A blowout taper is a haircut with a taper at the temples and neckline and a longer top that's blow-dried up and out for volume, so the hair looks windswept. Here's what sets it apart, who it suits, how to ask your barber for it and how to style it.
Blowout taper at a glance
- Top: Medium, about 3 to 5 inches, with layers
- Sides and back: Tapered at the temples and nape; some length kept on the sides
- Maintenance: Medium to high
- Trim every: 2 to 3 weeks
What makes it different
The contrast between the full, airy top and the tight edges is the whole point. It works on straight, wavy and curly hair, though the technique differs for each.
Who it suits
Most face shapes. The height on top helps round faces; a lower, wider blowout suits long faces. You need enough length and density on top to hold volume.
Not sure about your face shape? Find it with the free face shape detector, or read our guide to men's face shapes.
How to ask your barber for a blowout taper
- Ask for a taper (low or mid) and to keep length on top with layers.
- Say you plan to blow dry it up and back.
- Ask the barber to show you how to style it before you leave.
- Bring a photo. Barbers use these names differently, and a picture removes the guesswork.
How to style it
On damp hair, apply sea salt spray or mousse, then blow dry upward and back with a brush or your fingers. Finish with a light texture powder or matte paste. For curly hair, use a diffuser.
Variations
- Low taper blowout: subtle edges, big top.
- Curly blowout taper: defined curls lifted at the roots.
- Blowout with fringe: some hair left forward.
Try it before you cut
A haircut takes weeks to grow out. Upload a selfie to the AI hairstyle changer and see the blowout taper on your own face, next to up to three other styles.
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FAQ
What is a blowout taper?
A blowout taper is a haircut with a taper at the temples and neckline and a longer top that's blow-dried up and out for volume, so the hair looks windswept.
Who suits a blowout taper?
Most face shapes. The height on top helps round faces; a lower, wider blowout suits long faces.
How often does it need a trim?
About every 2 to 3 weeks.
