Originally used in the 40's and 50'sUnited States Armed Forces, and continued in black and Hispanic barbershops, the fade really rose to "pop culture" in the '90s with the likes of Will Smith on Fresh Prince of Bel Air.
The fade haircut used to be seen as an edgier hairstyle that might not have been accepted in the workplace, but with the resurgence of the fade in recent years there has been a huge acceptance of rocking this type of style.
And with that, just in the last few years, the fade haircut has made a huge leap for all hair types, and more and more men want to rock it in combination with almost every hairstyle imaginable.
Tapers, skin fades, low, medium & high fades are all types of fade haircuts and it's easy to get confused as to what they are and how to order them.
So, here's our guide to what a fading haircut is and everything you need to know about it, plus some fading haircut inspiration.
Haircut by @tuckercuts
Jump to content:
What is a fade haircut?
What Are the Different Types of Fade Haircuts?
1. Hide
2. Low fade
3. Medium fading
4. High fade
5. What is a skin fade / bald fade?
How do you ask your barber for a faded haircut?
Fade haircut inspiration
A fade essentially means a transition of lengths and colors at the back and sides of the hair. This means that the hair is not all tied up in one length and some sort of variation in length is mixed in.
The fade level—taper, low, mid, or high—is defined by how high the shortest section of hair rises on the head and begins to fade to another longer length.
A fade can basically be broken down into 4 main categories based on how high the fade goes up in the mind.
1. Hide
We've seen many definitions of taper and fade before, but most hairstylists describe a taper when there is a fade around the neckline or sideburns. This should be a small, subtle fade that is the lowest and least harsh of all fade types. It is often used to fade a beard at the hairline or add something different with longer hair on the sides!
Haircuts from top left: @nickbarford top right: @drewrys_ bottom left: @nickbarford bottom right: @nickbarford
2. Low fading
Next in terms of height on the side of the head is the low fade. Let's take a skin fade haircut as an example - if you go to the skin, the skin is kept too low and the fade to a longer length starts at about a third of the way up the head. This is great for men who don't want a rough haircut but still want to add some transition at the back and sides.
Haircuts from top left: @jakelansley_jbs top right: @nickbarford bottom left: @tuckercuts bottom right: @zeke_the_barber
Matte Clay - Royal Gentleman
15% discount on first order with code:REGULAR
BUY NOW
3. Medium fading
As with all of these, it's pretty much self-explanatory. The fade starts halfway through the head and anywhere from a third to two thirds down the side of the head. This is usually just above eyebrow level and can frame the eyes nicely. It's also the maximum height you want to achieve if you have a longer head, as a high fade can make the head look even longer.
Haircuts from top left: @anthonythebarber916 top right: @nickbarford bottom left: @zeke_the_barber bottom right: @patty_cuts
4. High fading
You guessed it, the loudest fade of all! The high fade starts somewhere in the last third of the head and is the strongest of the four fades. When worn high and tight, the high fade can almost reach the crown before progressing to longer lengths, giving it a much more severe look.
Haircuts from top left: @hayden_cassidy top right: @nickbarford bottom left: @nomadbarberldn bottom right: @hayden_cassidy
When it comes to fading, the skin fade haircut is often mentioned. A skin fade once again does what it says on the tin. This means that the side of the hair is lowered to the bald skin. This is usually done with a foil razor (or sometimes even a straight razor) instead of a trimmer to really get an extremely close shave. A skin fade haircut can still be broken down into the four categories mentioned above;
Not all fades are skin fades - a fade is just the transition from one length of hair to another, so that doesn't mean you have to go to the skin to have a fade. Many people won't want to go down to 0, so you can always ask about guard length fades. The skin fade is the most pronounced fade as it can be seen very clearly how the hair fades from bald to say 0.5 in 2 up on the sides. On the other hand, if you start at number 2 and work your way up to number 3, it may not be as clear and obvious depending on your hair color and thickness.
Haircut by @patty_cuts
To ask your barber for a fade haircut you really need to know 4 things -
1) How high do you want to go with the fade?Low, medium, high or tapered. Talk to your stylist to see what they think about your face shape, the style you want, and your lifestyle. Different fade heights also work with different face shapes and styles.
2) What do you want to achieve at the top?The fade only defines the style of the bottom and sides, it is not a style in itself. Find out what style you want on top(some inspiration below).
