Mastering the art of self-haircutting can be a daunting task, but with the right technique and a little practice, you can achieve a professional-looking fade cut from the comfort of your own home. The fade cut, a timeless and versatile hairstyle that seamlessly blends shorter hair at the bottom to longer hair at the top, is a perfect choice for those seeking a stylish and low-maintenance look.
Before you embark on this endeavor, it’s crucial to gather the necessary tools. You’ll need a set of hair clippers with adjustable blades, a comb, a pair of barber scissors, a mirror, and a towel to keep your workspace clean. Once you have everything ready, it’s important to start with clean, dry hair. Wash your hair with shampoo and conditioner, then towel dry it before beginning the cutting process.
To achieve a fade cut, you’ll follow a step-by-step approach. Begin by trimming the top of your hair to your desired length. Next, use the clippers with the longest guard size to create a smooth transition from the top to the back and sides. Gradually decrease the guard size as you move down the hair, blending the shorter hair to the longer hair seamlessly. As you work your way down, pay close attention to the neckline to ensure a clean and even finish.
Gather Your Tools
To ensure a precise and flawless fade cut, it is crucial to assemble the following tools before you begin:
Clippers
Invest in a high-quality pair of clippers that offer variable cutting lengths. Ideally, your clipper should have a taper lever that allows you to adjust the length from very short to longer lengths smoothly. Norelco, Wahl, and Babyliss are reputable brands that produce clippers suitable for fading.
| Clipper Brand | Recommended Model |
|---|---|
| Norelco | Series 9000 |
| Wahl | Magic Clip |
| Babyliss | Pro 45FX |
Also, consider having a spare pair of clippers or a fully charged backup battery to avoid interruptions during your fade.
Guards
Guards or combs are essential for determining the length of the fade. These attachments fit onto the clippers and allow you to cut hair at specific lengths. Typically, fades are achieved using a range of guards, starting from the shortest at the bottom to gradually longer ones as you move up the head.
Prepare Your Hair
To achieve a smooth and seamless fade cut, proper hair preparation is essential. Here are some important steps you should follow:
Washing and Conditioning
Start by washing your hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove any dirt, product residue, or oils. This will ensure a clean base for your fade. After washing, apply a deep conditioner and leave it in for the recommended time to soften and moisturize your hair. Thoroughly rinse out the conditioner before moving on to the next step.
Drying and Combing
Use a towel to gently pat your hair dry, avoiding rubbing which can cause breakage. Once it’s mostly dry, use a wide-toothed comb to gently remove any tangles or knots. Start combing from the ends and work your way up to the roots to prevent hair loss. This will ensure a smooth and even surface for the fade.
Trimming Excess Length
If necessary, trim any excess length from the top of your hair. Use precision scissors and follow the natural contours of your head to achieve a balanced and even look. Trimming will help define the starting point for your fade and prevent any unevenness or choppiness.
Sectioning Your Hair
Divide your hair into sections using clips or hair ties. Separate the top section from the sides and back, leaving the area where the fade will start exposed.
Outline the Base of the Fade
Before you start cutting, it’s important to establish the base of the fade. This will determine the overall shape and length of your fade.
1. Determine the Fade Level
Decide where you want the fade to start on your head. Common fade levels include:
- High fade (starts high on the head, near the crown)
- Mid fade (starts halfway up the head)
- Low fade (starts low on the head, near the ears)
2. Choose a Starting Guard Size
Select the appropriate guard size for your desired fade level. Higher guard sizes will result in a shorter fade, while lower guard sizes will create a longer fade.
| Fade Level | Starting Guard Size |
|---|---|
| High Fade | #6 or #8 |
| Mid Fade | #4 or #5 |
| Low Fade | #2 or #3 |
3. Establish the Fade Line
Use your clippers with the selected guard size to create a clean line around the base of the fade. This line will serve as the starting point for blending the fade later on.
- For a high fade, start at the crown of your head and work your way down.
- For a mid fade, start halfway up the head and blend down.
- For a low fade, start near the ears and blend upwards.
Hold the clippers against the head at a 90-degree angle and move them in even strokes. Avoid cutting too much hair at once and take your time to establish a clean and defined fade line.
Fade the Sides and Back
Begin by sectioning the hair on the sides and back. Use a wide-toothed comb to create a part that runs from the temples to the nape of the neck. Secure the top section with a hair clip.
Select and Use the Correct Clippers
To create a smooth fade, you will need to use clippers with adjustable blades. Start with a higher guard size (e.g., #3 or #4) at the top of the sides and back. Gradually decrease the guard size as you move down, making sure to blend the different sections seamlessly.
Fade the Hair
Hold the clippers parallel to the scalp and work in small, even strokes. Keep the clippers moving to prevent any uneven patches. Pay particular attention to the hairline and areas around the ears, where the hair should be faded more tightly.
