What is the Difference Between Fade and Taper

Fade and taper are two popular men’s haircuts. Both gradually shorten the hair from the top to the sides and back. They also create a clean and polished look. However, a fade is not the same as a taper.

What is the difference between fade and taper? A fade cuts the hair very close to the skin, sometimes down to bald, whereas a taper keeps some length and gradually shortens.

Key Areas Covered

1. What is a Fade Cut
     – Definition, Features
2. What is a Taper Cut
     – Definition, Features
3. Similarities Between Fade and Taper
     – Outline of Common Features
4. Difference Between Fade and Taper
     – Comparison of Key Differences
5. FAQ: Fade and Taper
     – Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

Key Terms

Fade, Taper, Haircut

What is a Fade Cut

A fade cut is a haircut where the hair gradually blends from longer lengths on top to very short or even skin-level on the sides and back. It creates a clean and sharp contrast. The fade cut can be combined with other haircuts like undercuts, pompadours, and even modern mullets.

There are different types of fades based on how high or low the fade starts.

• Low fade – begins near the ear and tapers down
• High fade – starts near the temples for a bolder look
• Skin fade – the shortest version, and the hair fades completely into the skin
• Drop fade – curves downward at the back for a trendy effect
• Undercut fade – combines a longer top with faded sides for a striking contrast

Although a fade cut looks sleek and stylish, you need regular maintenance to keep the sharp, clean appearance. Frequent trims help to maintain the faded length and keep the style fresh.

What is a Taper Cut

A taper cut is a haircut where the hair gradually shortens from the top of the head down to the neckline. This creates a smooth and natural transition. Unlike a fade, which often has a sharper contrast, a taper blends the hair more subtly. It’s good choice for men who want a clean yet professional appearance.

When getting a taper, a barber will consider factors like hair texture and length to create the perfect look. There are several types of taper cuts.

• Low taper – starts just above the ears for a subtle effect
• High taper – begins much higher on the head for a bolder contrast
• Mid taper – falls in between and usually starts around the temples
• Skin taper – fades down to the skin and creates a sharp and defined look.
• Side-part taper – hair is tapered on one side
• Undercut taper – the sides and back are cut very short while the top remains longer
• Neckline taper – focuses on creating a clean and well-defined shape at the nape of the neck.

Moreover, taper cuts require regular trims to maintain their smooth, blended appearance.

Similarities Between Fade and Taper

1. Both fade and taper haircuts gradually shorten the hair from the top to the sides and back.
2. Both styles create a clean and polished look.
3. They can be combined with other hairstyles on top.

Difference Between Fade and Taper

Definition

• A fade cut is a haircut where the hair gradually blends from longer lengths on top to very short or even skin-level on the sides and back. A taper cut, on the other hand, is a haircut where the hair gradually shortens from the top of the head down to the neckline.

Length of Hair

• A fade cuts the hair very close to the skin, sometimes down to bald, whereas a taper keeps some length and gradually shortens.

Blending

• A fade has a more dramatic contrast between long and short hair, whereas a taper has a smoother and more natural transition.

Placement

• A fade can start high, mid, or low on the head, while a taper usually starts lower, near the ears or neckline.

Sharpness

• Fades create a sharper, more defined look, while tapers give a softer and more professional appearance.

Trimming

• Fades need more regular trimming sessions than tapers.

FAQ: Fade and Taper

1. Which is better, taper or fade?

Fades are better for textured or curly hair as they improve natural volume and definition. Meanwhile, tapers work well for all hair types.  

2. Does a fade turn into a taper?

No, a fade does not turn into a taper. A fade cuts the hair very short, often down to the skin, while a taper keeps more length and gradually shortens.

3. What lasts longer, taper or fade?

A taper generally lasts longer than a fade because it has a more gradual change in length, so it doesn’t need to be trimmed as often. Fades can look sharp initially but require regular maintenance to keep the look fresh.

4. Does a taper go to the skin?

No, a taper does not go to the skin. It gradually shortens the hair towards the neckline but usually leaves some length at the bottom, while a skin fade is cut down to the skin.

Reference:

1. Young, Victor. “Getting a Fade Haircut: Everything you need to know.” ManCaVe

Image Courtesy:

1. “A Man in Barber Shop” (CC0) via Pexels

2. “Fade Hair Cut” By Truth678 – Own work (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Commons Wikimedia