Burst Fade Vs. Mid Fade: A Deep Dive Into The Hidden Details (A Beginner's Guide)

This guide provides a detailed, step-by-step approach to understanding and executing both a burst fade and a mid fade. While both are popular and stylish haircuts, they differ significantly in their execution and overall look. Mastering these techniques will elevate your barbering skills and provide your clients with more diverse options.

Prerequisites:

  • Basic Clipper Knowledge: Familiarity with clipper guards, lever adjustments, and basic clipper handling is essential.

  • Haircutting Experience (Recommended): While this guide is beginner-friendly, having some prior experience with clipper cutting will be beneficial. Start with practicing on mannequins or willing friends/family.

  • Understanding of Hair Growth Patterns: Knowing how hair grows and lays is crucial for achieving a clean and consistent fade.

    • Tools:

  • Clippers: Professional-grade clippers are highly recommended for precision and power.

  • Trimmers: For outlining and creating sharp edges.

  • Various Clipper Guards: Typically #0 (no guard), #0.5, #1, #1.5, #2, #3, #4. The specific guards you'll need might vary depending on the desired fade gradient and hair length.

  • Blending Shears (Optional but Recommended): For softening harsh lines and refining the fade.

  • Comb: A barber comb for sectioning and guiding the clippers.

  • Mirror: Handheld mirror for checking the back and sides.

  • Spray Bottle with Water: For dampening the hair, making it easier to manage.

  • Neck Duster: For removing loose hair.

  • Cape or Towel: To protect the client's clothing.

  • Disinfectant: For cleaning your tools after each use.

  • Patience: Fading takes time and practice. Don't get discouraged if you don't get it perfect on the first try.

    • Step-by-Step Guide:

    I. Preparing the Hair and Client:

    1. Consultation: Discuss the desired fade (burst or mid) with the client. Determine the desired length of the top and the overall aesthetic. Visual aids can be helpful.
    2. Hair Prep: Lightly dampen the hair with water. This makes it easier to control and cut.
    3. Sectioning (Important!): This is where the difference between the two fades begins to take shape.

    * Mid Fade: Create a horseshoe-shaped section on the top of the head. The curve of the horseshoe should follow the natural curve of the head, typically ending around the temples and the back of the head. Clip the top section out of the way.
    * Burst Fade: Imagine a semi-circle originating from the temple area, curving down towards the nape of the neck and back up to the other temple. This defines the area where the fade will occur. Clip the hair *outside* this semi-circle out of the way. The hair *inside* the semi-circle is where the burst fade will be created.
    4. Establish the Baseline: Use trimmers to create a clean, consistent line around the hairline. This will be your guide for the rest of the fade.

    II. Creating the Fade (Mid Fade):

    1. Guard #1 (or your chosen starting guard): Starting at the baseline, use the clipper with the #1 guard (or your chosen guard) to create the first guideline. Work your way up about an inch, following the natural curvature of the head. Use a smooth, consistent motion.
    2. Guard #0.5: Switch to the #0.5 guard and cut upwards from the baseline about half an inch, blending into the #1 guard line. Use a flicking motion as you approach the #1 guard line to avoid creating a harsh line.
    3. No Guard (Open Lever): With the clipper lever fully open (effectively a #0.5 guard), carefully cut upwards from the baseline, blending into the #0.5 guard line. Use a very short, flicking motion.
    4. Refine with No Guard (Closed Lever): Close the lever on the clipper (effectively a #0 guard). This allows you to clean up the very bottom of the fade, right at the baseline. Be very careful not to go too high.
    5. Repeat with Higher Guards: Switch to higher guards (#1.5, #2, #3, etc.) and repeat the process, blending each guard into the next. The higher the guard number, the further away from the baseline you will cut. Continue until you reach the horseshoe section.
    6. Blending the Top: Release the hair from the top section and blend it into the fade. Use scissors or clippers, depending on the desired length and style.
    7. Refine and Blend: Use blending shears (if available) to soften any harsh lines and create a seamless transition between the different guard lengths.

    III. Creating the Fade (Burst Fade):

    1. Guard #1 (or your chosen starting guard): Using the #1 guard (or your chosen guard), start at the baseline within the semi-circle you sectioned off. Work your way up, following the curvature of the head. The fade will be concentrated within this burst area.
    2. Guard #0.5: Switch to the #0.5 guard and cut upwards from the baseline within the semi-circle, blending into the #1 guard line. Use a flicking motion as you approach the #1 guard line.
    3. No Guard (Open Lever): With the clipper lever fully open, carefully cut upwards from the baseline within the semi-circle, blending into the #0.5 guard line. Use a very short, flicking motion.
    4. Refine with No Guard (Closed Lever): Close the lever on the clipper to clean up the very bottom of the fade, right at the baseline within the semi-circle. Be very careful not to go too high.
    5. Repeat with Higher Guards: Switch to higher guards (#1.5, #2, #3, etc.) and repeat the process, blending each guard into the next. The higher the guard number, the further away from the baseline you will cut *within the semi-circle*.
    6. Blending the Top and Sides: Blend the hair outside the semi-circle into the faded burst. This requires careful attention to detail to ensure a smooth transition. Use scissors or clippers, depending on the desired length and style.
    7. Refine and Blend: Use blending shears (if available) to soften any harsh lines and create a seamless transition between the different guard lengths. The key to a good burst fade is a smooth, gradual transition.

    IV. Finishing Touches (For Both Fades):

    1. Outline: Use trimmers to refine the hairline and create sharp, clean edges.
    2. Clean Up: Use a neck duster to remove any loose hair.
    3. Styling: Style the hair as desired.
    4. Final Check: Use a handheld mirror to check the back and sides for any inconsistencies. Make any necessary adjustments.

    Troubleshooting Tips:

  • Creating Harsh Lines: Use a flicking motion as you approach the higher guard line. Blending shears are your best friend for softening harsh lines.

  • Uneven Fade: Double-check your work in a mirror. Ensure you are using consistent pressure and motion with the clippers. Practice on a mannequin to refine your technique.

  • Clippers Pulling Hair: Ensure your clippers are clean and well-oiled.

  • Client Discomfort: Communicate with your client throughout the process. Ask them if they are comfortable and if they have any concerns.

Summary:

The burst fade concentrates the fade within a semi-circular "burst" on the sides and back, while the mid fade is a more traditional fade that wraps around the head. Both are stylish options, but the burst fade offers a more modern and edgy look. Mastering the sectioning and blending techniques is crucial for achieving a successful fade, regardless of the style. Remember to practice, be patient, and communicate with your clients to achieve the desired results.