Are you trying to decide between a mid fade and a high fade for your next haircut? You may be looking for something fresh and stylish but are unsure which fade will work best for you. It can be tough choosing between the two if you’re uncertain how each fade will look on your face shape or with your hair type.
In this article, we’ll break down the mid fade and high fade, comparing the two to help you make the best choice for your style. We’ll see how each haircut works, which face shapes and hair types they suit, and give you some tips on maintaining them. So, figure out which fade suits you!
What is Mid Fade and High Fade?
A mid-fade is a hairstyle in which the hair on the sides is gradually cut shorter, starting about midway between the ears and the temples.
Visually, a mid fade has a much softer transition than a high fade, creating a more blended, smooth effect. This style gives you a sharp yet less dramatic contrast between the shorter sides and the longer top.
If you’re curious about other fade styles, how does a mid fade differ from a low fade? Compare them to find your favorite look.
Characteristics of a Mid-Fade
A mid fade represents a subtle and balanced look. It doesn’t have the boldness of a high fade but still offers a fresh, modern vibe. This makes it versatile enough to work with a variety of hairstyles, from relaxed appeal to sharp, professional styles.
It’s easier to carry than a high-fade and does not require as frequent trims to keep it looking clean. The hair on the sides grows out slowly, so you won’t need to visit the barber as often.
The mid-fade best suits all hair types, including straight, thick, or curly hair. It also suits a variety of face shapes, from oval to round to square
A high fade is a haircut in which the hair on the sides of your head is cut very short, creating a sharp contrast with the longer hair on top. The fade starts high up, usually around the temples or parietal ridge, the area at the top of your head above the ears.
In a high fade, the buzzed sides are very short or shaved, blending smoothly into the longer hair on top. This styling creates a clean, sharp line that can make the top stand out. The fade can be skin-tight or short, depending on how extreme you want the contrast to be.
Selecting the right tools is important to achieve a bold, high fade. Explore essential clippers for sharp fades to ensure ideal results.
Characteristics of a High Fade
A high fade gives a bold and edgy look. It is often paired with buzz cuts or skin fades for a dramatic effect, making the top of the head stand out more.
But a high fade also requires a bit more maintenance. Since the fade is so short and sharp, it can grow out quickly, so you must visit your barber more often to keep it looking fresh and clean.
It is excellent for people with thick or curly hair. It also suits people with oval, round, or square face shapes.
Mid Fade vs High Fade - How to Differentiate Between Them?
When deciding between a mid fade and a high fade, a few key differences can affect your overall look.
Starting Point
The main difference between the two fades is where they start on your head. A high fade begins higher up, usually around the temples or above them, forming a contrast between the short sides and the longer top. On the other hand, a mid fade starts in the middle of the sides, near the temples. This gives the mid fade a more balanced and fine look, slowly transforming from short to long.
Style Effect
The high fade produces a bold, edgy variation. Because the fade starts so high, it gives a more defined, sharp look. The mid fade, however, offers a more finer, balanced modification. It doesn’t have the same effect as the high fade, but it still provides a clean, stylish look that’s more blended and smooth.
Face Shape Compatibility
Both fades work well for different face shapes, but each one has its ideal match. The high fade is great for people with oval, round, and square faces. Its sharper lines help to accentuate the features of these face shapes. In contrast, the mid fade is much more flexible and can work with almost any face shape. Round face, square face, or anything in between, the mid fade offers a balanced cut that complements all face types.
Maintenance
The high fade requires more frequent touch-ups. You have to visit the barber more often to keep the fade looking sharp. The mid fade, however, is easier to maintain, particularly if you keep the hair on top a bit longer. It only demands a few trims because the fade starts lower and doesn’t grow out as quickly.
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Styling Options
Regarding styling, the high fade is perfect for bold, edgy styles like pompadours, buzz cuts, and skin fades. It is the way to go if you want a look different. The mid fade, however, offers much versatility with its more gradual modification. It works well with various styles, from comb-overs to slick-backs to pompadours. The mid-fade gives you more flexibility if you’re looking for a stylish yet adaptable style for various occasions.
Find bold fades like the bald fade to discover even more ways to elevate your look.
Click here to match buzz cut style with your personality.
High Fade vs Mid Fade for Various Hair Types
Your hair type greatly affects how a mid fade or high fade will appeal on you. Each style offers unique benefits depending on whether your hair is thick, curly, or straight.
Thick Hair
A high fade is especially helpful for managing thick hair because it removes much volume on the sides. Starting the fade higher up creates a cleaner, lighter look, making your hairstyle feel less bulky. This can be great if you want a bold, sharp style that’s easy to maintain on top.
The mid fade also works for thick hair, but instead of cutting down the sides, it blends more gradually. This is perfect if you want to keep some volume on the sides without losing the sharpness of a fade. It offers a level and versatile option, allowing you to style your thick hair in various ways.
Curly Hair
The fade you select for curly hair depends on the look you want. A mid-fade is best for keeping your natural curl pattern visible and well-shaped. The gradual transition of the mid-fade blends smoothly into your curls.
Starting the fade higher reduces the bulkiness on the sides and keeps the focus on the curls at the top forming a structured, manageable style.
Straight Hair
Both the mid-fade and high fade can work beautifully, but the mid-fade might give you more diversity. The softer, more slowly change of the mid fade blends seamlessly with straight hair. It also gives you a polished, professional look that’s easy to maintain.
On the other hand, a high fade makes a sharper varience with straight hair, at upper side.This can be great for edgier styles like buzz cuts or pompadours. While it’s a bold choice, keeping the fade sharp and fresh requires more upkeep.
How to Choose Between Mid Fade and High Fade?
There are a few things to evaluate that you should consider before deciding.
Personal Preference
First, think about the look you want. Do you like bold, striking hairstyles that outstands? If so, the high fade might be the perfect fit. On the other hand, the mid-fade offers a balanced style that still looks stylish but is less intense. It blends naturally with your hair, so it can fit in with different looks.
Hair Type
Your hair type also plays a significant role in your choice of fade. If you have thick or curly hair, a high fade can be a great option because it helps show off the volume and texture of your hair, when paired with a buzz cut or skin fade. The sharp variation of the high fade works well with thicker hair.
However, a mid fade is more adaptable with more relaxed hair texture or want a cut that works with different hair types. It looks good on all hair textures, whether straight, wavy, or curly.
Face Shape
The high fade is an excellent choice for a round, square, or oval face because the sharper lines help define your features and balance your face. It can add more angles and structure to your face, making it look more angular. On the other hand, the mid fade is much more flexible and works well with almost any face shape. It provides a equal look that suits various face types.
Lifestyle and Care
Finally, consider your lifestyle and how much time you will spend upkeeping your fade. High fades grow fastly. However, if you prefer a low-maintenance style, the mid-fade is easier to take care of. Since the fade starts lower, you can style them at home, and you can go a little longer between trims without losing the look.
Learn to cut fades like a pro at home with this detailed guide.
Final Thoughts
Both the mid-fade and high-fade are stylish haircut options that can elevate your look, but the best choice depends on your personal style, hair type, and lifestyle. Ultimately, both fades allow you to express your personality and style. Whichever one you choose, you’ll enjoy a fresh, sharp appearance that turns heads. Make your pick, and let your fade do the talking!
