A low taper fade is a section of clipper work where the hair is cut gradually shorter, working down from the temple area to the sideburn. When accurately cut, a low taper fade produces a sharp profile across the back and sides that complements a variety of hairstyles on top.
When it comes to your barber cutting it in, instead of working in a low graded line all the way around the head (like you would with an outright faded hairstyle), a low taper fade should start with a line (often a grade zero) on the sideburn. This is then blended up towards the top of the ears a short amount before meeting the rest of the haircut. The hair above the fade (both on the upper sides and top) therefore sits heavier, creating a contrast in depth that looks really contemporary.
Who suits a low taper fade haircut?
While a low taper fade is ideal for cleanly blending together head hair and facial hair, this doesn’t mean they are exclusively useful for guys with beards. Even if you are clean shaven, this type of fade works to exaggerate the weight, flow and movement on the top and upper sides of a hairstyle; be it thicker, shorter hair or longer, curly locks.
If you do indeed have facial hair, a good low tapered fade will create a sharp connection between the beard and head hair, making them look purposefully connected and helping avoid what can become quite an awkward in-between section of hair on the sides.
16 cool low taper fade haircuts for men
So now you know exactly what a low taper fade is, and why you might go for one, here are some superb examples for every hair type.
Side parting with low taper fade
Three sections work together here in order to complete this look. It starts with the low fade, which rises up and over the ears to the back of the neck. This blends into the heavier sides that sit naturally above before transitioning into a precise side parting.
Featuring some nice volume and emphasising natural texture, the top should be blow-dried and brushed over to one side then directed towards the back in order to replicate this clean, sectioned shaping.
Short curly hair with low taper fade
By taking the sides a little higher up, the overall shape of this French crop becomes squarer and allows the cropped fringe to really define the style. It’s a look that’s great for guys with wavy and curly hair, which thrives on being ruffled into shape.
A texturising styling paste or even a lighter cream can be used to style the hair, creating a nice, natural texture that can be reworked easily throughout the day.
Hard parting with low taper fade
Hard partings aren’t suited to everyone but with a slicker wet-look finish like this shaping the top and sides, they can bring a hairstyle together nicely.
The above is also a prime example of how a low taper fade can add further refinement by seamlessly connecting the sides to even the shortest amount of facial hair.
Crew cut with low taper fade
On this short crew cut the low taper fade goes right down to the skin to create a slightly more distinct separation between the hair and beard. However, the clean, clippered edges and dark tone of the hair help maintain that fluid transition.
For the spiky texture on the top you want to be reaching for a tough matte product that’s going to lift from the roots and hold the hair firmly in place. Don’t go overlooking the importance of a beard brush to keep facial hair untangled and directed this neatly.
Long wavy hair with low taper fade
Long wavy texture is at the forefront of this haircut, with the sharp taper fade adding extra detail and definition at the base of the style. Going short and simple on the back and sides puts even more emphasis on the weight of the top, which has been lifted high from the back before falling in dramatic waves over the fringe.
A texturising booster such as sea salt spray or volumising mousse will help to reach the great heights of this look.
Short afro with low taper fade
Here we see a low taper fade blend perfectly with afro-textured hair that’s all about detail and shaping. The curve up and over the ear (known as a burst fade) creates a great contrast between the heavier top and back that sits above and dominates the style.
Going the other way, the fade connects with precision, following sharp lines towards the fringe and down into the beard.
Waves with low taper fade
Working with much shorter afro-textured hair, this example of a low taper fade cuts right down to the skin and rises cleanly just above the ears following an inch-perfect horizontal line.
While the cut is kept short and neat over the top, that clean edge just above the ears – merging into those razor sharp lines across the fringe – adds such an understated edge to the overall style.
Textured pompadour with low taper fade
Taking the volume of your hair this high can only benefit from a slim and straight side profile. Here we see the low taper fade help achieve this shaping by connecting the beard and sides, before reaching the top which erupts with volume.
Similar results can be achieved using a hairdryer and sculpting paste, which will also add a healthy amount of shine.
Ivy League with low taper fade
From top to bottom, every section of this contemporary take on an ivy league hairstyle fits together and flows so neatly – even with such a bold disconnecting side parting. It clears the way for the top to push forward and lead into the lifted fringe while the low taper fade does a great job connecting the facial hair and directing such a neat curve around the ears.
This style works as a smart option for anyone with short, finer hair. A hairdryer and vented brush should be able to work the majority of this look in place, but reach for an extremely light cream or paste to get that lift in the fringe.
Crew cut with subtle low taper fade
This is just about as subtle as a low taper fade can get. However, without this added touch you run the risk of losing that definition around the ears that helps blend the hair and beard together.
