Welcome to the zero vs skin fade showdown!
Hairstyles play a significant role in expressing one’s personality and style. Among the myriad of haircut options available, fade haircuts have gained immense popularity in recent years.
Fades are characterized by a gradual transition from shorter to longer hair, creating a stylish and clean look. In this article, we will delve into two specific types of fades: the zero fade and the skin fade.
While they may seem similar at first glance, they possess distinct characteristics that set them apart.
This article will make everything clear and will give you all the necessary information you need to choose the best haircut for YOU.
Without further ado, let’s get started!
Brief History Of Fade Haircuts
Fade haircuts have a rich history that dates back several decades.
Originally popularized in the 1940s, fades emerged as a practical and fashionable choice among African American men. The term “fade” refers to the gradual tapering of the hair length from the neckline up towards the crown.
Over the years, fade haircuts have evolved, with various styles and variations gaining prominence across different cultures and communities.
Zero Fade Haircut
The term “Zero” in zero fade refers to the shortest guard setting used during the haircut. What we mean by that is that you should remove any guard and just use the clippers without guards.
This will give you the shortest hair length that you can get with a specific clippers.
Most clippers can cut up to 0.4-0.5mm. This is pretty short but not clean-shaven. This is key to understand.
While it is not a completely shaved look, the Zero Fade creates a clean and defined line between the shorter hair at the bottom and the longer hair on top, resulting in a sharp and stylish appearance.
To sum up, zero fade is a type of fade where the hair is cut very short at the lower part of the head and the sides, gradually transitioning into longer hair higher on the sides, higher on the back of the head and and of course on the top.
Skin Fade Haircut
The skin fade, as the name suggests, involves a seamless transition from shaved hair to longer hair on top resulting in a very stylish, sharp and eye-catching look.
This popular haircut style is characterized by a gradual blending of hair lengths, starting from an extremely short length (nearly shaven with electric shaver) at the lower portion of the head and smoothly tapering into longer hair on the top.
The second part is the same as with zero fade. Both fades involve very short hair on the sides and back of the head that gradually become longer on top.
However, skin fade involves an extra step which is actually shaving. There is a gradual transition not only from zero to guard 1, to guard 2 and then then to longer hair on top.
There is a gradual transition from complately shaved hair low above the ears, low on the sides and the back of the head that quickly gives its turn to hair cut with number zero.
Both fade haircuts involves various length transition to blend shaved or very short hair with short hair higher and with long hair on top except if you go for buzz cut but again the hair on top will be longer than the side hair.
In the next section, we will discuss a few more differences between these 2 similar haircuts.
Is Zero Fade the Same as Skin Fade? Zero vs Skin Fade
While the zero fade and skin fade share similarities in terms of their gradual hair length transitions, they are not the same haircut.
The key distinction lies in the techniques and tools used to achieve each style, as well as the resulting lengths of the faded areas.
The Zero Fade, as mentioned earlier, involves cutting the hair extremely short at the lower part of the head without a guard, typically leaving it at around 0.5mm in length. This creates a close-cut look without completely shaving the hair to the skin.
The longer hair on the top provides a noticeable contrast against the shorter faded area, resulting in a distinct and defined line.
On the other hand, the Skin Fade incorporates the use of an electric shaver to achieve an even shorter fade. The shaver is used to gradually reduce the hair length to a minimal length, often around 0.1mm or 0.0mm, creating a near-bald appearance low on the head.
In summary, the main differences between the Zero Fade and Skin Fade are as follows:
- Hair Length: The zero fade leaves the hair at around 0.5mm in length, while the Skin Fade utilizes an electric shaver to achieve a much shorter length, typically around 0.1mm or 0.0mm.
- Tool Usage: The zero fade primarily relies on clippers without a guard, while the Skin Fade incorporates the use of an electric shaver or razor in addition to clippers.
- Contrast and Blend: The zero fade creates a noticeable contrast between the longer hair on top and the shorter faded area, resulting in a defined line. In contrast, the skin fade aims for a seamless blend from the shaved or extremely short hair to the skin, achieving a more subtle transition.
Ultimately, choosing between the zero fade and skin fade depends on personal preference, desired length, and the level of contrast or seamless blending one wishes to achieve. It is recommended to consult with a professional stylist or barber who can provide guidance based on your specific hair type, face shape, and style preferences.
How Long Do Zero Fade and Skin Fade Haircuts Last?
The duration of a zero fade or skin fade haircut can vary depending on individual hair growth rates, personal grooming routines, and desired lengths.
While exact timeframes may differ from person to person, we can provide a general guideline for the typical lifespan of these fade haircuts.
The zero fade typically has a shorter lifespan compared to the skin fade cause the faded hair is longer. Due to its length on the sides, the contrast between the longer hair on top and the faded area becomes less and less noticeable as the hair grows.
On average, a Zero Fade can maintain its desired look for about two weeks. However, it’s important to note that individual hair growth rates may influence this timeframe, and some people may require touch-ups slightly earlier or later.
On the other hand, the skin fade generally lasts slightly longer than the zero fade. As you can easily understand the clean-shaven area develops 2-3 days later than the respective faded area on zero fade.
This can help to maintain the overall appearance for a longer period. Typically, a skin fade can retain its desired look for about two weeks to three weeks maximum, again depending on individual hair growth rates.
Remember, you may regard 2 weeks as a very short period of time to have a new haircut (I know haircuts are expensive these days) however the nature of fade haircuts makes it impossible for them to last longer.
The side hair grows and then there is no contrast. The fade is gone. It is sad, but it is the truth. If you want a fresh fade haircut you have to do it again every 2 weeks if it the zero fade or 16-17 days maximum if it is the skin fade.
