20 [Best] Burst Fade Haircuts for Men: Cut, Style & Tips

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Burst Fade Haircuts for Men

The burst fade haircut is a cool and trendy style for men. The unique feature of this fade haircut is the way the hair is cut shorter near the temples, giving it a “bursting” effect.

If you’re looking for a stylish and modern haircut, then the burst fade should definitely be on your radar. In this guide, we will show you how to get the best burst fade haircuts for men. We will also provide some styling tips so you can keep your burst fade looking sharp.

So let’s get started!

What is a Burst Fade Haircut?

A burst fade haircut is a variation of the fade haircut that features a more dramatic and defined “burst” at the temple area. The fade part of the haircut involves a gradual tapering of the hair down to the skin, while the burst fade adds a defined line around the hairline that curves around the ear.

This type of fade can be styled in a number of ways, and it looks good on all types of hair. It is usually combined with a frohawk or mohawk hairstyle and is suitable for straight, wavy, curly, and coarse hair types. For this look to work, it is important to find a good barber who can create a custom look that fits your individual style. A burst fade haircut is a stylish and unique hairstyle that is perfect for anyone who wants to look cool and different.

Burst Fade Design

Burst Fade Design
Burst Fade Design

Burst fade designs are a popular way to show off your personality and style preference. The burst fade haircut is defined by the hair being tapered around the ear and the back of the head, creating a semi-circular appearance. Hair designs are a fantastic way to customize this look, and there are so many different options to choose from. You can opt for a lightning streak, zigzag pattern, geometric design, or a more subtle line.

To achieve this look, one should find a skilled barber who can incorporate an excellent design into their fade. To customize the look, consider factors like the desired length of the top and the fade and the type of hair.

Low Burst Fade

Low burst fade
Low burst fade

A low burst fade is a type of low fade haircut that is similar to a regular drop fade, but with shorter sides all around. This creates a more seamless transition from the top of the head to the lower levels and can help add structure to thinner hair. It is ideal for hair of all lengths and is easy to maintain, allowing for a simple but stylish look.

Burst Fade Low Cut

Burst fade low cut
Burst fade low cut

The burst fade low cut style variation is characterized by a taper of the line of hair behind the ear and leaving the hair at the neck long. To achieve this style, it is necessary to follow the natural curvature of the ear and create a smoother transition from a low cut hairstyle.

The edges need to be given a sharp cut to give an outstanding look. This style is perfect for anyone who wants to look edgy and cool. Additionally, it is ideal for low cut hair lengths and is easy to maintain.

Mid Burst Fade

Mid burst fade
Mid burst fade

The mid burst fade is a men’s haircut that combines the classic buzz cut on top with a fade on the sides. The fade starts at the temples and gradually decreases in length, with the most dramatic change occurring around mid-ear level.

To achieve this look, the barber will use clippers to buzz the top of the hair to the desired length, typically between a #2 and #4 guard. The sides will then be faded using a combination of clipper and scissor work, with the longest hair left around mid-ear level. The fade should be blended seamlessly into the longer hair on top. It is important to communicate with your barber about the desired length and fade placement to ensure the best results.

Burst Fade Mullet

Burst fade mullet
Burst fade mullet

A burst fade mullet is a modern take on the classic mullet haircut, combining elements of a burst fade with the mullet look. The burst fade starts high on both sides and back, and the hair on the top of the head grows longer, creating a more updated version of the mullet.

Burst Fade Straight Hair

Burst fade straight hair
Burst fade straight hair

The Burst fade with straight hair is a men’s haircut that features a fade on the sides and back of the head, with the fade starting high up and curving around the ear. The top of the hair is cut to a medium or short length and styled straight, while the sides and back are faded to blend seamlessly into the skin.

Burst Fade Curly Hair

Burst fade curly hair
Burst fade curly hair

The Burst Fade Curly Hair style is a men’s haircut that involves cutting the hair on the sides and back of the head in a burst fade pattern, while leaving the curls on top intact. This style is a great option for men with curly hair who want to experiment with a new curly fade look.

Burst Fade Long Hair

Burst fade long hair
Burst fade long hair

A burst fade long hair is a modern and stylish hairstyle that is similar to the traditional burst fade, but with the difference that it is combined with longer hair. The burst fade is a great way to add texture and contrast to longer hair, while keeping it looking neat and polished.

Burst Taper

Burst taper
Burst taper

A burst taper is a type of men’s taper hairstyle that adds a distinctive twist to the classic fade. The main difference between a burst taper and a regular fade is that the hair is left longer around the curve of the ear, giving it a more rounded shape. By creating a more defined line around the hairline, this look adds extra dimension to the traditional fade style.

This style is perfect for those with thinner hair, as it offers the option to trim the sides short without exposing skin. This look is also a great choice for those with round faces, as it emphasizes and defines the jawline in a flattering way. Additionally, this look works well with a wide range of popular hairstyles for men.