When it comes to styling thicker hair such as this, natural weight can be a great advantage. This short, boxy look works so well ruffled forwards from the crown, producing a stylish, easy-going aesthetic.
Quiff with low taper fade
While the bulky lifted fringe sits heavy at the forefront of this cut, having less length on top towards the back helps to create a more rounded and refined overall shape.
To style, use a lighter wax or clay to ensure you can shape those backwards sweeps in as straight as possible using a brush or comb. A dose of hairspray will be key in making sure a quiff this bold doesn’t budge an inch throughout the day.
Slick pompadour with low taper fade
This old-school pompadour juxtaposes sleek retro charm with sharp contemporary style thanks to the introduction of the low taper fade.
The sides are swept neatly towards the back and part cleanly away from the top, which peaks to an almost triangular shape. That little bit of length left in the fringe only enhances the lift.
This hairstyle can be slicked into place using a classic pomade or styling cream. A comb will be essential to achieving those impeccable lines and ensuring not a wisp of hair falls out of place.
Wavy side sweep with low taper fade
Sweeping texture like this is perfect for guys with finer, medium-length hair. Keeping the bulk of the sides scissor cut and natural before graduating down to the taper fade ensures a tight profile, allowing the messy waves on top to dominate the style.
These can be worked in with a light paste or cream, or you could consider just shaping the bed hair you wake up with by adding some dry shampoo.
Slick back with low taper fade
Big beards can often take attention away from a great haircut, but here the low taper fade does its job as the contrasting bridge between the two. Furthermore, the shaved sides allow the top to be slicked back cleanly without overhanging, keeping a nice tight shape.
To style, sweep hair like this in straight lines from the roots of the fringe all the way back using a pomade and comb. Facial hair of this length should really be washed using a good beard shampoo and the moisturised with beard oil to avoid dryness and irritation.
Medium afro with low taper fade
The shaping of this hairstyle and beard combination is absolutely impeccable. While the lifted curls on top do a lot of the talking, there’s something to be said for how the low taper fade completes the cut.
The hair and beard would still totally work disconnected, but by fading the sideburns up to the crisp, clinical lines along the temple and fringe, this look is taken to the next level.
Sleek quiff with low taper fade
Here we see a low taper fade contrast with the darker and heavier back and sides it joins up to. But even these sections are overshadowed by the dramatic height that’s been created by the fringe on top.
This bold and vibrant style can be achieved by leaving a great deal of length in towards the fringe and ensuring there is enough weight in the back and sides for it to blend backwards. You will need a volume-enhancing booster to achieve such height – add before blow-drying and then comb the fringe back into place with the help of a styling product that offers a good amount of hold and shine.
Once the style is set, hairspray will keep a glorious, sleek quiff like this held in place no matter how lively your surroundings get.
FAQs
Tell the barber how short you want your hair to be.
Otherwise, just explain how short you want your hair to be on the sides, back, and top. For a very short fade, ask them for a 1 or 2 sized clippers. If you want to keep your hair a bit longer, ask for a number 4-5.
What is the most popular fade haircut? ›
The best fade haircuts for men in order of popularity
- Burst Fade Mohawk.
- Cropped Medium Fade.
- High Razor Fade With Hair Design.
- Undercut Fade With Hard Part And Textured Spikes.
- High Fade With Pompadour.
- High Bald Fade With Comb Over Pompadour.
- High Bald Fade Haircut.
- Comb Over High Fade.
A fade is a taper that gradually takes the hair down to the skin, so that it looks like the hairline on the sides and back of your head “fades” away before it reaches the natural hairline. Basically, a fade is a really short taper.
What does a low fade haircut look like? ›
Low Fade. A low skin fade begins about ⅓ of the way up the crown of your head. The low fade shows very little skin, only the areas directly above the ears and at the nape of the neck. The low fade hairstyle is the least dramatic fade, though it creates very appealing tight, clean lines.
What is a 0.5 fade? ›
A 0.5 fade is a type of fade haircut where the hair is faded down to a grade 0.5. This type of fade is extremely popular because it can be paired with nearly any hair type or style. A 0.5 fade can last anywhere from two to four weeks.
How short is a number 2 haircut? ›
These refer to the guard length used on the blades and therefore the subsequent hair length created. #1 – 3.4mm, #2 – 6.4mm, #3 – 9.5mm, #4 – 12.7mm, #7 – 22.2mm, #8 – 25.4mm.
Who should get a low fade? ›
If you're working with a lot of length, the low fade may be just what you need. This haircut is an excellent choice for men who want to switch up their look without a dramatic change. It also allows you to work with more hair at the top so that you can experiment with a wider range of hairstyles.
