Burst Fade Haircut: Your Ultimate Guide to Achieving a Stylish Look

Last updated on May 14, 2024

Embrace the edge and sophistication of a burst fade haircut because it merges classic looks with contemporary style, creating a dynamic profile that suits almost any face shape.

Craving a fresh, modern hairdo that marries style and simplicity? The burst fade haircut could be exactly what you’re after. A celebrated blend of classic and urban aesthetics, this cut could be the crown glory you’ve been seeking. With fade that ‘bursts’ around the ears and often combined with a funky Mohawk, it’s a look that’s not for the faint-hearted.

From detailing different versions to explaining the process, this article unfolds all there is to know about achieving this hip hairstyle.

Key takeaways:

Embrace the edge and sophistication of a burst fade haircut.
Burst Fade Mohawk, Burst Fade Mullet, and Burst Fade Curly Hair are popular variations.
Burst Fade Short Hair is ideal for a modern and low-maintenance look.
Burst Fade Long Hair + Braids adds texture and personality to your style.
High Top and Bald Burst Fade create unique and statement-making looks.

What Is A Burst Fade?

A burst fade is a unique and versatile haircut that features a semicircular fade around the ears, blending into the hairline at the neck. This style provides a “burst” effect with the fade radiating from behind the ear and transitioning seamlessly into different lengths of hair on the top. It’s an adaptable look that can be customized to suit various hair types and styles, from curly to straight, and can be combined with a mohawk, mullet, or even left longer on top for a more dramatic contrast.

Best Modern Burst Fade Hairstyles For Men

Burst Fade Mohawk offers an edgy twist, combining the classic punk-inspired Mohawk with a subtle, circular fade around the ears that tapers down the neck.

Burst Fade Mullet reimagines the vintage style, blending seamlessly into the neckline while adding modern flair and structure to the party-in-the-back staple.

Burst Fade Curly Hair matches perfectly with natural curls, showcasing the texture on top while the fade brings a clean, sharp contrast.

Burst Fade Short Hair is ideal for keeping things crisp and manageable; think sharp lines up top with the burst fade providing a smooth transition.

Burst Fade Long Hair + Braids plays with contrast, allowing braids or dreads to stand out against the neatly faded sides, injecting personality and trend-forward energy.

Mid Burst Fade Short Quiff is a nod to retro styles, made contemporary with the burst fade transitioning into a short, textured quiff.

Buzz Cut Burst Fades create a buzz with their minimalistic approach, the fade wrapping around the ear adding a subtle yet stylish statement.

High Burst Fade Brushed Back sweeps the hair back smoothly, the high fade accentuating the volume and flow of the hair.

Modern Coiffed Burst Fade combines sleekness with structure, offering a refined coiffed look melting into the contours of the burst fade.

Burst Fade Short Pomp adopts the vintage pomp’s essence, modernized with a burst fade to keep it fresh and neat.

Undercut Burst Fade Straight Hair provides a striking disconnect, pairing the clean lines of an undercut with the feathered edges of a burst fade.

Side Design injects a unique touch, allowing for personal expression through intricate patterns alongside the fade.

Ideal Hawk plays up the textured, spiked look synonymous with a faux hawk, elevated by the detail of the fade.

Textured Hair is celebrated with this style, adding volume and movement on top with the fade bringing the eye-catching contrast.

Low Burst Fade Design offers a subtler take, with the fade starting lower, making it versatile for various settings and preferences.

High Top brings back old-school cool; the fade focuses on the curved line around the head to give a smooth transition to the height of the hair.

Bald Burst Fade goes bold, the skin fade offering a sharp, clean canvas that emphasizes the styling above.

Burst Fade Comb Over pairs traditional combed-over sleekness with the contemporary burst fade for a balanced, modern look.

Burst Taper Fade merges the gradual taper with the burst fade for those seeking a more understated gradient effect.

