Taper and fade are two of the most common words used in a barber chair, and they are often used as if they mean the same thing. They do not. Knowing the difference makes it much easier to get the haircut you have in mind.
What a taper is
A taper is a haircut where the hair gets gradually shorter down the sides and back of the head. The change in length is gentle, and some length is left at the bottom. A taper is usually most noticeable at the sideburns and the neckline, where it gives the cut a clean, finished edge without exposing the skin.
A taper suits almost any length on top and works well in more conservative settings, such as an office. It also grows out gracefully, which is why many people choose it.
What a fade is
A fade also gets shorter toward the bottom, but the transition is more dramatic. The hair is blended from longer on top down to very short hair, often down to the skin. The result is a sharper contrast between the top and the sides.
A fade that goes all the way down to bare skin is called a skin fade or a bald fade. A fade that stops at a short clipper length, rather than the skin, is sometimes called a regular fade or a shadow fade.
Low, mid and high fades
These terms describe where the fade begins on the side of the head.
A low fade starts just above the ear and the neckline. It is the most subtle option.
A mid fade starts around the middle of the side of the head, roughly at the level of the temple. It is the most common choice and works with most head shapes.
A high fade starts near the top of the head, close to where the head begins to curve. It creates the most contrast and puts the most attention on the hair on top.
What a taper fade is
A taper fade is a fade that is kept to a small area, usually the sideburns and the neckline. It combines the soft look of a taper with the clean, close finish of a fade. If you want something tidy that still shows some skin at the edges, a low taper fade is a good request. Our post on the low taper fade covers that cut in more detail.
How to ask for the cut you want
A photo is the clearest way to show your barber what you want. It also helps to answer four questions before the clippers come out:
- Do you want a taper or a fade?
- If it is a fade, should it go down to the skin or stop at a short length?
- Where should it start: low, mid or high?
- How much length do you want to keep on top?
Your barber may also ask whether you want the neckline squared off or tapered. A tapered neckline usually grows out more naturally.
How long each cut lasts
A skin fade shows growth the fastest. Plan on a visit every two to three weeks to keep it sharp. A taper lasts longer, and four to five weeks between cuts is a reasonable interval. We cover this in more detail in our post on how often you should get a haircut.
Booking a fade or taper at The Stray Hare
At The Stray Hare in Waldwick, fades and tapers are booked as a Haircut, which is $60 and takes about 30 minutes. Each haircut includes a consultation, a shampoo, a style, and a hot lather neck shave. If you also want your beard shaped to match the fade, book the Haircut & Beard Trim Combo.