Okay, so you’ve probably heard barbers say “low taper” when you get a haircut. But what exactly is it? Well, it’s one of those cuts where the sides slowly get shorter, but starting way down low on your head — like near your ears or neckline. It’s subtle, not too flashy, and keeps things neat without shaving everything off.
It’s kinda perfect if you want clean sides but still keep some hair around your ears and back. No sudden skin fade, just a slow, smooth change in length.
Why Choose a Low Taper?
Well, the low taper lets you keep more hair on top, which is nice if you’ve got thick or curly hair. Unlike high fades that buzz right up high and leave little side hair, the low taper stays chill down low. So your curls or waves get to do their thing, and the sides don’t steal the show.
Want to keep it tidy on top? The French crop haircut pairs perfectly with a low taper—clean, easy, and timeless.
It’s kind of timeless too — not too loud or trendy, but not boring either. It works for everyday life and even professional settings without looking out of place.
Low Taper vs. Low Fade and Other Fades
People confuse low taper with low fade a lot. The fade usually means hair is clipped down to the skin near the bottom, right? Low taper isn’t that drastic. It’s more of a gradual shortening, no harsh lines.
And then there’s the burst fade — you hear that buzz a lot. That one’s kind of rounded around the ears, giving a “burst” effect that’s sharper and more eye-catching. Low taper just stays smooth and classic.
How Barbers Cut a Low Taper
So here’s what usually happens: barber starts with longer hair on top, then clips around the sides and back with a longer guard near the ears. Then they slowly swap to shorter guards as they move down toward the neck. The idea is to keep it smooth, no harsh steps.
If the low taper feels a bit too subtle, step it up with a mid taper fade that adds more definition while still staying sharp.
Sometimes scissors come into play to blend it all together, making sure the fade looks natural, not choppy. Some barbers add a little burst fade near the ear edges for flair, but the main taper stays soft and low.
Who Should Try a Low Taper?
Honestly, it’s pretty versatile. If you want a clean look but don’t want to buzz the sides completely, low taper is your friend. Works great with all hair types — thick, curly, straight.
If you want a haircut that’s low-key but neat enough for work or just going out, it fits the bill.
Styling a Low Taper
This is where you can have fun. Since the sides aren’t super short, you get some room to play with whatever you want on top. Messy, slicked back, natural, whatever. The taper frames your face without stealing attention.
If you have curls, use a little curl cream or leave-in conditioner. Straight hair? Matte clay or light wax works great. Keep the sides tidy by getting trims every few weeks.
Image 6: Man styling his hair with fingers, low taper sides visible
Alt: Close-up of man applying hair product, showing low taper haircut sides
How Often to Get It Cut?
If you like it fresh and sharp, every 3 to 4 weeks is good. But if you don’t mind it growing out a bit, you can push it to 6 weeks.
The low taper loses its shape quicker than a full buzz, but it’s not crazy high maintenance either.
Low Taper vs. Burst Fade — Which One?
Burst fades are more of a statement with that rounded fade around the ear creating contrast with longer hair on top. Low taper is quieter, more low-key.
If you want something that looks good without screaming “fresh cut,” low taper is the safer bet. But a burst fade definitely has its moments if you want something edgy.
Wrapping Up
So yeah, low taper is a chill haircut that’s clean but not too much. It’s a solid choice if you want something that works anywhere without too much fuss. Keeps you looking sharp without trying too hard.
That’s about it—let it taper off from here.
FAQs
- Q: Can I get a low taper if my hair’s curly?
A: Yeah, it actually looks really good with curls. Keeps volume on top but neat sides. - Q: What’s the difference between low taper and low fade?
A: Low fade buzzes to skin near the bottom, low taper just gradually shortens hair with no skin showing. - Q: How often do I need to get a low taper trimmed?
A: Every month or so keeps it looking sharp. You can wait longer if you like it looser. - Q: Is a low taper professional looking?
A: Totally. It’s clean and neat without looking too flashy. - Q: Can I mix a burst fade with a low taper?
A: Some barbers blend styles, but burst fades usually stand out more. You can ask your barber to add a little flair though.
