The low taper fade is one of the most searched men's haircuts. It keeps the sides and back neat without taking them down to the skin, and it suits most hair types and most workplaces. This post explains what the cut is and how to ask for it.
What a low taper fade is
A low taper fade combines two techniques. A taper is a gradual shortening of the hair down the sides and back. A fade blends that hair down to a very short length or to the skin. In a low taper fade, the fade is kept low and tight. It starts just above the ear and at the neckline, and it covers only the sideburns and the nape of the neck.
The rest of the sides keep more length than they would with a regular fade. The result is a clean edge around the ears and neck with a softer look overall.
How it differs from a low fade
A low fade usually runs all the way around the head at a low line just above the ears. A low taper fade is more focused. The short section is limited to the sideburns and the neckline, so less skin shows.
What goes on top
A low taper fade works with almost any length on top. Common pairings include a textured crop, a comb over, a side part, curls, and longer hair pushed back. Because the faded area is small, the top is usually the focus of the haircut.
How to ask for a low taper fade
A photo is the quickest way to show your barber what you want. It also helps to tell your barber the following:
- Whether the taper should go down to the skin or stop at a short clipper length.
- How much length to leave on the sides above the taper.
- How much length to keep on top, and how you usually style it.
- Whether you want the neckline tapered or squared off.
How long a low taper fade lasts
Because the short section is small, a low taper fade grows out more gradually than a full skin fade. A visit every three to four weeks keeps the edges sharp for most people. If you want it to look crisp at all times, two to three weeks is a better interval. Our post on how often you should get a haircut covers this in more detail, and our guide to tapers and fades explains the other common variations.
Booking a low taper fade at The Stray Hare
At The Stray Hare in Waldwick, a low taper fade is booked as a Haircut. It is $60 and takes about 30 minutes, and it includes a consultation, a shampoo, a style, and a hot lather neck shave. If you also want your beard trimmed to match, book the Haircut & Beard Trim Combo.