How to style fade haircuts
How to style fade haircuts

Fade haircuts are one of the most popular and easiest men’s hairstyle trends. They are everywhere because a fade can be added to any type, length, or style of a men’s haircut. Fades are also a great looking, low maintenance cut, not counting barber visits for upkeep.

A fade takes hair from short to even shorter. The three main types of fade haircuts are low, medium and high fades. This refers to how high the fade goes up on the head.

Burst fades and temple fades cover a smaller portion of the head but have plenty of impact. Bald fades can be any of the above and shave hair down to the skin. Shadow fades go from short to shorter but don’t reveal the skin. Here is how you can style your fade haircuts, and which ones will suit the most for you.

What Is A Fade Haircut For Men?

Photo:  Men's Hairstyles Now
Photo: Men's Hairstyles Now

A fade essentially means a transition of lengths and colour on the back & sides of the hair. This means that the hair is not all buzzed to one length and has some sort of variation of lengths blended in together.

The level of the fade - taper, low, mid or high is defined by how high the shortest part of the hair goes up the head and starts to transition into another longer length.

Types of Fade Cuts for Men

Photo:  Hairmanz
Photo: Hairmanz

Admittedly, some barbers and stylists are better at the fade than others. It can be tricky and the key is to get a nice, even taper all the way up the head. Quite often, it takes a combination of trimmer and blade sizes to achieve a great fade, so it requires patience from both you and the barber.

"Skin fades" are the cuts that begin almost right down to the skin at the back of the neck and slowly (or quickly) taper to longer hair as it works up your head.

*A "high skin fade" may almost reach the crown of your head before it gets longer, which leaves a lot of exposed skin.

*A "medium skin fade" will begin to get longer right around the middle of your head.

*A "low skin fade" reveals very little skin—just a little on the upper neck—and leaves short hairs that get longer as it runs up to the crown of your head.

Fades Don't Have to Be Skin-Tight

Though it is standard to get a fade as close to the skin as possible, it doesn't have to be so dramatic. Some fade haircuts have a very shallow skin-tight area that may last for only an inch at the back of the neck. This does require quite a bit of skill from the barber because you need to get a great, smooth taper in a shorter space, but it's a great look for many men.

For instance, the classic "caesar cut" is a close crop that we typically associate with movies about the Ancient Greeks. It's a stylish cut that can reveal as much skin as you like. Some men choose to run the taper down the neck while others bring the skin up to the crown. It also looks great with either short or medium length hair on top, which can be slick and styled or messy chic.

The "blowout" is another fun style, especially for young guys. It has that sort of choppy, spiked look and it's often best with a low skin fade, leaving lots of room for a growing mop of spikes. Be prepared to use styling products with this cut.

The Pros and Cons of Fade Haircut For Men

Photo: GQ
Photo: GQ

Pros of Fade Haircut for Men

The Fade Haircut for Men is Widely Available

The fade haircut has been around for some time. Every barber worth his salt has a piece of good knowledge about this haircut. They also understand that this haircut is very popular.

This is the reason why you can get the fade haircut in almost any hair salon that is of reasonable capacity. To get the fade haircut of your choice, take a picture along with you, and show the barber.

It Works with all Hair Types

The fade haircut for men definitely takes the trophy when it comes to versatility. It can be cut on all types of hair – whether you have thick or thin hair, straight or curly, you can get the cut without any problem.

The length of the hair on top is an individual preference. However, according to a number of renowned hairstylists, the hair at the top is getting longer, which allows more styling options.

The Fade Haircut for Men Suits all Face Shapes

This haircut also works for different face shapes. It works particularly great for those with round and square faces as the volume of hair on top balances out the face.

It Works for Both Young and Old

Unlike some type of hairstyles that suits only young boys, the fade haircut works great for both young and old. The fade haircut for men makes the older adults look polished and professional, while it makes the young look hip and trendy.

This look is stylish enough for college guys but is also suitable for those who work in an office environment. This haircut is also a masculine look that will not disappoint anyone, irrespective of their age.

Cons of Fade Haircut for Men

Photo: Shutterstock
Photo: Shutterstock

Fade haircuts require making regular trips to the barber. It is necessary so that the hair is kept in its best form.

If you are someone who does not have the time or the inclination to maintain the upkeep, this haircut may not be ideal for you.

It Requires Professional Hands

As easy as it may seem, you cannot perform the fade haircut as a DIY. Barbers with little experience will not give you the right fade, either.