Overall, the burst taper is a popular hairstyle for men due to its versatility and attractive shape.

High Burst Fade

High burst fade
High burst fade

The high burst fade is a stylish and modern take on the classic fade haircut. This style features a high, tight fade that extends just below the temples. The result is a sharp and clean look that is perfect for any guy who wants to make a statement.

The best thing about this style is that it can be customized to suit any face shape or hair type. If you have thick, curly hair, you can ask your barber to create a textured look. If you have straight hair, you can keep it sleek and simple. No matter what your style is, the high burst fade is a great option for any guy who wants to look his best.

Burst Fade Mohawk

Burst fade mohawk
Burst fade mohawk

A burst faded mohawk is a modern take on the classic mohawk haircut. The difference is that instead of the sides being shaved straight up, the burst fade starts from the temple area and goes above the ear. It is a way to blend the two styles and create a more balanced proportion.

The top is cut with scissors and the fade curves around the ear and the back of the head. It is also possible to add a longer mohawk with the burst fade, creating a bold statement that is still easy to maintain. The burst fade mohawk is a unique take on the classic mohawk, with a stylish and modern twist.

Burst Fade V Cut

Burst fade v cut
Burst fade v cut

The burst fade v cut is a cool and trendy hairstyle for men. It combines the best of both worlds – the v-shaped fade and the burst fade. The result is a stylish and modern haircut that is sure to turn heads.

To get the burst fade v cut, start with a regular burst fade. Then, add a V-shaped line in the middle of the fade. The line should start at the temples and end at the nape of the neck.

For an added touch, you can also add a design to the V-shaped line. This will make your burst fade v cut even more unique and stylish.

Burst Fade Faux Hawk

Burst fade faux hawk
Burst fade faux hawk

A faux hawk burst fade is a modern take on the faux hawk hairstyle that offers a more contemporary and subtle aesthetic. This style has a surgical line or part and fades on the sides, creating a sharp contrast between the top of the hair and the sides. It works well with a variety of hair types, from straight to wavy to curly and coarse.

The burst fade adds a fresh, yet fashionable touch to the classic mohawk look and is perfect for those who want to make a bold statement with their hairstyle. It is also suitable for formal events and settings as it is much more manageable and less intense than the traditional mohawk.

For men who want a stylish and youthful look, the faux hawk burst fade is a great option that requires minimal effort and upkeep.

Burst Fade Short Hair

Burst fade short hair
Burst fade short hair

A burst fade short hair is a modern take on the traditional fade. It is a style that blends two different types of fade for a cleaner, smoother look. Unlike other fades, the burst fade has shorter sides that blend in seamlessly with the top of the head, creating a more seamless transition and more structure for the hair.

This style of fade is perfect for guys with finer short hair, as it provides a bit of contrast, making the hair look neater and more polished. Additionally, the versatility of this fade allows for a multitude of different styling options depending on the desired look. It can be paired with a curly textured short haircut, spiked up with gel or pomade, or even dyed to stand out.

Burst Fade Comb Over

Burst fade comb over
Burst fade comb over

A burst fade comb over is a type of hairstyle that features a low, mid, or high taper on the sides with a classic comb over that’s brushed over to one side, creating a lightly parted look.

What makes it unique from a regular comb over is the use of a burst fade, which is characterized by how it curves around the ear and back of the head.

Burst Fade Afro

Burst Fade Afro
Burst Fade Afro

A burst fade afro is a popular hairstyle for men that combines a traditional “bursted fade” – with shorter hair around the sides and back – with a longer, more textured afro on the top. The look is achieved by cutting the sides to a very short length, “fading” into the longer hair on top.

The burst fade afro is a great option for men who want a low-maintenance hairstyle that still looks stylish and cool.

Usher Burst Fade

Usher Burst Fade
Usher Burst Fade

The Usher Burst Fade, also known as the South of France hairstyle, is a taper fade mohawk that curves around the ears. It is different from other fade haircuts for men as it features a high burst fade that tapers down to the skin, with a wide mohawk on top made of thick twists or curls.

Burst Fade Edgar

Burst Fade Edgar
Burst Fade Edgar

The Edgar Burst Fade is a cool Mexican-inspired taper fade for guys who want a the Edgar bangs along with the burst fade twist. It’s a great option that combines the two styles.

Burst Fade Asian

Burst Fade Asian
Burst Fade Asian

The burst fade Asian haircut comes in many forms and option for Asian men who want a cool and unique look. This burst type of fade can be incorporated into many Asian-influenced hairstyles.

Burst Fade White Guy

Burst fade white guy
Burst fade white guy

The burst fade for white guys is not a specific style and comes in many flavors like fohawks, long hair and combovers. White men looking for a unique look can benefit from adding a burst fade to their usual haircut.

