Sideburns, the patches of hair that grow along the sides of the face, can add a touch of ruggedness or sophistication to a man’s appearance. However, when they become too bushy or overgrown, they can detract from the overall look. Fading sideburns is a technique used to gradually blend the hair on the sides of the face into the hair on the top of the head, creating a more polished and seamless transition. By using specific barbering tools and techniques, it’s possible to achieve a natural-looking fade that complements your facial features and hairstyle.
The process of fading sideburns typically involves using clippers with different guard sizes to create a gradual transition in hair length. Starting with a longer guard size at the top of the sideburns, the barber will gradually decrease the guard size as they work down the face. This creates a smooth gradient effect, with the hair at the top of the sideburns blending seamlessly into the hair on the top of the head, while the hair at the bottom of the sideburns is shorter and gradually fades away. The specific guard sizes used and the amount of fading will vary depending on the desired look and the individual’s facial features.
Fading sideburns is a versatile technique that can be adapted to suit different face shapes and hairstyles. For example, a high fade, where the fading starts high up on the sides of the face, creates a more dramatic and modern look, while a low fade, where the fading starts lower down on the face, results in a more subtle and classic appearance. Additionally, the shape of the fade can be customized to complement the shape of the face, such as a rounded fade for a round face or a square fade for a square face. By carefully considering the desired look and individual facial features, barbers can create a faded sideburns style that enhances the overall appearance and complements the individual’s unique style.
Defining the Fade Zone
To master the art of perfectly faded sideburns, it is imperative to accurately define the fade zone. This crucial area serves as the transition between the long, natural hair at the top of the sideburns and the closer-cropped hair below. Identifying the boundaries of this zone is key to achieving a seamless and flattering fade.
The ideal width of the fade zone varies based on individual facial structure and preferences. In general, it should extend approximately 1 to 2 inches below the sideburns’ natural starting point. To mark the zone’s upper boundary, simply feel for the slightly raised ridge running along the cheekbone. This ridge indicates where the bone meets the skin and serves as a convenient starting point for the fade.
Next, to determine the lower boundary, consider the desired length of the base hair. Typically, a shorter base length (e.g., 0.5 inches) requires a narrower fade zone, while a longer base length (e.g., 1 inch) allows for a wider zone. Once the upper and lower boundaries are established, you can proceed with the fade, ensuring a gradual transition between the different hair lengths.
Choosing the Right Trimmer
Achieving the perfect sideburn fade requires the right tools, and the most important one is the trimmer. Consider the following factors when choosing one:
Cordless vs. Corded:
Cordless trimmers offer greater flexibility and convenience, but their runtime is limited. Corded trimmers deliver consistent power but may restrict movement. Choose a cordless trimmer with a long battery life or a corded one with a long cord if you want maximum mobility.
Blade Type:
Fixed-blade trimmers are ideal for precise fading. Adjustable-blade trimmers allow you to change the blade length, making them versatile for different beard styles. Choose a trimmer with sharp, stainless steel blades for durability and precision.
Features:
Look for trimmers with multiple guide combs to create fades of varying lengths. Consider features like adjustable speeds, LED lights, and ergonomic handles for added comfort and control.
Consider the following in a table format:
| Factor | Cordless | Corded |
|---|---|---|
| Flexibility | +++ | – |
| Power | — | +++ |
| Runtime | Variable | Unlimited |
Preparing the Sideburns
Before you start fading your sideburns, it’s important to prepare them by cleaning and trimming them. This will help you create a smooth, even fade.
Cleaning Your Sideburns
To clean your sideburns, use a mild shampoo and warm water. Massage the shampoo into your sideburns using your fingers, and then rinse thoroughly. You can also use a washcloth to gently scrub your sideburns, but avoid using harsh rubbing motions.
