The low taper fade is a versatile and modern haircut that suits many types of curly and textured hair. It’s a perfect balance between stylish and low maintenance, making it an ideal choice for men who want to keep things fresh while showcasing their natural curls or waves.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into 15 low taper fade styles for men, including detailed descriptions, styling tips, maintenance advice, and expert insights from barbers.
Is a low taper good for curly hair?
Yes, a low taper is great for curly hair. The gradual fade on the sides and back complements the natural volume and texture of curls, creating a clean and polished look while allowing the curls to stand out. It provides a neat, structured appearance without taking away from the natural shape and movement of curly hair. This style is versatile and works well with various curl types.Let’s get started!
1. Tight Curls with Low Taper Fade
A low taper fade with tight curls is a hairstyle that features short, gradually faded sides and back, starting low near the ears, while the top is kept longer with tight, defined curls. The low taper fade creates a clean, sharp look that contrasts with the textured curls, making the style neat yet full of personality. It’s a great option for men with tight curls who want a polished and modern look.
Styling Tips: Use a curl-enhancing cream, like the SheaMoisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie, to keep your curls defined and hydrated. For extra volume, try diffusing your curls on low heat. A leave-in conditioner will help maintain moisture, preventing dryness and frizz.
Maintenance: Trim every 4-6 weeks to keep the fade sharp and the curls at a manageable length. Regular moisturizing is crucial to prevent frizz, especially in humid weather.
Expert Insight: According to L’Oréal Paris, “Moisturizing products are essential for men with tight curls. Without it, curls can become dry and lose definition, leading to a frizzy, unkempt appearance” (source).
2. Curly Fringe with a Tapered Finish
A curly fringe with a taper fade is a stylish haircut that combines natural curls at the front (fringe) with a gradual fade on the sides and back. The taper fade creates a clean, sharp look, while the curly fringe adds texture and volume to the top, framing the face. This hairstyle offers a balanced blend of casual curls and a neat, polished finish on the sides.
Styling Tips: Apply a lightweight curl mousse like DevaCurl’s Light Defining Gel to define the fringe without weighing it down. Scrunch your curls for added volume and let them air-dry to keep them looking natural.
Maintenance: Trim the fringe every 3–4 weeks to avoid it getting in your eyes. Touch up the fade every 3–4 weeks for a crisp, sharp look.
Pro Tip: For men with curly fringes, avoid heavy creams near the roots, as they can flatten the curls and make them lose their shape.
3. High Top Curls Paired with a Low Taper
A curly high top with a low taper is a trendy hairstyle where the hair on top is kept long and voluminous with natural curls, while the sides and back are gradually faded, starting low near the ears. The low taper provides a clean, sharp contrast to the high top, allowing the curls to stand out while maintaining a polished, well-groomed look. This style offers a bold yet refined appearance.
Styling Tips: Use a curl-defining mousse for extra lift and comb the curls upwards with a wide-tooth comb to maintain their height. For extra hold, apply a light hair gel like Eco Styler Olive Oil Gel.
Maintenance: Regular trims every 3–4 weeks help maintain the high-top shape, while the taper fade should be touched up every 2–3 weeks for a clean, defined look.
Expert Opinion: Celebrity barber Jonathan Perez says, “The high-top fade works best when you keep the top well-conditioned and the sides tight. It’s a head-turner but requires upkeep to avoid the top looking too wild.”
4. Loose Waves Styled with a Low Taper Fade
Image by nunez.the.barber from Instagram
A low taper fade with loose curls is a hairstyle that features gradually fading hair on the sides and back, starting low near the ears, while keeping loose, natural curls on top. The fade creates a clean, sharp contrast to the voluminous curls, giving the overall look a modern and stylish appearance. This style is perfect for men who want to showcase their curls while maintaining a polished and neat look.
Styling Tips: Use a sea salt spray to enhance your natural waves and create a textured, beachy look. A light styling cream can add shine and definition without making the hair feel stiff.
Maintenance: A trim every 4-5 weeks helps maintain the fade, while regular moisturizing keeps the waves soft and hydrated.
