Looking for the perfect cut to tame those curls while staying on trend? The men’s taper fade for curly hair might just be your new go-to style. This versatile cut has become increasingly popular for good reason—it combines the clean, structured look of a fade with the natural texture and volume of curly hair.
We’ve helped countless clients transform their unruly curls into stylish, manageable looks with the right taper fade technique. Whether you’re aiming for a subtle low taper or a bold high fade, this style works with your natural curls rather than against them. The gradual transition from shorter sides to fuller curls on top creates a balanced silhouette that flatters virtually any face shape.
What Is a Taper Fade for Curly Hair: Understanding the Basics
A taper fade for curly hair combines the gradual shortening technique of a traditional taper with the unique texture of curls. This versatile haircut features longer curls on top that gradually transition to shorter lengths on the sides and back, creating a clean, polished appearance while showcasing your natural curl pattern.
Unlike regular haircuts, taper fades specifically address the challenges curly-haired men face by providing structure without sacrificing texture. The gradual decrease in length helps manage volume and creates definition around the temples and neckline.
Taper fades work with various curl patterns, from loose waves to tight coils. Your barber will adapt the technique based on your exact curl type, ensuring the fade complements your natural texture rather than fighting against it.
Most taper fades for curly hair maintain substantial length on top to showcase your curls while the sides and back receive the graduated cutting technique. This contrast between textured volume on top and clean sides creates a balanced, modern aesthetic that works for both casual and professional settings.
The key difference between a taper fade and other haircuts is the seamless graduation of length. Traditional cuts often create a more obvious line between different lengths, while a properly executed taper fade creates a smooth transition that enhances your natural curl pattern rather than containing it.
10 Best Taper Fade Haircuts for Men With Curly Hair
Low Taper Fade With Curly Top
Low taper fade with curly top creates a gradual transition from the temples downward while preserving those beautiful curls on top. This versatile style keeps the sides neat and tidy, offering a perfect balance between professional and creative looks. Your natural curl pattern becomes the focal point of this haircut, drawing attention to the textured volume on top while maintaining clean lines around the ears and neckline.
Mid Taper Fade With Textured Curls
Mid taper fade with textured curls combines practicality with style, featuring a balanced fade that starts in the middle of the sides. This low-maintenance option works exceptionally well for men who want a trendy appearance without spending hours on styling. The textured curls on top add playful dimension while the sleek fade provides structure, making this cut suitable for both work environments and casual settings.
High Taper Fade With Defined Curls
High taper fade with defined curls creates a dramatic contrast between the faded sides and your curly crown. Starting higher up around the temples, this fade style emphasizes the shape of your curls by removing bulk from the sides. The sharp transition draws attention upward, showcasing the definition and bounce of your natural curl pattern while providing a clean, contemporary silhouette.
Skin Taper Fade With Curly Fringe
Skin taper fade with curly fringe offers a bold, modern aesthetic by blending hair seamlessly into the skin at the lowest point. This style pairs perfectly with a textured curly fringe that falls naturally across the forehead, creating visual interest and dimension. The extreme contrast between the bare sides and the curly top results in a striking look that’s both fashion-forward and easy to maintain.
Drop Fade With Curly Hair
Drop fade with curly hair follows the natural curve of your head, creating a distinctive arc that drops behind the ear. This thoughtfully designed fade complements the natural volume of curly hair by providing a balanced foundation that enhances your face shape. The curved line of the fade adds unique character to the style while keeping the focus on your well-defined curls on top.
Temple Fade for Curly Hair
Temple fade for curly hair concentrates the fading technique specifically around the temple area, creating a clean frame for your face. This precise approach works particularly well when paired with a well-groomed beard, establishing a cohesive look that transitions smoothly from facial hair to your curly top. The neat temple area provides structure while allowing your natural curls to remain the standout feature of your style.
