The Complete Guide to Fade Haircuts: Skin Fade, Taper Fade, Burst Fade & More
A fade haircut is one of the most popular men’s hairstyles — but there are many types, and choosing the right one makes all the difference. This guide covers every fade style, how to choose the right one for your face shape, and how to maintain it between appointments.
What Is a Fade Haircut?
A fade haircut is a style where the hair gradually gets shorter from the top of the head down to the sides and back, creating a “fade” effect. The fade can go down to the skin (skin fade) or stop at a longer length (taper). The key difference between fade types is where the fade starts and how dramatic the contrast is.
At Silky Smooth Barbers in Southsea, fades are our specialty. Every fade we do is tailored to the individual’s head shape, hair growth pattern, and personal style — not a one-size-fits-all approach.
1. Skin Fade (Bald Fade)
The skin fade — also called a bald fade — takes the hair all the way down to the skin on the sides and back. This creates the most dramatic contrast between the longer hair on top and the clean sides. It’s one of the sharpest, most modern-looking cuts you can get.
Best for: All face shapes, especially round faces (the vertical lines elongate the face). Works with any hair type.
Maintenance: Needs a touch-up every 2-3 weeks to keep the skin looking clean.
2. Low Fade
The low fade starts the taper just above the ears. It’s the most subtle fade option — a clean, professional look without dramatic contrast. The fade begins low and gradually blends into the longer hair on top.
Best for: Guys who want a clean look that’s appropriate for any setting — work, weekends, formal events. Great for oval and square face shapes.
Maintenance: Low fades grow out more gracefully than skin fades. Touch up every 3-4 weeks.
3. Mid Fade
The mid fade starts at the midpoint of the side of the head — right around the temple area. It’s the most popular fade choice because it strikes the perfect balance between subtle and dramatic. Versatile enough for any style on top.
Best for: All face shapes. The most versatile fade that works with short, medium, and longer styles on top.
Maintenance: Touch up every 2-3 weeks for a crisp look.
4. High Fade
The high fade starts much higher on the head — around the top of the temples or even higher. This creates a bold, dramatic contrast with a lot of clean skin visible on the sides. It’s a statement cut that draws attention.
Best for: Guys who want a bold, modern look. Works well with longer styles on top (pompadours, quiffs, slick backs). Best for oval and oblong face shapes.
Maintenance: Needs regular upkeep — every 2 weeks for the sharpest look.
5. Taper Fade
A taper fade combines two techniques: the taper (hair gradually getting shorter) and the fade (blending down to skin or close to it). The result is a smooth, graduated transition from longer to shorter. Taper fades are slightly more subtle than a full skin fade but just as clean.
Best for: Guys who want a refined, polished look. Works with curly, straight, and wavy hair. Great for professional settings.
Maintenance: Touch up every 3-4 weeks.
6. Burst Fade
The burst fade is a variation of the taper fade that curves around the ear in a “burst” pattern instead of going straight down. It’s a stylish, modern take on the classic fade that adds visual interest to the sides.
Best for: Guys who want something different from a standard fade. Works well with most face shapes and hair types.
Maintenance: Touch up every 2-3 weeks.
7. Drop Fade
The drop fade drops down behind the ear in a curved pattern, rather than staying level. It’s one of the most requested cuts at barbershops in Portsmouth and across the UK. The curved drop creates a unique, eye-catching look.
Best for: All face shapes. Particularly popular with younger guys and those who want a trendy, distinctive style.
Maintenance: Touch up every 2-3 weeks.
Taper vs Fade: What’s the Difference?
These terms are often used interchangeably, but they’re not the same thing:
- Taper: Hair gradually gets shorter from top to bottom. The transition is subtle and doesn’t necessarily go down to the skin.
- Fade: Hair is blended down to the skin (or very close to it). More dramatic contrast than a taper.
- Taper Fade: A combination — the hair tapers and fades into the skin. The most common style at Silky Smooth Barbers.
How to Choose the Right Fade for Your Face Shape
| Face Shape | Best Fade Style | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Round | High fade, skin fade | Vertical lines elongate the face |
| Oval | Any fade style | Most versatile face shape |
| Square | Low fade, mid fade | Softens strong jawline |
| Oblong | Low fade, taper | Avoids adding height to the face |
| Diamond | Mid fade, burst fade | Balances wider cheekbones |
How to Maintain Your Fade Between Appointments
- Get regular touch-ups: Every 2-4 weeks depending on how fast your hair grows and how crisp you want the fade to look.
- Use a good moisturiser: Keep the skin on your scalp hydrated, especially with skin fades where the skin is visible.
- Protect from the sun: Exposed skin from fades can burn easily. Use SPF on sunny days.
- Style the top properly: A great fade deserves a well-styled top. Use quality pomade, clay, or wax depending on your desired look.
- Don’t over-wash: Washing your hair daily strips natural oils. 2-3 times a week is enough for most guys.
What to Tell Your Barber
The best way to get the fade you want is to be specific. Here’s what to communicate:
- Where you want the fade to start: Low (above the ears), mid (temple level), or high (above the temples)
- How short you want it: Skin fade (bald), number 1 guard, number 2 guard, etc.
- What style on top: Bring a reference photo if possible
- Your hair type: Curly, straight, thick, thin — this affects how the fade blends
Book Your Fade at Silky Smooth Barbers, Southsea
At Silky Smooth Barbers, every fade starts with a conversation. We’ll recommend the right fade type for your face shape, hair type, and lifestyle — then deliver a precision cut that looks great on day one and grows out well.
📍 174 Albert Road, Southsea PO4 0JT
📞 Walk-ins welcome — or book online to guarantee your preferred time slot.
Related Guides
- The Complete Guide to Beard Grooming
- Undercut & Slicked Back Haircuts
- Pompadour Hairstyle Guide
- Quiff Haircut Ideas
Frequently Asked Questions About Fade Haircuts
How often should I get a fade touch-up?
Most fades need a touch-up every 2-3 weeks to maintain the crisp, clean look. If you prefer a more relaxed style, you can stretch it to 4 weeks.
Which fade is best for a round face?
A high fade or skin fade works best for round faces. The vertical lines help elongate the face and add definition.
Can I get a fade with curly hair?
Absolutely. Fades work well with all hair types, including curly hair. At Silky Smooth Barbers, we work with straight, wavy, and curly hair every day.
What’s the difference between a skin fade and a regular fade?
A skin fade takes the hair all the way down to the skin. A regular fade may stop at a longer length. Skin fades create the most dramatic contrast but require more frequent maintenance.