Fades, a popular and timeless hair styling technique, have become a staple in modern grooming. Characterized by a gradual transition from short hair to longer hair, fade hair offers a versatile and stylish option for those looking to elevate their look. From classic to modern, there are many fade styles that cater to different hair textures and preferences. So, whether you’re a gentleman looking for an edgy and polished look or a trendsetter looking for a modern twist, let’s explore fade types in this article.
Keys Takeaways
- Definition: A faded haircut refers to the gradual transition from short to long hair, achieved through tapering or fading techniques. It creates a seamless blend and can be customized based on preferences.
- Different Types of Fades: There are various types of fades, including low fade, high fade, mid fade, skin fade, drop fade, burst fade, bald fade, shadow fade, taper fade, and temple fade. Each type has its own characteristics, such as the placement and height of the fade.
- Pros and Cons of Different Types of Fades: Versatile, easy to maintain, offers a clean and polished look. Requires regular maintenance, and may not suit everyone’s style or facial features. Provides a contrast between longer hair and shaved sides, versatile styling options.
- Popular Variations: Some popular variations of the fade haircut include the comb over fade, pompadour fade, Afro fade, faux hawk fade, textured crop fade, spiky fade, curly top fade, undercut fade, Mohawk fade, and slicked back fade. These variations combine different hairstyles with fade to create unique and stylish looks.
Learn About Fade Haircut
A faded haircut is a popular men’s hairstyle that involves gradually transitioning the length of the hair from shorter to longer or vice versa. It is characterized by a seamless blend between different lengths, creating a smooth and tapered appearance. The fade typically starts shorter near the sides and back of the head and gradually fades or tapers into longer hair on top. This creates a clean and stylish look.
The term “fade” refers to the fading effect that is achieved by seamlessly blending the hair at different lengths. The transition can be sharp and distinct or more gradual, depending on the desired style. Fades can be customized based on personal preference, with different fade heights (low, mid, high), different lengths on top, and various textures and styles on the longer hair.
Fade haircuts are versatile and can be combined with various hairstyles, such as a pompadour, quiff, slicked back, or textured crop. They can also be adapted to different hair types, including straight, wavy, curly, and afro-textured hair. Fade haircuts have become popular due to their clean and polished appearance, as well as the flexibility they offer in terms of personal style and customization.
How Many Types Of Fades Are There?
Fades haircut is a popular hairstyle for men. It varies in length, texture, and cutting technique. Here we will learn about the types of fades including definitions, pros and cons, cutting techniques of each type of fades, and the difference between types of fades. There are several different types of fades. Here are some of the most common ones:
| Fade Type | Starting Point | Pros | Cons |
| Low Fade | Above ears or temple | Versatile, easy maintenance, suits all face shapes | Visible regrowth, less contrast compared to higher fades |
| High Fade | Above temples or higher | The dramatic contrast, clean look | Requires more maintenance, visible regrowth |
| Mid Fade | The midway point on the sides | Balanced transition, versatile | Less dramatic contrast compared to extreme fades |
| Skin Fade | Varies (low, mid, high) | Seamless blend, sharp appearance | Requires regular maintenance, may require more skill |
| Drop Fade | Temple area and drops | Unique and stylish, distinct appearance | Requires precise execution, limited styling options |
| Burst Fade | Circular pattern | The distinctive and eye-catching look | Requires skillful execution, limited styling options |
| Bald Fade | Varies (low, mid, high) | Seamless blend, sharp appearance | Requires regular maintenance, may require more skill |
| Shadow Fade | Gradual blending | The soft and natural-looking, subtle effect | Less pronounced contrast requires blending skills |
| Taper Fade | Hair gradually tapers from top to bottom | Blended and structured look, versatile | Requires regular maintenance, noticeable regrowth |
| Temple Fade | Around the temples | Clean and sharp look, enhances features | Limited styling options require precision |
Low Fade
A low fade refers to a fade haircut where the hair is tapered shorter starting just above the ears or at the temple. The fade gradually blends the longer hair on top with the shorter hair on the sides and back of the head.
Pros: The low fade is versatile and works well with various hairstyles and hair types. It offers a clean and polished appearance, gradually transitioning from longer to shorter hair. The low fade requires less maintenance than other fade styles, as the longer hair on top allows for more styling options. It complements a wide range of face shapes and can help enhance facial features.