Burst Fade With Curly Texture
Burst fade with curly texture radiates outward from behind the ear, creating a sunburst effect that adds dramatic flair to your hairstyle. This distinctive fading pattern provides an aggressive, eye-catching look that perfectly complements the volume and movement of curly hair. Your natural texture on top gains even more presence and dynamism with this bold fade technique, making it ideal for those who want to make a statement.
Taper Fade With Curly Mohawk
Taper fade with curly mohawk combines classic rebellion with modern styling by maintaining a strip of longer curls down the center of the head. The tapered sides create a clean canvas that emphasizes the height and texture of your curly mohawk, resulting in a bold yet sophisticated style. This versatile cut allows you to embrace your natural curl pattern while incorporating an edgy silhouette that stands out in any crowd.
Curly Frohawk With Taper Fade
Curly frohawk with taper fade blends two iconic styles, creating a unique look that celebrates natural texture and precise cutting techniques. This distinctive style maintains the volume and height of a traditional frohawk while incorporating the clean lines of a taper fade on the sides. The combination showcases the best aspects of afro-textured curls, providing structure without sacrificing the impressive height and movement that makes this style so appealing.
Taper Fade With Long Curly Top
Taper fade with long curly top offers maximum versatility by maintaining important length on top while gradually tapering the sides. This adaptable style allows for many styling options, from defined separated curls to loose, natural waves depending on your preference. The length on top provides ample opportunity to showcase your curl pattern while the tapered sides ensure the style remains refined and intentional rather than unruly.
How to Ask Your Barber for the Perfect Curly Hair Taper Fade
Understanding the Types of Fades
- High Taper Fade – Request this style to accentuate the height and volume of your curls. This cut begins the fade above the temples and back, creating dramatic contrast with your curly top.
- Mid Taper Fade – Ask for this balanced option when you want a look that’s neither too bold nor too subtle. The fade starts between your temples and ears, offering the perfect middle ground for showcasing curly texture.
- Low Taper Fade – Specify this style for a more conservative appearance. The fade begins near the bottom of your head, providing subtle definition while maintaining more of your natural hair.
Describing Your Curls
- Texture Classification – Inform your barber about your exact curl pattern (loose waves, tight coils, etc.). Say something like: “My curls are tight and springy” or “I have loose, wavy curls.”
- Length Preferences – Clearly communicate how long you want to keep your curls on top. For example: “I’d like to maintain about two inches of length on top to show my curl pattern.”
- Hair Density – Mention if you have thick or thin hair so your barber can adjust cutting techniques. Try: “My curls are very dense, so I need something that won’t look too bulky.”
Styling Preferences
- Textured Curls – Request this option for a clean, professional look that maintains your natural curl pattern. Tell your barber: “I want my curls defined but neat enough for a professional setting.”
- Messy Curls – Specify if you prefer a more relaxed, carefree appearance. For example: “I’m looking for a tousled look on top with a mid drop taper fade on the sides.”
- Curly Blowout – Ask for this style to maximize volume and texture. Try saying: “Could you create a curly blowout on top paired with a mid taper fade to emphasize my curl volume?”
Communicating with Your Barber
- Be Exact About Fade Height – Use clear terminology rather than vague descriptions. Instead of “not too short,” say: “I want a mid taper fade that starts about an inch above my ears.”
- Describe Your Desired Top – Explain exactly how you want your curls to appear. For instance: “Please keep my curls medium length on top with enough length to show definition but not too much volume.”
- Mention Additional Details – Discuss any special features you want incorporated. Consider saying: “I’d like a clean line up around the temples” or “Can you add a subtle part on the left side?”
- Bring Visual References – Show photos of styles you like on similar hair types. Photos eliminate confusion and provide clear guidance for your barber.
Essential Products for Maintaining Curly Taper Fade Hairstyles
Managing and improving your curly taper fade requires the right arsenal of hair products. We’ve compiled the essential items you’ll need to keep your curls defined and your fade looking fresh between barber visits.