3) How short would you like to go?Fading again only sets the style. It's not length per se. Want to know how short you want to go with the fade like any other haircut - skin fade (completely bald), 0, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3?
To be safe, if you are unsure, start with a number 2 and ask your barber to make it shorter if you want it shorter. It's better to start longer than to go short and not like it. Tell your hairstylist ahead of time that you're not sure how short you want to go so they can do a test run on your head so you can see. The last thing you want is to waste your barber's time, he'll finish the fade and you're like "we can actually go shorter".
4) Take a picture.If all of this sounds like a lot, just find a picture of what you want. By far the easiest way to get what you want and not worry about it is to show them a photo, or better yet, a few different photos. This ensures that you and your hairstylist are on the same page, rather than asking about a skin fade and not really knowing what it is or what it's going to look like.
Now that you know what the different fade levels are and how to order a fade haircut, here are some popular haircut inspirations that work great with a fade.
Short haircut with fade
Haircuts from left to right: @hayden_cassidy, @hayden_cassidy, @poz.does.trims, @hayden_cassidy
Wear the cut with longer bangs or shorter bangs depending mainly on your face shape and where your hairline is. Ask your barber to add lots of texture for the textured look.
This haircut is often seen paired with a low to medium skin fade.to stylize benutze oRegal Gentleman Matter Ton for a natural finish that enhances the texture of the haircut.
Matte Clay - Royal Gentleman
BUY NOW
Pompadour fade haircut
Haircuts from top left to bottom right: @blackfishbry, @blackfishbry, @nickbarford, @blackfishbry
The fade pompadour is great for those who want to leave some length on top but want to keep the back and sides short. This will often be seen with tapered, low and mid fades rather than something very dramatic and loud. Since it's a classic style with lots of length on top, you probably don't want to be too harsh with this one. And you might also want to let it fade longer instead of going on the skin.To style, use a paste likeRegal Gentleman Texturpaste.
Buzz cut fade haircut
Haircuts from top left to bottom right: @mtominay, @hayden_cassidy, @nomadbarberldn, @jakelansley_jbs
The modern cut is often worn with a fade down the back and sides and a slightly longer length at the top as opposed to the more traditional length. This adds a style element to the cut to show that you visited a barber and didn't do it yourself at home. The fade is usually worn quite high in a medium to high fade and is usually seen with an ultra short skin or #0 fade on the back and sides with anywhere from #1 to #5 on top. No styling needed, just get up and go!
Side part fading haircut
Haircuts from top left to bottom right: @blackfishbry, @blackfishbry, @domthebarberian, @blackfishbry
The side parting is a classic that most men have tried. Wear it with a low to medium fade for a softer look, but if you want something rougher it can easily be paired with a high fade as well. This is a versatile haircut that can be worn with any length in the back and sides. For styling, use a medium to high-gloss pomade such asPomada Regal Gentleman.
Great fade hairstyle
Haircuts from top left to bottom right: @tombaxter_hair, @alan_beak, @domthebarberian, @toastiestyles
The hair bun can be worn in almost any desired length. We've seen a lot of shorter, textured topknots over the last 6 months, but the most classic topknot is a longer, mid-length style. The most important part of this cut is leaving more length in the front and adding texture for a messier look.
The shorter and more structured you are on top, the higher you can likely go with the fade, and if you leave more length on top you should probably look for low to mid fades.To style, use theRegal Gentleman Matter Ton for a matte finish with strong but workable hold, perfect for the textured pompadour.
Matte Clay - Royal Gentleman
15% discount on first order with code:REGULAR
BUY NOW
Undercut faded
Haircuts from top left to bottom right: @daniellebarr_3, @tuckercuts, @ruffians, @ruffians
The modern take on the undercut is the faded undercut that doesn't leave the hair as separated as it was in the past. The faded undercut will likely be seen more often with slightly higher fades from medium to high. How you style it all depends on how much shine you like in your hair, but for a more versatile look use a paste likeRegal Gentleman Texturpaste.
Curly Undercut Fade
Haircuts from top left to bottom right: @hayden_cassidy, @bentham_barbers, @handsome_._ransom, @cutsandbruisesbarbershop
Exactly the same as the faded undercut but this one is for the curly-haired men. The hair is often worn almost in a pony and the sides brought into a medium fade.To style, use a salt spray such asRegal Gentleman SalzsprayApply to damp hair and finish with a leave-in conditioner or moisture-locking product to protect your curls.
