While almost all variations of a fade haircut relate to a shorter section towards to bottom gradually increasing in length as it reaches the crown, not all fades are the same. For example, taper fades are more concerned with edging and line-ups, while high fades look to expose more of the scalp. Here is a list of the best common men’s fade haircuts.

Perhaps the most extreme variation of the hairstyle, the high fade takes the blending section to the highest natural point. In this instance, the majority of the sides and back of the head will be exposed with the point of connection between the top and sides occurring just above the temple. In many instances, the high fade is chosen to highlight the contrast between short and longer areas, and may also be referred to as a ‘quick fade’. Importantly, as this hairstyle will grow out quickly, it requires a large amount of maintenance and constant cutting.

A more contemporary take on the short, back and sides, the mid-fade haircut follows the same structure as the high fade but pushes the blending point lower. In most cases, the blend will occur in line with your temple, giving a more corporate aesthetic. Best of all, the mid fade works with almost any type of hairstyle on top, whether it be crop, pompadour or side part.

A simple entry point for those new to the world of fade haircuts, the low fade keeps the blending point below your temple. Far sharper than the average short hairstyle, this cut will last you a little longer than normal and won’t significantly alter the shape or silhouette. If you want to change things up a little bit, without going overboard, the low fade is a great place to start.

A taper fade is a type of haircut that reduces the fade section purely to the sideburns and nape. In this style, the hair gradually fades out to nothing with the blending point occurring just at ear height. While not significantly different from a standard cut, this variation not only looks sharper but will last longer and will grow out more naturally. Importantly, it won’t be as drastic as some of the other fades you’ll see and can be altered in order to suit any hair length on top, making it not just one of the best fade haircuts you can ask for, but also the most versatile.

A burst fade is a style of haircut that keeps the hair around the ears short while dropping the blending point at the back of the head slightly lower. In some cases, you may see a circle-like bald section over the ear leading to a mohawk-like nape. More challenging for the barber, this men’s fade haircut is decidedly more contemporary and suits those with wider face shapes towards the top. Keeping the blending point at the back lower will help elongate triangle, heart and square face shapes, giving a better overall profile.

In essence, an undercut is two hairstyles in one. An undercut is a section of hair that has been disconnected, meaning that there is a distinct contrast between long and short areas. Most notably, you will see fades on the sides, where the hair gradually goes from skin or #0 up to a #3, while the hair on top is far longer. This hair may be styled to sit on top, similar to a slickback or fall naturally over the faded area.

For the uninitiated, a men’s fade haircut simply refers to a slightly more extreme variation of the classic short, back and sides. Typically, the hair on top of the head is slightly longer than all other areas, however, with a fade haircut, the hair gradually shortens as you make your way down the sideburns and nape of the neck. France Khamees, director of BY FRANCE and 2018-19 Barber Brands International Barber of the Year explains that while certain elements of a fade haircut are uniform, there are variations depending on personal preference and hair type.

When it comes time to sit in the barber’s chair, it’s not as straightforward as simply asking for a fade. To ensure that you get the hairstyle you are after, it’s important that you understand two things – How short your want the back and sides, and how long you want the top. The ultimate goal of a fade is to evenly distribute the gradual fall of the hair in a smooth transition, so blending a #1 into a #3 with some length on top is a simple-enough instruction for any barber to follow.

While it might be annoying and time-consuming, when barbers and hairdressers complete a consultation at the start of the service, they are assessing a few important aspects, namely, your hair health, length and face shape. Your shape will help to direct them towards a style that is best suited for you. While each face and person is inherently different, there are some general rules that barbers work towards.

Styling a men’s fade haircut is completely dependent on the length on top. As the term ‘fade’ generally refers to the sides and back, you may choose to shave the top or grow it long. Once again, think about your face shape and which section accentuate your best features. For the most part, shorter hairstyles look better with minimal product, so opt for something that is matte or like in texture.