Curl-Defining Cream
Curl-defining cream enhances your natural curl pattern while effectively reducing frizz. This product works wonders for giving your curls structure and definition without weighing them down or making them feel stiff. Apply a small amount to damp hair and scrunch upward to activate your curl pattern.
Lightweight Gel
Lightweight gel provides necessary hold and structure to curly hair without the heaviness or crunchiness of traditional styling products. Your curls will maintain their shape throughout the day while still having natural movement. Focus application on the longer curls at the top of your taper fade for maximum benefit.
Sea Salt Spray
Sea salt spray adds incredible texture and enhances your natural waves, giving curls a more vibrant and ever-changing appearance. This product is perfect for adding volume and creating that effortless, beach-inspired look. Spray lightly onto damp or dry hair and scrunch for instant texture.
Leave-in Conditioner
Leave-in conditioner keeps curls hydrated and manageable, significantly reducing dryness and breakage risks. Regular use helps maintain the health and moisture balance of curly hair, especially important when sporting a taper fade that showcases your natural texture. Apply to damp hair before other styling products for best results.
Pomade
Pomade offers superior control for creating sleeker styles when you want a more polished look. This versatile product helps tame flyaways and adds just the right amount of hold to your curls without making them appear greasy. Work a small amount between your palms before applying to the curly top section of your fade.
Hair Oil
Hair oil adds natural-looking shine to curls while effectively taming flyaways and frizz. Just a few drops provide an extra layer of hydration and protection against environmental damage. Apply sparingly to dry hair as a finishing touch, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends of your curls.
Remember when using these products that less is often more with curly hair. Start with small amounts and gradually add more as needed to avoid weighing down your curls or creating product buildup. For exact styling needs like defining twists and curls, specialty kits can provide all the essential products in one package. Men with highly textured hair should look for products specifically designed to enhance volume and definition while maintaining the clean lines of their taper fade.
Styling Tips: How to Keep Your Curly Taper Fade Looking Fresh
Minimize Frizz and Manage Texture
A well-executed taper fade dramatically minimizes frizz while improving your natural curl pattern. The gradual reduction in hair length on the sides and back significantly reduces the volume of hair that can become frizzy, making daily styling much more manageable. For best results, we recommend using a microfiber towel to dry your curls instead of regular cotton towels, which can cause unwanted friction and lead to frizz.
Choose the Right Fade Type
Low fades work exceptionally well for men with curly hair, creating a smooth blend above the ears and temples. This gradual transition complements the natural volume of curls on top without creating stark contrasts. Your face shape should guide your fade choice – oval and square faces typically look great with any fade height, while round faces benefit from higher fades that add visual length.
Maintain the Fade
Regular trims are absolutely essential for keeping your curly taper fade looking sharp. We suggest scheduling maintenance appointments every 2-3 weeks to preserve those clean lines and prevent uneven growth. Between barber visits, you can carefully trim along the hairline with precision trimmers, but avoid attempting to recreate the fade yourself unless you have important experience.
Styling the Curls
Textured Curls: Apply a curl-defining cream to damp hair and scrunch gently to enhance your natural texture. This technique works beautifully with a mid taper fade for a low-maintenance yet polished look.
Messy Curls: Use a light hold styling product and tousle your curls with your fingers for an effortless, carefree vibe. The structure provided by a mid drop taper fade balances this casual styling perfectly.
Curly Blowout: Enhance volume and definition by applying a curl activator or light hold styling cream to damp hair before using a diffuser attachment on your hair dryer. Mid drop taper fades complement the impressive volume of curly blowouts by providing a clean contrast.
Daily Grooming
Keep it Simple: Taper fades simplify your grooming routine by reducing styling time for the sides and back. Focus your efforts on the curly top section using lightweight products that enhance definition without creating stiffness or heaviness.
