The taper fade is a modern haircut representing timeless elegance infused with contemporary flair. But are you tired of spending a fortune at the barbershop every few weeks for a simple taper fade? Wouldn’t it be wonderful if you could taper your hair perfectly by yourself? You’re in luck, then! In this article, we’ll provide professional tactics for cutting taper fades of all kinds in the convenience of your own home.
Now, let’s delve into details to learn how to achieve the perfect taper fades hairstyles.
Table of Contents
How To Do A Taper Fade for Beginners?
Are you a newbie hairstylist and want to learn how to do a taper fade haircut step by step? Follow these steps:
Start with clean, dry hair:
Wash it and ensure it’s dry before the haircut begins. Clean hair is easier to work with.
Choose the guard length:
Choose the length you want to keep on top and for the fade. Typically, you’d start with a longer guard like #4 or #5 for the top.
Create a guideline:
Start using the longest guard (e.g., #4) and create a guideline around the head. This will act as a reference for blending in the shorter lengths later. Use the clippers to trim the hair around the back and sides of the head up to the guideline.
Switch to a shorter guard:
Change to a shorter guard (e.g., #3 or #2) and trim the hair just above the guideline. Create a new, shorter guide line around the sides and back. Make sure the transition is smooth by keeping a consistent hand movement.
Repeat the process with shorter guards:
Continue switching to shorter guards (e.g., #2, #1) and trimming the hair progressively shorter as you move down the sides and back of the head. Use an upward motion with the clippers to create a gradual fade.
Blend the fade:
You must blend the fade for a seamless look. Use the blending guard (a guard that gradually adjusts from short to long) or no guard to carefully blend the line between the longer top hair and the shorter faded hair.
Detailing and finishing touches:
Use the hair trimmer to clean up the edges and define the hairline around the ears and neck. Trim any stray hairs to ensure a neat and polished finish.
Taper the top:
Blend the top length with scissors into the faded sides and back. Work with small sections of hair at a time, cutting at an angle to create a subtle transition.
Style as desired:
Style the hair on top once the taper fade is complete. You can use hair products like pomade, wax, or gel to achieve your desired look.
How To Do A Taper Fade At Home: 6 Styling Tips
Are you ready to rock a stylish taper fade with your long locks? Follow these simple steps:
Prepare Your Hair:
Wash and condition it, then towel-dry it until slightly damp.
Section Off the Top:
Use a hair clip or tie to gather the top section of your hair.
Choose the Fade Length:
Decide how short you want the fade. Start with a higher guard for a more gradual fade.
Start with the Sides:
Use the clippers with the chosen guard length to trim the sides and back of your head. Keep the hairline natural for a blended look.
Blend the Top:
Take down the clipped hair on top and use scissors to trim any excess length. Blend the top with the faded sides using the clippers.
Refine the Fade:
Gradually decrease the guard length and use upward motions to blend the fade seamlessly.
Check for Evenness:
Ensure both sides are symmetrical and adjust any uneven spots.
Style as Desired:
Apply some hair product to style your taper fade.
How to Do a Taper Fade with Dreads?
If you have dreads and want to know how to do a taper fade on yourself, follow these steps:
Clean Dreads:
Wash and condition your dreads thoroughly to remove any buildup.
Section Off the Top:
Like the long hair taper fade, use a hair clip or tie to gather the top dreads.
Start the Fade:
Begin fading the sides and back, starting with a higher guard and gradually decreasing it.
Blend with Dreads:
Use scissors to trim any excess hair on top and blend it with the faded sides.
Define the Fade Line:
Create a distinct line where the fade starts for a sharp look.
Refine the Fade:
Use smaller guards to refine the fade until it blends with the dreads smoothly.
Check for Symmetry:
Ensure both sides have a consistent fade.
Neat Finish:
Clean up the hairline and sideburns for a polished finish.
How to Taper Fade Afro Hair?
Achieve a sharp and stylish taper fade with your afro hair by following these steps:
Wash and Condition:
Cleanse and condition your afro hair, then towel dry it.
Section Off the Top:
Gather the top section of your afro hair with a hair clip or tie.
Begin the Fade:
Start fading the sides and back with a higher guard, working your way down.
Trim the Top:
Use scissors to trim any extra length on top and blend it with the faded sides.
Distinct Fade Line:
Create a clear line where the fade starts for a defined look.
Gradually Decrease Guard:
Decrease the guard length to achieve a seamless fade.
Ensure Symmetry:
Check for evenness on both sides.
Clean Edges:
Clean up the hairline and sideburns for a polished finish.
Style with Afro Products:
Use hair products designed for Afro hair to style your tapered Afro.
How to Do a High Taper Fade Step by Step?
The high taper fade is a bold and stylish choice. To do it correctly, stick to these steps:
Hair Preparation:
Wash and dry your hair till it’s barely damp.
Choose Your Fade:
Decide how high you want the fade to start and choose the appropriate guard length.
Fade the Sides and Back:
Use the clippers to start the fade, gradually decreasing the guard length.
Trim the Top:
Use scissors to trim the top hair and blend it with the faded sides.
Create a Defined Line:
Establish a clear line where the fade begins for a high-contrast look.
Refine the Fade:
Gradually decrease the guard length to achieve a flawless blend.
Check for Balance:
Ensure both sides are symmetrical and adjust as needed.
Neckline and Sideburns:
Clean up the neckline and sideburns for a clean finish.
How to Do a Bald Taper Fade?
The bald taper fade is popular for its clean and sharp appearance. Follow these steps to master it:
Clean Scalp:
Wash and cleanse your scalp thoroughly.
Choose Your Guard:
Select the guard length for the fade, starting with a higher one.
Start the Fade:
Begin fading the sides and back, gradually decreasing the guard length.
Blend the Top:
Trim any remaining hair on top with scissors and blend it with the faded sides.
Define the Fade Line:
Create a distinct line where the fade starts for a seamless transition.
Gradual Decrease:
Keep decreasing the guard length for a smooth fade.
Use scalp care:
Use the proper products to hydrate and preserve your scalp.
Get a neat and polished look by taper fading the back of your head with these steps:
Clean and Dry Hair:
Wash your hair and ensure it’s scorched.
Guard Selection:
Choose a higher guard length to start the fade.
Fade the Back:
Gradually decrease the guard length while working from the bottom up.
Blend the Top:
Trim any excess hair on top and blend it with the faded back.
Distinct Fade Line:
Create a clear line where the fade begins for a crisp look.
Continued Blending:
Keep decreasing the guard length for a smooth fade.
Check for Evenness:
Ensure the fade is even on both sides and clean the sides.
Final Words
Masteringa taper fade haircut opens up a world of style options for men of all ages. Remember, practice is the key to achieving a flawless taper fade, so don’t hesitate to refine your skills and get creative with your hair. Whether you choose a low, medium, high, skin, or burst fade, the confidence of a fresh and stylish haircut will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on everyone around you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Add Color To A Taper Fade?
Yes! Adding color to a taper fade can create a bold and trendy look. Discuss your color preferences with your barber to achieve the desired effect.
How Long Do Taper Fades Last?
On average, a well-done taper fade can last about two to three weeks before it starts losing shape and needs a touch-up. However, some people might find that their hair grows faster, causing the fade to lose its appearance sooner.