A Guide to Fade Haircuts, According to a Pro Groomer

Most hairstyle journeys are marked by that one iconic look they’ve rocked for years — a style they’d gladly always revisit when given the chance. In the world of grooming and the sacred place called the barbershop, certain cuts, like the classic bald fade, stand the test of time.

The bald fade has evolved from a trend to a staple, a cornerstone of modern grooming. Its appeal lies in its ability to seamlessly blend style with practicality, offering a look that’s equally sharp and low-maintenance.

As an editor who has rocked a bald fade since the ’90s, I can attest to the style being the chameleon of haircuts. The versatile look complements a wide array of face shapes. Whether you’re aiming for a professional, clean-cut appearance or a more fashion-forward vibe, the bald fade haircut can be tailored to suit your needs. It provides a clean, polished appearance that strikes the perfect balance between edgy and classic charm.

To dive deeper into the world of bald fades, we tapped Joshua Meekins, a renowned men’s groomer and celebrity barber. Ahead, Meekins breaks down the most popular fade types, offers maintenance tips, and provides insights into why the bald fade continues to dominate barbershops today.

Experts Featured in This Article

Joshua Meekins is a renowned celebrity groomer and the founder of Meet The Barber’s Gentleman’s Lounge.

What Is a Bald Fade Haircut?

“A bald fade, also known as a skin fade, is a haircut style characterized by hair that gradually tapers down to the skin on the sides and back of the head,” Meekins tells PS. “This creates a smooth transition from longer hair on top to completely bare skin at the bottom, giving a clean look.”

Different Types of Fades Haircuts

As Joshua Meekins explains, “There are many fades, each of which can symbolize different things depending on where you are.” This highlights the nuanced nature of this seemingly universal style. The bald fade’s interpretation and execution differs across various communities and geographical locations. In some areas, it might be seen as a standard, clean-cut look, while in others, it could carry deeper cultural significance or be associated with specific subcultures. For instance, in the deep south, many teenage boys associate high top fades with basketball or hip-hop culture. Some even shape their fades to mirror BIPOC historic figures that resonate with certain communities.

Moreover, the way a bald fade haircut is finished also varies regionally. Some areas might prefer a more textured look, with less hair taken off top, while others lean towards a smoother finish, keeping the fade low and even all over. The cutting techniques used by barbers can also differ, reflecting local preferences and traditions in grooming. In New York, skin fades are often shaped starting at the lower point of the head unless requested otherwise. In most southern states, most go for a cleaner look and prefer to have the fade shaped higher to promote a suave finish and ensure the haircut lasts longer.

Keep reading for examples of some of the most common types of fades, plus some helpful visual inspiration.

Skin-Fade Haircut

“A skin fade tapers down to the skin for a bold, modern look,” Meekins says.

Taper-Fade Haircut

“A taper fade is a gradual, subtle fade that keeps some length around the ears and neck,” Meekins says. “Up north, we call it a ‘taper,’ while down south, it’s often referred to as a ‘temp fade.”

Low-Fade Haircut

“The low fade starts just above the ears for a clean but understated look,” Meekins says.

Mid-Fade Haircut

“A mid fade starts around the temple,” Meekins says. This haircut focuses on shorter hair on the side and more on top.

High-Fade Haircut

“The high fade is a sharp, attention-grabbing fade that starts higher on the head,” Meekins says.

Drop-Fade Haircut

“For those with waves or caesars, the drop fade fades around the ears, following the natural curve of the head,” Meekins says.

Burst-Fade Haircut

“The burst fade is an edgier fade that pops around the ears, often paired with textured looks,” Meekins says.

Choosing the Right Bald Fade Haircut For Your Face Shape

No matter the haircut, knowing your face shape and what type of style works best with it, is imperative. The same holds true for bald fades, especially given that not all are created equal. Ahead, more on which types of bald fades best fit four common face shapes.

Because there are often regional differences in the names of bald fades, it’s important to do your research so you can properly communicate your expectations to your barber and ensure the best outcome. “Be clear with your barber about what type of fade you want, especially depending on the city and state,” says Meekins. “Make sure you’re both on the same page before the clippers come out.”

How to Keep a Bald Fade Fresh Between Haircuts

To keep your fade fresh, Meekins suggests following these tips in between barbershop visits:

Stixx Mathews is a New York City-based freelance beauty writer with 11 years of experience who is passionate about telling stories that merge beauty and pop culture. He enjoys sharing his expert insights about the latest trends and must-have products, with a particular focus on lipstick and fragrance.