What number fade should I get? ›
You'll want to know how short you want to go with the fade just like any other haircut - skin fade (completely bald), 0, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3? If you're not sure start with a say a number 2 to be safe and ask your barber to work down if you want it shorter.
What is better high or low fade? ›
"High fade has more volume and length while low fade is shorter and requires less maintenance daily," explains Biggs. Another huge difference between a low and a high fade is how much length can be kept on top with each style. Since low fade hair is shorter, it involves more frequent visits to the barber.
How do you ask for a low taper? ›
Taper Fade & Side-Swept Length
“The key characteristics of this cut are the low fade on the back and sides with a disconnected top,” says Pearson. “Ask for a low fade, something like a five into a four. Keep the top disconnected, cutting short to long to keep length at the fringe.
The Shadow Fade. A Shadow Fade is any haircut that starts off lighter on the sides and blends into longer hair on top. That's it!
What is a burst fade? ›
A burst fade is cut in a semicircle shape above the ear, it drops down behind the ear where it ends, it does not continue along the nape of the neck like a low or mid fade does. Burst Taper Fade. Much like the taper fade mentioned above however the fade at the temple is cut in a semicircle shape or 'burst'.
Whats the difference between a low fade and low taper? ›
A fade, like a taper, is all about taking hair from long to short in a stylish way. Unlike a taper, though, a fade can be dramatic, abrupt, and super short. Tapers are all about a natural decrease in length for a more conservative look–a fade can just disappear before it reaches the natural hairline.
Is low fade attractive? ›
The low fade is popular partly because it's so versatile. Nearly anyone with any hair type or texture can pull it off. Why do women find it attractive? It's stylish but understated, with a subtle edge that women especially appreciate.
What is a low fade 1? ›
So, what is a low fade haircut? Well, low fade is an elegant haircut with a short back and sides. Your hair length gradually becomes shorter on the sides and the fade effect continues around your head.
Is there a 0 fade? ›
What is a Zero Fade Haircut? A zero fade, on the other hand, is a taper fade style that leaves some hair near the base of the neck. Like all fades, the hair is longer at the top and gets shorter as you get closer to the ears and neck. However, zero fades differ from skin fades because they do not show the scalp.
Can you get a 1 fade? ›
So a #1 fade will terminate in hair that's ¼ of an inch. In this case the fade tapers all the way down to the skin and is usually finished with a razor blade by your barber. You'll want to talk to your barber about how high that bald section should go.
What is a 1 in haircut? ›
Haircut Numbers
Similarly, hair or balding clippers can also be used when asking for a buzz cut or crew cut. Here's a quick reference for the different haircut lengths. Number 1: One-eighth of an inch. Number 2: One-quarter of an inch. Number 3: Three-eighths of an inch.
How long is a 3 guard haircut? ›
The number three guard will leave you with a 10mm or 3/8-inch-long hair. It's often fuller but still decently short.
Is a 2 block haircut good? ›
The short two-block haircut also exudes a gentleman look when slicked back, making it a more appropriate hairstyle for working environments that require you to look professional but are not too strict on the rules. You can wear it down for the effortlessly casual look or wear it up for that dash of suave.
Classic Fade Haircut
The cut is usually faded at a length of 3-4 inches above the hairline. It fades at every level at a ½ inch thick from the parietal ridge. To maintain the style, damping the hair with wax may be necessary.
Should I get a low fade or taper? ›
If you're looking for a safer, inoffensive cut then taper is more likely to be the one. Whereas if you're looking for something with a little more edge and bravado, consider a fade.
How often should you get a low fade? ›
Skin Fade or a Short Clipper Cut
If you want to keep that skin fade looking fresh, it does take a bit of maintenance. We advise visiting your barber every 1-2 weeks to get this cut. If you have a short grade on top e.g. a grade 1,2,3 – again every 1-2 weeks will keep it looking clean.
What grade is a taper fade? ›
“A fade is a haircut where the back and sides are faded from the temple downwards, to a length anywhere below a grade two. A taper haircut is shortening the length of the hair roughly a centimetre above the ear, around to the nape of your neck.” If it's shorter at the bottom than the top, it's a taper haircut.
Will a skin fade suit me? ›
Today, the skin fade remains an extremely popular haircut and is highly requested in barbershops all around the world. A precise skin fade is flattering, suits almost everyone and can immediately elevate your client's look to one that is stylish, sharp and well-groomed.
Do fades look good on everyone? ›
A fade hairstyle looks good on pretty much everyone. That's not to say that the same exact fade looks good on every single head: Rather, for every single head out there, a perfect fade awaits.
