Zero Fade vs Skin Fade: Explained
Incredibly popular yet frequently misunderstood, the zero fade and skin fade has taken the men’s hairstyle world by storm, sparking debates between barbers and their clients on a global scale.
Why is this the case?
The main problem is the client’s lack of knowledge about fades, which eventually leads to a debate between the client and the barber, the client is not satisfied with his hair, the barber is not satisfied with his work – everyone lost.
My goal is to alleviate this confusion, so I will first explain what skin fade is from beginning to end, where I will then explain the difference between zero fade vs skin fade with an easy-to-understand explanation and pictures.
This article will help you explain to the barber exactly which fade you want without getting into any unpleasant situations, you will be satisfied with your new haircut, and barber will be grateful for your understanding of what you want and a happy client – both win.
Now, let’s dive in.
What is A Skin Fade
Skin fades and bald fades are essentially the same thing, they both involve a gradual transition from longer hair on top to shorter hair that blends to reveal skin on the sides and back.
To achieve this style, a barber uses clippers with similar-sized guards on the top to maintain longer hair. Shorter guards are used on the sides and near the neck to remove most of the hair.
An electric shaver or razor is then used to shave off the hair at the base of the neck and sides, completely exposing the skin.
A proper skin fade should have a seamless transition from top to bottom, making it challenging to pinpoint where the fade ends.
Skin fades categorized as low, mid, or high based on how far up the head the shortest part of the fade extends – the shortest point is the shaved skin. For instance, a “low skin fade” means the shaved skin extends about an inch above the top of the ear.
A “mid-skin fade” means the shaved skin extends to the middle of the sides and back of the head.
A “high skin fade” is when the shaved skin reaches the level of the temples, very close to the top of the head. I wrote a whole article on Low Fade Vs Mid Fade Vs High Fade, so be sure to check it out!
What Is A Zero Fade
A zero fade is a hairstyle that, like all fades, goes from longer hair on top to gradually shorter hair near the bottom. The shortest part of a zero fade is trimmed to the shortest length possible without revealing the skin. This results in a very short stubble appearance, creating a shadowed effect on the lower sides and back of the head.
To achieve this stubble length in a zero fade, barbers use clippers without a guard, known as a zero-grade trim. There’s no need for razors or shavers in a zero fade because it’s not a completely clean-shaved style, and no skin should be clearly visible. All you require is a clipper with no guard.
What Is A Zero Fade Haircut: Explained With Photos
Zero Fade vs Skin Fade: What’s The Difference?
| Aspect | Skin Fade | Zero Fade |
| Description | Blends down to the skin, requires an electric shaver | Fades to very short stubble, no guard clippers |
| Starting Points | Can start high, low, or mid on the head | Can also begin at various heights |
| Creation Tools | Clippers primarily used | Clippers primarily used |
| Guard Usage | Different guards for top to bottom, short guard on sides and bottom | No guard, very short stubble |
| Electric Shaver Required | Yes, to blend and reveal the skin at the bottom | No, not needed for a basic zero fade |
| Endpoint | Blends down to the skin | Fades down to short stubble |
| Exposed Skin | Skin is always exposed below the baseline of the head | May expose a little skin with specific designs |
Both are popular in men’s hairstyles for different looks, starting high, low, or mid.
Skin fades use various clipper guards and an electric shaver to reveal skin. Zero fades don’t need a shaver and blend to short stubble.
A skin fade always exposes skin at the base, while a zero fade only shows a bit of skin with tramlines or designs. A basic zero fade doesn’t reveal skin.
Skin Fade or Zero Fade: Which One Looks Best on Me?
Now that you know the difference between zero fade and skin fade, it’s time to choose which one will look best on you. Here are the 2 most important factors when choosing:
- Fade Maintenance:
- Skin Fade Maintenance: Skin fades are relatively easier to maintain independently. You only need to shave the areas where your skin is exposed. This can be done every few days to keep it looking sharp.
- Zero Fade Maintenance: Zero fades require more delicate touch-ups, often involving additional zero-grade trims. If you don’t mind visiting the barbershop more frequently, they can assist with the necessary maintenance.
- Hair Type:
- Skin Fade for Textured Hair: If you have highly textured hair, like tight curls, a skin fade can create an attractive contrast. The texture left on top softens the transition from the exposed skin.
- Zero Fade for Fine Hair: Zero fades are better suited for men with fine hair. The stubble at the bottom can create the illusion of thicker hair on top.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between a zero fade and a skin fade?
The primary difference lies in how close they are trimmed to the skin. A skin fade blends down to reveal the skin, while a zero fade fades down to very short stubble without exposing the skin.
How are zero fades and skin fades maintained differently?
Skin fades are relatively easier to maintain independently. You only need to shave the areas where your skin is exposed. Zero fades require more delicate touch-ups, often involving additional zero-grade trims. Barbers can assist with zero fade maintenance.
Who does a skin fade typically suit best in terms of hair type?
Skin fades often complement individuals with textured hair, such as tight curls. The texture left on top softens the transition from the exposed skin.
What type of hair does a zero fade typically suit best?
Zero fades are well-suited for individuals with fine hair. The stubble at the bottom can create the illusion of thicker hair on top.
Conclusion
Pay attention to sources that categorize skin fades and zero fades as identical hairstyles, as this is an inaccurate classification.
Although skin fades and bald fades share similarities, a zero fade distinguishes itself by leaving short stubble rather than revealing skin on the sides and back.
Most men find it simpler to self-maintain skin fades since they primarily require regular shaving of the exposed skin areas at the base.
Nonetheless, both skin fades and zero fades enjoy substantial popularity among men for their versatility and sharp appearance.
Make sure to check out our Related Articles:
Low Fade vs Mid Fade vs High Fade: Explained