Check out our latest videos
The latest videos in our Barbershop series featuring the best barbers London has to offer. new videos releasedEVERY SUNDAY.
FAQs
What is a fade in a haircut? ›
A fade haircut is a cutting technique that tapers the hair so it eventually “fades” into the skin. Generally, this involves keeping it longer on top and gradually shaving closer down the sides and back. This hairstyle is also called the “military reg”, as it mimics the traditional cut given to men in the service.
What do I need to know about fades? ›A fade is a style that incorporates a transition of lengths on the sides and the back of the head. Contrast this with a buzz cut, which features all one length on the top, the sides, and the back of the head. For you artsy folk, a fade is a gradual transition of hair density from thick to sparse in varying speeds.
What is a 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 are 3 standard types of fades? ›Fades are categorized as a high fade, a medium fade, or a low fade. The higher the fade, the shorter the hair is on the sides near the temple (think of a classic military haircut.)
Why is it called a fade? ›The term "fade" originated in Black-owned barber shops and has become the popular term for an aggressively tight taper in men's hair. Hair at the sides and back is cut as close as possible with clippers and "fades," or tapers, up into almost any length on top.
Do all fades go to skin? ›Not all fades are skin fades though - a fade is just transitioning from one hair length to another so it does not mean that you have to go down to skin to have a fade.
Are fades easy to do? ›Because of the seamless transition from long to short hair, they look like they're complicated to do. But the truth is that they're pretty simple to pull off at home! Fade haircuts are a type of tapered haircut where the hair gradually gets shorter closer to the bottom hairline.
What is a 0 fade? ›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.
Why is fade so popular? ›The hair on the top can be on the shorter side or left long if you want a style that has more volume, like a pompadour. Low fades are extremely popular because they are low-maintenance and work well with all different types of hair.
What is a number 1 fade? ›Clipper Guard Numbers
The number for a fade is just what number blade you want us to start with. So a number 1 fade will start with that blade at the bottom and then gradually get longer either by using different blades, or in the case of an adjustable blade clipper by gradually opening up the blade.
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.
What is a 2 in haircut? ›Men very often use the number 2 haircut for a one-fourth in. long buzz cut as well as to get their hair on the sides faded, which makes it the most common size of clippers. With the # 2 haircut, your scalp is not showing, so it is a great way out for guys who have thin hair.
Who has the first fade haircut? ›In the mid- to late 1980s the haircut was often credited to Larry Blackmon the lead singer of the band Cameo. Blackmon had a hairstyle in the mid 1980s that was the forerunner to the hi-top Fade, with the tall square flat top but with slightly longer sides and back.
What is fresh fade? ›Fresh Fade is the air freshener that instantly transports you to your favorite barber shop with just one spray! It's the scent that makes you feel like a million bucks on demand.
What is the first form of fade? ›| Infinitive | Present Participle | Past Tense |
|---|---|---|
| fade | fading | faded |
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.
"Tight fade haircuts need to be maintained every two to three weeks. For a more classic haircut we'd say every four to six weeks. But people do like to keep it tight, just 'cause it goes away. It just all starts to blend in, so you don't see the difference in the hair lengths anymore."
Why can I not hit a fade? ›To hit a fade, you want to have a slightly outside-to-in motion, meaning the club is hitting the ball and moving left (for right-handers) through impact. Again, be careful because if the clubhead comes in from too far outside and cuts across the ball, you will create a slice.
How long do fades look fresh? ›Skin fades typically last one to two weeks depending on how quickly the client's hair grows. This haircut certainly requires regular maintenance and upkeep to ensure it looks its best.
Does a fade last a week? ›A skin fade can last anywhere from one to two weeks.
How do I get better at fades? ›
- Start With The End Result In Mind. Picture the finished result before fading to get an idea of where the fade should start. ...
- Cut Guide Zones In Parallel Lines. ...
- Work From The Top Down To Blend. ...
- Create Detailed Lines. ...
- Clean Up The Cut.
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. Low fades also look like you don't put too much effort into your look.
Where do I start a skin fade? ›- Ensure you have the right tools beforehand, including clippers with a comb guard that you'll use for the majority of the skin fade. ...
- Always start around 1 inch above the ears as a guideline.
A mid fade haircut is a type of fade cut that starts at a level between your temples and your ears. Starting the fade halfway down gives you the benefits of length and contrast simultaneously, allowing for the perfect balance in any cut.
