A low taper fade is one of the most popular haircuts now and it’s easy to see why. It looks clean, fresh and works for almost everyone. Whether or not your hair is straight, curly, thick, or thin, this style can suit you well. In this guide, we’ll take you step by step through everything you need to know about the low taper fade in an easy, friendly manner.
What Is a Low Taper Fade?
A low taper fade is a haircut where the hair on the sides and back are gradually faded and become shorter as they approach the ears. The top hair is longer and the sides gradually fade to shorter hair. The change is neither sudden and harsh nor sudden and abrupt.
Think of it like a smooth hill. The hair is being made a little bit shorter step by step. This makes the haircut look clean, natural and easy to handle.
Why people love it:
- It looks neat and fresh
- It’s simple to care for
- It works on all hair type
- It is suitable for school, work, or casual days
- It can be styled in many ways
Why the Low Taper Fade is so Popular
People like the low taper fade for a lot of reasons. Here are some of the biggest of those.
- It Looks Very Clean
The fade is low, so it keeps your haircut sharp, but not too dramatic. This makes it perfect for people who want a simple and tidy look.
- It Fits All Hair Types
No matter what kind of hair you have – curly, straight, wavy, thick or thin – a low taper fade will blend nicely.
- It Is Low-Maintenance
You don’t need a lot of hair products to make this style look good. A quick brush or fashioned hand style is often sufficient.
- It Works for Many Styles
The low taper fade can be combined with waves, curls, long tops, short tops, and even beards.
Different Types of Low Taper Fades
There are numerous versions of a low taper fade. Here are some popular ones, explained in simple terms:
- Low Taper Fade With Curly Hair
This helps to keep the curls full on top and the sides clean. It helps to control the volume and gives a nice shape.
- Low Taper Fade With Waves
People with 360 waves tend to opt for such a style. It maintains the smoothness of the waves and the neatness of the fade.
- Low Taper Fade With a Line-Up
The line up provides sharp edges across the forehead. When combined with a low taper fade the look is extra clean and modern.
- Low Taper Fade With a Beard
The fade can blend into your beard to create a smooth transition from hair to beard. It gives an overall structured and neat appearance to your entire face.
- Low Taper Fade With Textured Top
A textured top has natural movement a bit messy, wavy or curly. The low taper fade leaves the sides simple in order to make the top stand out.
How To Ask Your Barber to Cut a Low Taper Fade
Ask for a haircut, sometimes it is confusing, but here is how it can be done easily:
- Say you want a low taper fade on the sides & back
- Tell the barber how long you want the top: short, medium, or long
- Let them know if you want a line-up or beard fade
- Show a picture if possible pictures make it all clear
Barbers like these instructions to be clear, and you’ll also get the exact style you want.
How Barbers Achieve a Low Taper Fade
A low taper fade may appear simple enough, but barbers put skills to work making the fade appear smooth and clean. Here’s what usually happens:
- The barber begins cutting in the region of the ears
- They gradually mix the hair upwards
- Clippers and scissors to help make the fade even
- The neckline is shaped to have a fresh look
- Additional information such as a line up may be added
The blending is the most important part as it creates that soft, natural fade.
How to Maintain a Low Taper Fade
The good news the low taper fade is easy to maintain. Still, there are some simple steps to keep it fresh:
- Visit Your Barber Regularly
Most fades begin to grow out after 2-4 weeks. If you want it to be sharp all the time, go to your barber once or twice a month.
- Keep Your Hair Clean
To keep your hair healthy use gentle shampoo and conditioner. Clean hair always looks better with a fade.
- Use Light Styling Products
You don’t need heavy gels. Light products like:
- Hair cream
- Sea salt spray
- Soft pomade
The styling products “can help style your hair without making it stiff.”
- Trim the Neckline
If your fade is growing out before your next haircut, it is possible to keep your haircut looking neat by cleaning up the neckline at home.
Who Should Opt for Low Taper Fade?
A low taper fade is great for:
- Students
- Workers in offices
- People who want to have a simple but stylish look
- Anyone who is a fan of low-effort hair
- People with any hair type
This haircut will suit just about anyone because it’s soft, clean and natural-looking.
Low Taper Fade vs. Other Fades (Easy to Explain)
There are different types of fades, and each one starts in a different point:
- Low Taper Fade: Begins close to the ears. It produces a soft and natural appearance.
- Mid Fade: Begins at the center of the sides. It gives a modern and balanced look.
- High Fade: Starts off near the temples. It gives a bold and sharp look.
If you are unsure which one to get, the low taper fade is the most safe and beginner friendly one.
Final Thoughts
The low taper fade is a clean and easy haircut which suits almost everyone. It begins low, blends well and provides a natural finish. You don’t need a lot of styling products or time to take care of it. Whether you are going for a simple and neat cut or something with a little more personality, the low taper fade is a great option.
