Low vs mid vs high fade
The difference is where the fade starts on the side of the head. A low fade starts just above the ears, a mid fade between the middle of the sides and the temples, and a high fade close to where the top of the head curves down. All three can go down to bare skin.
Low fade Mid fade High fade
Where each fade starts
| Where it starts | The look | Touch-ups | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low fade | Just above the ears, following the hairline at the back | Subtle; the sides keep more of their weight | Can stretch to every 4–6 weeks |
| Mid fade | Between the middle of the sides and the temples | Balanced, clearly visible | Every 2–3 weeks |
| High fade | Near where the top of the head curves down | Bold, high contrast; the top stands out | Every 2–3 weeks |
It isn’t about how short the hair gets: that’s a separate choice. A skin fade goes to bare skin and can start low, mid or high.
How to choose
- How much contrast you want: low for a quiet, classic cut, high for a bold one, mid in between.
- What you wear on top: a higher fade takes weight off the sides, so the hair on top looks fuller.
- Your hair: straight, wavy, curly and coily hair show a fade differently and grow out differently.
- How often you’ll go back: a low fade forgives a missed week; mid and high fades show regrowth sooner.
- Your head shape: a barber moves the line up or down to balance it, so ask what they’d suggest.
Try them on your photo
A preview shows the overall look from the front; the exact height is something to settle with your barber.
Sources
This guide follows common barber advice, written in our own words. Barbers don’t all draw the lines in the same place. The diagrams are ours; the example photos are AI-generated and show each cut from the front. Updated November 6, 2026.