Tips for a Taper Fade With Hair Clippers

Although typically a men's hairstyle, women can also wear the taper fade hairdo.

A taper fade is a style of haircut typically worn by men. This close-cropped hairstyle can be created using any type of electric hair clippers. The name of this cut comes from the characteristic feature of the style -- either a gradual increase or decrease in the length of hair. Typically the taper fade is longer on the top and then slightly decreases in length around the neck and ears. The taper fade is an extremely easy hairstyle to maintain.

Uneven Haircuts

There are many different varieties and modifications of the taper fade cut. Regardless of the style you choose, one of the main advantages of the taper fade style is its clean-cut appearance. A sloppy or poorly blended taper fade cut is a noticeable sign of an amateur cut. While clipping your hair, make sure to check your cut in the mirror as you work around your head. Unevenness is especially likely to occur if you decide to use shears for part of the cut. In addition to a mirror, an assistant can be useful in helping you to make any tweaks or adjustments to your hair.

Know the Style

Before you begin trimming your hair, be sure to know what style of taper fade cut you would like. Take into consideration your particular facial shape and features before setting your mind on a particular style. For example, a blocked style taper fade will make your neck appear heavier set and thicker. If you have a long and skinny neck, this may be a desirable effect.

Taper Fade Cut Preparation

Always start with the highest level of guard on your hair clippers. Remember, you can always choose to cut your hair shorter. Rinse off your clippers before you begin cutting your hair. Having loose pieces of hair in your clippers will make your clippers less efficient and can result in a sloppy-looking haircut. Similarly, comb or brush out your hair to remove any loose hairs before you start trimming.

Making the Cut

Brush your hair so that it is all standing up evenly. This will make getting an even cut much easier. If you are working with especially long hair, you may need to tie your hair into smaller sections with elastics in order to be able to access all of the parts of your hair. Always start your cut in the back of the head at the neckline. Work your way up to the top of the head using a slight scooping motion. After you have finished cutting the back section of the head, cut the sides and then the top of the head.

References

• Hair Cuts for Men: Tips for Great Cuts