Unless you want to ruin your hair and your appearance, schedule an appointment with the best salon that you can afford to get the fade haircut.

The Fade Haircut for Men is Not Forgiving

A fade cut is inherently quite revealing. While this is a fantastic way to showcase your tattoos, it can also reveal lumps and bumps in your neck and the back of your head.

If you have scars or something similar that you rather keep hidden, stay away from getting a fade cut.

Types of Men’s Fade Haircuts in Hottest Trends

Low Fade Haircut

Photo:  Latest-Hairstyles.com
Photo: Latest-Hairstyles.com

The low fade haircut is the most popular cut because it is trendy yet timeless. Low fades start just above the ears and curve around the hairline down to the neck. Due to its versatility, the low fade can be added to any short or long men’s hairstyle for a clean-cut, fresh finish on the sides and back.

Unlike the high fade, the low fade is a more conservative trim, similar to the classic taper fade. For this reason, the low cut fade is often a favorite for business professional styles yet also looks good with a beard. Ideally, you’ll want to get a low fade with long or medium-length hair on top such as the modern comb over, quiff, pompadour, slick back, or faux hawk.

High Fade Haircut

Photo: Pinterest
Photo: Pinterest

The high fade haircut is among the shortest ways to cut your hair on the sides and back, offering a ton of contrast for an edgy style. The high fade works well with a variety of cool hairstyles for men because the blending starts very high on the head and shortens at a much faster rate than the low or mid fade. This strongly emphasizes the styling of the hair on top, making it stand out in any crowd.

The most common version of this cut is the high skin fade. Furthermore, many guys like to ask their barber for a line up or shape up as well, thereby outlining their hairline around the temples with sharp lines and edges. The end result is a very stylish and sexy haircut that looks nice with long, medium or short hair on top.

Taper Fade Haircut

Photo: Pinterest
Photo: Pinterest

The taper fade is easily one of the most iconic haircut styles in the world. Timeless, classic and classy, the taper fade haircut blends your hair down the sides and back. It’s not as short as a skin or bald fade, but shorter than a classic tapered cut. While still sharp, neat and versatile, the taper is a more subtle trim and will cut your hair without cutting it down to the skin. This leaves the ends of your hair, around the hairline and neckline, longer than a traditional fade haircut.

Skin Fade Haircut

Photo:  Men's Hairstyle Trends
Photo: Men's Hairstyle Trends

The skin fade, also known as a zero fade haircut, is a barbershop favorite. Guys love the skin fade haircut because it is super clean, high-contrast, and gives off a bad boy style. Whether you pick a high, mid or low skin fade depends on how short you want the sides and back cut, but all of these fades will require your hair to be shaved down to the skin on your head.

The low skin fade looks good if you want to wear a comb over, side part, or slick back and still have your hairstyle be acceptable for the office. If you don’t have a dress code to worry about, the mid and high skin fade haircuts are sexy and very popular hair ideas for young men and boys.

Side Part Fade

Photo:  Haircut Inspiration
Photo: Haircut Inspiration

The side part fade is both a professional and casual haircut that won’t go unnoticed. As one of the few men’s hairstyles that has survived the test of time, the side part is generally styled neat and structured for a sophisticated look. When paired with tapered hair on the sides, the men’s side part fade haircut epitomizes the modern gentleman.

To style a side part fade, start with slightly damp hair, ideally after a shower. Apply a good pomade, wax or clay to your hair, spreading it evenly throughout. Now use a comb to part your hair. Following your natural part, sweep the hair over to one side. For a textured finish, style with your fingers or a brush.

Comb Over Fade

Photo: Pinterest
Photo: Pinterest

The comb over fade is another classic hairstyle for men that continues to be fashionable and handsome. Like the side part, the comb over requires men’s hair to be parted. However, the primary difference is that the modern comb over is less structured, with more flow and texture as all the hair is swept to one side. There are also many different types of comb over hairstyles to get.

Mohawk Fade

The mohawk is one of the edgiest and rebellious haircuts you can choose, and that is what makes it so incredibly cool. The cut has roots in punk and alternative scenes, and although it was traditionally worn as a long strip of hair in the middle of the head and the sides completely shaved, there is a more modern approach to this look; a fade. Pairing your mohawk haircut with a fade still makes a bold statement, but it is also easier to wear. This is because there is still some hair on the sides, making the contrast less dramatic. If you want a more subtle approach, keep the hair on the top of your head shorter. Curly and wavy hair will also help to achieve a softer appearance.