Is it hard to fade own hair? ›A fade is a haircut that consists of hair tapering from longer on the top to shorter towards the nape of the neck. The process will be more difficult should you attempt to do it on your own. Youans recommends reaching out to your barber to help you through it.
How do you ask for a fade haircut? ›Tell the barber how short you want your hair to be.
If you have this information, let them know. 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.
They'll ask questions like your name, your contact details, and set up a time based on the type of cut you've been eyeing off. If you don't know exactly what you want, the most important information is where your hair is starting (short, medium or long), and where you want it to be.
What grade is a fade? ›Fade is the word used to describe the seamless transition between shorter and slightly longer lengths of hair at the back and the sides of the head. In a regular fade, this might be from a grade two up to a grade five. However, in a bald fade, the hair will go right down to skin level.
What is a taper vs fade? ›What's The Difference Between a Taper vs. Fade? A tapered cut changes the hair's length more gradually than a fade. Tapers aren't as dramatic as fades, are evenly cut, and typically leave hair longer on the top and sides compared to a fade.
When did fades start? ›The hairstyle originated in the U.S. military around the '40s and '50s. Since the military is known for having strict grooming standards, it's no surprise to learn that the fade haircut was and still is popular among military men, as the harsh lines and angles signaled you meant business.
What is a tight fade? ›
The high and tight fade, or simply “high fade” is a type of fade that creates a strong, bold contrast between the back and sides of the head and the top. Unlike the skin fade haircut where the sides and back are gradually clipped, with a high fade you shave them completely.
What is a shadow fade? ›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!
How long is a zero fade? ›A zero fade still leaves hair about 0.4mm long, thing 5 o'clock shadow. It gives a fade effect without the sometimes harsher look of a bald fade. THis is often more preferred by business and sales men. Next of course is the bald fade (pictured).
Why do fades look good? ›Who's It For? “A great look for someone who needs a smarter haircut and wants it to look slightly more natural.” Also, because the taper fade lacks any significant scalp exposure, it can be used as the basis for several different styles up top from a neat scissor crop to longer, more dramatic styles.
What type of hair will suit me? ›- Long Face Shape. If your face shape is long, try to avoid haircuts that are too long or short haircuts. ...
- Round Face Shapes. If your face shape is round, go for a long bob with a center part to break up the roundness and elongate the face shape. ...
- Square Face Shapes.
Tell him how much you want taken off and where
After you tell your barber what general style you want, tell him exactly how much you want taken off. Don't just say, “Give me a trim, Mac” or “Just a little off the top.” One barber's trim is another barber's close shave.
A #7 haircut uses the #7 clipper size, which leaves the hair about 7/8″ long. Just shy of an inch long, this is a longer haircut that is still short enough for easy styling and maintenance. If you like short sides, long top haircuts, a #7 guard on top leaves you with enough length to brush and style.
How long is a number 1 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.
Is fade better than taper? ›A tapered cut changes the hair's length more gradually than a fade. Tapers aren't as dramatic as fades, are evenly cut, and typically leave hair longer on the top and sides compared to a fade. The best cut for you depends on your face shape, style, and the look you want.
What looks better taper or fade? ›
In short, with the nature of a taper, you get a gradual shortening of the hair, with the overall look being longer hair. With a fade, the gradient of your hair will be more abrupt and a lot shorter. Generally speaking, if you prefer a modest, more understated look, then you'll probably select a taper.
What is a basic fade? ›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.
Do fades suit everyone? ›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.
What is the best fade length? ›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.
While there are quite a few variations of the fade, the most popular styles include the razor fade, skin/bald fade, temple, burst, drop, flat-top and high top fades. Each style provides different possibilities, and gives your hair a look unique to that style.
What face shape is a fade good for? ›The Oval Face Shape
The key for this one (and a real failsafe) is to opt for the classic cut fade, keeping it tight on the sides and focussing the weight on top. You can then style with a quiff or a pompadour.
A well-executed fade haircut can instantly make you look more edgy, cool and pulled together. Fades are very easy to maintain, depending on the rate of hair growth.
What is a 00 fade? ›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.
What is a low 1 fade? ›The number for a fade is just what number blade you want us to start with. So a number 1 fade will start with that blade at the bottom and then gradually get longer either by using different blades, or in the case of an adjustable blade clipper by gradually opening up the blade.