Use the Right Products: Invest in quality sulfate-free shampoos that won’t strip natural oils from your curls. Follow with hydrating conditioners and use curl-defining creams or light hold styling products specifically formulated for your curl type and porosity level.
Combining with Other Styles
Beard Integration: A well-groomed beard creates an excellent complement to a curly taper fade. Ensure your beard is properly trimmed and shaped to match the precise lines of your haircut for a cohesive look. The transition between your fade and beard should be intentional—either clearly separated or seamlessly blended depending on your preference.
Common Mistakes to Avoid With Curly Taper Fade Haircuts
Inconsistent Fading
Achieving a uniform fade with curly hair requires special attention to detail. Curly hair doesn’t lie flat like straight hair, making consistent fading particularly challenging. We’ve seen many cases where the fade appears uneven because the barber failed to account for how curls naturally sit and spring back after cutting. Professional barbers need to adjust their technique specifically for curly hair textures, taking time to work with the natural curl pattern rather than against it.
Incorrect Clipper Settings
Using inappropriate clipper guards is a common pitfall when cutting curly taper fades. The wrong settings can create harsh lines and an unblended appearance that ruins the gradual effect of a proper fade. For curly hair specifically, finer increments between guard sizes often produce better results. Starting with a higher guard number and gradually decreasing ensures a more seamless blend that complements the texture of curly hair.
Not Accounting for Hair Texture
Treating curly hair the same as straight hair leads to disappointing results. Curls shrink when dry, creating a significantly different appearance than when wet. Many barbers make the mistake of cutting curly hair without considering this shrinkage factor. Understanding how different curl patterns behave after cutting is essential for creating a taper fade that maintains its shape and style as it grows out.
Poor Blending
Blending issues are immediately noticeable in taper fades, especially with curly hair. Visible lines between different lengths create a disconnected look rather than the smooth gradient that defines a quality fade. Proper blending techniques include using the lever on the clippers, employing the right combs, and creating seamless transitions between sections. These techniques are even more crucial for curly hair where texture differences can amplify blending mistakes.
Maintenance Neglect
Post-haircut care makes or breaks a curly taper fade. Many men forget that curly hair requires exact products and regular maintenance to preserve the sharp lines and defined curls of their fade. Daily use of curl-defining creams, regular moisturizing, and proper drying techniques keep the fade looking fresh between barber visits. Without these maintenance steps, even the best curly taper fade quickly loses its polished appearance.
Communication with the Barber
Failing to clearly communicate your expectations often results in disappointment. Many clients don’t adequately describe what they want or assume the barber understands their vision without explanation. We recommend bringing reference photos that show your desired fade height, curl definition, and overall style. Speaking up during the haircut if something doesn’t look right prevents leaving the chair with a style you’re unhappy with.
Celebrity Inspiration: Famous Men Rocking Curly Taper Fades
Looking for inspiration for your next curly taper fade? Many famous men have embraced this versatile style, showcasing how it can enhance natural texture while maintaining a polished appearance. These celebrities demonstrate the adaptability of curly taper fades across different curl patterns and personal styles.
Idris Elba’s Sophisticated Taper
Idris Elba frequently sports well-groomed hairstyles that highlight his natural texture. His approach to the curly taper fade typically features a clean gradient on the sides while maintaining textured volume on top. The contrast between the faded sides and textured top creates a balanced look that complements his strong facial features.
Donald Glover’s Creative Curls
Donald Glover experiments with various curly styles, often incorporating taper fades that showcase his natural texture. His signature look includes keeping substantial length on top while using a mid to low taper fade on the sides. This combination allows his curls to maintain their natural bounce and movement while providing a structured silhouette.
David Oyelowo’s Classic Approach
David Oyelowo has become known for his well-groomed curly hair that often features elegant taper fades. His style typically incorporates a conservative fade that transitions smoothly into his curly top. This refined approach works exceptionally well in both casual and formal settings, making it a versatile option for men seeking a timeless look.
