Question 1

What is midfade?

Accepted Answer

Midfade is a haircut style where the hair gradually transitions from longer on top to shorter on the sides, with the fade starting around the middle of the head, typically at temple level or 1 to 2 inches above the ear. The fade itself spans approximately 2 to 3 inches vertically, creating a gradient effect from the longer hair on top down to skin or a very short guard size. This placement offers a balanced look between high and low fades, making it the most versatile fade option for different face shapes and professional environments. The style requires barbers to use multiple clipper guards (usually ranging from 0.5 to 3 or 4) and precise blending techniques to achieve the seamless transition that defines a quality midfade. It typically maintains its shape for 2 to 3 weeks before requiring a touch-up, though this varies based on individual hair growth rates.

Question 2

How do you ask for a midfade haircut?

Accepted Answer

Ask your barber for a 'mid fade' or 'medium fade' and then specify three critical details: the length you want on top (use measurements like '2 inches' or guard numbers like 'guard 3'), how short you want the fade to go at its shortest point (options include skin fade, 0 guard, or 0.5 guard), and whether you want a gradual blend or a more defined line where the fade begins. Bring 2 to 3 reference photos showing the exact style from different angles, making sure the photos feature someone with similar hair texture to yours. Specify where you want the fade to start—at the temples, above the ears, or at your recession points. Also communicate your preference for the back, whether you want it tapered down to the neckline or blocked straight across. If you're unsure about any terminology, simply show your photos and ask the barber to explain what they plan to do before they start cutting. Good barbers appreciate clients who communicate clearly and will spend a few minutes discussing the plan to ensure you both have the same vision.

Question 3

What's the difference between a midfade and low fade?

Accepted Answer

A midfade starts the transition around the temples and middle portion of the head (1 to 2 inches above the ear), while a low fade begins much lower, typically at or just slightly above the top of the ear (0.5 to 1 inch above). This difference in starting point creates distinctly different visual effects. The midfade creates more noticeable contrast between the top and sides because the fade occupies the prominent temple area, while the low fade offers a subtler, more conservative appearance. The midfade's transition zone typically spans 2 to 3 inches vertically, whereas the low fade often extends 2.5 to 4 inches, creating a more gradual blend. In terms of maintenance, midfades generally need touch-ups every 2 to 3 weeks to maintain sharp lines, while low fades can often go 3 to 4 weeks. Face shape considerations also differ: midfades work better for men with round faces who want to add vertical emphasis, while low fades suit those who prefer minimal contrast or work in extremely conservative professional environments. For detailed comparisons of different fade types, check our main guide on the homepage.

Question 4

How long does a midfade last before needing a touch-up?

Accepted Answer

A midfade typically maintains its fresh, sharp appearance for 2 to 3 weeks before requiring a professional touch-up, though this timeline varies based on individual hair growth rate and personal standards for neatness. Human hair grows an average of 0.5 inches per month (approximately 0.125 inches per week), which means the carefully blended transition zone becomes noticeably grown out within 14 to 21 days. Men who prefer razor-sharp edges and maximum contrast usually return to the barbershop every 2 weeks, while those comfortable with a slightly softer, more lived-in look can extend to 3 or even 4 weeks. The buzzcut midfade variation lasts longest—often 3 to 4 weeks—because the short top length means overall proportions stay balanced longer. You can extend time between professional cuts by doing minor home maintenance on the neckline and around the ears using a quality trimmer, though avoid attempting to recreate the fade gradient yourself. Factors that affect longevity include hair color (gray hair shows growth more obviously against faded sides), hair texture (coarse hair appears grown out faster than fine hair), and whether you got a skin fade (grows out faster) versus a 0.5 or 1 guard fade.

Question 5

Can you do a midfade on curly hair?

Accepted Answer

Midfades work exceptionally well on curly hair and actually create stunning contrast between textured volume on top and clean faded sides. The key difference is technique: barbers should cut the top section while your hair is completely dry to accurately assess how the curls will spring up and settle, since curly hair can shrink 20% to 50% when dry depending on curl tightness. The fade portion itself can be executed on wet hair using standard clipper techniques. For men with type 3 curls (loose to tight spirals) or type 4 curls (kinky/coily texture), request that your barber leave 3 to 5 inches of length on top to allow the natural curl pattern to show. The midfade starting point works particularly well for curly hair because it provides enough contrast to showcase the texture on top without requiring the extremely high maintenance of a high fade. Curly midfades typically need professional touch-ups every 2.5 to 3 weeks, and daily maintenance involves moisturizing products like leave-in conditioner or curl cream to prevent the top from looking dry or frizzy. The style has gained significant popularity since 2020, with many professional athletes and entertainers sporting curly midfade variations. Avoid using heavy pomades that weigh down curls; instead, opt for lightweight creams or mousses designed specifically for curly hair textures.

