A burst fade is a rounded fade that curves around the ear in a semicircle, like a sunburst. The hair behind the ear and at the back of the head is left longer. Here's what sets it apart, who it suits, how to ask your barber for it and how to style it.
Burst fade at a glance
- Top: Medium to long, often curly or textured
- Sides and back: Semicircular fade around each ear; back left longer
- Maintenance: Medium to high
- Trim every: 2 to 3 weeks
What makes it different
Because it only fades around the ear, it keeps length at the neck, which is why it's the classic partner for mohawks, faux hawks and mullets.
Burst fade vs drop fade
A burst fade stays around the ear and leaves the back long. A drop fade carries on around the back of the head.
Who it suits
Round and oval faces, and curly or thick hair. It draws attention to the top and back, so it suits people who want a bolder shape.
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 burst fade
- Ask for a burst fade around the ear, and say how high and whether to skin.
- Say what to do with the back: tapered, V-shaped or left long for a mullet.
- Bring a side-profile photo.
- Bring a photo. Barbers use these names differently, and a picture removes the guesswork.
How to style it
Add volume or definition on top and keep the back tidy. Curl cream for curls, texture powder or clay for straight hair.
Variations
- Burst fade mullet: burst fade at the sides with a long back.
- Burst fade mohawk: a strip of longer hair from front to nape.
- Burst fade with curls: curly top and back.
- Low burst fade: a smaller, subtler arc.
Try it before you cut
A haircut takes weeks to grow out. Upload a selfie to the AI hairstyle changer and see the burst fade on your own face, next to up to three other styles.
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FAQ
What is a burst fade?
A burst fade is a rounded fade that curves around the ear in a semicircle, like a sunburst.
Who suits a burst fade?
Round and oval faces, and curly or thick hair. It draws attention to the top and back, so it suits people who want a bolder shape.
How often does it need a trim?
About every 2 to 3 weeks.