Trimming Your Sideburns
To trim your sideburns, use a pair of sharp scissors. Start by trimming the top of your sideburns to your desired length. Then, gradually trim the sides of your sideburns, working your way down to the bottom. Be sure to trim in small sections to avoid cutting too much off.
Determining the Fade Line
Once your sideburns are clean and trimmed, you need to determine where you want the fade to start. The fade line is typically located about 1-2 inches below the bottom of your sideburns. To find the fade line, hold your fingers horizontally across your face just below your sideburns. The point where your fingers touch your face is the fade line.
| Step | Description | |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Clean sideburns | |
| 2. | Trim sideburns | |
| 3. | Determine the fade line |
| Guard Size | Desired Length |
|---|---|
| #0 or #1 | Skin fade |
| #1.5 | Very short |
| #2 | Short |
| #2.5 | Medium-short |
Creating the Taper
Mastering the taper is essential for seamless sideburn fading. Here’s a step-by-step guide to achieve a perfect taper:
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Choose the Desired Fade Length: Determine the length you want the sideburns to fade into. This typically ranges from a quarter inch to an inch.
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Section the Sideburns: Divide the sideburns into three sections: the top, middle, and bottom.
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Fade the Top Section: Using a clipper guard corresponding to the desired fade length, trim the top section of the sideburns, starting from the top and working down.
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Blend the Middle Section: Switch to a slightly longer clipper guard and blend the middle section into the top section. This creates a gradual transition.
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Refine the Bottom Edge: Using a freehand technique, carefully trim the bottom edge of the sideburns with scissors. This helps shape the taper and define the outline.
Tips:
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Keep the clipper at a slight angle to avoid harsh lines.
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Work in small increments to avoid over-trimming.
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Use a mirror to monitor the progress from all angles.
| Clipper Guard Length | Fade Length |
|---|---|
| 1/2 inch | 1 inch |
| 1/4 inch | 0.5 inch |
Maintaining the Fade
After achieving your desired fade, it’s crucial to maintain it to ensure it stays sharp and defined. Here are some additional tips to help you keep your fade looking its best:
1. Regular Trims: Schedule regular trims to keep the fade looking clean and prevent it from becoming overgrown. Depending on the growth rate of your hair, you may need trims every 2-3 weeks.
2. Use a Quality Trimmer: Invest in a good quality trimmer specifically designed for fading. This will help you achieve precise and even cuts.
3. Fade Gradually: When trimming your fade, avoid cutting too much hair at once. Start by trimming a small amount and gradually work your way up to the desired length to prevent unevenness.
4. Blend the Fade: Use a fine-toothed comb or a fade brush to blend the transition between different hair lengths, creating a smooth and seamless finish.
5. Care for Your Hair: Wash your hair regularly and use hair care products to keep it healthy and manageable. This will make it easier to style and maintain the fade.
6. Fade Maintenance Chart: Here’s a detailed chart to help you maintain your fade effectively:
| Fade Level | Cutting Guard | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Low Fade (to the skin) | No Guard | Every 7-10 days |
| Medium Fade (0.5-1 inch) | #1 or #2 Guard | Every 10-14 days |
| High Fade (1-2 inches) | #3 or #4 Guard | Every 14-21 days |
Blending with Facial Hair
If you’re sporting a beard, you’ll need to blend your sideburns with it to create a seamless, cohesive look. Here’s how to do it in seven simple steps:
1. Define Your Sideburns
Start by trimming the edges of your sideburns to create a defined shape. This will help you blend them more easily with your facial hair.
2. Trim Your Beard
Next, trim your beard to a length that complements your sideburns. If your beard is too long, it will overwhelm your sideburns and make them look messy. If it’s too short, it won’t provide enough contrast to blend with your sideburns.
3. Start Fading
Using a beard trimmer with adjustable guards, start fading your sideburns into your beard. Begin by trimming the hair at the top of your sideburns with a longer guard length and gradually decrease the length as you work your way down.