Burst Fade Mohawk

The fusion of a mohawk with a burst fade creates a dynamic look that showcases edginess and sleek style. This haircut features a strip of longer hair that runs down the center of the head, reminiscent of a traditional mohawk. The sides aren’t uniformly shaved but instead have a fade that ‘bursts’ out around the ear, blending seamlessly into the skin.

The sides should be meticulously faded in a semi-circular pattern that extends from the temple to the neck’s nape, accentuating the mohawk.
The length of the mohawk can vary according to personal preference, with some opting for a subtle, short strip while others choose a longer, more dramatic spike.
Texture can be added to the mohawk for a modern twist, inviting room for personal flair with the use of styling products like pomades or gels to spike or sleek down the hair.
The burst fade element is versatile and can be adapted to various lengths and types of hair, perfectly complementing the mohawk for a modern urban appeal.
Maintenance is key for this style; regular trims are necessary to keep the mohawk pronounced and the burst fade clean and precise.

Burst Fade Mullet

Fusing the edginess of a burst fade with the rebellious spirit of a mullet creates a dynamic and modern hairstyle. This combination retains the business in the front and party in the back essence while incorporating a contemporary twist around the ears. The fade typically begins behind the ear, circling around to the nape in a semi-circular pattern that gradually blends into the skin. The mullet aspect is achieved by keeping the hair on top longer and allowing the back to grow out, offering a canvas for texture, waves, or curls.

Here are some quick points to consider:

It’s versatile; you can style the top hair slicked back, tousled, or even with a wet look.
Maintenance is key, as the sharp contrast between the faded sides and the longer mullet requires regular touch-ups.
This style works well with straight or wavy hair and can be adapted for different hair types.
To personalize the look, consider adding highlights or creative patterns shaved into the sides.
Pairing the hairstyle with a well-groomed beard can add an extra level of sophistication or rugged appeal, depending on the length and style of the beard.

Burst Fade Curly Hair

Embracing natural curls with this distinctive fade creates a striking contrast that catches the eye. The silhouette of a burst fade with curls showcases the volume and texture on top, while the tapered sides and back accentuate the shape of your curls. It’s a style that favors minimalism on the sides to let the curls be the star of the show.

Here are the key points to know:

Maintenance is a breeze as your curly top requires more attention than the faded sides.
Use curl-enhancing products to define your natural curl pattern.
The gradient of the fade draws attention upwards, making your curly locks the focal point.
It’s versatile; adjust the length of the curls and the gradient of the fade to suit your individual taste.
It works excellently for those seeking a low-effort yet fashionable hairstyle.

Styling curly hair with a burst fade offers a fresh and modern look that stands out in any crowd, reflecting a blend of neatness and rugged charm.

Burst Fade Short Hair

If you’re drawn to shorter haircuts that are easy to manage yet want something with a modern twist, incorporating the burst fade into your style could be just the ticket. The haircut is characterized by a subtle arc around the ears that gradually fades into the skin, offering a neat contrast with shorter hair on top. This contrast adds a dynamic edge to your overall look without requiring extensive styling each morning.

A few points to consider when opting for this particular cut:

Versatility: It’s an adaptable style suited for various settings, from professional to casual.
Low Maintenance: The shorter length means less time spent on daily grooming.
Customizable: Discuss with your stylist the exact fade length and transition for a personalized touch.
Accentuates Facial Features: The burst fade draws attention upward, highlighting the structure of your face.

Remember, regular trims are essential to keep your fade looking sharp. With the right care, this sleek and contemporary hairstyle can significantly enhance your personal style.

Burst Fade Long Hair + Braids

Merging the edge of a burst fade with the length and intricacy of braids creates a striking contrast that’s both daring and refined. This style works well with thicker hair that can hold braids well. It showcases the versatility of a burst fade – with the sides and back neatly tapered, while the braids on top add texture and drama. The burst fade allows braids to be the star of the show, giving a cleaner look around the ears and neck.