How much do you tip for a $20 haircut? ›
Using 20% as a tipping baseline, here's what you'd expect to pay for the tip: $20 haircut - $4 tip. $25 haircut - $5 tip. $30 haircut - $6 tip.
Who suits a taper fade? ›
The high taper fade is a great option for those who want a stylish and sophisticated look. This style is perfect for those who have short or medium-length hair. To get the look, simply ask your barber to cut your hair short on the sides and back, and then leave the top longer.
What is a taper vs fade? ›
Taper: "Reduce in thickness toward one end." It's easy to confuse tapers with fades, so we'll make it easy for you. A taper is when hair gradually changes from one length to another. A fade is a shorter taper that blends or fades into the skin (hence the name).
What is a Mohawk fade? ›
This style features a strip of hair in the middle of the head that is shaped into a classic mohawk. However, unlike a traditional mohawk, a mohawk fade has shaved sides and has a fade effect on the back and sides.
Noun. deathhawk (plural deathhawks) A mohawk hairstyle with voluminous teased or backcombed hair, common in the deathrock subculture.
Is a blend a fade? ›
A fade haircut blends down to the skin, while a taper doesn't end as short. While both are generally considered blended haircuts, as a more conservative cut, the taper leaves a little hair and doesn't expose the head.
What hair is most attractive? ›
People with brunette hair are the most attractive.
By presenting pictures of the same woman with different dye hair colors, the researchers found that out of the population analyzed, 67 percent of men preferred the woman with brunette hair and 71 percent of women chose the man with brunette hair.
What hair length is most attractive? ›
One of the most popular hair chart length options is definitely the shoulder length (12 inch). The main reason why so many women prefer the type is that it borrows the best features from the medium and long mane. Thus, any look you opt for will turn out to be trendy and chic.
How short is a low taper? ›
A low taper is a cut that starts to get short above the ears. This cut gives your hairline a clean look without cutting off too much length. It's also a great choice if you don't want to expose your scalp. Go with a simple low taper for a posh, everyday look.
How do I tell my barber to taper? ›
How to Ask Your Barber for a Taper. If you want a taper haircut that's more pronounced, but don't fancy anything as extreme as a fade, let your barber know. “State in your consultation that you want the hair nice and sharp around the ears and back of the neck,” says Glass.
Do barbers know what a low taper is? ›
They sure should! A taper is a longer version of a fade. Shorter up to longer nearer the round of the head. A fade is typically any length #3 or shorter down to #0/skin, a taper is #3+ length from bottom up.
Is there a low taper fade? ›
A low taper fade haircut is a type of fade where your hair gets gradually shorter, starting from a lower level, just above the ears. If you're not a fan of fading too close to the skin on the sides and exposing your scalp, this one's the most ideal to try.
How do you tell barber What fade you want? ›
A common way of asking for a fade is to specify what clipper guard your barber should be using at the end of the fade. So a #1 fade will terminate in hair that's ¼ of an inch. In this case the fade tapers all the way down to the skin and is usually finished with a razor blade by your barber.
How do I request a taper fade? ›
“To create a clean-cut taper fade, you will need to ask your barber for a grade one cut on the back, fading up to grade two and three. Make sure you keep your hair long on top long to ensure you can create the short dreads that are key to this style.”
A fade haircut blends down to the skin, while a taper doesn't end as short. While both are generally considered blended haircuts, as a more conservative cut, the taper leaves a little hair and doesn't expose the head.
What is a 0 fade vs skin fade? ›
Zero Fade Vs Skin Fade: What's The Difference? A zero fade is a taper fade that leaves some remaining hair near the base of the neck, whereas a skin fade is a zero-grade cut that is shorter at the bottom, revealing more of the scalp.
Is there a low taper? ›
A low taper is a cut that starts to get short above the ears. This cut gives your hairline a clean look without cutting off too much length. It's also a great choice if you don't want to expose your scalp. Go with a simple low taper for a posh, everyday look.
What length fade should I get? ›
Classic Fade Haircut
The cut is usually faded at a length of 3-4 inches above the hairline. It fades at every level at a ½ inch thick from the parietal ridge. To maintain the style, damping the hair with wax may be necessary.
What number should a fade be? ›
The fade will normally be worn quite high in a mid to high fade and will commonly be seen with an ultra short skin or #0 fade on the back and sides, with anywhere from a #1 to a #5 on top.
What is a fade vs taper? ›
A fade, like a taper, is all about taking hair from long to short in a stylish way. Unlike a taper, though, a fade can be dramatic, abrupt, and super short. Tapers are all about a natural decrease in length for a more conservative look–a fade can just disappear before it reaches the natural hairline.
