The buzz cut is a go-to option for those wanting a handyman, low-maintenance style. Whether you’re prepping for a job interview, a night on the town, or simply looking for a modern update, the tapered cut is appropriate for a broad range of events and fits a wide spectrum of personal style.
This article discusses tapered cuts in general, how to get the perfect tapered look, as well as how this classic haircut can be tailored to your individual face shape, hair type, and lifestyle. By the time you finish reading, you will know everything you need to know to decide whether the tapered cut is right for you.
What Is a Tapered Cut?
This is a cut that tapers from the top down to the sides and back. The top hair is generally left long, while the hair on the sides and back is cut gradually shorter until it intersects with the skin or is buzzed more closely, allowing for a seamless, blended transition. In addition, the tapering effect creates more shape and definition in the hair, making it a universally flattering option for various hair types and face shapes.
Unlike a fade, which can include a more jarring transition from shorter to longer hair, the taper cut is more subtle. It’s all about graduating the hair into a shortened length, which gives it a smooth, polished look that’s appropriate for formal and casual events alike.
The Varieties Of A Tapered Cut
Low Tapered Cut
A low tapered cut initiates the tapering process closer to the base of the head and around the neckline. This style is more understated and is perfect for popstars that want a more elegant and conservative style. Works really well with short hairstyles for a clean and professional look.
Mid Tapered Cut
The mid-tapered cut is one of the most common styles and styles that is able to fade the top and sides gradually without leaving any deep cuts. This tapering begins above the ears and gets shorter as it goes down. This cut creates a modern, polished look that can be worn in both professional and casual environments.
High Tapered Cut
The high tapered cut is the most dramatic of the three. The sides and back are tapered from the top, generally starting just above the temples. The black and white color scheme is great for those who prefer a more daring and edgy appearance and works effectively with short, spiked, or textured hair on top.
Skin Tapered Cut
A skin taper works similarly to a high taper, with the hair shaved down to the skin, making for a cleaner, more extreme contrast between the hair on top and the skin. This cut is perfect for a more polished and chiseled appearance, particularly for individuals with shorter hair.
Guide To Perfect Tapered Cut
Choose Your Desired Length
Deciding how long you want the hair on top and how short you want the sides are the very first steps in getting the tapered cut you seek. Your barber or stylist can help you determine the appropriate length based on your facial shape, hair type and lifestyle.
After all, it is your hair and your money.
During your visit to the barber, communicate your expectations. Show How to Taper (Low, Mid, High) Show them a picture of the tapered cut you asked for. The more details you give them, the easier it’ll be for them to recreate the exact look you want.”
Blend the Sides
One of the distinguishing features of the tapered cut is a seamless transition from top to sides. Your barber uses clippers to gradually take down the sides, starting with a longer guard before layering down to shorter guards for a seamless fade.
Texturize the Top
Depending on your hair type, you may want to add some texture to the top of the hair to complement the look. A taper pairs well with textured styles, such as the messy quiff or a spiked look. The technique of texturizing the hair adds volume to the top and makes the overall cut look more dynamic.
How to Tailor the Tapered Cut to Your Face Shape
A major benefit of the tapered cut is that it can be tailored to fit your specific face shape. Here’s what you can do to customize the cut for your features:
Oval Face
If your face is oval, you’re in luck—this shape is perfect for nearly all hairstyles, including the tapered cut. You may be doing well with a mid or high taper as well, as this type of taper highlights the symmetry of your face.
Square Face
One with sharp angles, so a tapered cut can soften those features. Go for a low taper that balances out your defined jaw and a lot of length on top to add height, which naturally elongates the face.
Round Face
For round faces, a tapered cut with more volume on the top can help add height and elongate the shape. A high taper is usually a good way to go, as it adds to the angulation of the face and looks wonderful when paired with rounder features.
Heart-Shaped Face
If you have a heart-shaped face, a tapering effect that’s somewhat softer than extreme is the way to go. A mid or low taper will give it more balance by narrowing the sides of the face and leaving a bit of length on top for volume.
Tapered Cut for Different Hair Types
This tapered cut looks great with different types of hair. Here’s how to customize the cut depending on your hair texture:
Straight Hair
Smooth hair does well with the tapered cut, for a clean-sleek look. WHAT IS A TAPER Toby Fisher: This November, we unpack the “taper,” which, depending on style, can take a myriad of forms from low to high. Straight hair is also easier to style on top if that’s the route you want to take; choose a quiff, pompadour or textured crop.
Curly Hair
A tapered cut on naturally curly hair is a wonder to be seen as the hair is pushed in different directions to create great texture and volume. If your hair is curly, you might want to leave some extra length on top so the curls can pop while keeping the sides shorter for contrast.
Wavy Hair
Tapered cuts work well with wavy hair and when you introduce texture on top it helps match your waves. Your natural wave will fit perfectly within the taper, so you can do the makeshift products that help define it slightly.
Thick Hair
People with a lot of tain can have the hair thinned out and offer you a more manageable look. A high taper is particularly useful for thick hair since it helps you maintain length on the head but still lessens bulk on the sides.
Maintaining Your Tapered Cut
Regular trims every four to six weeks may be required to maintain your tapered cut. If you have longer hair, a taper usually requires a touch-up every 4-6 weeks—it depends on how fast your hair grows. A regular taper touch-up helps preserve the nice, crisp blended lines and keep this style looking fresh.
Using the right hair products can help, too, to maintain your tapered cut. Light styling products such as pomade, wax, or cream work best to shape and texturize the top while keeping the sides smooth and tidy.
Wrapping It Up
The tapered cut is a classic hairstyle that suits men of all ages and hair types. Its versatility, clean lines and easy upkeep make it a perennial favorite for many. Low, mid or high taper; the classic cut can be adapted to your style, face and hair type. The tapered cut might be just what you seek if you desire a fresh, modern look that’s both stylish and practical.
