A 1-2-3 fade haircut is a trendy and stylish men’s haircut that features a gradual taper from a number 1 length at the bottom, to a number 2 in the middle, and to a number 3 on top. This creates a seamless transition from shorter to longer hair, resulting in a polished and clean look.
Check out this Youtube video: “Perfect Fade in 4 Minutes | How to Cut Men’s Hair | Best Tutorial” if you want to learn how to master the 1 2 3 fade haircut and help your clients look their best. This tutorial breaks down the steps in an easy to follow format, making it perfect for both experienced barbers and beginners alike.
What Makes a 1-2-3 Fade Haircut Special?
A 1-2-3 fade haircut is a unique and trendy hairstyle that gives the wearer a sleek and sophisticated look. One of the things that make this hairstyle special is its versatility.
It can be tailored to suit your style, whether you want it long or short. This haircut is achieved by blending the sides and back of the hair.
The transition from the number 1 length at the bottom to the number 2 in the middle and number 3 on top is seamless, giving it a polished look.
In addition to the seamless transition, a 1-2-3 fade haircut is also easy to maintain. The hair at the sides and back is short, making it less likely to tangle or require too much product.
A trim every few weeks is enough to keep it looking neat and sharp.
The Versatility of a 1-2-3 Fade Haircut
One of the best things about a 1-2-3 fade haircut is its versatility. This hairstyle can be adjusted to suit your preferred length, texture, and style.
You can ask your barber or stylist to create a high or low fade, depending on your preference. You can also choose to leave the hair on top longer or shorter, depending on the look you want to achieve.
A 1-2-3 fade haircut can also be paired with different hair textures, such as curly or wavy hair. It blends well with thick or thin hair, making it suitable for different hair types.
You can also add a parting or comb the hair backward for a more polished look.
The Difference between a 1-2-3 Fade Haircut and Other Types of Fade Haircuts
While a 1-2-3 fade haircut follows the same basic principles as other types of fades, it has its unique characteristics. The main difference lies in the length of the hair and the transition points.
A classic taper fade, for example, is achieved by gradually blending the hair at the sides and back, with the length going from long to short. On the other hand, a 1-2-3 fade haircut has a more defined transition, with the length going from 1 at the bottom to 3 on top.
A low fade, on the other hand, starts at the bottom and gradually fades into the longer hair on top, while a high fade starts above the temples and gradually fades into the longer hair on top.
In conclusion, a 1-2-3 fade haircut is a timeless and versatile hairstyle that can suit different styles and preferences. It is easy to maintain and can be adjusted to suit different hair textures and lengths.
1-2-3 Fade Haircut: How to Get It
If you want to get a clean and sophisticated look, a 1-2-3 fade haircut could be an excellent option to consider. This fade haircut features hair length that seamlessly transitions from a number 1 (1/8 inch) at the bottom to longer lengths on top.
It’s a versatile style that can be customized to fit any preferred appearance.
Tools You Need to Get a 1-2-3 Fade Haircut
Before you start cutting your hair, there are essential tools that you need to have on hand to get the perfect 1-2-3 fade haircut. You will need:
The Step-by-Step Process to Get a 1-2-3 Fade Haircut
Here are the steps you can follow to achieve the 1-2-3 fade haircut:
- Start with the top: Use styling scissors to trim the hair on the top of your head to your preferred length. The length will depend on your personal style and preferences.
- Trim the sides and back: Switch to clippers with a long guard size and trim the sides and back of your head. Start low and work your way up to achieve the perfect fade. Gradually change guard sizes to achieve a seamless blend between the top and the sides.
- Use shorter guard sizes: As you continue to trim the sides and back, gradually switch to shorter guard sizes until you reach a #1 guard size at the bottom. Make sure to blend the hair evenly to achieve a natural looking fade.
- Refine the cut: Use smaller guard sizes to refine the edges and clean up any stray hairs.
Remember that practice makes perfect, so don’t worry if it takes you a few tries to master the cut. With the right tools and technique, you can achieve a perfect 1-2-3 fade haircut that looks both stylish and sophisticated.
Types of 1-2-3 Fade Haircuts
1. Low 1-2-3 Fade Haircut
A low 1-2-3 fade haircut starts with the hair being trimmed short at the bottom with a length of 1/8 of an inch. The hair at the sides and back gradually gets longer, transitioning to either a number 2 or number 3 length.
