You cannot underestimate the importance of a good haircut when it comes to making a positive first impression. Fade haircuts are fashionable and modern, and there are several different types of fades to choose from. You may already have a particular style of fade in mind, but before going to the barber, you will want to make sure that you know which type of fade will work best with your style and be most flattering to your particular head shape and type of hair.
Taper Fade
The taper fade is one of the most classic and iconic haircuts for men. A taper fade is combining two different styles–the “taper” and the “fade”--into one. Both offer a clean, crisp look, suitable for both professional and casual settings, and both are gradient haircuts so that the hair goes from longer at the crown to shorter at the nape. Tapers do create a more casual and artistic look than a fade, which is strikingly accurate and smooth. In regards to barbers' tools, scissors and clippers are used for both.
Skin Fade
A “skin fade”, also known as a “bald fade”, begins at the nape of the neck and starts right at the skin, tapering to long hair as the trimmer or blade moves upward, towards the top of the head. There are different levels of skin fade: high, medium, and low. Each is low maintenance and easy to get done. It works for any length or type of hair–curly or straight, thick or thin.
Zero Fade
A zero fade differs from a skin fade in that there is no actual bare skin exposed, though a fade is still in place. In the case of a zero fade, the hair is shortest at the nape of the neck and tapers to longer hair as the scissors or clippers graduate to the top of the head.
Temple Fade
Also known as “temple fade”, “Brooklyn fade” or “blow out”, the temple fade is unique in that it is limited to the temples and gives way to any other hairstyle you choose, putting the attention on the haircut. It is achieved with a line-up or a shape-up at the temples. Beyond that, you can go in a multitude of directions, from long to short, from a buzz cut to a mullet or braids and dreads. Of course, you can fade the back of the neck as well.
Drop Fade
A drop fade is similar to a regular fade, except it gradually lowers around the back of the head and at the front hairline. This results in a sharp outline of the face as well as more depth around the crown.
Burst Fade
The burst fade creates a smooth transition from shorter hair to longer by following the curvature of the hair around the ear, tapering evenly to the back. It leaves the hair at the nape of the neck long, only focusing on fading up from the sides. It is a low taper that follows the hairline all around and is versatile in that it can result in several hairstyles and can be added to any hairstyle, from short to long. A burst fade mohawk, for example, is one of the most popular hairstyles for men.
Crew Cut
Crew cuts are the most timeless and classic of men’s haircuts. They are short, clean, and easy to maintain, and they work on any type of hair. To achieve a crew cut, the top of the head is trimmed and the sides are slightly buzzed, leaving everything else shorter. A crew cut gives off an air of confidence and can give off businessman bravado or masculine sportiness.
Tips for the Best Fade Haircut
- If you have a blemish or a bump of any kind on your head that you would like to hide, opt for the lower fade.
- For thick, curly, and long hair, make use of a good pomade to maintain a fine look
- For fine hair, use clay to create a textured look.
- Do your research ahead of time! Ask your friends the names of their haircuts, look at magazines and find out which celebrities are donning the fade hairstyle of your choice. The more references you have, the easier it will be for you and your barber to achieve the fade you are looking for.
- Complement a low fade hairstyle with a well-groomed beard.
- Go for a classic scissor cut if you don’t want to show skin. Scissor cuts can be just as striking and require less maintenance and are a stylish, legitimate way to go.
- Make sure to maintain your fade! Some fades are easier to maintain at home than others, but all will require a regular visit to a barber to maintain that slick look.
Where to Get the Best Fade
It is important to remember that not every barber or barbershop is made equal! If you are looking for a master barber who can give you the fade of your dreams, check out our A-list team at 20th Salon and Barber. Located conveniently in the Mission, San Francisco residents can get the trendiest fades available on the west coast at 20th Salon and Barber.
At 20th Salon and Barber, you will encounter expert, versatile barbers who can work personally with you to give you exactly the kind of fade you are looking for. Most importantly, our barbers will ensure that you feel at your very best with your fresh, new haircut. We are eager to get to know you and your hair!
