How to Ask for a Fade Haircut: The Ultimate Guide

Going into a barbershop and asking for a fade can be rightfully terrifying. So many variations in style, numbers, and terminology can land you with a haircut that does not look anything like the one in your head. In this guide, Frank’s Gentlemen’s Salon takes you through everything you need to understand so that you can converse with your barber and get the ideal fade every single time - whether you're searching for men's haircuts in Denver, CO, or farther afield.

What is a Fade Haircut?

A fade haircut is a popular men's style where the sides and the back are cut in stages lower and lower all the way down the neck. What this achieves is a smooth, blended effect from longer upper hair to the lighter lower hair. The style is streamlined, and the cut can be customized to suit any face shape or personal style, which explains its year-round demand among those seeking faded haircuts for men.

Know Fade Clipper Guard Numbers

The numbers the barber works with are really the numbers of the clipper guards, and they are the determinants of the length the hairs are cut. The smaller the number, the closer the cut. A #0 guard cuts the hair very close, right up to actually shaving the head, and a #8 guard gives more than an inch. Knowing the numbers lets you tell the barber with precision how close you need the lowest part of your fade cut.

Common Fades for Men

Before actually sitting in the chair, you should understand the basic types of fades so that you can choose where the cut should begin.

Low Fade

A low fade starts immediately above the ears and shapes along the natural hairline all the way down the neck. It's a low-profile, low-maintenance selection that produces a streamlined look without being too excessive. It's a great style if you want a conservative fade that'll cut it in the workplace.

Mid Fade

The mid fade starts halfway along the head and sides and back, normally at the temple. It provides an edgy contrast that's more noticeable than a low fade, but less dramatic than a high fade. The mid fade's timeless and inconspicuous style suits most men.

High Fade

For a more distinct and contemporary style, the high fade can't be beat. The high fade begins close to the origin of the head, with a sharp distinction in the difference in the hair on the top and the sides. It's a bold cut that attracts focus and defines the style on the top.

Taper Fade

A taper fade is less drastic and more graduated than many others. The thickness of the hair falls gently along the sides and the back of the head. It's a classic, simple cut with a clean finish that prevents the excessive effect of a longer fade.

Skin Fade

A skin fade can also be referred to as a bald fade. You can describe it as any fade that reaches all the way to raw skin. You can also have low, mid, high skin fade. It's a cut with the maximum possible contrast and very clean finish.

How to Communicate with Your Barber

If you're wondering how to ask for a fade haircut to get the cut you desire, be specific with your vocabulary. Let the barber know the type of fade you desire (low, mid, high). Then let them know the size of the clipper guard used at the lowest portion of the fade. 

How do I ask for a fade haircut? As an example, you could say, "I'd like a mid fade with a #1 on the sides, to begin with." It's also a good idea to inform them how you'd like the top and how much length you'd like left. It's always a good idea to bring in a picture of the cut you desire in an attempt to prevent miscommunication.

Master the Fade with Confidence

Since you're well versed in the vocabulary and variations, you can now enter your next barber shop with confidence. Explicitly describing what you desire does more for the barber than making their job easier; it also guarantees that you're leaving with a cut you adore. The correct fade can transport your style and provide you with a new, sleek appearance. Of course, our friendly team will also ask questions and make it easier than ever to get the style you want!