Low Taper Fade for Curly Hair: A Video Tutorial Guide
A low taper fade is a timeless haircut that works great for people with curly hair. It keeps hair looking fresh, neat, and stylish while giving a clean, blended fade along the edges. This haircut brings out the texture of curly hair, making it stand out without being hard to maintain. Here, we’ll go through everything you need to know about getting a low taper fade for curly hair and provide a complete video tutorial guide to make it easy for anyone to try.
Why Choose a Low-Taper Fade for Curly Hair?
Curly hair has a unique texture that can sometimes be tricky to manage. A low taper fade helps balance this texture, blending the edges of the hair while leaving the curls on top. Here are a few reasons why a low-taper fade is a great choice for curly hair:
- Easy Maintenance: The fade at the edges keeps the hairstyle looking sharp with minimal upkeep.
- Enhances Curl Definition: A low taper fade brings out the curl pattern, especially on the top, making it the focus of the hairstyle.
- Versatile Style: It can be dressed up for formal occasions or kept casual for everyday wear.
- Modern and Stylish Look: The low taper fade is trendy and stylish, appealing to people of all ages.
This style works best if you have natural curls or waves. However, if your curls are looser or you want a specific look, there are techniques to enhance the curls, which we’ll cover later in this guide.
Step-by-Step Guide for a Low Taper Fade for Curly Hair
1. Gather Your Tools and Prepare
Before starting, ensure you have the following tools:
- Clippers with guards (preferably with #1, #2, and #3 guards)
- Scissors for detailing
- A fine-tooth comb
- Curl-enhancing products like curl cream or leave-in conditioner
- A hand mirror for better visibility
- A cape or towel to keep clothes clean
Pro tip: Watch a video tutorial to get a visual understanding of each step. A video tutorial guide can help grasp the fading techniques and other details.
2. Start with Clean, Dry Hair
Make sure the hair is clean and dry before you start cutting. For curly hair, it’s essential to understand the natural curl pattern and where the curls sit when dry. If you cut curly hair while wet, it can shrink after drying, potentially leaving the hair shorter than desired.
3. Begin the Fade on the Sides and Back
To start the fade, take your clippers with a #1 guard:
Lower Fade Line: Start at the base of the sideburns and move up to about one inch above the ear. This will be the beginning of the fade.
Keep it Low and Gradual: Move around the head, ensuring the fade remains low by keeping the line consistent. This is crucial for getting the ‘low’ effect of the fade, ensuring that the fade line doesn’t go too high up on the head.
4. Switch to a Higher Guard
Once you have created the base with a #1 guard, switch to a #2 guard. Work slightly above the initial fade line, creating a gradual blend:
Fade Upwards: With the #2 guard, fade the line slightly above the initial low fade, moving the clippers upward to blend the two levels seamlessly.
Focus on Blending: Use short, light strokes with the clippers for a smooth fade. The goal is to blend without creating harsh lines between the layers.
Use a #3 Guard for Final Blending: Switch to a #3 guard and work slightly higher up the sides and back, blending the fade with the top curls.
5. Taper the Neckline
The neckline taper is crucial for achieving a polished look:
Start Low and Keep it Natural: Use a #1 guard at the base of the neck, tapering up slightly. This will keep the fade low and subtle.
Blend with Higher Guards: As you go up the neck, switch to a #2 or #3 guard, maintaining a soft, natural look without sharp edges.
6. Define the Edges
Using your clippers without a guard or using an edge trimmer:
Shape the Hairline: Shape the hairline around the forehead, sideburns, and ears for a clean, defined look.
Clean Up Stray Hairs: Tidy up around the ears and nape area for a sharp finish.
Tips for Styling and Maintaining Curls with a Low Taper Fade
Apply Curl Cream or Leave-In Conditioner
Curly hair often benefits from moisture to reduce frizz and keep the curls defined:
Choose a Lightweight Product: Look for curl creams or leave-in conditioners that enhance curls without weighing them down.
Apply Evenly: Spread the product evenly across the curls on top, using your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to distribute.
Diffuse or Air-Dry for the Best Curl Pattern
For the best curl pattern:
Use a Diffuser: Attach a diffuser to your hairdryer and use it on a low heat setting to enhance and set the curls.
Let Hair Air-Dry: Allowing your hair to air-dry can help keep the curl pattern defined and reduce frizz.
Regular Touch-Ups for the Fade
A low taper fade will need touch-ups every 2-3 weeks to maintain its shape. If you want to keep it looking sharp, watch a few refresher video tutorials and practice on the fade areas.
The Video Tutorial Guide
Following a video tutorial can make a big difference. Here’s how to make the most of it:
Follow Each Step Visually
Watching each step in action will give you a better understanding of the right angle, guard selection, and hand movement for the fade.
Pause and Rewind as Needed
Take your time! Pause and rewind the video when needed to understand a particular step. This helps especially when you’re blending the fade or trimming around the neckline.
Practice the Techniques
If it’s your first time trying a low taper fade on curly hair, start slowly. Practice helps, especially with blending the fade smoothly. Watching tutorial videos multiple times can make you more confident and skilled.
Variations and Customization for Curly Hair Taper Fades
Once you’re comfortable with the basics, you can explore different ways to style the low taper fade with curls. Here are a few options:
Low Taper with Textured Fringe: Leave a bit of length in the front to create a fringe. This works well with loose or medium curls and gives a casual, stylish look.
Low Taper with Short Curls on Top: Keep the top relatively short for a more manageable style. This is an easy, low-maintenance option.
Low Taper with Defined Lines: Add a line or part for a modern twist. This can be achieved by shaping a line along the hairline or even creating a design in the faded area.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Fade Too High
If the fade is higher than desired, it’s likely you went too far up with each guard. Stick to a low fade area to keep the fade near the bottom third of the head.
Curls Not Defined
If your curls aren’t as defined as you’d like, try a stronger curl cream and avoid brushing after applying. Use only your fingers or a wide-tooth comb.
Blending Issues
If blending between guards feels uneven, take your time with light strokes and consider practicing on smaller sections. Video tutorials can provide tips on refining the blend.
Final Thoughts:
A low taper fade for curly hair is both stylish and practical. With the help of a video tutorial, you can master this look at home, making it easier to maintain the haircut on your own. Don’t forget to take time with each step, ensuring a smooth blend and a neat finish around the edges. With a little practice, you’ll be able to achieve this trendy style that highlights your curls in the best way possible.
