dense hair |
Styling Tip: Keep the top between 3–5 inches in length for easy brushing and movement.
3. Modern Brushed Back Hair
The modern twist on this classic involves a softer finish with added texture.
Key Characteristics:
- Textured top: Instead of a slick finish, use fingers to rough-style
- Matte finish: Achieved with pomades or clay for a more natural look
- Tapered sides or skin fade: Optional based on personal style
Product Picks for a Modern Look:
- Matte Clay (for volume and pliability)
- Sea Salt Spray (to enhance natural texture)
4. Combed Back vs. Brushed Back: What’s the Difference?
Though often used interchangeably, there’s a subtle distinction between the two:
| Feature | Brushed Back | Combed Back |
|---|---|---|
| Tool Used | Brush or fingers | Fine-tooth comb |
| Finish | Soft, voluminous | Sleek, controlled |
| Product | Matte clay, mousse | Pomade, gel |
| Style Impact | Modern and casual | Classic and polished |
Pro Tip: Choose combed back for formal events; brushed back for daily wear.
5. Brushed Back with Low Fade
A low fade subtly blends the sides into the skin, offering a neat frame that highlights the volume on top.
Why It Works:
- The fade starts just above the ears and gradually increases in length
- Suitable for conservative or professional environments
- Best for men who prefer minimalist maintenance
How to Maintain:
- Trim every 2–3 weeks to keep the fade clean
- Use a vent brush and dryer for shaping after washing
6. Brushed Back for Receding Hairline
If you’re experiencing a receding hairline, a brushed back hairstyle can be a powerful way to reshape your profile confidently.
Advice for Receding Lines:
- Keep the hair longer towards the front and crown
- Apply fibre-boosting sprays or light-hold wax for structure
- Avoid partings that expose the hairline further
Recommended Variant:
Brushed Back Bob – longer layers that subtly veil the forehead edges
7. Brushed Back Bob
This modern take suits men with medium to long hair. Think layered back brush with loose volume and minimal product use.
Ideal Hair Types:
- Wavy or straight hair with length
- Thick density that supports natural movement
Styling Steps:
- Towel dry hair
- Apply light styling cream
- Blow-dry using a paddle brush
- Finish with a few spritzes of texturising spray
Best for: Creative professionals or those with flexible dress codes
8. Brushed Back Disconnected Undercut
A disconnected undercut pairs high contrast sides with a bold brushed back top.
Features:
- No tapering or blending on the sides
- Top hair is often dramatically longer
- High-impact, fashion-forward style
Style Notes:
- Requires regular upkeep
- Ideal for those with confidence and strong facial features
9. Brushed Back with Drop Fade
The drop fade dips behind the ear, following the natural shape of the head.
Why It’s Trending:
- More natural than a high fade
- Offers shape and contour from the profile view
- Works exceptionally well with short or medium brushed back styles
Styling Routine:
- Start with damp hair
- Add pre-styling spray
- Blow-dry with fingers or brush back
- Finish with matte paste for a soft hold
10. Brushed Back Short Hair
Short hair doesn’t mean skipping on style. A brushed back cut with short length offers a fresh, clean look.
Ideal For:
- Active lifestyles
- Gents who prefer a 2–3 week barbering cycle
Styling Tip:
Use a pea-sized amount of product; less is more with short hair. Brush back with firm strokes and finish with cool air from the dryer.
Quick Guide: Brushed Back Hairstyle Maintenance
| Task | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Haircut refresh | Every 2–4 weeks | Keep the sides neat and shape defined |
| Product build-up cleanse | Weekly | Use clarifying shampoo |
| Trim neckline & ears | Bi-weekly | Maintain tidy appearance between cuts |
| Moisturise scalp | 2–3x per week | Prevent flaking, especially with gels |
Top 5 Products for Brushed Back Styles
- Reuzel Matte Styling Paste – for flexible hold
- American Crew Forming Cream – classic, versatile
- Salt Spray by Bluebeards Revenge – boosts texture
- Babyliss PRO Hair Dryer – reliable styling tool
- Kent UK Vent Brush – ideal for back-brushing control
Final Thoughts
Brushed back hairstyles continue to evolve with the times, offering something unique for every man—regardless of hair type, lifestyle, or preference. From textured modern takes to polished fades and undercuts, the brushed back look remains a reliable staple in men’s grooming.
With the right cut, proper maintenance, and premium styling products, any man can master the brushed back hairstyle and carry it with effortless charm and confidence.