A low fade starts near the ears, a mid fade halfway up the head, and a high fade near the temples. Your ideal choice depends on your face shape, hair type, and how often you’re willing to visit the barber.
Ever wonder why David Beckham’s haircut always looks sharp? Spoiler: It’s all about the mid fade. But here’s the kicker—your face shape, hair texture, and even your clipper’s guard size matter way more than you think. Let’s break down the low fade vs mid fade vs high fade debate barbers wish you understood.
Visual Breakdown: Anatomy of Each Fade
Low Fade
- Starts: Just above the ears.
- Best for: Subtle, professional looks (think Chris Hemsworth’s red-carpet style).
- Clipper Guard: #1 (near neck) → #3 (top).
Mid Fade
- Starts: Halfway up the sides.
- Best for: Versatility (Zayn Malik rocks this for concerts and casual outings).
- Clipper Guard: #0.5 (temples) → #2 (crown).
High Fade
- Starts: At the temples.
- Best for: Bold, edgy vibes (Timothée Chalamet’s signature look).
- Clipper Guard: Skin fade (#0) → #1.5 (top).
Pro Tip:
Show your barber a photo of the fade you want. Words like ‘high’ or ‘low’ can mean different things to different stylists!
Also read: Low Tapers: The Secret Haircut That Makes Every Guy
The Science of Face Shapes
Round Face?
- Go High: A high fade elongates your face.
- Avoid Low Fades: They’ll make your face look wider.
Square Jaw?
- Try a Low Fade: Softens sharp angles.
- Pair It: Add a textured top for balance.
Oval Face?
- You’re Lucky: Mid or high fades both work.
Hair Type Matters:
- Thick Hair? High fades reduce bulk.
- Thin or Curly? Low fades hide scalp and frizz.
Fade Haircut Numbers Decoded
Barber lingo made simple.
Clipper Guard Cheat Sheet
| Fade Type | Neck/Temples | Transition | Top |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low Fade | #1 | #2 → #3 | #4 |
| Mid Fade | #0.5 | #1 → #2 | #3 |
| High Fade | Skin (#0) | #0.5 → #1 | #2 |
DIY Hack:
Use a Wahl Magic Clip for home touch-ups. Its adjustable blade nails the gradient every time.
Cultural & Trend Insights
2025’s Hottest Fades
- TikTok’s #HighFadeChallenge: 1.2M+ videos show shaved designs (lightning bolts, zigzags).
- London’s “Scandinavian Fade”: Soft, blended mid fades with messy texture.
Gender-Neutral Styles
- Non-Binary Fades: Asymmetrical high fades paired with undercuts.
Maintenance & Budget
Real talk: Costs and grow-out hacks.
Cost Breakdown
- Low Fade: 30–30–40 (lasts 3 weeks).
- High Fade: 35–35–50 (needs trims every 2 weeks).
Grow-Out Rescue
- Week 1: Use matte pomade to blend lines.
- Week 3: Switch to a messy, textured style.
Affordable Product Picks:
- Sea Salt Spray ($8): Adds grit to disguise unevenness.
- Crew Fiber ($10): Holds thick hair without stiffness.
Stylist Secrets
Barbers spill the tea.
Red Flags at the Salon
- If they don’t ask about your hair texture, run. Thick curls need different blending than fine hair!
Fix a Botched Fade
- Too High?: Grow the top out and slick it back.
- Patchy?: Use a tinted dry shampoo to camouflage.
Also read: 27 Timeless Professional Haircuts for the Modern Gentleman
FAQ Section
Does a high fade work for receding hairlines?
- Yes! Opt for a mid fade instead of a skin fade to avoid emphasizing thinning areas.
Can I get a fade with curly hair?
- Absolutely. A low fade minimizes frizz—just keep the top longer (3+ inches).
Final Pro Tip
Your fade should adapt to your life. If you’re a busy dad, a low fade saves time. If you’re a trendsetter, a high fade with a design turns heads. And always—always—tip your barber.
Also read: 35 Cool Haircuts For Teenage Guys