Low Fade Vs Mid Fade: Battle of the Trendiest Hairstyles 2023

Are you planning to get a fade haircut but don’t know the difference between a low fade and a mid fade? Knowing the difference is important, as it can greatly impact the outcome of your haircut.

In this article, we’ll discuss the key differences between the two styles, so you can choose which one is right for you.

Are you confused about the difference between a low fade and mid fade when it comes to haircuts? Check out this Youtube video: “Difference between a Low Fade, Mid Fade, and High Fade,” to get a clear understanding of the different styles and which one suits you best.

Low Fade vs Mid Fade: What’s the Difference?

If you are considering a new haircut, you may have heard of the terms “low fade” and “mid fade.” Understanding the difference between these two haircuts can help you make the right choice for your personal style.

In this article, we will explain the differences between a low fade and a mid fade, and how to identify each haircut.

How to Identify a Low Fade Haircut

A low fade haircut starts with longer hair on top of the head, usually trimmed to the desired length. The fade starts just above the ears, with the hair gradually getting shorter as it goes down the head.

The neckline is tapered, with a smooth transition from the shorter hair to the skin. A low fade can be a subtle and classic look, or it can be more dramatic with a bolder contrast between the longer hair on top and the shorter fade.

How to Identify a Mid Fade Haircut

A mid fade haircut, on the other hand, starts the fade higher up the head, about an inch above the ears. This creates a more noticeable transition between the longer hair on top and the shorter fade.

The neckline is usually tapered as well, but may not be as smooth as a low fade. A mid fade can be a versatile and modern look, and can be customized to fit your personal style.

It can also be combined with other styling elements, like a hard part or textured top.

Remember, the main difference between a low fade and a mid fade is where the fade starts. A low fade starts lower, about half an inch above the ear, while a mid fade starts higher, approximately an inch above the ear. Consider your personal style and maintenance preferences when choosing between these two fades.

Types of Low Fade Haircuts

Low fade haircuts are characterized by a gradual fade going from the shortest length of hair to the longest length of hair. This creates a neat and clean-cut look that is popular with men.

Here are some of the popular types of low fade haircuts:

The Classic Low Fade Haircut

The classic low fade haircut is characterized by the hair being faded from the ear line downwards. The hair is kept neat and tidy with the shortest length of hair at the bottom of the head and the longest length of hair at the top.

This style can be paired with any hairstyle and is perfect for those who want to keep their hair short without going for a completely buzzed look.

The Low Bald Fade Haircut

The low bald fade haircut is similar to the classic low fade haircut, but the fade is much lower, closer to the bottom of the head. Additionally, the hair is usually clipped shorter to create a bald effect.

This style is perfect for those who want a more dramatic look and prefer a shorter, low maintenance cut.

Types of Mid Fade Haircuts

A mid fade is a popular men’s haircut that adds a touch of style to any look. But there are different types of mid fade haircuts depending on your personal style and hair type.

The Classic Mid Fade Haircut

The classic mid fade haircut features a gradual fade from short hair on the sides and back to longer hair on the top. The fade usually starts about an inch above the ears and gradually blends into longer hair at the top.

This haircut is versatile, as it can be combined with a variety of styles, such as a quiff, slick back, or pompadour.

The Textured Mid Fade Haircut

The textured mid fade haircut is all about adding movement and volume to the hair. It combines a mid fade with textured hair on top, which is usually styled with a sea salt spray or wax to give it that textured, messy look.

This type of fade is perfect for guys with thick, wavy hair who want an edgy, modern look. Plus, it’s low maintenance and easy to style with just a few products.

Overall, whether you choose the classic mid fade or the textured mid fade, they are both great options for guys who want a stylish, low-maintenance haircut that adds a touch of class to their look.

Low Fade vs Mid Fade: Which One Should You Choose?

When it comes to fades, choosing the right one for you can be a daunting task. Low fade and mid fade are two popular options to choose from, but which one is right for you?

Several factors come into play when choosing between low fade and mid fade, including face shape, hair type, and personal style.

Face Shape

Face shape is an essential aspect to consider when deciding between a low fade and a mid fade. Low fades work better for round faces as they create an illusion of an elongated face.

Those with oval faces can benefit from either a low fade or a mid fade as both these styles suit their face shape. Those with square faces should opt for a mid fade as it helps add dimension and structure to their face.