The fade starts just above the ears, curving around the head towards the back.
To get this type of fade, it’s best to leave the fading to the professionals. Your hairstylist should start by cutting the hair at the sides and back with a number 1 guard, and then a number 2 guard above that.
Depending on the overall style you’re going for, they may continue with a number 3 guard or switch to scissors to blend the top section of your hair with the faded section.
2. Mid 1-2-3 Fade Haircut
A mid 1-2-3 fade haircut is similar to a low fade, but the fade starts further up the head. The hair is trimmed short at the bottom with a 1/8 inch length and the fade starts at the temple, gradually transitioning to either a number 2 or number 3 length.
The overall look is more defined than a low fade.
To get this type of fade, you can follow the same process as a low fade, but the fading should start higher up the head. Your hairstylist may start with a number 2 guard and then switch to scissors to blend the top with the faded sections.
3. High 1-2-3 Fade Haircut
A high 1-2-3 fade haircut starts with a skin or bald fade at the sides and back, accenting long hair at the top. It’s different from the previous two fades because the fade starts higher up the head.
The highest point of the fade is usually at the temple.
To get this type of fade, it’s highly recommended to visit an experienced hairstylist. The hairstylist will start with a number 1 guard at the bottom and continue the fade upwards using a clipper over comb technique.
They may add a hard part or a taper to create a more defined look.
Popular Styles with 1-2-3 Fade Haircut
1. Quiff 1-2-3 Fade Haircut
A quiff 1-2-3 fade haircut is a great choice for those looking for a modern and stylish haircut. To get this style, start by asking your barber to give you a 1-2-3 fade on the sides and back of your head, leaving the top hair longer.
Style the longer hair on top into a quiff by combing it upwards and back, and using a hair product for hold and texture.
2. Comb Over 1-2-3 Fade Haircut
A comb-over 1-2-3 fade haircut is a classic yet trendy haircut that works well in any setting. To get this style, ask your barber to give you a 1-2-3 fade on the sides and back, leaving the top hair longer.
Part the hair on the side and then comb it over to the other side, using a hair product for hold if needed.
3. Crew Cut 1-2-3 Fade Haircut
A crew-cut 1-2-3 fade haircut is a classic and low-maintenance haircut that’s ideal for those who are always on the go. To get this style, ask your barber to give you a 1-2-3 fade on the sides and back, leaving the hair on top shorter.
Style the hair on top by combing it forward and to the side, and then using a hair product for texture and hold.
Maintenance Tips for 1-2-3 Fade Haircut
After getting that perfect fade haircut, it’s essential to know how to maintain it to avoid looking scruffy. Here are some tips to help you:
Wash and Condition Properly
Wash your hair at least twice a week with a shampoo and conditioner specifically designed for your hair type. Don’t over-wash your hair, as this can strip its natural oils and cause it to dry out.
Trim Regularly
To keep your fade looking fresh, visit your barber regularly for a trim. The frequency of your visits will depend on how fast your hair grows and the length of your cut.
Moisturize Your Hair
Use hair products like leave-in conditioners, hair oils, and hair moisturizers to keep your hair soft, hydrated, and to prevent breakage.
Avoid Heat Styling Tools
Using heat styling tools like hairdryers, straighteners, or curling irons on your hair can cause heat damage, which can lead to breakage and frizz.
Avoid Chemical Treatments
If your hair has already undergone a chemical treatment like dyeing or perming, it’s best to avoid undergoing any other chemical treatments to prevent further damage.
Recommended Products for 1-2-3 Fade Haircut Maintenance
Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Special Shampoo
This shampoo is suitable for all hair types and It contains tea tree oil, which helps to soothe the scalp and refresh the hair. It’s a great choice for maintaining your fade haircut due to its gentle ingredients.
Jack Black Nourishing Hair and Scalp Conditioner
This conditioner is formulated with natural ingredients like jojoba oil, peppermint oil, and tea tree oil to hydrate and soothe the scalp. It also helps to detangle and smoothen hair.
Bumble and Bumble Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil
This hair oil helps to nourish hair and prevent breakage. It also contains UV filters, which protect hair from environmental damage caused by the sun’s rays.
Redken Brews Hairspray
This hairspray provides long-lasting hold without leaving any residue. It’s a great choice for those who want to maintain their fade for an extended period.