To maintain this hairstyle:

Keep the fade freshly trimmed to ensure the burst effect remains prominent.
Braid maintenance will depend on the braid style; some may require daily upkeep, while others can last several weeks.
Use a light oil or balm to keep the braids looking neat and to minimize scalp dryness or itching.
Sleep with a silk scarf or cap to protect the braids and minimize frizz.

This look is perfect for those wanting to bring an artistic flair to their hairstyle, balancing intricate braid patterns with the smooth graduation of a fade.

Mid Burst Fade Short Quiff

Elevate your style with the contemporary twist of a mid burst fade paired with a short quiff. This dynamic haircut blends a semi-circular fade around the ear that subtly tapers off towards the nape. The quiff at the top gives you the versatility to wear it textured or slicked back, depending on the occasion.

This look is all about contrast and character. The mid fade starts around the temple, offering a less dramatic but still very noticeable transition, which works great for maintaining some fullness on the sides. Meanwhile, the shorter quiff allows for easier maintenance and styling – perfect for those looking for a fashionable haircut without a lot of fuss.

For styling:

Towel dry your hair and apply a small amount of pomade or wax.
Blow-dry while lifting your hair upwards to create volume at the roots.
Use your fingers or a comb to push the quiff back and slightly to the side for a natural, textured look.

Remember, the mid burst fade short quiff is adaptable to most hair types, and ideal for adding an edge to your professional appearance or sharpening up a casual ensemble.

Buzz Cut Burst Fades

Embracing simplicity while standing out can be achieved with buzz cut burst fades. This trend pairs the straightforwardness of a buzz cut with the edgy contour of a burst fade.

Maintenance is minimal: The buzz cut element means less hair to manage daily.

Accentuates facial features: The burst fade adds a frame to your face, enhancing its shape.

Versatile: Suitable for various hair types, though it showcases the fade best on darker hair tones.

Customizable: The fade can start at different levels, from around the ear to below the crown, allowing you to personalize the contrast.

To keep the look sharp, regular trims are advisable since the buzz cut grows out evenly and the fade needs to maintain its gradient for the full effect.

High Burst Fade Brushed Back

This dapper style combines height and texture with a polished aesthetic. Ideal for those seeking a sophisticated but modern look, the hair on top is left long enough to brush back, creating a streamlined silhouette.

To enhance the sleekness, apply a pomade with a glossy finish and comb the hair backward for a clean, classic vibe. The key is to maintain the volume while keeping the sides fresh with the high burst fade accentuating the shape of the head and giving a nod to retro inspirations with a contemporary twist.

Remember, regular trims are essential to keep the edges sharp and the top manageable.

Modern Coiffed Burst Fade

Elevate the classic coif with a burst fade that adds a contemporary twist, merging timeless elegance with edgy freshness. This style features neatly styled hair on top, often characterized by volume and a slight pompadour or quiff, that smoothly tapers into the burst fade around the ears.

Volume on Top: Aim for a good amount of height and structure to contrast with the faded sides.
Clean Taper: Ensure the fade is gradual and clean, accentuating the coiffed hair by creating a ‘burst’ effect around the ears.
Versatility: Suitable for both casual and formal events, this style can be slicked back for a suave look or textured for a more casual vibe.
Styling Products: Use a quality pomade or wax for a polished finish; a blow dryer can help achieve the desired volume.

Remember, the key is to maintain the balance between the coif and the fade for a flawless modern silhouette.

Burst Fade Short Pomp

Revamp your classic pomp with a burst fade for a modern twist. This blend elevates the pomp’s iconic volume, giving it an edge with the fade that wraps around the ear and bursts outwards. The contrast between the precision-fade and the voluptuous top makes for a standout, fashion-forward statement.

The sides: Your barber will scissor-taper the hair near the top and then transition to a clipper fade that bursts around the ear, giving the ‘burst’ its name.

