The burst fade haircut has become a staple for the modern man seeking a bold, edgy look. This versatile style combines the classic taper fade with a unique curved shape around the ear, creating a “burst” effect that adds dimension and character to any hairstyle.
Whether you’re looking for a subtle change or a dramatic transformation, these 20 burst fade variations will inspire you to elevate your style game.
1. Classic Burst Fade
The classic burst fade is the foundation for all variations of this popular style. It features a gradual fade that starts low around the ears and curves upward towards the crown, creating a semi-circular shape. The top remains longer, allowing for various styling options. This clean, polished look is perfect for men who want a professional appearance with a touch of edge.
To maintain this style, regular trims every 2-3 weeks are recommended to keep the fade crisp and the burst effect prominent. Style the longer top with a matte pomade for a natural, textured finish.
2. High Burst Fade with Textured Top
This bold variation takes the burst fade higher up the sides, creating a more dramatic contrast between the faded areas and the longer hair on top. The textured top adds volume and movement, making it an excellent choice for men with thicker hair.
To style, use a sea salt spray on damp hair and blow-dry while tousling with your fingers. Finish with a light-hold clay to maintain the textured look without weighing it down.
3. Low Burst Fade with Slicked Back Top
For a more subtle approach, the low burst fade keeps the fade closer to the ears while maintaining the signature curved shape. Paired with a slicked-back top, this style exudes sophistication and confidence.
Apply a strong-hold gel to damp hair and comb it back, using a blow-dryer to set the style in place. This look works well for both formal occasions and casual outings.
4. Burst Fade with Curly Top
Embrace your natural texture with this striking combination. The burst fade provides a clean contrast to the voluminous curls on top, creating a balanced and eye-catching look.
To enhance your curls, use a curl-defining cream on wet hair and diffuse dry. Avoid touching your hair too much once it’s dry to prevent frizz.
5. Burst Fade Mohawk
For the truly daring, the burst fade mohawk combines the edginess of a traditional mohawk with the modern touch of a burst fade. The hair on top is left long and styled upright, while the sides feature a high burst fade.
Use a strong-hold mousse and a blow-dryer to create volume and shape in the mohawk. Finish with a firm-hold hairspray to keep it standing tall all day.
6. Burst Fade with Faux Hawk
A more wearable version of the mohawk, the faux hawk burst fade features a gradual taper on the sides with longer hair styled into a peak on top. This versatile style can be adjusted for different occasions.
For a more relaxed look, use a texturizing paste to create a messy, spiked effect. For a sleeker appearance, apply a high-shine pomade and comb the hair into a defined center ridge.
7. Burst Fade with Design
Take your burst fade to the next level by incorporating intricate designs into the faded area. Geometric patterns, lines, or even small images can be shaved into the hair, adding a personalized touch to your style.
This high-maintenance look requires frequent touch-ups to keep the design sharp and visible. Consider visiting your barber every 1-2 weeks to maintain the crispness of both the fade and the design.
8. Burst Fade with Pompadour
Combine classic and contemporary styles with a burst fade pompadour. The burst fade provides a modern edge to the timeless pompadour, creating a look that’s both refined and current.
To achieve this style, apply a volumizing mousse to damp hair and blow-dry while using a round brush to create height and shape. Finish with a high-hold, high-shine pomade for that classic pompadour gleam.
9. Burst Fade with Textured Quiff
Similar to the pompadour but with a more relaxed vibe, the textured quiff burst fade offers volume and movement on top with the clean lines of the burst fade on the sides.
Use a pre-styling spray on damp hair and blow-dry forward and up to create volume. Once dry, use your fingers to style the quiff backward, and set with a matte clay for a modern, textured finish.
10. Burst Fade with Afro
For men with highly textured hair, the burst fade afro combines the natural volume of an afro with the sleek lines of a burst fade. This style celebrates natural texture while providing a neat, groomed appearance.
Maintain your afro’s health with regular deep conditioning treatments. Use a pick or wide-toothed comb to shape your afro, and consider a light hair oil to add shine and reduce frizz.