Table: Recommended Guard Sizes for Different Fade Levels
| Fade Level | Guard Size |
|---|---|
| Low Fade | #1 or #2 |
| Medium Fade | #3 or #4 |
| High Fade | #5 or #6 |
| Very High Fade | #7 or #8 |
Blend the Fade
The most challenging step is blending the fade. This is where you need to soften the transition between the faded portion and the longer hair above it. Here are some detailed steps to help you achieve a smooth blend:
- Select the Correct Clipper Guard: Choose a clipper guard that is slightly longer than the desired length of the faded portion. This will help create a gradual transition.
- Start Blending at the Top: Begin blending at the top of the faded area where the hair is slightly longer. Hold the clippers parallel to the scalp and move them in a feathered motion, gradually lowering the clippers as you move towards the bottom of the fade.
- Feather the Clippers: Use a gentle feathering motion to blend the hair lengths. Avoid pressing the clippers down too hard, as this can create harsh lines.
- Overlap Strokes: Overlap clipper strokes slightly to ensure a seamless transition. Start by overlapping the lower portion of the stroke onto the higher portion, and gradually increase the overlap as you blend upwards.
- Change Guards Gradually: As you progress towards the longer hair, gradually change to longer clipper guards. This will help create a smooth gradient effect.
- Use a Trimmer for Fine-Tuning: Once you have blended the clippers, use a hair trimmer with a smaller blade size to further define and smooth the transition. Focus on the areas where the blend is less uniform.
- Check the Fade from Different Angles: As you blend, check the fade from different angles to ensure it is even and flows smoothly. Adjust your technique as needed.
| Fade Lengths | Clipper Guards |
|---|---|
| Short Fade (1-2 inches) | #6 (19mm) to #4 (13mm) |
| Medium Fade (2-3 inches) | #8 (25mm) to #6 (19mm) |
| Long Fade (3 inches+) | #10 (32mm) to #8 (25mm) |
Trim the Top of the Hair
Begin by isolating the top of the hair by making a horizontal section from ear to ear, about 3-4 inches from the bottom. Secure the isolated hair with a hair tie or clip. For the remaining hair at the bottom, you have two options:
- Use clippers to trim the entire bottom section.
- Use clippers to create a fade, where the hair gradually transitions from short to long towards the top.
If you choose to create a fade, follow these steps:
| Guard Size | Fade Length | Clipping Direction |
|---|---|---|
| #8 (3mm) | 1/4 inch | Towards the back of the head |
| #7 (2mm) | 1/8 inch | Towards the top of the head |
| #5 (1.5mm) | 1/16 inch | Towards the front of the head |
Continue blending the clippers through the fade section until you reach the desired length transition. Remember to use short, quick strokes and avoid holding the clippers in one place for too long.
Edge Up the Hairline
Edging up the hairline is crucial for a clean and defined fade cut. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Use a Trimmer with a 0-Blade or T-Blade: Start by using a trimmer with a 0-blade or T-blade to line up the hairline. These blades provide sharp, precise cuts.
- Start at the Ears: Begin at the sideburns and work your way around the hairline. Hold the trimmer perpendicular to the face and slowly shave along the hair growth.
- Create a “T” Shape: At the temples, create a small “T” shape by shaving a right angle at the brow line and a sharp line down the forehead.
- Follow the Contour: Pay attention to the natural contour of the hairline. Avoid shaving too high or too low, as this can create an unnatural look.
- Shave at a 45-Degree Angle: For a subtle fade, shave your hairline at a 45-degree angle. This creates a gradual transition between the skin and hair.
- Use a Mirror for Guidance: Stand in front of a large mirror and frequently check your progress from different angles.
- Use a Line-Up Comb: For even more precision, use a line-up comb to guide the trimmer. This ensures a perfectly straight and clean line.
Clean Up Loose Hairs
Once you’ve completed your fade, it’s essential to clean up any loose hairs that may have been left behind. This step will give your fade a more polished and professional look. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a brush or comb. Gently brush or comb your hair in the direction of growth to remove any loose hairs.
- Use a clipper with a #0 or #00 guard. Carefully run the clipper over your head, avoiding areas where you’ve already shaved. This will remove any remaining hairs that are longer than the length of your fade.
- Use a razor. If there are still any hairs remaining, you can use a razor to carefully shave them off. Be sure to use a light touch and shave in the direction of hair growth to avoid any irritation.
- Use a damp washcloth. Wipe your head with a damp washcloth to remove any remaining hair clippings.
| Tip | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Use a handheld mirror. | This will help you see the back of your head and ensure that you’re not missing any spots. |
| Take your time. | Don’t rush through this step, as you want to make sure that your fade is clean and even. |
| Be careful not to cut yourself. | Always use caution when using a razor or clipper. |
Moisturize
After washing your hair, apply a moisturizer to keep your hair hydrated and prevent dryness. Choose a moisturizer that is specifically designed for your hair type. If you have dry hair, use a moisturizer that is rich in natural oils, such as coconut oil or shea butter. If you have oily hair, use a moisturizer that is lightweight and non-greasy.