4. Blend the Edges
Once you’ve faded the main part of your sideburns, use a razor or electric shaver to blend the edges into your beard. This will create a smooth, seamless transition.
5. Check Your Progress
As you’re fading your sideburns, take a step back from the mirror periodically to check your progress. This will help you avoid over-trimming or creating any uneven lines.
6. Use a Beard Brush
Once you’re finished fading your sideburns, brush them with a beard brush to distribute the oils and create a more natural look.
7. Use Scissors for Detailing
Finally, use sharp scissors to trim any stray hairs or fine-tune the shape of your sideburns. Pay attention to the areas where your sideburns meet your beard and hairline, as these areas can be more difficult to blend seamlessly.
| Guard Length | Area |
|---|---|
| Longest | Top of sideburns |
| Medium | Middle of sideburns |
| Shortest | Bottom of sideburns |
Fading Sideburns with Longer Hair
Fading sideburns with longer hair requires more precision and patience compared to shorter hair. Follow these steps for a seamless transition:
- Section the Hair: Divide the sideburn area into two parts – the upper section and the lower section.
- Trim the Upper Section: Use clippers with a longer guard (e.g., 6-8) to trim the sideburn’s top portion, blending it with the hair near the temples.
- Define the Lower Section: Switch to a shorter guard (e.g., 3-5) to define the lower section. This will create a gradual transition towards the hair near the ears.
- Use Scissors for Detailing: Carefully trim away any remaining uneven areas or strays using sharp scissors.
- Blend the Transition: Use a comb or a blending brush to blend the trimmed sections, creating a smooth transition from the shorter sideburn area to the longer hair.
- Check for Symmetry: Step back and check for asymmetry. Trim any necessary areas to ensure evenness on both sides.
- Taper or Fade: Continue fading the sideburns gradually by switching to even shorter clipper guards (e.g., 1-2), creating a tapered or faded effect.
- Finishing Touches: Use a neck brush or shave any remaining hair below the sideburns for a clean and defined finish.
Choosing the Right Clipper Guards
| Hair Length | Clipper Guard Size |
|---|---|
| Medium (2-4 inches) | 6-8 |
| Short (1-2 inches) | 3-5 |
| Very Short (1/2 – 1 inch) | 1-2 |
Troubleshooting Common Mistakes
1. Starting the Fade Too High
The fade should begin at the sideburn’s natural endpoint, gradually blending into the hair above. Starting too high can result in an unnatural look.
2. Fading Too Quickly
A proper fade requires a smooth transition over several clipper guard sizes. Fading too quickly creates an abrupt and unflattering contrast.
3. Not Blending the Fade
The fade should be seamlessly blended into the hair above. Failing to blend properly leaves a visible line between the faded and unfading sections.
4. Using Incorrect Clipper Guards
Choose clipper guards that correspond with the desired fade length. Incorrect guards can result in an unkempt or uneven fade.
5. Not Maintaining the Fade
Fades require regular maintenance to keep them looking sharp. Neglecting maintenance can lead to a ragged or overgrown appearance.
6. Overcoming the Natural Hair Growth Pattern
Sideburns naturally grow in a downward direction. Fading against this growth pattern can result in an unnatural or unflattering fade.
7. Starting with Dirty Hair
Dirty hair can clog clippers and prevent a clean fade. Always start with clean, dry hair for optimal results.
8. Not Using a Mirror
A mirror allows you to see the fade from multiple angles, ensuring symmetry and precision.
9. Fading Too Much Hair Away
The fade should gradually blend into the hair above without removing excessive hair. Fading too much hair away can leave the sideburns looking thin or sparse.
| Recommended Fade Lengths |
|---|
| Low Fade: Starts about 1 inch above the natural endpoint of the sideburn |
| Mid Fade: Begins halfway between the sideburn’s endpoint and the top of the hair |
| High Fade: Starts close to the top of the hair, leaving only a small triangle of faded hair at the sideburn’s endpoint |
Advanced Fading Techniques
1. Step Fade
In the step fade technique, the fade is created by gradually blending different clipper guard sizes. Start by using a longer guard size at the top of the sideburn and gradually transition to shorter guard sizes as you move down. This creates a stepped effect that mimics the natural hair growth pattern.
