The taper fade haircut has become one of the most popular hairstyles for men in recent years. This versatile and stylish haircut involves gradually cutting the hair shorter towards the bottom, resulting in a clean and polished look. While getting a taper fade at the barbershop is always an option, learning how to do it yourself can save you time and money in the long run.
Understanding the Taper Fade
Before diving into the steps of achieving a taper fade, it’s important to understand the different variations of this haircut. The taper fade can be low, medium, or high, depending on how high up the fade begins. Additionally, you can choose between a skin fade, where the hair fades into the skin, or a clipper fade, where the hair fades into a longer length.
Equipment You’ll Need
To achieve a taper fade at home, you will need the following equipment:
- Clippers: Invest in a good quality set of clippers with various guard sizes.
- Mirror: Make sure you have a large mirror or a handheld mirror to see the back of your head.
- Comb: A fine-toothed comb will help separate and section the hair properly.
- Scissors: Use scissors to blend the hair on the top with the faded sides.
- Barber cape or old towel: To prevent hair from getting all over your clothes.
Step-by-Step Guide to Achieving a Taper Fade
Follow these steps to achieve a stylish taper fade at home:
Step 1: Wash and Dry Your Hair
Start by washing your hair with shampoo and conditioner. Towel dry your hair or use a hairdryer until it’s slightly damp.
Step 2: Decide on the Fade Style
Determine how high you want the fade to start and select the appropriate guard size for that area. For a beginner, starting with a higher guard and gradually working your way down is recommended.
Step 3: Create a Guideline
Using the clippers without a guard, create a guideline an inch or two above the ear on both sides and at the back of the head. This will serve as the starting point for the fade.
Step 4: Start Fading
Attach the chosen guard to the clippers and start fading the hair from the guideline upwards. Use short and fluid motions, going against the direction of hair growth for a cleaner cut. Repeat with smaller guard sizes as you move upwards for a seamless transition.
Step 5: Fade the Sides and Back
Switch to a slightly longer guard to blend the sides and back with the faded section. Use the comb and scissors to help blend the different lengths smoothly.
Step 6: Blend the Top
If you want to maintain length on top, use scissors to blend the longer hair with the faded sides and back. Blend the top into the faded section by using a comb and scissors in a cutting and blending motion.
Step 7: Refine the Look
Check your work in the mirror from different angles and make any necessary touch-ups to ensure a well-blended taper fade.
Step 8: Style as Desired
Apply a styling product like pomade, wax, or gel to add texture and hold to your hair. Experiment with different styles to see what suits you best.
FAQs
-
How often should I get a taper fade?
It depends on how fast your hair grows and how sharp you want your haircut to look. On average, getting a taper fade every 2-4 weeks is recommended. -
Can I achieve a taper fade with curly hair?
Yes, a taper fade can look great on curly hair. Just make sure to work with a barber who is experienced in cutting and styling curly hair. -
What should I do if I make a mistake while fading my hair?
If you make a mistake, try not to panic. Depending on the severity of the mistake, you can either try to blend it out yourself or seek professional help to fix it. -
Is it better to cut hair wet or dry for a taper fade?
It’s generally easier to cut hair dry when doing a taper fade since you can see the hair’s natural texture and how it falls. -
Can I achieve a taper fade with long hair on top?
Yes, a taper fade can be done with longer hair on top. Just make sure to communicate clearly with your barber about the desired length and style.
A well-executed taper fade can elevate your look and give you a clean and modern hairstyle. By following these steps and practicing consistently, you can master the art of achieving a stylish taper fade at home.