The top: Keep the hair longer to create that iconic pomp volume. Use a blow dryer and round brush for height and control.

Styling: Apply a pomade or wax to damp hair, then style upwards and back for a sleek finish. The product choice should add shine and hold, complimenting the fade’s clean lines.

Upkeep: Frequent trims are required to maintain the fade’s definition and the pomp’s shape.

Versatility: This style suits various settings, from professional to casual. It’s a canvas for personal flair – adjust the pomp’s volume and texture to your taste.

Undercut Burst Fade Straight Hair

Blending vivacious personality with undeniable class, the undercut burst fade with straight hair makes a statement of modern sophistication. This hybrid style balances the rebellious edge of an undercut with the smooth graduation of a burst fade.

Here’s how the two harmonize:

Start with a striking contrast: the undercut creates a sharp delineation between the longer top and the shaved sides.
Introduce the burst fade around the ears for a rounded, soft gradient that diminishes the starkness of the undercut.
Enjoy versatility in styling: the length on top can be slicked back, parted, or styled in various ways to suit the occasion.
Maintenance is straightforward with regular touch-ups to keep the undercut crisp and the fade precise.
As this style stands out, it pairs well with clean, tailored looks or can add an urban edge to a casual ensemble.

This combination works best on straight hair as it accentuates the sleek lines of the cut, highlighting the unique architecture of the style.

Side Design

Elevate your burst fade with an etched side design that brings an edgy twist to the classic cut. Here’s how to embrace this creative flair:

Choose Your Design: Opt for simple lines or intricate patterns that complement the burst fade’s curvature.
Consult Your Barber: Bring reference images and discuss how the side design can blend with the fade for a cohesive look.
Longevity and Upkeep: Side designs require regular touch-ups; plan for maintenance every few weeks to keep the lines crisp.
Versatility: Suitable for various occasions, a tasteful side design can be bold or subtle, depending on your personal style or professional setting.
Personalization: Make it uniquely yours by incorporating symbols or initials that hold special meaning.

Adding a side design works like a charm, providing a tailored touch to your hairstyle that stands out in a crowd.

Ideal Hawk

Drawing inspiration from the distinctive mohawk, this version involves tapering the sides of your hair in a burst fade pattern to accentuate the central strip. The length on top provides versatile styling options, from sleek and smooth to tousled and textured. This style strikes a balance between edgy and professional, making it a popular choice for those wanting to make a statement without committing to a full mohawk.

Pair with a defined line-up for a sharp, clean look.
Longer hair on top offers the flexibility to experiment with texture or even add a pop of color.
Works well with varying hair types; just ensure the top is well-maintained for the ideal effect.
The burst fade creates a sunburst effect around the ear, adding an interesting detail to the hawk.
Use a strong-hold gel or pomade to keep the central strip standing tall throughout the day.
Keep the top hair length in proportion to the burst to maintain an intentional appearance.

Textured Hair

Maintaining texture within a burst fade haircut amplifies the visual impact and allows for a modern twist on this classic style. Textured hair provides depth and a more dynamic look, transforming a standard haircut into a statement piece.

Here’s how to keep the texture front and center with a burst fade:

To enhance natural waves or curls, use a light mousse or curl-enhancing cream.
For straight hair, add volume with a texturizing spray or sea salt spray before styling.
Employ matte pomade to provide a structured yet pliable hold that accentuates piecey, separated strands.
Regularly use a conditioner that promotes hair health to keep your textured locks looking their best.
When instructing your stylist, be specific about the amount of texture you want to preserve or add at the top for a harmonious burst fade transition.

Low Burst Fade Design

Positioned just above the ear and blending down around the neckline, the low burst fade offers an understated twist on the classic burst fade haircut. This style maintains more fullness on the sides and back, making it an excellent transitional cut for those new to fades or preferring a subtle edge.

