How to Give the Best Men’s Fade Haircut?

The men’s fade haircut is a popular and versatile hairstyle that has become a staple in modern barbering. Known for its ‘clean, gradual transition’ from short to longer hair, the fade can be tailored to suit various styles and preferences. Whether you’re a seasoned hairstylist or a beginner looking to hone your skills, mastering the men’s fade haircut is essential. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to achieve the perfect fade, covering everything from tools and techniques to tips and tricks.

What is a Men’s Fade Haircut?

A men’s fade haircut involves gradually tapering the length of the hair from the bottom of the head upwards, creating a seamless blend between different lengths. There are several types of fades. Each type of fade is fit for a certain occasion and some professions even recommend fade haircut. The four main variations based on where the hair split begins are as follows:

1. Low Fade: Low fades start just above the ears and gradually increase in length. They are ideal for professional settings and classic styles like the comb-over or side part. This fade aligns with military grooming standards and is perfect for those trying a fade for the first time due to its subtle transition.
2. Mid Fade: Mid fades begin around the temple area, offering a balanced look. Versatile and suitable for both professional and casual settings, they complement textured cuts like pompadours. This fade is great for a sporty look, combining style with practicality.
3. High Fade: High fades start high on the head, near the temples, creating a dramatic contrast. They are perfect for edgy and modern styles, urban street fashion, and short haircuts like buzz cuts. This fade accentuates facial features, giving a sharp and bold appearance.
4. Skin Fade: Skin fades taper the hair down to the skin for a clean, close shave look. They are ideal for high contrast styles and hot climates, offering a very polished and meticulous appearance. This fade helps blend in thinning hair and provides a crisp, sharp finish. Not an ideal choice for corporate settings but a well-liked style in the military. 

Each type of fade can be customized to fit the client’s head shape, hair type, and personal style.

Tools You Will Need

To achieve the best men’s fade haircut, you’ll need the right tools. Here’s a list of essentials:

1. Guard Combs: Various sizes, typically ranging from #0 (1/16 inch) to #8 (1 inch).
2. Edgers/Trimmers: For detailing and clean lines. Fade haircuts are one of the few haircuts where the hairstylist needs to make minimum use of the shears and the entire haircut can be pulled off with a high quality trimmer. Hanzo has two high quality trimming devices: (1) the Hanzo Hitter and (2) the Hanzo Trimmer.
3. Scissors: For trimming and blending – a texturizing shear. For a fade haircut, we will be needing a texturizing shear with fine teeth. Something like the Mazeru or Hayaku will be ideal candidates for fine blending.    
4. Comb: A barber comb or a clipper-over-comb tool. Hanzo offers some amazing hairstyling accessories for professional hairstylists. 

Step-by-Step Guide to Achieving the Perfect Men’s Fade Haircut

1. Consultation

Before starting the haircut, consult with your client to understand their preferences. Discuss the type of fade they want, the length on top, and any specific details or style variations. This step ensures that both you and your client are on the same page. Fade is a really tricky affair. If the customer actually wants a mid fade but miscommunicates to the hairstylist for getting a skin fade, the results can be quite disastrous. 

2. Prepare the Hair

Wash and dry the client’s hair to ensure it’s clean and free of any styling products. Comb through the hair to remove any tangles and part the hair if necessary.

3. Start with the Top

Begin by cutting the top of the hair to the desired length. Use clippers with a longer guard comb. Ensure the top is even and blends well with the sides. This provides a foundation for the fade.

4. Establish the Baseline

Choose the length of the lowest part of the fade. For a skin fade, start with no guard or the shortest guard available. For other fades, use the appropriate guard size. Start at the base of the hairline and create a clean, even baseline around the head.

5. Create the Fade

Gradually increase the guard size and move up the head. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

• Low Fade: Use a #1 or #2 guard just above the baseline. Move up about an inch and switch to a #2 or #3 guard. Continue blending upwards.
• Mid Fade: Start with a #1 guard around the temples. Blend into a #2 guard as you move upwards. For a seamless transition, use a #3 guard or higher above the midpoint.
• High Fade: Use a #1 guard high on the head. Blend into a #2 guard just below the crown. Finish with a #3 guard to blend into the top.

Use a flicking motion to avoid harsh lines and ensure a smooth transition between lengths. Continuously comb the hair to check for evenness and blending.

6. Detail the Edges

Once the fade is complete, use edgers or trimmers to clean up the hairline, around the ears, and the nape of the neck. Define the edges for a crisp, clean look.

7. Blend and Touch Up

Check the haircut from all angles using a mirror. Look for any uneven spots or lines that need further blending. Use scissors over comb or a clipper-over-comb technique to refine the fade. One critical step in delivering a clean fade is cutting properly around the ears. For hairstylists who find it troublesome, we have an article on how to cut hair around ears in simple steps. 

Tips and Tricks for a Perfect Fade

Maintaining your tools is crucial; ensure your clippers and trimmers are sharp and clean for precise cutting. Patience is key, as taking your time helps achieve a smooth and even fade, while rushing can lead to mistakes. Proper lighting is essential, as good lighting helps you see details and ensure an even cut. Mastering the fade takes practice, so keep refining your technique with each haircut. Finally, listen to feedback from your clients and make adjustments as needed to continuously improve your skills.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Harsh Lines: Avoid creating harsh lines by using a flicking motion and blending thoroughly.
2. Uneven Lengths: Regularly check the haircut from different angles to ensure even blending.
3. Improper Tool Use: Use the right guard sizes and tools for each step to achieve a professional finish.
4. Neglecting Client Preferences: Always consult with your client and consider their preferences and feedback.

Conclusion

The men’s fade haircut is a versatile and stylish choice that requires skill and precision to master. By following this comprehensive guide, you can achieve the perfect fade, tailored to your client’s preferences. Remember, practice and attention to detail are essential to becoming proficient in this popular haircutting technique. With the right tools, techniques, and a commitment to continuous improvement, you can provide the best men’s fade haircut every time.

For the best shears, look no further than Hanzo’s shear collection.