Cons: Since the fade starts relatively high, the regrowth of the hair may be more noticeable compared to higher fade styles. The low fade may not provide as much contrast between the longer hair on top and the shorter sides and back as higher fade styles.
High Fade
A high fade is a type of fade haircut where the hair is tapered or faded very short on the sides and back, starting above the temples or even higher on the head. The transition from longer hair on top to the shorter sides and back is more pronounced, creating a dramatic contrast.
Pros: The high fade offers a bold and striking contrast between the longer hair on top and the significantly shorter sides and back. It provides a clean and polished appearance, giving a well-groomed and stylish look. The longer hair on top allows for various styling options, including pompadours, quiffs, slicked-back styles, and more. The shorter sides and back require less maintenance than longer hair, making it easier to maintain the haircut’s overall appearance.
Cons: With the high fade starting above the temples, the regrowth of the hair on the sides and back may be more noticeable compared to lower fade styles. Regular touch-ups or maintenance visits may be required to keep the fade looking fresh. The high fade has a more distinct and abrupt transition, which may limit blending options if you prefer a more gradual fade. The high fade may not be ideal for individuals with certain head shapes or hair textures, as it can accentuate certain features or make the scalp more visible.
Mid Fade
A mid fade is a type of fade haircut where the hair is tapered or faded relatively shorter on the sides and back, starting at the midway point of the head. The transition from longer hair on top to shorter sides and back is moderate, creating a balanced and blended look.
Pros: The mid fade offers a balanced and gradual transition between the longer hair on top and the shorter sides and back, providing a harmonious overall appearance. The longer hair on top allows for a variety of styling options, from textured crops to slicked-back styles, making it adaptable to different preferences and trends. The moderate contrast of the mid fade provides a cleaner and more polished look compared to higher fades, while still maintaining some distinction between the lengths of hair. The shorter sides and back require less maintenance compared to longer hair, making it easier to maintain the overall shape of the haircut.
Cons: The mid fade has a more defined transition compared to lower fades, which may limit the options for achieving a gradual blend between different lengths of hair. If you prefer a more pronounced contrast or bold look, the mid fade may not provide the same level of drama as a high fade or skin fade. While the mid fade requires less maintenance than longer hairstyles, it still benefits from regular touch-ups to keep the fade looking fresh and well-maintained.
Skin Fade
A skin fade, also known as a bald fade, is a type of fade haircut where the hair is gradually tapered down to the skin, creating a seamless blend between the hair and the scalp. The fade typically starts with longer hair on top and gradually decreases in length as it reaches the sides and back, ending in a shaved or closely trimmed section.
Pros: The skin fade provides a seamless and smooth transition from the hair to the skin, creating a clean and polished look. It offers a sharp and defined appearance, with a distinct contrast between the longer hair on top and the shaved or closely trimmed sides and back. The longer hair on top allows for a range of styling options, from textured styles to pompadours or slicked-back looks. The shaved or closely trimmed sides and back require minimal maintenance, making it a convenient choice for those who prefer a low-maintenance hairstyle.
Cons: Skin fades require regular maintenance to maintain the sharp and clean look, as the hair will quickly grow back and the contrast may become less noticeable. Since the fade starts at the skin, the regrowth of the hair on the sides and back will be more noticeable compared to other fade styles, requiring more frequent touch-ups. Skin fades may not be suitable for individuals with sensitive scalps or specific hair textures, as the shaved or closely trimmed areas can sometimes cause irritation or reveal uneven scalp textures.
Drop Fade
A drop fade is a type of fade haircut where the fade line drops behind the ear in a curved or “dropped” shape. The hair is tapered down to the skin or a shorter length, creating a distinct and stylish look.
Pros: The drop fade offers a unique and eye-catching appearance due to the dropped fade line, adding an element of individuality to your hairstyle. The dropped fade line can help accentuate facial features by drawing attention to the upper portion of the face, such as the eyes or cheekbones. The longer hair on top provides versatility for various styling options, allowing you to experiment with different looks and textures. The drop fade creates a clean and polished look, especially when combined with well-groomed and styled hair on top.