This design works well with different hair types, keeping the texture on top while smoothly transitioning to shorter lengths near the ear.
It’s versatile enough to pair with various hairstyles on top, from a textured crop to a slicked-back look.
Maintaining the low burst fade involves regular touch-ups to keep the gradient sharp yet understated.
The subtlety of the low burst fade makes it suitable for professional environments, bridging the gap between trend-conscious and workplace-appropriate.

High Top

Elevating the classic flat top, the high top variant seamlessly integrates with the burst fade for a dynamic duo of height and texture. This fusion presents a defined contrast between the voluminous top and the faded sides, creating a sharp silhouette that’s reminiscent of the retro styles of the ’80s and ’90s but with a contemporary twist.

Here’s why it’s a standout choice:

It adds an illusion of height for the wearer, making it ideal for those looking to elongate their facial features.
Versatile in nature, it suits various hair types, especially those with thicker, coarser textures that can maintain the vertical style.
The burst fade around the ears and lower head offers a clean, airy feel around the sides, balancing the substantial top section.
Customizability is key; the length on top can be tailored to personal preference and current trends.
It’s a statement hairstyle that requires confidence to carry but pays off with a remarkable and memorable appearance.
Maintenance involves regular trims to keep the top crisp and the sides well-blended.

When considering a high top burst fade, communication with your barber is paramount. Bring reference photos and discuss your hair’s unique characteristics to achieve the best personalized results.

Bald Burst Fade

The bald burst fade takes the traditional burst fade blueprint and pushes it further by incorporating a skin-level shave around the ears, merging seamlessly into a textured top. The result is a standout contrast that truly puts emphasis on the hairstyle above.

Accentuates Hair Texture: The bald contrast highlights the hair’s natural or styled texture, making it pop.
Low Maintenance Sides: With the sides shaved to the skin, there’s less hair to manage, making it a low-effort style post-cut.
Versatility in Styling: Whether you’re aiming for a polished look with a product or a natural, tousled style, the bald burst fade accommodates both.
Coolness Factor: Ideal for warmer weather, the clean shave helps keep you cool both in temperature and in style.
Customizable: Tailor the look by adjusting the height and width of the fade to suit your personal style preferences.

For an edgy touch to the classic burst fade, the bald variation is an excellent choice. It offers a clean, sharp look that remains modern and stylish.

Burst Fade Comb Over

Effortlessly combining suave with edge, the comb over version takes a classic gentlemen’s look and injects it with modern flair. Its versatility facilitates a smooth transition from professional daywear to evening sophistication.

The key feature is the contrasting lengths, with shorter sides giving way to more substantial volume on top.
Achieving a polished appearance involves combing the top section of hair to one side, creating a defined side part.
Maintenance is moderate, requiring regular trims to keep the faded sides crisp and the top manageable for styling.
It pairs well with styling products that offer a matte finish for a contemporary look or a shiny pomade for a throwback to classic aesthetics.
Suitable for a variety of hair types, this style can be tailored to work with straight, wavy, or slightly curly hair textures.

FAQ

What is a burst fade haircut?

A burst fade haircut is a hairstyle where the hair is accurately tapered around the ear and the back of the head, seamlessly merging with the longer hair on top.

What is a number 1 cut with fade?

A number 1 cut with fade is a hairstyle that offers a seamless transition from skin to a number 1 length, creating a gradient effect, modernizing the traditional buzz cut.

What fade is the best?

The best fade for a polished look is the high bald fade paired with a pompadour.

How to maintain a burst fade haircut at home?

Maintaining a burst fade haircut at home involves regular trimming using a set of clippers and guards, ensuring the longer hair merges seamlessly into the shorter areas.

What products are best for styling a burst fade haircut?

For styling a burst fade haircut, hair pomade, taper fade comb, and a good quality hairdryer are essential.

What’s the difference between a burst fade and a drop fade haircut?

A burst fade haircut revolves around the ear creating a sunburst effect, while a drop fade haircut drops behind the ear creating a tapered look down the neck.

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