Skin fade vs taper vs burst fade: what’s the difference?
Walk into any barbershop and you’ll hear the same three terms: skin fade, taper and burst fade. They sound alike, but each one gives a different look. Here’s how they differ.
Skin fade
The back and sides blend smoothly down to the skin, then grow into the hair on top. You choose where the fade starts: low, mid or high. It’s the sharpest, highest-contrast option, and it also grows out the fastest.
Taper fade
A taper is subtler. The hair gets gradually shorter around the neckline and sideburns while the sides keep more length. It’s clean, easy to maintain and works anywhere, from the office to the classroom.
Burst fade
A burst fade curves in a rounded shape around the ear and leaves the hair behind it longer. It suits textured, wavy or curly tops, because the shape highlights the hair on top.
How to choose
Think about how often you’ll get back in the chair, any dress code at work or school, and how you style your hair. Not sure? Bring a photo and tell your barber how you wear it day to day. They’ll recommend what suits your head shape and hair type.
Fades in Dunedin
At Nonehz Barbers on Hanover Street we do skin and zero fades, tapers and burst fades. See the service menu or book online below.