This go-to haircut is known for its balance between the more extreme high tapers and the lower tapers. The mid-skin taper provides a crisp, defined aesthetic that works for many face shapes and hair types. In this article, we’ll explore just what a mid-skin taper is, what makes one different from other taper cuts, as well as how you can wear and take care of it to look clean and current.
What is a Mid Skin Taper?
A mid-skin taper, also known as a mid skin taper, is a popular fade haircut where the fade begins at a mid-point on the sides of the head. Skin: Skin refers to the close, almost shaved look that is commonly used at the bottom of the fade. The hair slowly decreases in length from the longer hair on top of the head to the shorter sides and back. It is a fair contrast and edgy look without being too excess. Unlike a high fade that begins higher up near the temples or a lower fade that starts near the ear, a mid-skin taper provides versatility and balance.
Basic Characteristics of a Mid Skin Taper:
Fade Phenomenon: The mid skin taper begins at or just above the ear making a seamless blend from short length to long.
Skin Fade: The hair is cut down to the skin at the bottom of the fade, resulting in a stark contrast with the longer top.
Adaptable: This look can work for men with a range of hair lengths and textures, making it a popular choice.
What Is the Difference with Other Taper Styles with a Mid Skin Taper?
To truly appreciate the appeal of the mid-skin taper, it’s necessary to see how it stacks up against other popular taper styles:
High Fade: This variation starts much deeper, usually around the temple or higher, resulting in greater contrast between the length mid skin taper of the hair on top and the shorter sides. The mid-skin taper provides a more understated transition between the two, while the high fade is a bolder line.
Low Fade: The low fade sits lower on the head near the ear or jawline, creating a more subtle and softer fade. The low fade creates less of a difference between the top and the sides and is a good option for men looking for a more conservative, understated look.
Skin Fade: A skin fade is any fade that goes down to the mid skin taper but can be classified as high, mid, or low depending on where that fade begins. The mid-skin taper is literally just a skin fade, but starting from a middle-range height, with it being a bit more even than high or low.
Who Is the Mid Skin Taper Right For?
Some of the reasons the mid skin taper has grown in popularity is its versatility. This cut works well with all hair types, whether straight, wavy or curly. And it goes with a variety of face shapes, square people, round people, oval people. The clean, structured look lends itself well to a professional setting and can also easily be styled in a more casual, street-style manner.
Square Faces: The mid-skin taper softens the angles of the square face and balances it out.
Round Faces: The taper gives round faces a feeling of length and more definition.
Oval Faces: With oval faces, almost any taper style would generally work but the mid-skin taper best accents the natural symmetry of the face.
How to Style and Care for a Mid Skin Taper
The secret to a flawless mid skin taper is all in the maintenance and styling. Here are some guidelines to help style and maintain your mid-skin taper:
Regular Trims: Because the mid-skin taper is done with a gradual fade, regular trims are necessary to maintain the haircut well. To keep the fade looking sharp you will want to visit your barber every 3–4 weeks depending on how fast your hair grows.
Use the Right Products: Use a lightweight styling product for the top of the hair, like a pomade, styling cream, or gel, to keep things in place. With curly hair, you might choose for something that defines curls but isn’t too heavy. For straight or wavy hair, a light mousse or texturizing spray can help add volume and hold.
Blow Dry for Volume – If you have a longer top mid skin taper section of hair, you may want to take a blow dryer to it for volume. This aides in keeping the hair from laying flat and gives your style more volume. For more volume and structure you may also go for a round brush.
Are Going for a fade: Get a mid skin taper at the barber, but make sure that you are getting a fade that is blended nicely; a clean blurry fading… You should not be able to see a harsh line between short fade and hair on top. This allows for a more natural, seamless transition to take place that makes the cut appear even more polished.
Maintaining the Fade — For this part of the mid skin taper haircut, your barber will shave the hair up close to the scalp. If you’re looking to maintain that crisp, clean look, this may need to be touched up every several weeks. If it’s growing out too fast for your taste, you can also ask your barber to “blend” the fade a little higher.
Tune Your Mid Skin Taper
The mid skin taper a very personalized touch, customizable to every element of the skin, so you can set it up any way you want your style:
Top Length: The top mid skin taper should be kept short or long, whichever way you like as it gives you more options to style your hair. Some like a cropped, clean cut, while some like a nicer texture.
Sideburns: Adjust the length of your sideburns mid skin taper based on the vibe you’re going for. Many people like them clean with a tapered look, while others prefer to leave them a little longer for a more rugged appearance.
Beard Blend: If you sport facial hair, the mid-skin taper can meet a well-maintained beard and keep everything crisp and polished.
Final Thoughts
The mid skin taper is a timeless but contemporary cut and looks great on many. Classic and versatile, it’s easy to see why this fade style has become a popular staple for men wanting a sharp and well-balanced look. From a sharp, clean appearance to a laid-back vibe, the mid-skin taper can be tweaked and personalized to suit any look. With regular upkeep, the mid-skin taper will be a new, stylish options for the years to come.
