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The Low Taper Fade is a stylish and highly popular haircut among men. This trendy style combines a fade. Where the hair gradually gets shorter from the top to the bottom with a low taper, starting just above the ear. The result is a clean, fresh look that works well for both casual and professional settings. The low taper fade is versatile and easy to maintain, which is why it remains one of the most requested haircuts at barbershops. Whether you’re new to this style or considering it for your next haircut, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the low taper fade, from its definition to how to get the perfect cut.
What is a Low Taper Fade?
A Low Taper Fade is a type of fade haircut where the hair on the sides and back gradually shortens from the natural hairline down toward the neck. The “low” in low taper fade refers to the point at which the fade begins, which is just above the ear. This subtle starting point differentiates the low taper fade from other fade styles, such as the mid or high fade, which start higher on the head.
Unlike other fades, where the hair may abruptly change lengths, the low taper fade features a smoother, more gradual transition. The hair on the sides is cut in such a way that it blends seamlessly into the shorter length near the neckline, providing a neat, well-groomed look.
The Fade Process: How It Works
The low taper fade is achieved using clippers that gradually reduce the hair length as they move down the sides. Depending on the desired result, the barber will use different clipper guards to fade the hair from top to bottom. This ensures a gradual blend, eliminating any harsh lines between the longer hair on top and the shorter sides.
The process can take anywhere from 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the precision needed and the hair type. A good barber will take their time to ensure the fade is clean and smooth, with no noticeable lines.
Why is the Low Taper Fade So Popular?
The low taper fade has gained immense popularity in recent years, and for good reason. There are several reasons why this haircut is in demand and why it’s a great choice for a wide range of people.
1. Versatility in Styling
One of the biggest advantages of the low taper fade is its versatility. Whether you like your hair short, medium, or longer, the fade can be adapted to suit your needs. You can pair the low taper fade with a wide range of styles on top, from buzz cuts to longer textured looks like the pompadour or quiff. This adaptability means the low taper fade works well for anyone, regardless of hair texture or personal preference.
2. Suitable for All Face Shapes
The low taper fade is also ideal for many different face shapes. It adds structure to round faces by creating a sharp contrast between the longer hair on top and the faded sides. For square or angular faces, the low taper fade softens the appearance, giving the face a balanced, symmetrical look.
3. Professional Yet Trendy
Unlike some haircuts that may look too edgy or dramatic, the low taper fade strikes a balance between professional and trendy. It works well for men who want to maintain a stylish look that is still acceptable in formal or business settings. Whether you’re in the office or at a social event, this fade will make you look polished without feeling overdone.
4. Low Maintenance
While the low taper fade requires a trim every few weeks to keep it sharp, the style itself is low-maintenance compared to other fade haircuts. The fade doesn’t need constant touch-ups, and the length on top can be styled with minimal effort. Whether you choose a buzz cut, crew cut, or longer hair, the fade requires little upkeep aside from regular visits to the barber.
How to Achieve the Low Taper Fade
The process of getting the low taper fade starts with a consultation with your barber. This allows you to discuss exactly how you want the fade to look and ensures that you’re on the same page. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the process to achieve the perfect low taper fade:
1. Consultation with Your Barber
Communication with your barber is essential to getting the fade you want. Before the haircut begins, explain to your barber exactly where you want the fade to start. The low taper fade should begin just above the ear, but you can also specify if you want the fade to start higher or lower. Additionally, discuss the length you prefer on top and how you’d like to style it.
2. Choosing the Length on Top
The top section of your hair is an important aspect of the low taper fade. The length you choose will significantly impact the overall look. If you want a simple, low-maintenance style, you might opt for a short buzz cut. On the other hand, if you’re interested in a more stylish and textured look, you can leave the top longer, allowing you to style it in different ways.
3. The Fade Process
Once you’ve chosen the length of the top and sides, your barber will begin the fading process. Using clippers with various guard sizes, your barber will carefully fade the hair on the sides and back, ensuring that the hair transitions smoothly from long to short. The fade should look seamless with no sharp lines between the different lengths.
4. Regular Touch-Ups
The low taper requires regular touch-ups to maintain its clean, fresh look. While the top may need only occasional trims, the sides and fade will need to be touched up every 3 to 4 weeks. A regular visit to your barber will keep the fade looking sharp and ensure that the overall style remains well-groomed.
Different Styles to Pair with a Low Taper Fade
While the low taper fade is a haircut in itself, it can be paired with many different styles to create a unique and personalized look. Here are some of the most popular styles to pair with the low taper fade:
1. Buzz Cut
The buzz cut is a short, uniform cut that works well with the low taper fade. The contrast between the short, tapered sides and the buzzed top creates a clean, minimalistic look. This style is perfect for those who want something easy to maintain and don’t want to worry about styling their hair every day.
2. Crew Cut
The crew cut is another short hairstyle that pairs well with the low taper. The hair on top is cut short and tapered toward the sides, providing a classic, masculine look. The low taper adds a bit of modern flair to this timeless style.
3. Pompadour
For a more stylish and voluminous look, consider pairing the low taper with a pompadour. The hair on top is styled back and lifted for height, while the faded sides keep the overall look sharp. This style requires more effort to maintain but is perfect for those who want a bold, fashionable appearance.
4. Textured Quiff
A textured quiff paired with a low taper fade is a trendy option for men who want some volume on top but still want to keep the sides neat and clean. The hair is styled upward and back, adding a youthful, stylish touch to the fade.
Pros and Cons of the Low Taper
Pros:
- Sophisticated and Clean: The low taper fade offers a sharp, well-groomed look that works in both formal and informal settings.
- Adaptable: The fade can be customized to suit various hair types, lengths, and personal preferences.
- Easy to Maintain: While the fade requires regular touch-ups, it’s relatively low-maintenance compared to other more complex fade styles.
- Great for All Face Shapes: The low taper fade enhances facial features and works well with all face shapes, making it a universal choice.
Cons:
- Requires Frequent Trims: While the fade is low-maintenance, it does require regular visits to the barber to keep the fade sharp.
- Not Ideal for Long Hair: If you prefer long hair, the low taper may not offer the volume or contrast you’re looking for.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long does a low taper fade last?
A low taper fade typically lasts around 3 to 4 weeks before the hair starts growing back and the fade begins to lose its sharpness. Regular trims every few weeks will help maintain the fresh, clean look.
2. Is the low taper good for curly hair?
Yes! The low taper fade works beautifully with curly hair. The fade helps control the volume on the sides, while the curls on top can be styled to enhance the natural texture.
3. Can I get a low taper if I have a receding hairline?
Absolutely! The low taper fade is an excellent choice for men with a receding hairline, as it can draw attention away from the hairline and create a balanced, clean look.
4. How do I style my hair with a low taper?
The styling depends on the length of the hair on top. For short hair, use a light styling product like pomade or gel to keep the hair neat. For longer hair, use a texturizing spray or cream to add volume and texture to the top.
5. Is a low taper fade hard to maintain?
No, the low taper fade is relatively easy to maintain compared to other more dramatic fade styles. However, regular trims are required to keep the sides sharp and fresh.
Conclusion
The Low Taper Fade is a stylish, versatile, and easy-to-maintain haircut that works for a variety of hair types and face shapes. Whether you’re looking for a clean professional look or something trendy, the low taper can be customized to suit your personal style. By combining the fade with different styles on top, such as a buzz cut, crew cut, or pompadour, you can create a look that reflects your personality. With regular maintenance and communication with your barber, the low taper will continue to be a go-to style for years to come.
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