11. Burst Fade with Dreads
The burst fade can add a fresh twist to dreadlocks of any length. The fade creates a clean, groomed look at the sides while allowing your locs to be the main focus.
Maintain your dreads with regular retwisting and consider using a loc gel to keep new growth neat. The burst fade will need touch-ups every 2-3 weeks to stay sharp.
12. Burst Fade with Hard Part
Incorporate a hard part into your burst fade for an extra touch of precision. The hard part can be placed on either side, creating a bold line that enhances the overall shape of the haircut.
This style requires regular maintenance to keep the hard part visible. Use a slim comb and hair gel to accentuate the part daily, and visit your barber every 2 weeks for touch-ups.
13. Burst Fade with Comb Over
The burst fade comb over offers a sophisticated look with a modern edge. The longer hair on top is combed to one side, while the burst fade provides a clean contrast.
Apply a medium-hold pomade to damp hair and comb it over to your preferred side. Use a blow-dryer for added volume and hold. This versatile style works well in both professional and casual settings.
14. Burst Fade with Waves
For those with naturally wavy hair or those who love the wave style, combining it with a burst fade creates a striking look. The waves on top flow seamlessly into the curved fade on the sides.
To enhance your waves, use a wave pomade and brush your hair regularly in the direction of the wave pattern. Wear a durag or wave cap to maintain the pattern when not in public.
15. Burst Fade with Fringe
Add a youthful touch to your burst fade by leaving a longer fringe at the front. This style works particularly well for men with straight or slightly wavy hair.
To style, apply a light-hold cream to damp hair and blow-dry the fringe forward and to the side. Use your fingers to create a piece-y, textured look for a modern finish.
16. Asymmetrical Burst Fade
For a truly unique look, try an asymmetrical burst fade. This style features a burst fade on one side while leaving the other side longer, creating an intriguing contrast.
This bold style requires confidence to pull off. Use a strong-hold product to style the longer side, either slicking it back or creating texture depending on your preference.
17. Burst Fade with Bleached Top
Add a pop of color to your burst fade by bleaching the longer hair on top. This creates a striking contrast between the dark faded sides and the lighter top.
Maintaining bleached hair requires extra care. Use purple shampoo to prevent brassiness and deep condition regularly to keep your hair healthy. Style with a matte product to enhance the color contrast.
18. Burst Fade with Spiky Top
Channel your inner rebel with a burst fade paired with a spiky top. This edgy look is perfect for those who want to make a statement with their hair.
To achieve spiky perfection, apply a strong-hold gel or wax to damp hair and use your fingers to create spikes. A hairdryer can help set the style in place.
19. Burst Fade with Buzz Cut
For a low-maintenance yet stylish option, combine a burst fade with a buzz cut on top. This clean, minimalist look is perfect for men who prefer a no-fuss style.
While this style requires little daily maintenance, you’ll need to visit your barber every 2-3 weeks to maintain the fade and the short length on top.
20. Burst Fade with Long Top
For those who love the versatility of longer hair, try a burst fade with an extended top. This style allows for various styling options while maintaining the edgy look of the burst fade.
Use sea salt spray for a tousled, beachy look, or apply pomade for a slicked-back style. The possibilities are endless with this adaptable cut.
In conclusion, the burst fade offers a world of possibilities for men looking to update their style. From classic interpretations to bold, avant-garde variations, there’s a burst fade haircut to suit every personality and lifestyle. Remember that maintaining a burst fade requires regular touch-ups, so find a skilled barber you trust and schedule appointments every 2-3 weeks to keep your style looking fresh and sharp.
Whether you’re drawn to the classic burst fade or intrigued by more daring options like the burst fade mohawk or asymmetrical styles, don’t be afraid to experiment and make the look your own. After all, the best hairstyle is one that makes you feel confident and authentic.
So, which of these edgy burst fade haircuts will you try next? With these 20 inspiring options, you’re well-equipped to transform your look and step out with style and confidence.