Style
Once your hair is dry, you can style it as desired. If you want to keep your fade looking sharp, you will need to trim it regularly. You can trim your fade yourself or you can go to a barber. If you are trimming your fade yourself, be sure to use sharp scissors and cut in small sections.
9. Use a hair dryer
If you want to add some volume to your fade, you can use a hair dryer. Be sure to use a low heat setting to avoid damaging your hair. You can also use a hair brush or comb to style your hair as you dry it.
Here is a table with some tips for styling a fade cut:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use a moisturizer | Keep your hair hydrated and prevent dryness. |
| Trim your fade regularly | Keep your fade looking sharp. |
| Use a hair dryer | Add volume to your fade. |
| Use a hair brush or comb | Style your hair as you dry it. |
Maintain Your Fade
Keeping your fade looking sharp requires regular maintenance. Here are some tips to help you nail the upkeep:
- Touch Up Every 1-2 Weeks: For optimal results, get a touch-up cut every 1-2 weeks to maintain the blended gradient and clean lines of your fade.
- Use Fade-Enhancing Shampoo: Invest in a shampoo specifically designed for faded haircuts. These shampoos contain ingredients that lift away dirt and product buildup, leaving your fade looking clear and defined.
- Moisturize Regularly: Keep your fade hydrated with a lightweight moisturizer. Apply it to slightly damp hair and distribute evenly to prevent dryness and breakage.
- Brush or Comb Regularly: Brushing or combing your fade helps remove loose hair and distribute natural oils. This keeps the cut looking neat and tidy.
- Keep Hair Clean: Wash your hair frequently to prevent dirt and product buildup that can dull the appearance of your fade.
- Use a Fader or Hair Clippers: For quick touch-ups between cuts, invest in a fader or hair clippers. These tools allow you to maintain the fade on your own at home.
- Avoid Harsh Products: Steer clear of harsh styling products like gels and heavy waxes. These products can weigh down the hair and make it look flat.
- Protect from the Sun: Prolonged exposure to the sun can fade your hair. Wear a hat or use a hairspray with UV protection to minimize sun damage.
- Trim Unruly Hairs: With time, unruly hairs can grow out of the fade. Use a pair of sharp scissors to trim these hairs and keep the fade looking even.
- Get a Professional Check-Up: Even with regular maintenance, it’s essential to get a professional check-up every 4-6 weeks. This ensures that your fade is blended seamlessly and free of any imperfections.
How to Give Yourself a Fade Cut
If you’re looking to save money on haircuts or simply want to learn a new skill, giving yourself a fade cut is a great option. With a little practice, you can achieve a professional-looking fade at home.
Here are the steps on how to give yourself a fade cut:
1. **Gather your supplies.** You will need a pair of clippers, a guard comb, and a mirror. You may also want to use a brush and comb to help style your hair.
2. **Wash and dry your hair.** This will help remove any dirt or oil from your hair, making it easier to cut.
3. **Comb your hair.** This will help you see the natural direction of your hair growth.
4. **Attach the guard comb to the clippers.** The number on the guard comb will determine the length of the hair you will cut. For a fade, you will need to use multiple guard combs, starting with a longer guard comb at the top of your head and gradually decreasing the guard comb size as you move down your head.
5. **Start cutting.** Hold the clippers against your scalp and move them in the direction of hair growth. Be sure to overlap your strokes to avoid leaving any bald spots.
6. **Fade the hair.** Once you have cut the hair to the desired length with the longest guard comb, you can start to fade the hair. To do this, hold the clippers at a slight angle and move them in a circular motion. This will create a gradual transition from the longer hair at the top of your head to the shorter hair at the bottom.
7. **Repeat steps 5 and 6.** Continue cutting and fading your hair until you have achieved the desired look.
8. **Style your hair.** Once your fade is complete, you can style your hair as desired. You can use a brush and comb to create a sleek look, or you can use a styling product to add volume and texture.
People Also Ask About How to Give Yourself a Fade Cut
How do I know what guard comb size to use?
The guard comb size you use will depend on the length of hair you want to cut. For a fade, you will need to use multiple guard combs, starting with a longer guard comb at the top of your head and gradually decreasing the guard comb size as you move down your head.
How do I fade my hair?
To fade your hair, hold the clippers at a slight angle and move them in a circular motion. This will create a gradual transition from the longer hair at the top of your head to the shorter hair at the bottom.
How do I style my fade?
Once your fade is complete, you can style your hair as desired. You can use a brush and comb to create a sleek look, or you can use a styling product to add volume and texture.