Pro Tip: To maintain the beachy wave look, avoid heavy oils or creams that may weigh the waves down. Opt for lightweight products instead.
5. Tapered Low Fade with Curly Afro
Image by thajrich from Instagram
A low taper fade with a curly afro is a stylish haircut that combines the natural volume of a curly afro with a sharp, gradual fade on the sides and back. The fade starts low near the ears and gradually blends into the skin, creating a clean, neat look, while the curly afro on top adds texture and height. This hairstyle strikes a balance between bold curls and a sleek, modern fade.
Styling Tips: Use a curl sponge or a curl cream like Cantu Shea Butter to define the curls and maintain the afro’s shape. Regular deep conditioning treatments will keep your curls hydrated and soft.
Maintenance: Trimming the afro and touching up the taper every 3–4 weeks will help maintain the style’s shape and definition.
Expert Insight: Hairstylist Louise Whitehead says, “A tapered fade with a curly afro gives you the best of both worlds—volume on top and a crisp, clean look on the sides.”
6. Defined Ringlet Curls and Tapered Sides
A low taper fade with ringlet curls is a hairstyle where the sides and back are gradually faded, starting low near the ears, while the top features tight, defined ringlet curls. The low taper fade gives the sides a clean and sharp look, allowing the natural texture and volume of the ringlet curls to stand out. This style provides a balanced combination of neatness on the sides and lively, bouncy curls on top.
Styling Tips: Apply a curl-defining gel like Aunt Jackie’s Curl Boss to each section of hair, twisting them to create uniform ringlets. Let the curls air-dry or use a diffuser on low heat to lock in the shape.
Maintenance: Trim the ringlets and the sides every 4–5 weeks to keep the look neat and well-defined.
Pro Tip: To avoid frizz, avoid touching your curls while they dry. Let them set naturally.
7. Curly Mohawk Combined with a Taper Fade
A low taper fade curly mohawk is a bold hairstyle that features long, voluminous curls running down the center of the head, with the sides and back gradually faded starting low near the ears. The low taper fade creates a sharp contrast with the curly mohawk, highlighting the curls while keeping the sides neat and polished. This style offers a striking combination of edgy and refined looks.
Styling Tips: Use a curl cream and pomade to shape the mohawk and give it height. Scrunch the curls to add volume, and finish with a light-hold hairspray to keep everything in place.
Maintenance: Trim the curls every 4–6 weeks to maintain the mohawk shape, and touch up the fade every 2 weeks for a clean look.
Expert Insight: Celebrity barber Alvin Marshall recommends this style for men looking to “make a statement without going overboard. The fade brings balance to the boldness of the mohawk.”
8. Sponge Curls Accented by a Low Taper
A low taper fade with sponge curls is a stylish haircut where the sides and back are gradually faded, starting low near the ears, while the top is styled with sponge curls. The sponge curls create small, defined, and textured curls, giving the top a voluminous and natural look, while the fade keeps the sides neat and polished. This combination offers a balanced, modern look that’s easy to maintain.
Styling Tips: Use a curl sponge to define the curls. Apply a lightweight moisturizing cream to keep the curls soft and prevent dryness. A leave-in conditioner like Cantu Leave-In Conditioning Repair Cream can be used for daily moisture.
Maintenance: Regular sponge curling and moisturizing keep the curls looking fresh. Trim the fade every 2-4 weeks to maintain the shape and definition.
Pro Tip: Sponge curls work best on short to medium hair, as the sponge helps create a natural curl pattern with minimal effort.
9. Messy Curly Top with a Clean Low Taper
Messy curly hair with a low taper is a hairstyle that features natural, voluminous curls on top, styled in a relaxed, tousled manner, while the sides and back are gradually faded, starting low near the ears. The low taper creates a clean and defined look on the sides, while the messy curls on top give the style a casual, effortless appearance. This combination offers a balance between natural texture and a sharp, polished finish.
Styling Tips: Use a texturizing spray or a lightweight mousse to enhance the natural texture of your curls. Let them air-dry for a more natural, messy look. For extra volume, scrunch your curls while they dry.
