Mid Burst Fade
The mid burst fade is a contemporary hairstyle that features a gradual tapering around the ears, creating a smooth and natural transition. The length on top can vary, but it’s usually kept slightly longer to allow versatility in styling, often styled with some volume or texture. This style suits a variety of hair types, particularly those with medium to thick density. Ideal for round and oval face shapes, it creates an angular appearance due to the fade’s contouring effect. The mid burst fade stands out from the low or high variations by its medium height positioning, striking a balance between sharpness and subtlety. Popular among both celebrities and everyday men, it carries modern relevance with its clean lines and adaptable nature.
Best For
Round or oval face shapes and medium to thick hair types benefit most from the mid burst fade.
What to Tell Your Barber
Request a fade that sits above the ears and gradually blends into the longer top section. Specify the length you desire for the top.
How to Maintain It
Regular trims every 2-3 weeks will keep the fade sharp. Use a matte clay or pomade to control the top for daily styling.
Textured Mid Burst Fade
The textured mid burst fade combines the classic mid-level taper around the ears with a deliberately messy, lived-in texture on top. Featuring choppy layers, this hairstyle brings a rugged yet polished look perfect for those seeking an edgy, low-effort appearance. Best suited for those with wavy to curly hair, the texture naturally enhances volume and depth. Face shapes like square and heart will find the added texture complements their angles, presenting a modern aesthetic that has gained traction in fashion-forward circles. Unlike the slick mid burst fade, this version embraces natural movement and is easy to customize based on daily preferences.
Best For
Square or heart-shaped faces and wavy to curly hair types are ideal candidates for this style.
How to Make It Your Own
Experiment with different products like lightweight pomades or sea salt sprays to adjust the texture to your liking.
Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid heavy products that weigh down the hair, compromising the natural texture and bounce.
Mid Burst Fade with Fringe
The mid burst fade with fringe combines sharp fading along the sides with a bold, forward fringe. This variation offers a classic edge due to the clean fade, while the fringe adds a modern twist. It is particularly flattering for those with longer foreheads as it draws attention away and toward the hairstyle itself. Oval and rectangular face shapes suit this style, as the fringe helps balance facial proportions. This hybrid adapts to both professional settings and casual outings, making it a versatile option. It’s distinct from other fades due to the defined linear fringe element, providing a striking focal point.
Best For
Oval and rectangular face shapes benefit from the balancing effect of the fringe.
Products That Work Well
A strong-hold gel or cream helps keep the fringe in place without stiffness.
How to Maintain It
Keep the fringe trimmed to your desired length and shape, and maintain fading with regular barber visits.
Curly Mid Burst Fade
The curly mid burst fade caters specifically to curly-haired individuals, integrating a mid-level fade with the natural bounce and volume of curls. The fade starts mid-way around the ears, creating a balanced contour that enhances the curls’ natural texture. It is well-suited for those with dense, coiled hair who want a style that’s easy to maintain and stylish. This fade can visually soften rounder face shapes or add structure to longer ones. It stands out due to its seamless blending with the unique curly texture, setting a different tone from straight-haired versions.
Best For
Especially beneficial for round faces and naturally curly, medium to thick hair types.
How to Maintain It
Utilize curl-defining creams or gels to keep curls hydrated and well-shaped without frizz.
Ask Your Stylist
Discuss the optimal fade length that complements your curl pattern while preserving volume on top.
Slicked Back Mid Burst Fade
The slicked-back mid burst fade offers a sophisticated and sleek look, blending a mid-height fade around the ears with longer hair that is styled back smoothly. This style works particularly well for those with straight or slightly wavy hair, requiring some length on top to achieve the slicked-back effect. Ideal for triangular and diamond face shapes, it enhances sharp facial features and complements formal attire. Distinct from the textured counterparts, it gives off a polished appearance suitable for professional and upscale environments.
Best For
Triangular and diamond-shaped faces, and fine to medium straight or wavy hair types.
Products That Work Well
A high-shine gel or pomade establishes the slick, glossy finish that defines this style.
How to Make It Your Own
Select different hold levels in styling products to achieve either a soft or hard slicked-back look.
Mid Burst Fade with Beard
The mid burst fade with a beard is a masculine style that seamlessly blends facial hair with the gradient taper at the mid-level of the head. This combination allows for a clear distinction between hair and beard, providing a rugged yet well-groomed appeal. Perfect for square and oval faces, it enhances jawlines while offering a versatile aesthetic from casual to professional. Unlike fades without facial hair, pairing with a beard presents a harmonized look that is increasingly in demand.
Best For
Square or oval face shapes, where the beard can emphasize strong jawlines and create a balanced profile.
How to Maintain It
Frequent trims ensure the fade and beard remain defined; beard oils prolong softness and health.
Ask Your Stylist
Coordinate the length of your fade with your beard style to maintain a balanced overall look.
Disconnected Mid Burst Fade
The disconnected mid burst fade features a stark contrast between the faded sides and significantly longer hair on top, creating a distinct and edgy appearance. This variation is characterized by a bold line or hard part that divides the top and faded sides, making it unique for bold individualists. Suitable for those with thick, straight hair, it gives ample room for creativity with styling. Best matched with elongated face shapes, it creates a visual break that helps round out the facial structure.
Best For
Elongated face shapes, particularly those with straight, thick hair that holds shape well.
What to Tell Your Barber
Specify a pronounced disconnect and a hard part that clearly separates the long top and faded sides.
How to Maintain It
Regular part touch-ups and styling products ensure the top’s definition remains striking and clean.
Modern Pompadour with Mid Burst Fade
The modern pompadour with mid burst fade merges the classic pompadour’s volume with a precise mid-level fade. This combination produces a dramatic, eye-catching silhouette that’s perfect for stylish aficionados. Ideal for diamond and heart face shapes, the added height elongates the face, creating an elegant and refined look. This style appeals as both a throwback to vintage styles and a nod to contemporary fashion trends. Its bold nature is set apart from modest pompadours by the crisp fade line running around.
Best For
Diamond and heart face shapes who wish to add height and transform their aesthetic.
Products That Work Well
Use volumizing mousse or pomade to maintain the height and structure of the pompadour.
Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid using too much product, which can weigh down the pompadour and diminish its volume.
Mid Burst Fade with Part
The mid burst fade with part introduces a structured element to the sleek fade, featuring a precise line part to add definition. This results in a sophisticated, polished look tailored for those with smooth hair types. Primarily recommended for round and oval face shapes, it brings symmetry and an aura of confidence. This style stands out because of its structural aesthetics, making it unique from other fades due to the part’s precision that shapes the overall hairstyle. It transitions well from business meetings to evening outings.
Best For
Round and oval face shapes with medium, smooth hair fit this structured look perfectly.
Products That Work Well
A light styling cream keeps the part neat and the overall style controlled without excessive stiffness.
How to Make It Your Own
Experiment with different parting angles or placements to uniquely define your style.
Low Maintenance Mid Burst Fade
The low maintenance mid burst fade is designed for individuals seeking a polished look with minimal upkeep. This variation features a discreet mid-level taper and evenly short top that blends effortlessly. Suited to busy professionals or students, it is ideal for straight hair types, granting a tidy look with natural ease. Complementing oval and square face shapes, this style eliminates the consistent need for styling products and lengthy grooming sessions. It differs from other fades by centering on convenience without sacrificing visual appeal.
Best For
Oval and square face shapes with straight hair, directed toward those valuing simplicity and tidiness.
How to Maintain It
Trim fades every 3 to 4 weeks and use minimal styling products to keep natural look intact.
Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid attempting intricate styling as simplicity is key to this style’s appeal.