2. Razor Fade
For a more precise fade, use a razor to create a gradual transition from the sideburn to the skin. Hold the razor at a 45-degree angle and gently shave in smooth downward strokes, starting from the bottom of the sideburn and gradually blending upwards.
3. Bald Fade
A bald fade is created by fading the sideburn all the way down to the skin. This is the most extreme type of fade and requires precision and skill. Use a razor to carefully blend the hair until it connects seamlessly with the bare skin.
4. Drop Fade
A drop fade is similar to a bald fade, but instead of fading the sideburn all the way down, it leaves a small gap of skin between the sideburn and the hair. This creates a "drop" effect that adds depth and definition to the face.
5. Burst Fade
In the burst fade, the sideburn is faded in a circular motion, creating a rounded burst-like shape. This technique is often used to highlight the cheekbone area.
6. Comb Over Fade
A comb over fade combines the classic comb over hairstyle with a faded sideburn. The hair is combed over to one side and faded on the other, creating a polished and refined look.
7. Pompadour Fade
The pompadour fade combines a pompadour hairstyle with a faded sideburn. The hair is styled up into a pompadour shape and faded on the sides and back.
8. Quiff Fade
A quiff fade combines a quiff hairstyle with a faded sideburn. The hair is styled up into a quiff shape and faded on the sides and back.
9. Side Part Fade
A side part fade adds a part to the side of the head and fades the hair on one side, while keeping it longer on the other.
10. Essential Tips for Advanced Fading
- Use sharp clippers and razors to ensure a clean and precise fade.
- Blend multiple guard sizes gradually to create a natural transition.
- Shave in downward strokes with a slight angle to avoid irritation.
- Leave a thin strip of skin between the sideburn and the hair for a drop fade.
- Fade in a circular motion for a burst fade.
- Use a comb or brush to style the hair into desired shape.
- Trim the hair regularly to maintain the fade.
- Practice regularly to perfect your technique.
| Technique | Description |
|---|---|
| Step Fade | Gradual blending of guard sizes |
| Razor Fade | Precision fading with a razor |
| Bald Fade | Complete fade to the skin |
| Drop Fade | Small gap of skin between sideburn and hair |
| Burst Fade | Circular fading creating a burst-like shape |
| Comb Over Fade | Comb over hairstyle with faded sideburn |
| Pompadour Fade | Pompadour hairstyle with faded sideburn |
| Quiff Fade | Quiff hairstyle with faded sideburn |
| Side Part Fade | Side part with faded hair on one side |
How to Fade Sideburns
Fading sideburns is a great way to create a more polished and professional look. It can also help to make your face look slimmer and more defined. Here are the steps on how to fade sideburns:
- Start by trimming your sideburns to the desired length. You can use a trimmer or scissors.
- Once your sideburns are trimmed, use a razor to fade the edges. Start by shaving the hair at the top of your sideburns, and then gradually fade the hair down to the bottom.
- To create a more natural-looking fade, use a light touch with the razor. You can also use a shaving cream or gel to help the razor glide more smoothly.
- Once you have finished fading your sideburns, use a moisturizer to help soothe the skin.
People Also Ask
How often should I fade my sideburns?
You should fade your sideburns as often as needed to maintain the desired look. This will vary depending on how fast your hair grows.
What is the best way to trim my sideburns?
The best way to trim your sideburns is to use a trimmer or scissors. You can also use a razor to fade the edges.
How can I make my sideburns look more natural?
To make your sideburns look more natural, use a light touch with the razor when fading the edges. You can also use a shaving cream or gel to help the razor glide more smoothly.