If you have the time and money you can redo it every week to always stay very sharp and fresh. I give you all the options and you choose the best for your situation.
To sum things up, it is crucial to consider that fade haircuts require regular touch-ups to preserve their sharpness and precision. As the hair grows, the faded area may start to lose its definition, and the contrast between the faded section and the longer hair becomes less pronounced.
How To Choose Between Zero And Skin Fade Haircut
As we ‘ve previously discussed the only real difference the 2 haircuts have is the length of the faded hair.
Therefore, it is not a big deal. There is not right and wrong option.
I always skin fade my hair, I find it more attractive, more fresh and it lasts 2-3 days longer. That’s it. But that’s just me. If you don’t like such a stylish and modern take for your haircut, choose the simple zero fade or even the number 1 fade.
Just keep in mind that they are not as impressive and will need touch ups sooner.
That’s all I have for this part of the article. Choice is yours.
How To Get A Zero Fade + Transitioning To Skin Fade
The fun part starts now!
Here are the steps for a successful zero fade and how to turn it into skin fade if you want.
The Zero fade haircut is a classic hairstyle, and you can get a professional barber to give you a zero fade or cut it yourself. The zero fade cut is beautiful, but requires you to be patient and strategic.
If you try to do it yourself, don’t rush because you can easily mess it up really bad.
If you do mess it up, click here to learn how to fix it.
1. Comb out the hair
The first step to getting your zero fade haircut is combing the hair to ensure it’s all even. This helps map out the areas needing a trim and what guards to use when trimming.
2. Trim the sides
After combing out the hair, the step is to trim the hair on the sides of your head with a clipper. No guards are needed for this as you’re more or less getting a skin fade here. Start by trimming from below the ear lobes to the top of your ear and maintain the line across the hairline.
It is easier to create a steady straght or curvy line (your choice) from your temples all the way on the back of the head. Then, once you make sure the line is perfect, you cut everything below it.
The fade should be even across the sides and can go lower at the back, depending on your preference. However, the fade line must be symmetrical to achieve that killer look.
3. Fade the number one into the zero
Now, you have nearly no hair below the fade line and much hair above it.
It is time to blend the 2 areas.
How are we going to do that? Well, it is simple! (But not easy)
Grab the number 1 guard and cut hair across the line and just few milimetres above it.
This step may require you to switch between your clipper’s zero, quarter, and halfway openings. You should also be careful not to cut the hair in the middle of your head.
More on that on the next step.
4. Blend side hair together
In order to successful do a fade haircut you have to smoothly transition between various hair lengths. Now, we have about 0.5mm hair below the fade line, about 1mm across the line and we need to connect this one with the hair above.
Grab guard number 3 (other people choose guard 2). Cut the side hair all the way up (not the hair on the top of the head, we will do this with scissors).
Do it nice and evenly. Then, check out the hair. If there is still the line there we need to make sure we erase it.
We do this by using guard 2 to connect guard 1 (hair across the line) and guard 3 which there is all the way up.
If the fade line is still visible we get the guard 1 again and we go again across the line. If this ain’t enough (which will certainly be) you should go for a guard between 0 and 1 guard if there is such a setting in your clippers.
You get the point. Everything should blend together nicely without lines or sudden hair length changes.
5. Hair on top
I don’t wanna mess with that, don’t wanna tire you. If you are a barber you know how to do it traditionally and if you DIY, just see a tutorial of a traditional haircut with scissors.
The only tip here is the blend the sides with the hair on top nicely. Don’t miss that part.
6. Apply your preferred cream and style
This stage is an easy one. Apply your hair cream or any hair product to want. This will keep the hair shiny and healthy. After applying your products, you can proceed to style the hair. This part solely depends on you. You might want to put the front part into curls or blow dry it and make it bouncy.
Several hair clipper guards are used to achieve this haircut. You should only visit professional barbers with the necessary skill, experience, and understanding of how to use clipper guards and when to switch them. These hair clipper guards are usually in various sizes, from short to long hair.
7. Skin Fade Transition
If you want to achieve a skin fade you need to use a razor or an electric shaver. Use this one low 1-2 cm above the ears and low on your neck and blend it nicely with zero guard.
To be honest, this is done automatically because the 2 lengths are close enough.
There won’t be a visible line between the faded area with zero and the faded are with the shaver. It will be smooth.
Can I Achieve This Fade On My Own, Or Should I Go To A Professional?
While it’s possible to attempt a fade on your own, achieving a professional-quality fade can be challenging, especially for beginners.
Barbers and stylists have the expertise and experience to create precise fades, ensuring clean lines and seamless blends. For the best results and a flawless fade, it’s recommended to consult a professional.
Fixing a bad fade is quite challenging. Trust me.
To Sum Things Up – Zero Vs Skin Fade
In conclusion, zero fades and skin fades are two distinct haircut styles that offer a clean and stylish look. Understanding their differences and considering various factors can help you make an informed choice when deciding between the two.
Zero fades involve a close-cut length without a guard, typically leaving the hair at around 0.5mm. This creates a noticeable contrast between the longer hair on top and the shorter faded area, resulting in a defined and bold look.
On the other hand, skin fades utilize an electric shaver or trimmer to achieve an even shorter length, often around 0.1mm or 0.0mm. The fade gradually blends the shorter hair with the skin, creating a seamless and polished appearance.
And….that’s really it for today’s article! I really hope you found it interesting and helpful.
If you have any comments or questions, feel free to leave them down below and we will be more than happy to get back to you.
Until next time,
Stay safe,
Tasos
Tasos Moulios is the founder of Beardlong. He loves trying different beard and hair styles and blogs about them. The tips he shares come from his own experience and love for what he does.