Stylish Variations on the Red Carpet
Many celebrities adapt the curly taper fade to suit exact events, from film premieres to award ceremonies. These red carpet interpretations often feature precisely defined lines and carefully sculpted curls. Stylists like Glenn McGoldrick from MENSPIRE Ireland and John Carmona from Barber Theory have popularized techniques that combine curly tops with creative fade variations, including Mohawk fades and distinctive shaved lines.
Adaptable Celebrity Styles
Curly taper fades provide unlimited styling potential, as demonstrated by many public figures who adjust their look based on current projects or personal preference. Some opt for high fades that create dramatic contrast, while others choose lower, more subtle fades that gradually blend into their curls. These variations show how the curly taper fade can be personalized to complement different face shapes and personal aesthetics.
How to Adapt Taper Fades for Different Curl Types and Textures
Understanding the Versatility of Taper Fades
Taper fades work exceptionally well with curly hair regardless of length. These versatile cuts can be customized with high, mid, or low fades to create a unique look that complements various curl patterns. The graduated nature of taper fades allows for seamless transitions that enhance rather than constrain natural curl textures. Many barbers recognize that the contrast between tight fades and voluminous curls creates a striking visual effect that’s both modern and flattering.
Choosing the Right Type of Fade
High Taper Fade
High taper fades perfectly accentuate the height and volume of curly hair, making your curls the focal point of your style. This dramatic cut works particularly well with wavy mullets or curly mohawks, creating a bold statement. The sharp contrast between the closely cropped sides and the full curly top adds dimension to your overall look.
Mid Taper Fade
Mid taper fades offer an ideal balance between sleekness and texture. This moderate approach combines the clean lines of a fade with the natural movement of curly hair on top. We recommend pairing mid taper fades with short, textured curls for a low-maintenance style or with medium-length curls for a more ever-changing appearance.
Low Taper Fade
Low taper fades provide a subtle transition that maintains more of your natural hair while still creating definition. This understated option creates a sleek and modern appearance while allowing your curls on top to stand out. The gradual blend gives you versatility in styling while maintaining a professional look.
Styling for Different Curl Textures
Textured Curls
For men with tight, textured curls, a mid taper fade creates a clean, structured look that emphasizes natural texture. This combination requires minimal styling while maintaining a trendy appearance. The fade helps control volume on the sides while showcasing the density and pattern of your curls on top.
Messy Curls
Medium-length curls pair beautifully with a mid drop taper fade to create a carefree yet polished style. This approach balances structure with a laid-back vibe, perfect for those who prefer a more relaxed appearance. The contrast between the clean fade and tousled curls creates visual interest without looking unkempt.
Curly Blowout
Combining a mid drop taper fade with a curly blowout maximizes volume and texture for a statement-making style. This modern look adds height and movement to your hair while maintaining clean lines around the sides and back. Professional barbers often recommend this style for special occasions when you want to showcase your curls.
Maintenance Considerations
The beauty of curly hair with taper fades lies in their relatively low maintenance requirements. Curly hair naturally looks voluminous and healthy with minimal effort, while the fade adds a striking contrast that elevates the entire style. Though regular touch-ups every 2-3 weeks will keep your fade looking fresh, daily styling is straightforward and uncomplicated.
To maintain your curly taper fade, we suggest applying lightweight curl-defining products that enhance your natural texture without weighing hair down. The fade component helps to reduce overall styling time by eliminating bulk on the sides while allowing you to focus on defining the curls on top.
For inspiration, look to experienced barbers like Glenn McGoldrick from MENSPIRE Ireland or John Carmona from Barber Theory, who showcase excellent examples of how different combinations of curls and fades create unique, personalized styles that enhance natural texture.
Conclusion: Why the Taper Fade Is Perfect for Men With Curly Hair
The taper fade has revolutionized styling options for men with curly hair offering the perfect balance between structure and natural texture. It’s a versatile choice that works across all curl patterns while creating a polished yet effortlessly cool aesthetic.
