How to Do Fade Haircuts at Home, With a Bonus Clipper Guide and Styling Inspo
The confusion ends here.
Still baffled by the fade haircut? We can’t blame you for the confusion. What was supposed to be a pretty straightforward look—hair fading downward—has now gathered layer upon layer of complexity, depending on both the stylist and wearer. Street trends have thus catered to this variance, coining up with new nicknames and buzzwords for a hairstyle that’s basically as old as time itself.
We know the fade haircut can be a tad confusing, but there’s no need to worry. We’re here to help you decipher the differences between the variations of the fade. Plus, you’ll even learn how to achieve the style at home. In this easy-to-follow infographic, we illustrate the basic fades haircuts in current (re)rotation. For future reference, gentlemen:
Types of Fade Haircuts and How to Get Them
1. Classic Fade Haircut- Clipper guard: #3, #2, #1, 0
The classic fade haircuts leave a healthy length of hair up top (>3”) and taper down from one part line until it lightens up significantly towards the neckline. Some guys like to play with the back part, leaving a “tail” or tuft, versus an all-over taper.
2. High Fade – Clipper guard: #2, #1, 0
High fade haircuts or “high and tight” taper haircuts have strong military leanings. The “high” in its name comes from the somewhat high point on the head where hair starts to sharply thin out, as opposed to other, more gradual fades. This looks pretty crisp with a suit or a regular shirt.
3. Mid-Fade Clipper guard: #3, #2, #1
Guys with thick hair can go with a mid-fade as a starting point. You’ll want to still keep some volume up top—freeing you to play around with your pomps and quiffs as you wish—but will keep the sides precisely clipped. Mid-fades are also a great match for sharp temple edges, especially if you have an angular forehead—it’ll make your features look more chiseled.
4. Low Fade Haircut – Clipper guard: #4, #3, #2, #1
If you want to update your textbook clean-cut style, try a low faded version of the scissor crop. Guys with curly, wavy, or otherwise kind of fluffy hair can also ask for a low fade haircut to keep things neat on the sides. This will still keep some fun, malleable texture up top.
How to Style a Fade Haircut
Once you’ve got the fade haircut you want, it’s time to style! You don’t need to put any product on the fade part of the style, but depending on the length you have going on top, you might want to add in some product.
For a light texture and hold, we recommend adding some Bed Head for Men Press Up Body Building Foam.
If your style requires a more intense hold, go for AXE Spiked Up Look: Extreme Hold Glue.
For those who want to create a natural texture, apply SheaMoisture Men Argan Oil & Shea Butter Waves Pomade. This pomade helps to keep your hair moisturized and soft while providing a lightweight hold.
Fade Haircut Inspiration
Now that you either have your new fade haircut or you’re ready to try one out, it’s time to get some style inspo. Keep scrolling to check out some of our favorite fade haircuts.
1. Mohawk Fade Haircut
Make a statement with a mohawk fade hairstyle. Achieve this by using Bed Head for Men by TIGI Power Play Gel.
2. Fade with a Full Beard
Is a beard your thing? Pair your signature facial hair with a trending fade haircut and you’ll be the most stylish guy around.
3. Blonde Fade Haircut
Want to switch up a typical fade style? Go for a bright blonde look!
4. Dreadlock Fade
When you think of a fade hairstyle, most people don’t think of dreadlocks. But, it’s totally possible to pair this style will your dreadlocks!
5. Facial Hair Fade Haircut
Not sure what style to pair with your facial hair?You can never go wtong with a fade.
6. Deep Part Fade
Need to change up a classic style? Add a deep side part! It can seriously make such a huge difference.
7. Layered Fade Haircut
Add layers to make a typical haircut like this standout.
8. Slicked-Back Style
A slicked back fade style is a great option to go with if you want your beard to be the focus of your look.
9. Textured Fade
Have curly or wavy hair? Let your texture shine with this style. Use AXE Messy Look: Matte Wax for a lightweight hold that will last all day.
10. Sleek Hairstyle
A sleek style like this instantly looks super professional. You’re ready for anything that comes your way~
11. Choppy Haircut
A choppy twist to this hairstyle helps add extra dimension.
12. Accent Color Style
If you like to be daring with your hairstyles, try dyeing the front section of your fade. This will make your style standout in the best way possible.
13. Fade with an Undercut
Want to take your style a step further? Shave the bottom section of your hair to add an undercut to your fade.
14. Fade Hairstyle on Natural Hair
For guys with natural hair, a fade is a great option if you like to keep your hair on the shorter side.
15. Ponytail Fade
If your hair is long enough, you can even sport a ponytail with your fade.
16. Voluminous Curly Style
Let your curls be the center of your style!
17. Fade Hairstyle for Curly Hair
This type of style is perfect for curly hair because it makes your strands a lot easier to manage and they won’t feel overwhelming.
18. High Fade on Natural Hair
Want a look with some height? Try a high fade! This style works really well on natural hair.
19. High Fade Hairstyle
Play around with various lengths throughout your style. This will help create a unique look!
20. Classic Fade Hairstyle
Lastly, you can never go wrong with a classic fade. This style is sure to be around for many more years.
Whether you have dreadlocks, curly hair, of fine straight hair, there’s a fade style out there that’ll work for you!
