10 Types of Fades That Make Short Haircuts Look Even Sharper

The skin fade transitions hair all the way to bare skin, offering a sharp, clean look. It’s popular with buzz cut fade styles and works well with thick hair or very short hair.

A low fade starts just above the ears, blending upward. This style keeps the natural hairline intact and works well with wavy hair and natural texture.

A mid fade sits between the low and high fades, offering more defined contrast. It’s versatile, flattering most face shapes and hair lengths. Pair it with textured styles or slicked back styles.

A high fade starts near the temples and offers a dramatic look. It’s ideal for those who want a sharp contrast between the sides and the longer hair on top.

The drop fade curves around the ears and down to the nape of the neck. It gives a fade line that mimics head shape, making it perfect for textured crop or afro fade styles.

Also known as the low taper, this fade is subtle and ideal for professional settings. It gradually shortens near the sideburns and neckline without the dramatic effect of a skin fade.

The burst fade fans out around the ears, creating a circular look. It’s great with longer styles or mohawks and often appeared in '80s hip-hop culture.

Also called the Brooklyn fade, the temple fade focuses on the sideburns and temples. It adds edge to short hair and pairs well with beards.

A shadow fade leaves a bit of hair at the base, unlike a full skin fade. It offers a smoother transition and can accommodate thin hair or longer hair on top.

Combining the structure of an undercut with a fade, this style provides a bold style with lots of contrast. It’s especially popular among those with straight hair or high taper fade preferences.

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