We’ve seen how this style can be customized through various fade heights face shape considerations and personal preferences. Whether you’re inspired by celebrity looks or working with your barber to create something unique a well-executed taper fade enhances your natural curls rather than fighting against them.
With the right products maintenance routine and styling techniques your curly taper fade will continue to turn heads. It’s more than just a haircut—it’s a statement that embraces your natural texture while keeping you looking sharp in any setting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a taper fade haircut for curly hair?
A taper fade for curly hair features longer curls on top that gradually transition to shorter lengths on the sides and back. This style creates a polished appearance while showcasing your natural curl pattern. The seamless graduation of length enhances curls rather than containing them, resulting in a modern look suitable for both casual and professional settings.
How often should I get my curly taper fade trimmed?
You should get your curly taper fade trimmed every 2-3 weeks to maintain its sharp appearance. The fade portion grows out relatively quickly, causing the clean lines to soften. Regular maintenance ensures the contrast between the faded sides and curly top remains defined, keeping your style looking fresh and intentional.
What products work best for styling a curly taper fade?
Key products include curl-defining cream for structure, lightweight gel for hold without stiffness, sea salt spray for texture, leave-in conditioner for hydration, pomade for shine, and hair oil to combat frizz. Start with small amounts to avoid weighing down your curls. For highly textured hair, look for products specifically designed to enhance volume and definition.
How do I communicate with my barber to get the perfect taper fade?
Clearly specify the type of fade you want (high, mid, or low), describe your curl pattern and texture, and explain your styling preferences. Mention your desired length on top and how dramatic you want the contrast to be. Bringing visual references is extremely helpful—photos of styles you like will ensure your barber understands exactly what you’re looking for.
What are the different types of taper fades for curly hair?
The main types include: low taper fade (subtle transition, more conservative), mid taper fade (balanced look, versatile), high taper fade (dramatic contrast, bold statement), skin fade (fades to bare skin), drop fade (curves around the head), temple fade (focuses on temples), and burst fade (radiates from the ear). Each creates a unique silhouette that can be customized to complement your curl pattern.
How do I reduce frizz with my curly taper fade?
Use a microfiber towel instead of a regular towel to dry your hair, as it causes less friction. Apply styling products to damp hair to lock in moisture. Use sulfate-free shampoos that won’t strip natural oils, and incorporate a quality leave-in conditioner into your routine. Finish with a small amount of hair oil or anti-frizz serum to seal the cuticle.
Can I combine a beard with my curly taper fade?
Absolutely! A well-groomed beard can complement a curly taper fade beautifully. The key is ensuring an intentional transition between your fade and beard. Ask your barber to create a cohesive look where the fade blends naturally into your facial hair. Consider a fade that ends where your beard begins for a clean, deliberate connection.
Which face shapes work best with curly taper fades?
Curly taper fades are versatile and can be adapted for all face shapes. For round faces, higher fades with volume on top create elongation. Square faces benefit from softer transitions and texture on top. Oval faces can pull off virtually any variation. For diamond or heart-shaped faces, maintaining some volume on the sides helps balance proportions.
How do different curl patterns affect how a taper fade looks?
Different curl patterns require specific approaches. Loose waves (type 2) need texture-enhancing products to prevent flatness. Defined curls (type 3) benefit from moisture-rich styling products to maintain definition. Tight coils (type 4) often look best with more length on top to showcase texture, while the fade provides contrast and easier maintenance around the sides.
What are common mistakes to avoid with curly taper fades?
Common mistakes include inconsistent fading (lack of smooth transition), using incorrect clipper settings for your texture, not accounting for shrinkage when cutting curly hair, and poor blending techniques. Also, avoid over-applying heavy products that weigh down curls, skipping regular maintenance appointments, and failing to communicate clearly with your barber about your expectations.
