How to Do Men's Fades

Learning how to fade a man's hair takes patience and precision.

A fade, or taper, haircut is a simple, clean haircut that originated in the military, according to CutmastersBarbershop.com. The hair at the top of the head is cut very short, and the back and sides are cut even shorter in a gradient towards the nape of the neck, giving a faded look. There are many different types of fades and it takes precision and patience to get the smooth look just right.

Things You'll Need

• Salon drape
• Clippers

Instructions

1. Consult with the client about their preferences. There are many variations of the fade haircut, and not everyone's preferences are the same. Ask him how low he wants his hair shaved, where he wants the fade to begin, and what he wants you to do with the back and sides of the head. This will help prevent miscommunication.

2. Cover the client's shoulders and back with a salon covering or drape to prevent hair clippings from falling on them.

3. Trim the top of the hair first. Using electric clippers set to the desired length, carefully trim the top of the head, as if you are mowing a lawn. Continue in this way until the top and sides of the hair are cut to the specified length.

4. Fade the rest of the hair from the bottom up. Starting with the clippers held firmly against the head at the bottom, slowly travel up to the top of the head, releasing pressure as you go, so that you get a faded effect.

5. Shape-up the line around the head. Make sure the edges of the haircut are straight and uniform all around.

6. Practice: even if you don't get a fade right the first time, keep trying. Alex Campbell, a Georgia-based master barber, regards the fade as the strongest type of haircut. It takes lots of practice and precision to master the subtle lines of a fade.

References

• Cutmasters Barbershop: Learn How to Give a Fade Haircut
• Alex Campbell: How to Fade Hair
• Hair Finder: Fade Haircut