Guide to Taper Fades for Men’s Curly Hair

When it comes to curly hair, the right haircut can make all the difference. Taper fades have become one of the most popular haircut styles for men with natural texture, offering a clean look while showcasing your curls. In this guide, we’ll break down the best taper fade styles for curly hair, how to maintain them, and what to ask for at the barbershop.

Whether you’re looking for a low-maintenance style or a sharp, defined cut, this guide to taper fades for men’s curly hair covers everything you need to know.

---

What Is a Taper Fade?

A taper fade is a gradual transition of hair length from longer at the top to shorter near the neckline and sideburns. Unlike a full fade, which blends hair down to the skin all around, a taper keeps some length on the sides and focuses the shortest areas around the edges.

For men with curly hair, a taper fade helps control volume, shape the hairstyle, and keep a crisp outline while allowing curls to remain the focal point on top.

---

Why Taper Fades Work Well with Curly Hair

Taper fades work especially well for men with curly, coily, or wavy hair because:

• They allow curls to remain full and textured at the top
• They minimize bulk on the sides and back
• They enhance natural curl definition
• They offer a clean, professional appearance
• They’re versatile and suit various curl patterns and densities

Whether you have loose curls, thick coils, or medium waves, taper fades help balance structure and freedom.

---

Types of Taper Fades for Curly Hair

1. Low Taper Fade Curly Hair

This style keeps most of the hair length, tapering only at the very bottom near the ears and neckline. It’s subtle and ideal for school, work, or a more conservative look.

Best for: Men who want a neat shape with minimal contrast.

2. Mid Taper Fade Curly Hair

A mid taper blends the hair halfway down the sides and back, offering a balance between bold and clean. This is one of the most versatile fades for curly hair types.

Best for: Medium curls or waves looking for a more sculpted silhouette.

3. High Taper Fade Curly Hair

A high taper removes more hair from the sides, placing more emphasis on the curls at the top. It’s bolder and adds a lot of contrast between the textured top and faded sides.

Best for: Thick curls, dense hair, and men who want a statement cut.

4. Temple Taper for Curly Hair

Also known as a temp fade, this focuses the taper around the temples and neckline while keeping the rest of the sides longer. Often paired with shape-ups and line-ups.

Best for: Afro-textured curls or styles with longer sides.

---

How to Style a Taper Fade with Curly Hair

Curly hair needs moisture, definition, and the right products to look its best—especially with a fresh taper. Here are simple styling steps:

1. Wash with a sulfate-free shampoo to preserve moisture
2. Apply a curl cream or leave-in conditioner while damp
3. Use a diffuser or air dry to enhance curl definition
4. Shape and style with your fingers or a wide-tooth comb
5. Add edge control or pomade if you want sharp lines and hold

If you’re going for a clean, structured look, ask your barber to include a line-up or hard part to define edges.

---

How to Maintain a Curly Hair Taper Fade

Taper fades grow out gradually, but proper upkeep keeps them looking sharp. Here’s how to maintain your style:

• Trim every 2 to 3 weeks to keep the fade clean
• Moisturize curls daily to prevent frizz and dryness
• Wrap your hair at night with a satin or silk scarf or bonnet
• Use curl-defining products like styling creams or mousses
• Avoid excessive heat styling, which can damage curl pattern

Keeping your fade fresh and your curls hydrated will maximize the lifespan of your haircut.

---

What to Tell Your Barber

Walking into the barbershop prepared makes a huge difference. Here’s what to ask for:

• Your desired taper fade level: low, mid, or high
• If you want a line-up or edge detailing
• Whether to include a beard fade or neck taper
• Your curl length on top and how much you want removed
• Any parts or design elements like a hard part or curve

A photo reference helps too. Most barbers are familiar with curly hair fade types, but visual clarity ensures you get exactly what you want.

---

Best Taper Fades for Different Curl Types

Type 2 (Wavy)

Go for a low or mid taper to keep texture while minimizing puffiness.

Type 3 (Curly)

A mid to high taper works well to control volume and shape dense curls.

Type 4 (Coily/Kinky)

Try a temple taper fade or skin taper to create structure while keeping the top bold.

---

Taper Fades for Curly Hair with Beards

Combining a taper fade with a beard creates a clean transition between the face and hair. A beard fade adds polish and makes the overall look sharper. You can taper both your neckline and the sides of your beard to keep everything cohesive.

---

Pros and Cons of a Taper Fade for Curly Hair

Pros:

• Enhances natural curls
• Keeps a clean and defined appearance
• Versatile and works with many face shapes
• Low to moderate maintenance

Cons:

• Needs regular trims to maintain sharpness
• Requires product to style and define curls
• Not ideal if you want to grow hair uniformly all over

---

Final Thoughts

Taper fades are a go-to haircut for men’s curly hair because they blend structure with natural texture. Whether you choose a low, mid, or high taper, this style helps define curls, reduce bulk, and elevate your grooming game.

From work to weekends, a curly taper fade offers flexibility, style, and practicality. With the right products, barber, and maintenance routine, your curly hair taper fade can be both easy to manage and impossible to ignore.