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For as long as we can remember, fades have been one of the most popular hairstyles for men in Manchester. Many people ask for a fade without realising how many different types of fades there are, or which one will suit them best.
At MEKK Barbershop Manchester, we help our clients choose a hairstyle that suits their personal style, features and routine, rather than simply picking something because it’s trending. Our approach is to understand what you’re looking to achieve, how your hair naturally grows and how much maintenance you’re happy to commit to before recommending a style. This allows us to create a haircut that not only looks great when you leave the shop, but continues to look neat as it grows out.
Whether you’re looking for a skin fade in Manchester, a classic taper fade or something more modern, we’ve put together this guide to explain the different types of fades, what makes each one unique and how to choose a style that’s right for you.
The generic fade is a haircut where the hair gradually blends from longer lengths into shorter lengths down the sides and back of the head. There are many different ways a fade can be cut depending on where it starts, how much contrast is created and whether it blends into the skin.
One common misconception is that every fade is a skin fade. A skin fade only refers to the hair blending all the way down to the skin, but this doesn’t always have to be the case. Understanding the differences between different styles can make it much easier to choose a haircut that suits both your appearance and your lifestyle.
A low fade starts just above the ears and stays lower around the head. The fade doesn’t travel very high, so more hair is left on the sides, giving the haircut a softer and more natural appearance.
If you’re looking for a clean, smart haircut without making a dramatic change, a low fade is a great option. It works well with most hair types, especially if you prefer a style that’s easy to wear every day. If you’re looking for a subtle fade haircut, the low fade is one of the most popular choices at our Manchester barbershop.
Maintenance: Around every 3–4 weeks.
A mid fade starts slightly higher than a low fade, around the middle of the sides of your head. It creates a more noticeable contrast between the shorter sides and the longer hair on top, giving the haircut a sharper appearance.
This is one of the most versatile fade haircuts because it works well with almost every hairstyle, whether you prefer a textured crop, quiff, slick back or curls. If you’re unsure which fade to choose, a mid fade is often the safest place to start.
Maintenance: Around every 2–3 weeks.
A high fade starts much higher up the head, removing more hair from the sides and making the hair on top stand out much more. It’s the boldest of the three and creates the strongest contrast.
High fades suit people who like a clean, modern haircut and don’t mind visiting the barbers a little more regularly to keep it looking sharp. Because there’s less hair on the sides, the haircut grows out more noticeably than a low or mid fade.
Maintenance: Around every 2 weeks.
A skin fade isn’t actually a different type of fade, it’s how short the fade goes. Instead of blending into very short hair, it blends all the way down to the skin for the cleanest possible finish.
A lot of people ask for “a skin fade”, but you can actually have a low skin fade, mid skin fade or high skin fade. The “low”, “mid” or “high” describes where the fade starts, while “skin” describes where it finishes. If you’re after the sharpest possible look, a skin fade is usually the way to go.
At MEKK Barbershop in Manchester, skin fades remain one of our most requested haircut styles.
Maintenance: Around every 2 weeks.
A taper fade is much more subtle than a traditional fade. Instead of taking the fade high up the sides, it only shortens the hair around the sideburns and neckline, while leaving the rest of the sides much longer.
This makes it ideal if you want your haircut to look clean and tidy without looking too short. It’s popular with clients who prefer a classic style or don’t want to visit the barbers quite as often.
Maintenance: Around every 3–5 weeks.
A drop fade follows the natural curve of your head instead of running straight around the sides. As it reaches the back of your head, the fade naturally drops behind the ear, creating a smoother shape.
It’s a great option if you want something a little different without being too bold. The curved shape often works particularly well if you have a beard, as it creates a more natural transition between your haircut and facial hair.
Maintenance: Around every 2–3 weeks.
A burst fade is one of the more modern fade styles. Instead of fading evenly around the sides, the fade is focused around the ear, creating a rounded “burst” shape while leaving more hair at the back.
It’s become especially popular with modern mullets, curly hairstyles and textured cuts because it helps emphasise the shape of the haircut. If you prefer a longer hairstyle on top but still want a clean finish around the ears and neckline, the burst fade is well worth considering.
Maintenance: Around every 2–3 weeks.
Choosing the right fade isn’t just about following the latest trend. An experienced barber will consider several factors before recommending a style, including your hair type, hair density, growth pattern, face shape and how often you’re happy to return for maintenance.
For example, someone looking for a subtle, professional appearance may be better suited to a low fade or taper fade, while someone wanting a sharper, higher-contrast look may prefer a high skin fade. Small adjustments to where the fade starts and how it’s blended can make a significant difference to the overall appearance of the haircut.
At MEKK Barbershop in Ancoats, every haircut begins with a consultation so we can recommend the style that’s going to work best for you. Our aim is to create a haircut that suits your features, works with your hair and fits comfortably into your day-to-day routine.
If you’re in the mood for a change of style, feel free to tell us what you’re thinking at your next appointment. There isn’t one fade that’s better than another. The right fade is the one that achieves your desired look, suits your features and fits your routine.
If you’re unsure, don’t worry about learning all the different names beforehand. That’s what your barber is there for. Bring a few inspo pics, have a chat with us, and we’ll recommend a style that’s right for you.
If you’re looking for an experienced barber in Manchester or a barbershop in Manchester City Centre, you’ll find MEKK in Ancoats, just a short walk from Manchester Piccadilly Station, Stevenson’s Square and the Northern Quarter. Whether you’re after a skin fade, taper fade or a completely new hairstyle, book an appointment online or visit us for a walk-in, and we’ll help you find a haircut that’s right for you.
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