Cons: Achieving a precise and clean drop fade line can be challenging, requiring a skilled barber who is experienced in creating this specific type of fade. The drop fade’s distinct drop line may limit the blending options for achieving a more gradual fade between the longer hair on top and the shorter sides and back. Like most fade haircuts, drop fades require regular maintenance to keep the fade line and overall shape looking sharp and well-defined.
Burst Fade
A burst fade, also known as a South of France fade, is a type of fade haircut characterized by a circular or “burst” pattern around the ear. The hair is faded in a curved shape, creating a distinctive and visually appealing look.
Pros: The burst fade offers a unique and attention-grabbing appearance due to its distinct circular or burst pattern, setting it apart from other fade styles. The curved shape of the burst fade adds a creative and artistic touch to your hairstyle, making it a bold choice for those looking to express their individuality. The longer hair on top allows for a range of styling options, including textured styles, curls, or even a pompadour, providing versatility to suit different preferences. The burst fade creates a clean and polished appearance, particularly when combined with well-groomed and styled hair on top.
Cons: Achieving a clean and symmetrical burst fade pattern requires precision and skill from a skilled barber experienced in creating this specific type of fade. The distinct circular or burst pattern may limit the blending options for achieving a more gradual fade between the longer hair on top and the shorter sides and back. Like most fade haircuts, burst fades require regular maintenance to maintain the fade pattern and overall shape, ensuring it continues to look sharp and well-defined.
Bald Fade
A bald fade, also known as a skin fade or zero fade, is a type of fade haircut where the hair is tapered down to the skin, creating a seamless blend between the hair and the scalp. The fade is typically done very high on the sides and back, resulting in a close-cut or shaved appearance.
Pros: The bald fade offers a clean and sharp appearance, creating a polished and well-groomed look. The seamless blend between the hair and the scalp creates a smooth transition, giving the appearance of a closely cropped or shaved head. The bald fade allows for versatility in styling options on the longer hair on top, providing room for various creative and trendy hairstyles. The shaved or closely cropped sides and back require minimal maintenance, making it a convenient choice for those who prefer a low-maintenance hairstyle.
Cons: Maintaining the bald fade requires regular touch-ups to keep the fade looking fresh and maintain a close-cut or shaved appearance. Since the fade starts at the skin, the regrowth of the hair on the sides and back will be more noticeable compared to other fade styles, necessitating more frequent touch-ups. The close-cut or shaved appearance of the bald fade may not be suitable for everyone’s personal style or facial features. It’s essential to consider your desired aesthetic and facial shape before opting for a bald fade.
Shadow Fade
A shadow fade is a type of fade haircut that creates a subtle gradient effect, where the hair gradually transitions from short to longer lengths. The fade is not as pronounced or distinct as in other fade styles, resulting in a softer and more natural-looking blend.
Pros: The shadow fade creates a softer and more gradual transition between different hair lengths, resulting in a natural-looking blend. The longer hair on top allows for a range of styling options, including textured styles, tousled looks, or slicked-back hairstyles. The shadow fade is relatively low maintenance, as the softer transition helps to conceal any noticeable regrowth between haircuts. The shadow fade can work well with different hair types, including straight, wavy, and curly hair.
Cons: The shadow fade may not provide the same level of contrast or sharpness as other fade styles. If you prefer a more pronounced fade, a shadow fade may not be the ideal choice. Achieving a seamless and well-blended shadow fade requires precision and skill from a skilled barber experienced in creating this specific type of fade. Due to the gradual nature of the shadow fade, it may have less defined lines and edges compared to other fade styles, which some individuals may prefer.
Taper Fade
A taper fade is a type of fade haircut where the hair gradually tapers from longer to shorter lengths. It involves blending the hair on the sides and back into the desired length, creating a smooth and well-blended transition.
Pros: The taper fade offers a blended and structured appearance, with a gradual transition from longer hair on top to shorter hair on the sides and back. The longer hair on top allows for a variety of styling options, making it adaptable to different preferences and trends. The taper fade provides a balanced transition between the lengths of hair, creating a natural-looking and well-proportioned haircut. The shorter sides and back of the taper fade require less maintenance compared to longer hairstyles, making it easier to maintain the overall shape of the haircut.
Cons: Taper fades require regular maintenance to maintain the shape and ensure that the fade remains clean and well-defined. Since the taper fade involves shorter hair on the sides and back, regrowth can be more noticeable compared to longer hairstyles, necessitating more frequent touch-ups. The taper fade may not provide the same level of dramatic contrast as high fades or skin fades, as the transition is more gradual.
