Why I’m Rethinking the Slick-Back Bun Life

Let’s talk about it—the slick-back bun. She’s cute. She’s polished. She makes you feel like that girl. But after months of rocking her regularly, I had to ask myself: at what cost?

I posted recently about how that tension was giving what it needed to give… until it wasn’t. My edges started whispering for help. And when your hair starts breaking where it used to be flourishing? Yeah, it’s time to pause and reassess.

The Truth: Slick-Back Styles Aren’t As Harmless As They Look

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You see, all that tension—especially when done daily or with heavy gels and tight elastics—starts to wear on your hairline. The slickness we love comes at a price: breakage, thinning edges, and in some cases, traction alopecia.

Now I’m not here to scare you—I’m still a fan of a sleek style! But I’ve learned to treat them like red lipstick or high heels: best saved for when you really want to make a statement, not your everyday go-to.

So, What’s the Alternative?

I’ve been leaning into wash-and-gos, low-tension styles, and honestly? Just letting my curls do their thing more often. I’m rediscovering how freeing it is to not feel like every hair has to be in place to look put together.

It’s not that slick-back buns are cancelled—they’re just not on a full-time contract anymore.

Here’s How I’m Protecting My Hair Now:

Loosening the grip: No more snatching my hair to the heavens. If I’m going sleek, it’s with a soft touch.
Switching it up: One day it’s a puff, another day a twist-out. I’m giving my hair room to breathe.
Using better tools: Satin scrunchies, edge-friendly brushes, and no more crunchy gel overload.
Scalp care is self-care: Moisturizing and massaging my scalp regularly to keep things thriving underneath it all.

TL;DR? Let Your Edges Live

Hair health is a journey, and part of that is listening to what your strands are telling you. Mine told me they were tired of being pulled for the sake of “aesthetic.” So now I’m choosing styles that look good and feel good, too.

If you’re also making the switch—or thinking about it—I see you. And I promise, your natural hair is already enough. Period.

Have you noticed damage from slick-back styles too? Are you giving them a break? Let me know in the comments or slide into my DMs—we’re in this healthy hair journey together.