Types of Fade Haircuts: Low, Mid, High, Burst, and Drop

Every fade follows the same principle: hair blends from longer to shorter until it meets the skin. What changes is where that blend starts and how it wraps around your head. Get the placement right and the cut flatters your head shape. Get it wrong and you are living with it for three weeks.

Here is how our barbers at Taper Godz Barber Co. in Lakewood, CO break down the main types of fade haircuts.

Low fade

The blend starts just above the ear and follows the natural hairline around the back. It is the most subtle fade — most of your side length stays intact, and only the bottom inch or so goes down to skin. Good for anyone who wants a clean edge without a dramatic change, and it pairs well with longer styles on top.

Mid fade

The blend starts around the temple, roughly halfway between the ear and the top corner of your head. It is the middle ground: visible contrast, but still balanced. If you do not know which fade to ask for, a mid fade is the safest first choice.

High fade

The blend starts high on the sides, near the top corner of the head. It creates the sharpest contrast between the top and sides and makes the hair on top look fuller and taller. Best on guys who want a bold look and are happy coming in every two weeks.

Skin fade (bald fade)

Any fade can be a skin fade — the term just means the shortest point is razored down to bare scalp with no guard. It gives the cleanest possible transition, but it also grows out the fastest. Ask for a skin fade if you want maximum sharpness right after the cut.

Burst fade

Instead of running straight around the head, a burst fade curves around the ear in a semicircle and leaves the back of the neck longer. It is the classic pairing for mohawks, mullets, and textured styles. One of the most requested cuts we do in Lakewood right now.

Drop fade

A drop fade arcs downward behind the ear, following the curve of the head instead of running level. It softens the back of the cut and works especially well with curly or wavy hair.

How to pick the right fade

• Round face: a high or mid fade adds height and lengthens your profile.
• Long or narrow face: a low fade keeps width on the sides and avoids stretching your look.
• Curly or coily hair: drop and burst fades follow the head's curve and blend naturally.
• Thinning on top: a low fade keeps contrast soft so the top does not look sparse.
• First fade ever: start mid. You can always go higher next visit — you cannot go back.

Book a fade in Lakewood, CO

Taper Godz Barber Co. is located at 3234 S Wadsworth Blvd in Lakewood, CO, minutes from Belmar and west Denver. Bring a photo or just tell us how much contrast you want — we will map the fade line before we cut.