Any barber worth his salt knows how to cut in a fade. To be honest, it's barbering 101.
But regular Joes like you and me might not know what a fade is – and if you do, you might not quite understand how to style one correctly.
So let's take a step back and break it down together. In today's article, I'm breaking out the must-know facts about fade haircuts to help you feel confident next time you sit in the barber's chair.
- What Is A Fade Haircut?
- Differences Between A Low, Mid and High Fade
- How To Stlyle A Buzz Cut Fade
- How To Style A Quiff Fade
- How To Style A Crew Cut Fade
- When Not To Fade Your Hair
#1 What Is A Fade Haircut For Men?
A men's fade haircut is a style in which the hair is cut short around the sides and back while the hair on top is kept longer. There are many different types of fades, so you can find the perfect style for your hair type and face shape.
When visiting your barber, it's best to know the different numbers associated with hair trimmers. Your barber will undoubtedly use a hair trimmer to cut a fade into your hair, so knowing which number grade of trimmer is used to achieve the style you desire will help your barber to know how short to cut your hair.
In short, the different number grades of trimmer comb are as follows:
- Number 1 – 3 millimeters
- Number 2 – 6 millimeters
- Number 3 – 10 millimeters
- Number 4 – 13 millimeters
- Number 5 – 16 millimeters
- Number 6 – 19 millimeters
- Number 7 – 22 millimeters
- Number 8 – 25 millimeters
- Number 10 – 32 millimeters
- Number 12 – 37.5 millimeters
As you can see, the lower the number grade, the shorter the hair will be cut. Therefore, if you want a very short fade, you would ask your barber to use a number one trimmer comb. Conversely, if you want a longer fade, you would ask your barber to use a number five trimmer comb. It's as simple as that!
Now that we've covered the basics of what a men's fade haircut is and how it's achieved let's take a look at some of the best fade haircuts for men for fall 2022!
#2 Differences Between A Low, Mid, and High Fade
You'll hear barbers talking about different heights of fade – low, mid or high.
This isn't as whacky as it sounds – essentially, it describes how high up the side of your head the fade will start.
A low fade will start just above the ear, whilst a high fade will start nearer the temple. In between these two extremes, you have a mid fade that starts (you guessed it) around the middle of your temple.
How you want your men's fade haircut to look is really down to personal preference – although certain face shapes might be better suited to one style of fade over another.
If in doubt, ask your barber for their opinion on which style of fade will suit you best!
As I mentioned, a low fade haircut starts just above the ear and fades up towards the temples. This is a great option if you want a subtle fading effect – it's also perfect if you're new to fades, as it's quite subtle.
A mid fade is a happy medium between a low and high fade – it starts around the middle of your temple and fades up towards the top of your head. This is a great option if you want something that's not too subtle or too drastic.
Finally, a high fade haircut starts near the top of your temples and fades up towards the top of your head. This is a great option if you want a dramatic fading effect.
Different hairstyles suit different fades, so it's important to communicate with your barber and tell them exactly how you style your hair. After all, get it wrong, and you could end up ruining your haircut through poor communication.
#3 How To Style A Buzz Cut Fade
A buzz cut fade is probably the easiest fade haircut to achieve – after all, it's just a buzz cut with a fade!
Buzz cuts are incredibly popular right now, so it's no surprise that the buzz cut fade is also extremely popular.
A buzz cut is a very short haircut in which all of the hair is shaved to one length – usually around two or three millimeters. When a fade is thrown in the mix, this can create a really striking look.
The great thing about a buzz cut fade is that it's incredibly easy to style and maintain – it's what I like to call a ‘get up and go' hairstyle.
Typically, the fade used with this hairstyle will be a low or mid fade – although you could go for a high fade if you wanted something a little different. Remember, a good haircut should be balanced, so if you're going for a high fade, I would recommend keeping the top of your hair relatively long.
If you're not sure whether a buzz cut is for you, why not talk with your barber? They'll be able to talk you through the different options and help you find the perfect style for you!
#4 How To Style A Quiff Fade (or ‘Undercut')
A quiff is a classic hairstyle that guys have been sporting since the 1950s. It's a timeless look that can be adapted to suit any style – making it the perfect option for guys who want a versatile hairstyle.
The quiff is achieved by combing the hair up and back before using a product to hold it in place. This gives the hair a ‘puffed up' look that is both stylish and sophisticated.
When paired with a fade, this can create a striking look sure to turn heads!
There are many different ways to wear a quiff – it can be worn neat and tidy or messy and disheveled. It's really down to personal preference!
So, what level of fade should you opt for? Well, you've got a few options – you could go for a low, mid, or high fade. Personally, I think a mid fade looks best with a quiff as it provides the perfect balance between the two styles.
If you're thinking about getting a quiff, be sure to talk with your barber and tell them exactly what you're looking for. Depending on the thickness of your hair, your barber will advise the best style and fade for you – so don't be afraid to talk to them and get their expert knowledge before committing to a certain style.
After all, barbers have been styling quiffs and quiff fades for over 70 years, so they know what they're doing by now.
#5 How To Style A Crew Cut Fade
A crew cut is a very short, military-inspired haircut in which the hair is clipped close to the head all around. It's a stylish and sophisticated option that has been popular for many years – and it's easy to see why!
Crew cuts are incredibly easy to style and maintain, making them a great option for busy guys who don't have time to spend hours styling their hair each morning.
Typically, a crew cut will be paired with a low or mid fade – after all, no drill sergeant would permit a statement high fade in their ranks!
If you're thinking of getting a crew cut, talk with your barber about the options available. Depending on the thickness of your hair, they may recommend a different style – so it's always best to get professional advice before committing to a certain look.
Once you've decided on the perfect crew cut fade for you, all that's left to do is take the plunge, hit the barber chair, and enjoy your new hairstyle!
#6 When Not To Fade Your Hair
A men's fade haircut is great, but some hairstyles just don't work with them.
If you're not sure whether a fade will suit your style, here are a few things to consider:
- If you have very thin or fine hair, a fade is probably not the best option. The shorter length of the fade can accentuate any areas of thinning, so it's best to steer clear if this is something you're self-conscious about.
- Similarly, if you have very thick hair, a fade may not be the best choice. The shorter length can make thick hair appear even fuller – which may not be the look you're going for.
- If you prefer a more natural look, then a fade is probably not for you. Fades tend to be quite high maintenance, so if you're not willing to put in the time to keep your fade faded with regular trips to the barber, it's probably best to steer clear.
- Finally, if you have any hair concerns, such as dandruff or an oily scalp, a fade is probably not the best option. The shorter length of the fade can accentuate any areas of concern, so it's best to talk with your doctor or dermatologist before getting a fade to see whether you can get those problems cleared up.
In conclusion, the men's fade haircut is a great option for many guys – but they're not right for everyone. If you're unsure whether a fade will suit you, be sure to talk with your barber or hairstylist and get their professional opinion before making the chop!
Looking to learn more about your hair? Check out my article on how to change your hairstyle without visiting the barber.