A low taper fade is a haircut where the hair gradually shortens only at the very edges: the sideburns and the neckline. The fade starts low, just above the ear, so most of the hair on the sides keeps its length. Here's what sets it apart, who it suits, how to ask your barber for it and how to style it.
Low taper fade at a glance
- Top: Any length: curls, a textured crop, a fringe or longer hair
- Sides and back: Natural length, shortening to skin only at the sideburns and nape
- Maintenance: Low to medium
- Trim every: 2 to 3 weeks to keep the edges sharp
What makes it different
It's the most subtle fade you can get. It cleans up the outline of any haircut without the dramatic contrast of a high fade, which is why it works at school, at the office and with almost any style on top.
Low taper vs low fade
A low taper only shortens the sideburns and neckline. A low fade shortens the hair all the way around the head in a low band. The taper is subtler and grows out more cleanly.
Who it suits
Almost everyone. It keeps weight on the sides, so it flatters long and narrow faces, and it's a safe first fade if you've never had one. It's especially popular with curly and wavy hair, where the clean edges contrast with the volume on top.
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 low taper fade
- Ask for a low taper: faded at the sideburns and neckline only, starting just above the ear.
- Say whether you want it down to skin or left slightly darker (a shadow taper).
- Say how much length to keep on top and whether you want the fringe trimmed.
- Bring a photo. Barbers use these names differently, and a picture removes the guesswork.
How to style it
Style the top however you like: sea salt spray and a blow dryer for a fluffy fringe, curl cream for curls, or matte clay for a textured crop. The taper itself needs no styling.
Variations
- Low taper fade with curly hair: curls or waves on top, with the taper sharpening the edges.
- Low taper with textured fringe: choppy fringe pushed forward; one of the most requested combinations.
- Low taper fade with a mullet: length left at the back, with only the sideburns tapered.
- Shadow low taper: fades to very short stubble instead of skin, for a softer look.
Try it before you cut
A haircut takes weeks to grow out. Upload a selfie to the AI hairstyle changer and see the low taper fade on your own face, next to up to three other styles.
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FAQ
What is a low taper fade?
A low taper fade is a haircut where the hair gradually shortens only at the very edges: the sideburns and the neckline.
Who suits a low taper fade?
Almost everyone. It keeps weight on the sides, so it flatters long and narrow faces, and it's a safe first fade if you've never had one.
How often does it need a trim?
About every 2 to 3 weeks to keep the edges sharp.