Long Afro Fade

Photo:  Pinterest
Photo: Pinterest

A long afro fade is a perfect option for those men who want to embrace their natural hair. It gives you all the benefits of an afro, allowing you to wear your hair with pride and show off the volume, but it also adds structure. The fade keeps the sides and back of the hair short. This is a modern update to the afro hairstyle and will help you achieve a slight contrast, which is interesting and balances out your look. This is the perfect combination of smart and cool.

Flat Top Fade

There are many different versions of the flat top, a hairstyle that is angular and features shorter hair on the sides and back, with the volume on top. It is a haircut that was popular in the 50s, then again in the 80s and 90s, but it has made a comeback because it can be adapted to suit your style. For those who want a straightforward and masculine option, the military flattop is the way to go. It is worn with a high fade, creating an interesting contrast between the sides and back of the head and the hair on top. This is also a look that is less about volume and can be worn with hair of various textures.

How To Do A Fade with Clippers

To fade hair, you’ll need to invest in the proper cutting and styling tools. Specifically, you’ll need good hair clippers with a full set of guards, a handheld mirror or full mirror system, a comb, scissors, and a trimmer.

If you’re serious about fading your own hair, you may want to get professional barber clippers or fade clippers. These types of clippers come with the sharpest blades, most powerful motors, sturdy designs, corded and cordless use options, long battery run-times, and a complete set of combs and accessories for every cut. The best clippers for barbers is the Wahl Professional Magic Clip.

On the other hand, if you just want affordable home clippers, then the top-rated Wahl Color Pro is a great choice. As one of the most reputable brands, Wahl clippers are reliable and well-built with sharp blades and robust motors. This is the most popular machine on the market, and it comes as a complete hair cutting kit.

How To Cut A Fade Haircut

Follow these steps to cut a fade:

*Decide where you want the fade line to start.

*Decide if you want a short or long fade, and choose the appropriate guard size.

*Move the clippers up the sides and back to trim the hair. Always start at the bottom and work your way up with short strokes.

*Gradually fade and blend your hair by changing the guards. The fading should be seamless and look very natural.

*Work your way up the head. Make sure to stop around the temples.

*Blend the fade into the hair on top by running your clippers across a comb that exposes the right length of hair.

*Clean up the hairline and neckline with trimmers.

Always remember the most important rule of barbering – cut conservatively. You can always cut your hair shorter, but you’ll have to wait weeks for it to grow back out.

How To Fade Your Hair 2022 New Style

Photo:  MensHaircuts.com
Photo: MensHaircuts.com

Decide Your Fade Line

The fade line will indicate where the tapering will begin. In terms of the kinds of fades, you can have a low, medium or high fade. When cutting your own fade, this guide assumes that anything below the fade line is trimmed down to the skin for a bald fade.

If you want to do a taper without exposing the scalp on the sides and back, you’ll want to begin the blending process just above the ears and work towards the top of the head.

Choose A Length and Guard Size For The Fade Line

Start by choosing the right guard size for your fade line. Clipper guard sizes indicate how short or long the fade cut will be. A lower haircut number indicates a shorter cut. Be conservative at first and pick a #3 or #4 guard.

Because most barbers start at the bottom and work up the sides to the top, this comb attachment will determine the shortest part of your fade.

Start Fading The Sides

Once you’ve shaved the sides and back up to your fade line, attach the right guard and start cutting along the fade line. Use small, short strokes to get an even cut across the head. Always move the clippers in an upward motion.

Transition Between Guards To Gradually Fade Your Hair

The taper fading occurs gradually as you change clipper sizes longer and longer as you move further up the head. When you change comb attachments and are ready to trim again, start at the top of where the last guard finished cutting to continue blending.

However, sections of hair cutting can sometimes overlap for a natural look. This will minimize layers as you move up the sides and change lengths.

Work Your Way To The Hair on Top

Eventually, you’ll need to blend the hair into your longer hairstyle on top. Once you get close to the top of the sides and back, use a comb to pull the proper length and run the trimmer along the comb. This cutting technique will give you more control over the length you need.

Trim The Neckline and Hairline

The final touches require you to shave the bottom section of hair below the fade line as well as trim the neckline. Shaping the neckline can be achieved with a good hair trimmer, but a beard trimmer that offers a smooth, close cut can also be practical.

If you want a line up, you can use edgers or an outliner to create sharp cuts along the temples and sideburns.

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