The difference between a skin fade and a taper, and how to pick the right one for your hair, lifestyle and upkeep.
What is a skin fade?
A skin fade blends your hair all the way down to the skin at the edges, creating a bold, high-contrast finish. It looks sharp and modern but grows out faster, so plan on a top-up every 1–2 weeks.
What is a taper?
A taper keeps a little length around the hairline and neckline for a softer, more understated look. It's lower-maintenance and grows out more gracefully — a great choice if you can't get in every fortnight.
Which should you choose?
Want maximum sharpness and don't mind regular visits? Go skin fade. Prefer something cleaner but lower-upkeep? A taper is your friend. Not sure — ask your barber and we'll recommend based on your hair.
FAQ
Yes. A skin fade shows regrowth sooner, so it needs a refresh every 1–2 weeks, while a taper stays neat for longer.