How to Style a Burst Fade

Burst Fade Tutorial

Step 1: decide on your hair cut

A burst fade is a great way to add an edgy look to your hairstyle. There are a few different variations of this cut to choose from, depending on how bold you want to go.

  • The first is the classic burst fade, which starts slightly above the ears before curving around the neck, leaving enough length on top to style.
  • The next is the two-block cut, which features a shaved or undercut bottom half with long hair on top.
  • Finally, you can add a burst fade section around the ears for an extra touch of style. No matter which variation you choose, you can’t go wrong with a burst fade.

Step 2: prep your hair

Now that you know what a burst fade is and how to ask for one at the barbershop, it’s time to learn how to style it.

The first step is to prep your hair. Depending on the length and thickness of your hair, you may need to use a comb or brush to help detangle it. Start with clean, dry hair that’s free of any product build-up. If you have long hair, you may want to start with damp hair to avoid frizz.

Step 3: do a trial run with hair products

Testing out hair products for a burst fade is easy and can be done at home. Here are the steps to follow:

  1. Start with a hidden fade by shaving a small portion at the sides of your thick hair, tracing the outline of your ear as you do so.
  2. Use hair sponges, finger coils, or twists if you have medium-length hair. The former is better to use and achieves great success. Hair sponges come with two sides which are designed to curl and twist short natural hair.
  3. Make sure your hair is damp from hair conditioner, styling gel, or water before starting.
  4. Use a firm hold hairspray to secure the style and anti-dandruff products to prevent scalp itchiness.
  5. Use Dove Men + Care Strengthening Shampoo to enjoy fuller-looking hair and prevent breakage.
  6. Work with a barber to seamlessly taper the sides, nape, and neck.
  7. Finalize your decision by getting that haircut done and sport your new and fresh burst cut with oozing charisma and confidence.

Step 4: Get comfortable with your cut

Getting a burst fade can be a bit intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. With a little preparation and the right barber, you can achieve a great look. Here are the steps to get comfortable with your burst fade:

  1. Know what you want. Before heading to the barber, think about what kind of fade you want, whether it’s a high cut with a burst fade, deep side part with an undercut, or two block cut with a mid fade. Research different hairstyles that fit your face shape and hair type and bring pictures of your favorite looks to show your barber.
  2. Choose the right barber. It’s important to find a barber who can understand the look you want and is experienced in giving burst fades. Ask your friends for recommendations and look for barbers with good reviews online.
  3. Be sure to explain the want you want. Give your barber clear instructions about the burst fade you want. This includes the length of hair you want on top, how short you want the sides and back, and how much you want the burst fade to stand out.
  4. Make sure you are comfortable with the haircut. Ask your barber to start with the lower settings and work up from there. This allows you to check in and make sure you’re comfortable with the length and look of the haircut.
  5. Finalize the style. Once the cut is finished, use styling products to get the look you want. A great finishing touch is to add some shaved designs to the burst fade.

By following these steps, you can achieve a burst fade that you feel comfortable and confident with.

FAQ

What is the difference between a burst fade and a drop fade?

The main difference between a burst fade and a drop fade is the placement of the longer section of hair. A burst fade involves cutting a curved section of the hair from the ears to the back neckline and gradually tapering it down to blend into the longer hair around it.

This longer section usually touches the back neckline and begins a few inches above the ear. On the other hand, a drop fade involves a longer section of hair on top that dips down in the back but does not meet up with the neckline.

A burst fade is versatile and can be combined with other types of fades, haircuts and styles, and it is suitable for various hair types. In contrast, a drop fade is better suited for certain hairstyles and certain hair types, such as straight and wavy hair.

How long does a burst fade last?

A burst fade typically lasts for a few weeks to a few months, depending on the rate of your hair growth and the desired length of the fade. Some people may need to visit their barber every couple of weeks to keep their fade looking fresh, while others may be able to go longer in between visits.

How do I ask my barber for a burst fade?

When asking for a burst fade, you will want to specify that you would like the hair on the sides and back of your head to be cut very short using clippers, while the hair on top is left longer. The result should be a sharp contrast between the two lengths of hair.

Is a burst fade a mullet?

No, a burst fade is not a mullet. While the mullet is characterized by short hair on the top and longer hair at the back, a burst fade is a method of cutting the hair on the sides. This involves creating a smoother transition from short to long hair by following the ear’s natural curvature.

Conclusion

So there you have it, the coolest burst fade haircuts for men. We hope you found a style that you’re ready to try. Remember, the key to making these looks work is to keep them well-groomed and styled. With a little effort, you can take your burst fade from good to great.

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AUTHOR

I'm the founder of Bald & Beards, an amateur barber and I've been obsessed with men's grooming, styles, and trends for over 20 years.