If you're looking to switch up your hairstyle, the fade is a popular and versatile option for men. Whether you want a low, mid, or high fade, there are endless possibilities for customizing this classic cut. In this guide, we'll go over the top men's fade hairstyles and provide tips for achieving them yourself or with the help of a professional barber.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- How to Fade Your Hair
- Low Fade
- Mid Fade
- High Fade
- Skin Fade
- Curly Fade
- Slick Back Fade
- Faux Hawk Fade
- Buzz Cut Fade
- Hair Care Tips
- FAQ
How to Fade Your Hair
Fading your hair involves gradually blending the length of your hair from short to shorter, creating a seamless transition. Here are the basic steps to follow:
- Decide on the length and shape of the fade you want. Do you want a low, mid, or high fade? Do you want a skin fade or a more gradual fade?
- Start with a longer guard on your clippers and begin cutting your hair at the bottom of your neck, working your way up to your ears.
- Switch to a shorter guard and repeat the process, starting slightly above where you left off with the longer guard.
- Continue switching to shorter guards until you reach your desired length. Use a mirror to check for any uneven areas and make adjustments as needed.
- Blend the hair on the sides with the hair on top using scissors or clippers.
- Style your hair as desired.
Keep in mind that fading your hair takes practice and patience. If you're not confident in your skills, it's best to visit a professional barber.
Low Fade
The low fade is a subtle and conservative option for men who want a polished look without being too flashy. The hair is gradually tapered from the sides to the back and blended into the longer hair on top.
To achieve a low fade, start with a longer guard on your clippers and work your way down to a shorter guard. Use scissors to blend the hair on the sides with the hair on top. Style your hair with a side part or slicked back for a classic look.
Mid Fade
The mid fade is a popular choice for men who want a balance between the low and high fade. The hair is tapered from the sides to the back, but the blend is more noticeable than with a low fade.
To achieve a mid fade, start with a longer guard on your clippers and work your way down to a shorter guard. Use scissors to blend the hair on the sides with the hair on top. Style your hair with a textured quiff or messy fringe for a modern look.
High Fade
The high fade is a bold and dramatic option for men who want to make a statement. The hair is tapered from the sides to the back, with a noticeable contrast between the longer hair on top and the shorter hair on the sides.
To achieve a high fade, start with a shorter guard on your clippers and work your way up to a longer guard. Use scissors to blend the hair on the sides with the hair on top. Style your hair with a messy crop or pompadour for a trendy look.
Skin Fade
The skin fade is a daring and edgy option for men who want a dramatic contrast between the longer hair on top and the shaved sides. The hair is tapered down to the skin, creating a seamless blend.
To achieve a skin fade, start with a shorter guard on your clippers and work your way down to a zero guard. Use a straight razor to shave the hair down to the skin. Style your hair with a messy fringe or spiky texture for an edgy look.
Curly Fade
The curly fade is a great option for men with naturally curly hair. The hair is tapered from the sides to the back, but the curls are left longer on top for a textured look.
To achieve a curly fade, use scissors or clippers to gradually blend the hair on the sides with the hair on top. Style your hair with a messy fringe or tousled curls for a relaxed look.
Slick Back Fade
The slick back fade is a classic and sophisticated option for men who want a polished look. The hair is slicked back with a high shine pomade, creating a sleek and shiny finish.
To achieve a slick back fade, use clippers to gradually blend the hair on the sides with the hair on top. Apply a high shine pomade to your hair and comb it back with a fine tooth comb. Style your hair with a side part or slicked back for a timeless look.
Faux Hawk Fade
The faux hawk fade is a trendy and edgy option for men who want to make a statement. The hair is tapered from the sides to the back, with a longer strip of hair in the center styled into a faux hawk.
To achieve a faux hawk fade, use clippers to gradually blend the hair on the sides with the hair on top. Style the longer hair in the center into a messy faux hawk with a matte finish product. This look works best with thick and textured hair.
Buzz Cut Fade
The buzz cut fade is a low maintenance and practical option for men who want a clean and simple look. The hair is shaved down to a short length all over, with a gradual fade from the sides to the back.
To achieve a buzz cut fade, start with a longer guard on your clippers and work your way down to a shorter guard. Use a zero guard to create a seamless blend. This look works best for men with a strong bone structure and defined facial features.
Hair Care Tips
Once you've chosen your fade hairstyle, it's important to take care of your hair to maintain its shape and texture. Here are some tips:
- Use a quality shampoo and conditioner to keep your hair healthy and moisturized.
- Apply a styling product that works best for your hair type, whether it's a pomade, gel, or wax.
- Visit a professional barber every 4-6 weeks to maintain your fade and keep it looking fresh.
- Avoid using hot tools like blow dryers and straighteners too often, as they can damage your hair.
FAQ
What is a fade haircut?
A fade haircut involves gradually tapering the length of your hair from short to shorter, creating a seamless blend between the hair on the sides and the hair on top.
What is the difference between a low, mid, and high fade?
The difference between a low, mid, and high fade is the point at which the hair begins to taper. A low fade starts just above the ears, a mid fade starts halfway up the sides, and a high fade starts at the temples.
What is a skin fade?
A skin fade is a type of fade where the hair is tapered down to the skin, creating a dramatic contrast between the longer hair on top and the shaved sides.
Can I achieve a fade haircut at home?
While it's possible to achieve a fade haircut at home, it takes practice and patience. If you're not confident in your skills, it's best to visit a professional barber.
With this guide, you're now equipped with the knowledge and inspiration to choose the perfect fade hairstyle for your personality and lifestyle. Whether you want a subtle low fade or a dramatic skin fade, the possibilities are endless. Remember to take care of your hair and visit a professional barber regularly to keep your fade looking fresh and stylish.