Temple Fade
A temple fade is a type of fade haircut where the fading or tapering is specifically focused around the temples, creating a clean and sharp look in that area. The fade gradually blends the hair from a longer length to a shorter length near the temples.
Pros: The temple fade provides a clean and sharp appearance, emphasizing the temples and creating a polished look. By drawing attention to the temple area, the fade can help enhance and highlight facial features, such as the eyes and cheekbones. The longer hair on top allows for various styling options, allowing you to experiment with different looks and textures. The temple fade adds a distinctive detail to your hairstyle, providing a touch of individuality and uniqueness.
Cons: Achieving a precise and clean temple fade line requires skill and precision from a skilled barber experienced in creating this specific type of fade. The temple fade’s focused fade around the temples may limit the blending options for achieving a more gradual fade between the longer hair on top and the shorter sides and back. Like most fade haircuts, temple fades require regular maintenance to keep the fade line looking sharp and well-defined.
What Are Some Hairstyles Of The Fade For Men?
There are several popular variations of the fade haircut for men that have gained popularity in recent years. Here are a few examples:
Comb Over Fade
The comb-over fade is a popular variation of the fade haircut that combines a fade on the sides and back with longer hair on top, which is typically styled by combing it to the side. This style offers a clean and polished look that can be versatile and suitable for various occasions.
The sides and back are gradually tapered or faded, starting from a shorter length and blending into the longer hair on top. The hair on top is left longer, allowing for more styling options and versatility. The longer hair on top is typically styled by combing it to the side, creating a classic and sophisticated look.
Pompadour Fade
The pompadour fade is a stylish variation of the fade haircut that combines a fade on the sides and back with a voluminous and swept-back pompadour on top. This style merges a classic, retro-inspired look with a modern touch.
The sides and back are tapered or faded, creating a seamless blend from shorter hair to longer hair on top. The hair on top is left longer and styled into a voluminous pompadour, which is characterized by a high, swept-back shape with ample volume and height. The pompadour fade creates a sharp contrast between the longer, styled hair on top and the shorter, faded sides and back.
Afro Fade
The Afro fade, also known as a temp fade or taper fade, is a popular variation of the fade haircut specifically designed for individuals with natural, kinky, or curly hair. This style combines a fade on the sides and back with a full, rounded, or elongated Afro on top.
The sides and back are tapered or faded, starting from a shorter length and gradually blending into the longer hair on top. The hair on top is left natural, allowing it to grow out into a full, rounded, or elongated Afro shape. The Afro fade celebrates and enhances the natural texture of the hair, showcasing its unique characteristics and volume.
Faux Hawk Fade
The faux hawk fade is a trendy and edgy variation of the fade haircut that combines a fade on the sides and back with a styled faux hawk on top. This style offers a modern and fashionable look with a touch of boldness.
The sides and back are tapered or faded, creating a seamless blend from shorter hair to longer hair on top. The longer hair on top is styled into a raised, spiky, or textured faux hawk, resembling the shape of a Mohawk but without shaving the sides. The length of the hair on top can vary, allowing for different styling options and variations in height and texture.
Textured Crop Fade
The textured crop fade is a contemporary and popular variation of the fade haircut that combines a fade on the sides and back with a textured and layered crop cut on top. This style offers a trendy and effortlessly cool look with a focus on texture and movement
The sides and back are tapered or faded, creating a seamless blend from shorter hair to longer hair on top. The hair on top is cut into a textured and layered crop style, characterized by short to medium-length hair with choppy, textured ends. The textured crop fade emphasizes the hair’s natural texture and movement, creating a relaxed and effortlessly stylish look.
Spiky Fade
The spiky fade is a trendy variation of the fade haircut that combines a fade on the sides and back with a textured and spiked hairstyle on top. This style offers a bold and edgy look with a focus on height and definition.
The sides and back are tapered or faded, creating a seamless blend from shorter hair to longer hair on top. The hair on top is styled into spikes, with individual strands lifted and pointed upward for a textured and defined look. The spiky fade emphasizes height and texture, adding volume and dimension to the hairstyle.