Maintenance: Trim every 4-5 weeks to maintain the messy look on top while keeping the taper fade clean on the sides. A regular moisturizing routine will help prevent frizz.
Pro Tip: This style works well for men who want an effortless, no-fuss look. Keep the sides sharp to contrast the naturally messy curls on top.
10. Textured Curls with Low Taper for a Natural Look
Textured curls give this style a natural, relaxed appearance, while the low taper fade keeps the sides and back neat. It’s a great choice for men who want to embrace their natural curl pattern while maintaining a sharp, clean look.
Styling Tips: Use a curl-enhancing cream like Maui Moisture Curl Quench to bring out the natural texture of your curls. Scrunch the product into damp hair and let it air dry for best results.
Maintenance: Touch up the taper fade every 3–4 weeks to maintain the clean look on the sides. Regular moisturizing keeps the curls soft and defined.
Pro Tip: Textured curls tend to be more prone to dryness, so make sure you’re using a deep conditioning treatment once a week.
11. Curly Undercut Blended with a Taper Fade
The curly undercut combines the fullness of curls on top with a sharp undercut on the sides, blended with a low taper fade for a seamless transition. The result is a striking, edgy style that’s perfect for making a statement.
Styling Tips: Apply a lightweight gel or mousse to define the curls on top and use a wide-tooth comb to give them volume. A strong-hold gel can help keep the curls in place if you’re looking for a sleeker finish.
Maintenance: Trim the undercut and touch up the taper fade every 3–4 weeks to maintain the contrast between the top and sides. Keep the curls moisturized and hydrated for a healthier look.
Expert Insight: According to GQ Magazine, undercuts combined with fades are a top choice for men who want to maintain their curly texture but prefer a sharp, defined look on the sides (source).
12. Layered Curls Complemented by a Low Taper Fade
Layered curls give your hair dimension and movement, while the low taper fade provides a clean finish on the sides. This style is perfect for men who want volume on top without sacrificing a structured appearance.
Styling Tips: Use a curl cream to define each layer of curls and create separation. A wide-tooth comb will help maintain volume and keep the curls bouncy.
Maintenance: Layers tend to grow out unevenly, so a trim every 4–5 weeks is necessary to maintain the shape. Keep the taper fade sharp with regular touch-ups.
Pro Tip: Layered curls work well for men with medium to thick hair, as the layers help distribute the volume more evenly.
13. Curly Pompadour with a Tapered Edge
The curly pompadour adds height and volume at the front, while the low taper fade keeps the sides clean and structured. This style combines the classic pompadour with modern curls for a look that’s both stylish and bold.
Styling Tips: Use a strong-hold gel or pomade to shape the pompadour and add volume at the front. A blow dryer with a diffuser attachment can help lift the curls for extra height.
Maintenance: Trim the sides and top every 3–4 weeks to maintain the pompadour shape. Use a curl-enhancing mousse to keep the curls looking soft and defined.
Pro Tip: To keep the pompadour’s height, avoid weighing down your hair with heavy products. Opt for lightweight gels or creams.
14. Faux Hawk with Curls and Low Taper Fade
The faux hawk is a versatile style that blends edgy curls down the center with a sleek taper fade on the sides. It’s perfect for men who want to experiment with a bold, statement look while keeping the sides clean and polished.
Styling Tips: Use a curl-enhancing gel or mousse to define the curls and shape the faux hawk. Scrunch the curls at the center for extra lift and texture. A light hairspray can help keep the style in place throughout the day.
Maintenance: Touch up the faux hawk and taper fade every 2-4 weeks to maintain its bold shape. Regular conditioning will keep the curls healthy and prevent frizz.
Pro Tip: This style works best with short to medium-length curls. Keeping the curls at the center defined will ensure the faux hawk retains its shape and volume.
15. Burst Fade with Defined Curly Kinks
The burst fade creates a circular fade effect around the ears, which pairs perfectly with tight, defined curly kinks on top. This style is ideal for men who want a sharp, unique look that emphasizes the natural curl pattern.