Hair Type

Your hair type also plays a vital role in deciding between a low fade and a mid fade. Low fades are ideal for those with thick hair as it helps reduce the bulk and adds more definition.

Those with thinner hair can benefit from a mid fade as it adds texture and volume. If you have curly hair, a low fade will create a better contrast against your curly locks, whereas those with straight hair can choose either low fade or mid fade depending on their preference.

Personal Style

Finally, your personal style preference is crucial when selecting between low fade and mid fade. Low fades are perfect for those who prefer a classic, slick look or a shorter hairstyle, whereas those who prefer a bit more length and volume can opt for a mid fade.

Both these styles can also be customized with different hairstyles, such as the quiff or pompadour, depending on your preference.

Remember, when selecting between low fade and mid fade, it is essential to consider several factors such as face shape, hair type, and personal style. Consulting a professional hairstylist can help you make the right choice.

Other Variations of Fade

High Fade

The high fade, as the name implies, starts higher on the head, typically above the temples. It is characterized by a more rapid transition from long hair on top to very short hair, or even baldness, on the sides or the back.

High fade haircuts work well for men with strong facial features or a square-shaped face. This style can be paired with short or long hair on top and can be styled in various ways such as pompadour, slick back or quiff.

Taper Fade

The taper fade involves hair gradually decreasing in length from the top of the head down to the nape of the neck. It can start higher or lower on the head, depending on the style desired.

Taper fade haircuts blend well with most styles and face shapes. Some of the most popular taper fade haircuts include classic taper, low taper, high taper, temple fade and bald fade.

Shadow Fade

The shadow fade combines different hair lengths to create a shadowy effect. The hair on the top is left longer than the hair on the sides, and they are blended with a fine gradient.

The shadow fade is perfect for men with curly hair, because it helps to even out the curl pattern. It can be paired with various hairstyles including the buzz cut, crew cut and fringe.

Skin Fade

The skin fade is characterized by an abrupt transition from short hair on the sides to no hair at all. In a skin fade, the hair is faded until it blends with the skin.

This style requires regular maintenance to maintain the sharp look. Skin fade haircuts can be styled in different ways such as the quiff, comb-over or pompadour.

Drop Fade

The drop fade is a hairstyle that creates a curved, or “dropped” effect around the ears. It is similar to the low fade, but the transition is more distinct.

Drop fade haircuts are suitable for men with all face shapes and it can be styled with different hairstyles, including the slick back, comb-over, and quiff.

Pompadour Fade

The pompadour fade combines the vintage pompadour hairstyle with a modern fade. The hair on top is styled into a pompadour hairstyle, while the sides are faded.

This style is perfect for men with thick hair and can be styled in different ways, such as the messy look or a slicked back style.

Quiff Fade

The quiff fade is another modern hairstyle that combines the classic quiff with a fade. The hair on top is styled in a quiff while the sides are buzzed or faded.

This style works really well for men with wavy or curly hair on top, and it can be styled in various ways such as the messy look, slicked back or even a side-swept style.

Comb Over Fade

The comb-over fade is a classic, timeless hairstyle that has continued to be popular in modern times. The hair on top is combed to one side while the sides are faded.

This style is perfect for men with thick hair and can be styled in different ways such as the slick back or messy look.

The Verdict

When it comes to choosing between a low fade and a mid fade, it ultimately depends on your desired overall style and the shape of your face. Low fades tend to work better for medium-to-long hairstyles and round faces, while mid fades are great for casual and formal situations, especially for working professionals.

Both low fade and mid fade haircuts offer a clean-cut look for a stylish finish. The choice ultimately rests on personal preference and what suits your face shape and hair type best.

Whether you opt for a low fade or a mid fade, combining them with various hairstyles like the comb over, quiff, slick back, crew cut, side part, faux hawk, pompadour, mohawk, and spiky hair can give your hair the perfect complement to achieve a trendy and flawless look.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is low fade or mid fade better?

The decision of which to choose depends on the overall style and shape of your face. Low fades work well with medium-to-long hairstyles and are more flattering for round faces, while mid fades are great for casual and formal situations, especially working professionals.

Can I have both low fade and mid fade in my haircut?

Yes, you can combine both low fade and mid fade in your haircut. Depending on your desired style, your barber can use both techniques to create a unique look that suits your face shape.

How often should I get a low fade or mid fade?

To maintain a fade haircut, it is recommended to get touch-ups every 2-4 weeks, depending on how fast your hair grows. However, this can vary depending on the individual's hair and style preference.