What Is The Difference Between A Fade And Taper

When it comes to haircuts for men, two styles that are often confused are the fade and taper. While both have similarities, they are different in their own ways. In this article, we will explain the difference between a fade and taper, and provide tips on how to achieve each style.

Table of Contents:

• Description
• How to Achieve a Fade and Taper
• Step by Step Instructions
• Tips for Maintaining a Fade and Taper
• FAQ
• Hair Care for Fades and Tapers

Description

A fade is a hairstyle where the hair gradually gets shorter from the top of the head down to the neck. The hair is usually cut very short on the sides and back, and the length gradually increases towards the top. A taper, on the other hand, is a haircut where the hair gradually gets shorter from the top of the head down to the neck and from the front to the back of the head. The hair is usually cut shorter on the sides and back, but not as short as a fade, and the length gradually increases towards the top.

Both styles are popular among men because they are low maintenance and versatile. They can be worn with different hair lengths, textures, and styles. However, the main difference between a fade and taper is the length of the hair on the sides and back of the head.

How to Achieve a Fade and Taper

To achieve a fade, you will need to use clippers with different guard sizes to gradually cut the hair shorter on the sides and back. The hair on the top of the head can be left longer or cut to a shorter length depending on your preference. To achieve a taper, you will need to use scissors or clippers to gradually cut the hair shorter from the front to the back of the head and from the top to the bottom. The hair on the sides and back can be left longer or cut to a shorter length depending on your preference.

Step by Step Instructions

Here are step by step instructions on how to achieve a fade and taper:

How to achieve a fade:

1. Start with longer guard sizes on the clippers.
2. Start cutting the hair at the top of the head and gradually move towards the sides and back.
3. Switch to shorter guard sizes as you move lower on the sides and back.
4. Blend the hair from the top to the sides and back using a clipper over comb technique.
5. Use scissors to blend the hair on the top of the head with the shorter hair on the sides and back.

How to achieve a taper:

1. Start by cutting the hair at the top of the head to the desired length.
2. Use scissors or clippers to gradually cut the hair shorter from the front to the back of the head.
3. Cut the hair on the sides and back to a shorter length, but not as short as a fade.
4. Blend the hair on the top of the head with the hair on the sides and back using scissors or clippers.

Tips for Maintaining a Fade and Taper

Here are some tips for maintaining a fade and taper:

• Get regular trims every 4-6 weeks to maintain the shape of the haircut.
• Use a good quality shampoo and conditioner to keep the hair healthy and moisturized.
• Use a styling product to keep the hair in place and add texture.
• Visit a professional barber or stylist to achieve the best results.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about fades and tapers:

What is the difference between a low fade and high fade?

A low fade is where the hair is gradually cut shorter towards the bottom of the head, while a high fade is where the hair is gradually cut shorter towards the top of the head.

Can I achieve a fade or taper with curly hair?

Yes, fades and tapers can be achieved with curly hair. However, it may be more difficult to achieve a smooth blend due to the texture of the hair. It is recommended to visit a professional stylist for best results.

Hair Care for Fades and Tapers

Here are some tips for hair care for fades and tapers:

• Use a good quality shampoo and conditioner to keep the hair healthy and moisturized.
• Avoid using heavy styling products that can weigh the hair down and make it look greasy.
• Use a lightweight styling product to add texture and hold without weighing the hair down.
• Visit a professional stylist for regular trims to maintain the shape of the haircut.

In conclusion, fades and tapers are two popular hairstyles for men that have many similarities, but also have some differences. The main difference is the length of the hair on the sides and back of the head. Both styles are low maintenance and versatile, and can be worn with different hair lengths, textures, and styles. By following the tips and instructions provided in this article, you can achieve a fade or taper that suits your style and personality.