Low Taper Fade vs. Mid: Which Is Right for You?

It can be difficult to decide on a new haircut. Among the numerous styles presented in social media, it is important to find the appropriate way of appearance that fits your hair type and your personal style. The low taper fade and the mid taper fade have become two of the most popular options at present. They each have a fresh and contemporary appearance, but they differ slightly which can make a great difference to your image in general.

In this guide, the major characteristics of the low taper fade and the mid taper fade will be disaggregated. We will discuss which style suits what group of people, how each style best fits people, and how to keep them up to date so that you will never make a mistake in choosing the right haircut next time you visit the barbershop.

What is a Taper Fade?

The taper fade itself is also to be defined before we compare the low and mid variations. Taper fade refers to a haircut where the top is longer, with the sides and the back being shorter. A taper fade will leave hair to create a more natural and less intense blend, unlike a more traditional fade which may require the use of a razor to give a skin-close finish.

The low and mid descriptors are used to describe the point of the fade on the head. This point of departure is the primary difference between the two styles and dictates the amount of drama that the final appearance would possess.

The Low Taper Fade

The transition begins with a low taper fade right above the ear, in the line of nature. This gives a very subtle and understated appearance, and is thus a common choice among individuals who prefer a clean cut of the hair without a contrasting appearance. The fade is also placed at the very bottom of the hairline, giving it more length on the sides as it goes upwards towards the temples.

Who Should Get a Low Taper Fade?

 

The fade in tapers is very versatile and it fits all kinds of face shapes and hair types. It’s an excellent choice for:

Workplace: It looks clean and conservative, which is ideal in the office or any other formal setting.

• First-Time Faders: When first starting with fades, a low taper is a safe point with which to begin. It is a clean appearance without making any radical decision.
• Oval or Round Face Shapes: The slight taper of the low contour can provide form and definition without excessive stress on width of face.
• Longer Hairstyles: This is a good length of hair with longer hair on top, either a pompadour, or quiff, or curly hair, as it keeps the neckline and sideburns clean but leaves enough length at the sides.

The Mid Taper Fade

The mid taper fade, as the name implies, starts higher on the head, usually in the middle between the top of the ear and the temple. This introduces a better contrast of the longer hair on the top and the shorter sides. Fade is better than low taper and gives it a stronger and contemporary appearance.

Who Should Get a Mid Taper Fade?

The mid taper fade gives the best balance between the faintness and fashionability, and hence it is an excellent choice to many. It tends to work best for:

• Making a Statement: This is a more noticeable cut than a low taper, so it is a better cut when one wants his or her haircut to be noticeable.
• Square/Diamond Shape: The tapered midline will be able to smooth the angular nature and proportion of a broader forehead or lower jaw.
• Numerous Hair Lengths: It can be used with short and medium-length hair on top. Crew cuts to slicked-backs, the mid taper offers a blank canvas.
• Thick Hair: In case you have thick hair, a mid taper can save a bunch of bulk on the sides making the hair much easier to handle and style.

Maintaining Your Taper Fade

Low and mid taper fades are maintained on a regular basis to appear sharp. Hair on the sides and back grows rapidly and the crystalline lines of the fade can soften within a period of one to two weeks.

• Frequent Visits to the Barber: You should have a schedule of visiting your barber after 2-3 weeks to re-touch the fade and keep it in shape.
• At-Home Care: To have healthy hair, apply a good quality Shampoo and conditioner. To style, a nice pomade, wax, or clay would be used to mold the longer hair up on top and hold it in place.
• Talk to Your Barber: You should be able to explain to your barber how he wants to start the fade and to what point it should be kept. It can be so helpful to bring a reference photo to be sure that you are going to achieve the desired look.

How to Style Your Taper Fade

It is all about emphasizing on the difference between the long top and faded sides to create the taper fade.

The following are some of the common hairstyles:

• Textured Crop: To achieve a modern, casual appearance, put your damp hair through a matte styling product and use your fingers to put texture and volume on top.
• Classic Pompadour: This is done with the help of a blow dryer and a round brush to give heights at the front. Apply a high shine pomade in order to achieve a polished, vintage look.
• Slick Back: Put a gel or pomade that has a high degree of hold on damp hair and twist it straight back. This gives it a smooth and refined appearance that is suitable with low tapers as well as mid tapers.
• Embrace Your Curls: When you have curly hair, don’t straighten it (unless you want to). Get a cream that defines your curls in the top of your head and leaves the sides down and faded.

The Right Fade for You

In the end, however, it is up to your personal preference and the way of life to decide what taper fade type to go with, whether it is low or mid taper fade. The low taper is a classic understated appearance that suits well in a professional setting and the mid taper is a more stylish and eye catching appearance.

Think about your face shape, type of hair and the degree of statement you wish to make. Consult your barber about these factors and come up with the fade that will suit your features to make you look fresh and stylish. Low taper fade white male