A skin fade takes the sides and back down to bare or nearly bare skin. A taper keeps more hair on the sides and usually cleans up the temples, sideburns, and neckline. Pick a skin fade for stronger contrast. Pick a taper if you want a softer grow-out.
What is the difference?
With a skin fade, the shortest part of the cut reaches the skin or looks nearly bare. A taper leaves more hair through the sides and back, then cleans up the edges around the temples and neck.
Low, mid, and high tell your barber where you want the blend to begin. The word skin tells them how close to go. You can have a low skin fade or a high skin fade, and the two will look very different.
- Skin fade: more contrast, a sharper outline, and a grow-out you will notice sooner.
- Taper: more fullness on the sides and an easier grow-out between visits.
Which finish fits your style?
A skin fade is a good choice when you want the top to stand out. It works especially well with crops, curls, waves, side parts, and textured styles.
A taper is better when you want a clean shape but do not want to lose as much fullness on the sides. It also tends to look softer as it grows in.
How to describe the cut you want
Bring one or two reference photos if you have them. Tell your barber what you like about each photo, such as the height of the blend, the length on top, or the shape of the hairline.
Say what did not work last time too. “The sides felt too high” or “I want more weight near the temples” is more useful than a haircut name on its own.
- Should the shortest area reach the skin?
- Do you want a low, mid, or higher transition?
- How much texture and length should remain on top?
- Should the hairline feel sharp or natural?
What to book at Lads Fade Lounge
Haircut & Style is listed at CAD $40 for 40 minutes and includes a fade, lineup, and grooming. Haircut & Beard is CAD $50 for one hour and includes a beard trim too.
Check the booking page for current times and availability.