Curly Top Fade
The curly top fade is a stylish and popular variation of the fade haircut specifically designed for individuals with curly or wavy hair. This style combines a fade on the sides and back with longer, textured, and curly hair on top. It creates a unique and eye-catching look that embraces and enhances natural curls.
The sides and back are tapered or faded, gradually transitioning from shorter hair to longer hair on top. The hair on top is left longer and showcases the natural texture and curls/waves of the hair. The curly top fade emphasizes texture, volume, and movement, creating a visually appealing and dynamic hairstyle.
Undercut Fade
The undercut fade is a trendy and modern variation of the fade haircut that combines an undercut on the sides and back with a fade transition. This style features a distinct contrast between the longer hair on top and the shorter, faded sides and back.
The hair on the sides and back is shaved or cut significantly shorter than the hair on top, creating a bold contrast. The hair gradually faded from the shorter length on the sides and back to the longer length on top, creating a smooth and seamless transition. The hair on top is left longer and can be styled in various ways, offering versatility in terms of length, texture, and styling options.
Mohawk Fade
The Mohawk fade is a bold and statement-making variation of the fade haircut that combines a fade on the sides with a strip of longer hair in the center. This style creates a striking contrast between the shaved or faded sides and the raised or spiked hair in the middle, resembling the classic Mohawk hairstyle.
The hair on the sides and back is either shaved or gradually faded from shorter lengths to the skin, creating a clean and sharp contrast. The hair in the center is left longer and can be styled into a raised or spiked Mohawk shape, emphasizing height and definition. The fade on the sides and back blends smoothly into the longer hair in the center, creating a seamless and stylish transition.
Slicked Back Fade
The slicked-back fade is a polished and classic variation of the fade haircut that combines a fade on the sides and back with the hair on top styled sleekly and combed back. This style offers a sophisticated and refined look that works well for both formal and casual occasions.
The hair on the sides and back is tapered or faded, creating a gradual transition from shorter hair to longer hair on top. The longer hair on top is styled using a styling product, such as pomade or gel, to achieve a sleek and polished look. It is then combed backward to create a clean and sophisticated appearance. The slicked-back fade creates a contrast between the shorter hair on the sides and the longer, neatly styled hair on top.
FAQs
What is a fade haircut?
A fade haircut is a style where the hair is cut shorter on the sides and back and gradually blends into longer lengths on top. It creates a seamless transition from one length to another.
Who can get a fade haircut?
Fade haircuts are versatile and can be customized to suit different hair types, lengths, and textures. They are popular among men of all ages and can work for various face shapes.
What are the benefits of a fade haircut?
One benefit of a fade haircut is its clean and polished appearance. It offers a sharp contrast between the shorter sides and the longer top, providing a trendy and stylish look. Fades are also relatively low-maintenance hairstyles.
How long does a fade last?
The duration of a fade haircut’s appearance depends on various factors, such as hair growth rate and desired length. On average, a fade can maintain its shape for two to four weeks before it starts to grow out.
Are there different types of fade haircuts?
Yes, there are several types of fade haircuts to choose from. Some common variations include low fade, high fade, skin fade, taper fade, drop fade, burst fade, and temp fade. Each type has its own distinct characteristics.
What is the difference between a low fade and a high fade?
A low fade starts the tapering process near the hairline, around the ears or slightly above, while a high fade begins higher on the head, typically above the temples. The choice between the two depends on personal preference and desired style.
Can fade haircuts be combined with other styles?
Absolutely! Fade haircuts can be combined with various hairstyles, such as pompadours, quiffs, side parts, and textured tops. Adding these elements can further enhance the overall look and create a unique style.
How do I maintain a fade haircut?
Regular visits to the barber or stylist are important for maintaining a fade haircut. Trimming the sides and back regularly will keep the fade clean and prevent it from growing out unevenly. Using quality hair products can also help style and maintain the longer hair on top.
Can fade haircuts work with curly or textured hair?
Yes, fade haircuts can complement curly or textured hair beautifully. The fade can help create contrast and definition between the sides and the curly or textured top. It’s important to find a stylist who is experienced in working with curly or textured hair for the best results.
Are fade haircuts suitable for women?
Fade haircuts are traditionally more popular among men. However, in recent years, many women have embraced fade-inspired styles as well. Women can opt for softer variations of fades or adapt the style to suit their preferences and individuality.
