The skin fade haircut has become a classic for men, offering a clean-cut and versatile style. But it’s not a one-size-fits-all look! Here’s a breakdown of the different skin fade styles and what’s trending this year.
What Are The Different Types of Skin Fade Haircuts?
There are various types of skin fade haircuts, each offering a unique look and style. Here’s an overview of some popular skin fade hairstyles and different types of fades:
Low Skin Fade
A low skin fade is a subtle and classic variation of the skin fade. In this style, the fade begins lower on the head, typically just above the ears. The hair is gradually tapered and blended into the skin towards the bottom, creating a smooth and clean look.
Mid Skin Fade
The mid skin fade is a versatile and popular option. In this style, the fade begins around the middle of the head, above the temples. The hair is faded and blended into the skin, creating a more prominent and noticeable transition than a low skin fade.
High Skin Fade
A high skin fade is a bold and modern choice. In this style, the fade begins higher on the head, typically near or above the temples. The hair is faded and blended into the skin at a higher point, resulting in a dramatic and striking appearance.
Drop Fade
The drop fade is a unique and stylish variation of the skin fade. In this style, the fade starts higher on one side of the head and drops lower on the other side, creating an asymmetrical and edgy look.
Taper Fade
A taper fade is a combination of a taper and a fade. In this style, the hair is gradually tapered shorter towards the bottom, but it is then blended into the skin for a smooth and seamless finish, similar to a skin fade.
Burst Fade
The burst fade is a distinctive and eye-catching style. In this fade, the hair is cut shorter in specific areas, creating a burst or shattered effect along the fade line. This adds texture and dimension to the haircut.
Burst Taper Fade
The burst taper fade combines the burst fade and taper fade techniques. In this style, the hair is tapered shorter towards the bottom and then blended into the skin, with bursts or shattered sections added along the fade line for added texture and visual interest.
Which Skin Fade Hairstyles Are Trending?
While all skin fade hairstyles have their own unique appeal, some styles are particularly popular and trending at the moment. Here are a few that are currently in vogue:
- The mullet with burst fade: This bold and edgy look combines the iconic mullet hairstyle with a burst fade on the sides, creating a modern and eye-catching style.
- The high skin fade with textured top: This trendy style features a dramatic high skin fade paired with longer, textured hair on top, allowing for versatile styling options.
- The drop fade: The asymmetrical and unique look of the drop fade continues to be a popular choice, offering a stylish and contemporary take on the skin fade.
- The taper fade: The taper fade’s combination of a taper and fade offers a clean and versatile look that remains a timeless favorite among many.
What Is A Skin Fade Haircut?
A skin fade haircut is a popular hairstyle that involves gradually trimming the hair on the sides and back of the head from a longer length at the top to a very short or “bald” look near the hairline. The hair is faded or tapered down to the skin, creating a smooth and seamless transition.
The skin fade is often confused with a taper, but there is a distinct difference between the two. While a taper involves gradually cutting the hair shorter towards the bottom, a fade involves cutting the hair closer and closer to the skin, leaving little to no hair at the bottom.
Low skin fade maintenance tips
Maintaining a low skin fade haircut requires regular trips to the barbershop or salon for touch-ups. Here are some tips to help keep your low skin fade looking fresh:
- Get touch-ups every 2-3 weeks to maintain the clean, faded look.
- Use a good quality pomade or wax to style the longer hair on top and keep the sides and back looking neat.
- Invest in a quality trimmer or clippers to touch up the skin fade area between visits to the barber or stylist.
- Avoid letting the skin fade grow out too much, as it can look unkempt and lose its clean appearance.
Skin fade vs. taper fade
The skin fade and taper fade are two different haircutting techniques that are commonly used to style the hair on the sides and back of the head.
A skin fade involves cutting the hair progressively shorter as it approaches the hairline, ultimately blending the hair into the skin for a smooth, seamless transition. This results in a very short or “bald” look near the hairline, with no visible hair remaining.
On the other hand, a taper fade involves gradually cutting the hair shorter towards the bottom, but it does not blend the hair all the way into the skin. Instead, a small amount of hair is left visible along the hairline, creating a slightly more subdued and subtle appearance.
The main difference between the two techniques lies in the level of skin exposure and the length of the remaining hair along the hairline. A skin fade exposes more skin and leaves no hair visible, while a taper fade leaves a small amount of hair remaining.
Skin fade vs. undercut
The skin fade and undercut are two distinct hairstyles that incorporate different cutting and blending techniques.
A skin fade, as discussed earlier, involves gradually cutting the hair shorter and shorter towards the hairline, ultimately blending it into the skin for a smooth, seamless transition.
In contrast, an undercut hairstyle involves cutting the hair on the sides and back very short or shaving it completely, while leaving the hair on top longer. Unlike a skin fade, the transition between the longer hair on top and the shorter hair on the sides is more abrupt and defined, rather than gradually blended.
The undercut creates a distinct contrast between the longer hair on top and the shorter or shaved sides, while the skin fade aims for a more seamless and gradual transition from longer hair to no hair along the hairline.
Read More: 21 Sassy Short Curly Hairstyles To Wear At Any Age
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most popular skin fade?
The high skin fade is currently the most popular choice, featuring a clean and modern look with ample skin exposure.
What type of fade looks the best?
The fade that looks the best often depends on personal preference and facial features, but many find that a mid skin fade offers a balanced and versatile appearance.
What looks good with a skin fade?
Various hairstyles complement a skin fade, such as textured crops, quiffs, and pompadours, providing a stylish and polished overall look.
Conclusion
In conclusion, skin fade hairstyles provide a diverse range of options to suit different preferences and trends. Whether it’s the low, mid, high, bald, or taper fade, each style offers its own distinct charm. Experiment with these fades to discover the perfect look that complements your personality and style.
Matthew, an expert with 10 years of experience, is the author behind curlyhairabout.com, sharing valuable insights on curly hair care.