Styling Tips: Use a curl sponge or a curl-defining cream to define the kinks. A light styling gel can help hold the curls in place, adding a sleek finish to the style.
Maintenance: Regular trims every 3–4 weeks will keep the burst fade sharp, and weekly deep conditioning treatments will help maintain curl health.
Expert Insight: Roy Jay White says, “The burst fade is ideal for men with tightly coiled curls, as it creates a sharp contrast between the fade and the natural texture on top.”
What to ask when getting a low taper fade?
When getting a low taper fade, ask your barber the following:
- How low should the fade start for my hair type and face shape?
- Should the fade be blended gradually or more defined?
- How long should the top be to suit my desired style (e.g., curly, wavy, or textured)?
- What products should I use to maintain the look at home?
- How often should I get touch-ups to keep the fade sharp?
These questions help ensure the fade suits your preferences and is easy to maintain.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Getting a Low Taper Fade with Curly Hair
Getting a low taper fade with curly hair can be a great choice, but there are some common mistakes that can affect how the style turns out. To make sure you get the best results, here are a few things to avoid:
Using Too Much Product:
Overloading your hair with styling products can weigh down your curls and make them look greasy. It’s best to use lightweight products like curl creams or gels to define your curls without making them heavy.
Not Considering Hair Texture:
Every curly hair type is different, and not all products or techniques work for every curl pattern. Make sure your barber understands your curl type and chooses the right approach to blend the fade with your curls naturally.
Over-Fading the Sides:
A common mistake is asking for too high of a fade, which can reduce the contrast between the curls and the fade. A low taper fade starts near the ears, so avoid fading too high if you want to keep the emphasis on your curls.
Skipping Regular Maintenance:
Curly hair tends to grow unevenly, which can cause your fade to lose its shape quickly. Failing to get regular touch-ups can make the haircut look untidy. A visit to your barber every 3-4 weeks will keep your hair fresh and clean.
Not Moisturizing Enough:
Curly hair tends to be drier, and failing to properly moisturize can lead to frizzy, unruly curls. Daily use of a leave-in conditioner or lightweight moisturizer is essential to keep your curls looking defined and healthy.
Not Communicating Clearly with Your Barber:
One of the most important aspects of getting the perfect low taper fade with curly hair is clear communication. Show your barber reference photos and explain the look you’re going for, especially when it comes to how high or low you want the fade.
Choosing the Right Low Taper Fade for Curly Hair
When selecting a low taper fade for curly hair, it’s important to consider your hair texture, facial shape, and personal style to ensure the best look.
Curly Hair Texture:
- Loose Curls: A low taper fade adds structure, blending smoothly with loose waves.
- Tight Curls: The contrast between a low fade and tight curls emphasizes volume and texture.
- Thick Hair: A slightly higher taper fade reduces bulk while keeping the curls full on top.
Facial Shape:
- Round Faces: A low taper with height on top elongates the face.
- Square Faces: A lower fade softens the angles, complementing strong jawlines.
- Oval Faces: Versatile and works with most fade styles.
- Heart-Shaped Faces: A low fade balances a wider forehead with a narrow chin.
Personal Style:
- Bold Looks: Combine a low taper with a curly mohawk for striking contrast.
- Classic Style: A low fade with a curly fringe offers a clean, versatile look.
- Relaxed Look: Go for a messy curly top with a low fade for a low-maintenance, laid-back vibe.
The right low taper fade can elevate your curly hair, enhancing both your features and style.
Conclusion
The low taper fade is a versatile and stylish haircut option for men with curly or textured hair. Whether you’re into bold styles like the curly mohawk or prefer something more laid-back like the loose waves, there’s a low taper fade for everyone. Regular trims, the right products, and a little styling effort can help you maintain these looks easily.
According to a survey by GQ Magazine, 45% of men choose the low taper fade for its balance between style and low-maintenance upkeep. It’s a favorite across the board, from professionals to trendsetters.
What style are you most excited to try? Let us know in the comments below, and don’t forget to share your look with us on social media!