Question 6

What face shape works best with a midfade?

Accepted Answer

The midfade is remarkably versatile and works with virtually all face shapes, but it's particularly flattering for oval, square, and round faces. Men with round faces benefit most because the midfade creates vertical lines at the temples that elongate the face visually, with the contrast between longer top and faded sides adding definition to softer facial features. Square-faced men appreciate how the midfade complements strong jawlines without adding unnecessary width at the temples that a low fade might create. Oval faces, considered the most balanced face shape, can wear any midfade variation successfully. For men with longer face shapes (rectangular or oblong), a midfade still works but should be paired with some width on top—avoid styles that add too much height, and consider textured or side-swept tops rather than pompadours. Diamond-shaped faces (wider at cheekbones, narrower at forehead and jaw) work well with midfade mullets or styles that add some width at the forehead. Heart-shaped faces benefit from midfades with textured, fuller tops that balance a wider forehead with a narrower chin. The only face shape that might need extra consideration is triangular (narrow forehead, wide jaw), where a low fade might be more flattering than a mid fade, though proper styling on top can compensate. For more personalized advice, consult with an experienced barber who can assess your specific features and recommend the best midfade variation.

Question 7

How much does a midfade haircut cost?

Accepted Answer

Midfade haircut prices vary significantly based on location, barbershop reputation, and barber experience level, typically ranging from $25 to $65 in most U.S. cities as of 2024. In smaller towns and suburban areas, expect to pay $25 to $40 at standard barbershops, while urban areas and major cities like New York, Los Angeles, or Chicago typically charge $40 to $65 at mid-range shops. High-end barbershops and celebrity barbers can charge $75 to $150 or more for the same technical cut, though you're often paying for ambiance, location, and the barber's reputation rather than dramatically superior results. Chain barbershops and franchises usually offer the most consistent pricing nationwide, generally $28 to $38 for a standard midfade. Many barbershops charge the same price for all fade types (low, mid, or high) since the time and skill required are comparable—expect 30 to 45 minutes in the chair for a quality midfade. Some shops charge premium prices for specialized variations like the midfade mullet ($5 to $15 extra) because they require more time and precision. Tipping conventions suggest adding 15% to 20% to your total, so budget $30 to $50 total for a typical midfade experience including tip. Many barbershops offer package deals or membership programs that reduce per-visit costs if you commit to regular appointments, which makes sense given that midfades need touch-ups every 2 to 3 weeks.

Question 8

What products should I use to style a midfade?

Accepted Answer

Product selection depends entirely on the length on top and your desired finish. For buzzcut midfades (0.25 to 0.5 inches on top), you need no products at all—just wash and go. For short to medium length tops (1 to 3 inches), matte clay or paste works best for natural-looking texture and hold without shine; apply a dime to nickel-sized amount to damp hair and work through with your fingers. Popular options include Baxter of California Clay Pomade, Uppercut Deluxe Matte Clay, or Hanz de Fuko Claymation, typically priced $18 to $25. For styles requiring more hold or shine, water-based pomades like Suavecito Original Hold or Layrite Original provide 8 to 10 hours of hold and wash out easily, unlike oil-based pomades that can build up. Men with 3+ inches on top or midfade mullet styles often need multiple products: start with a volumizing mousse or sea salt spray on damp hair for texture and body, then finish with a light pomade or styling cream for hold and definition. For curly midfades, avoid heavy products that create buildup; instead use curl-specific creams like Cantu Curl Activator Cream or Shea Moisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie applied to damp hair. Always apply products to damp (not soaking wet) hair for best results, and start with less product than you think you need—you can always add more. For detailed maintenance and styling guidance, visit our about section where we cover product application techniques.

Aspect	Specification	Notes
Fade Starting Point	1-2 inches above ear	At temple level
Transition Length	2-3 inches vertical	Varies by preference
Top Length Options	0.25-6+ inches	Depends on style
Average Cost	$25-$65	Varies by location
Maintenance Frequency	Every 2-3 weeks	For sharp appearance
Styling Time	1-15 minutes	Depends on top length
Best Face Shapes	Oval, Round, Square	Works with most shapes
Hair Growth Rate	0.5 inches/month	Average for most men

Frequently Asked Questions About Midfade Haircuts

External Resources