Low Taper Fade with Messy Curls

The low taper fade with messy curls is a hairstyle that mixes crisp, clear lines with the natural beauty of textured, curly hair. This adaptable look has grown in popularity, especially among men looking for a fashionable but low-maintenance choice. Whether you’re wearing a low taper fade with messy curly hair or experimenting with long messy hair on top, this article will teach you everything you need to know about it, including history, style techniques, maintenance, and how to keep it fresh. This post is designed for men who desire a bold, modern appearance and includes all of the equipment you’ll need to perfect the low taper fade with messy curls.

What is a Low Taper Fade with Messy Curls?

A low taper fade with messy curls is a haircut in which the hair on the sides and back gradually tapers, beginning low near the ears and neck and ending with longer, voluminous curls or messy hair on top. The “messy” component alludes to the curls’ purposely ruffled, textured appearance, which lends a relaxed, carefree vibe to the structured fade. This style, also known as a low taper fade with messy curly hair or a low fade curly hair, highlights the contrast between the cleanly faded sides and the lively top.

Key Features of the Low Taper Fade with Messy Curls

• Low Taper Fade: The hair gradually shortens from the top down to the sides and back, resulting in a clean, polished appearance.
• Messy Curls: The top is left longer with natural curls or waves and styled in a slightly messyfashion for a casual look.
• Versatility: It is suitable for a wide range of hair types, including curly, wavy, and coily hair, as well as diverse face shapes.
• Low Maintenance: The fade takes frequent cuts, but the sloppy curls are simple to maintain on a daily basis.

History of the Low Taper Fade with Messy Curls

The low taper fade is based on traditional barbering techniques that originated in African American barbershops in the mid-twentieth century. The fade haircut, which has a progressive transition from longer to shorter hair, became popular in the 1980s and 1990s due to hip-hop culture and military-inspired haircuts. Messy curls or textured hair on top emerged as a modern twist in the 2010s, owing to a growing awareness for natural hair textures and originality.

The messy crop with a low fade, a close cousin of this style, became a global trend in the 2010s, thanks to celebrities and influencers on sites such as Instagram and TikTok. This hairstyle represents a trend toward appreciating natural curls while still retaining a polished, professional image with the fade. Today, the low taper fade with messy curls is a popular choice for guys seeking a blend of sophistication and personality.

Why Choose a Low Taper Fade with Messy Curls?

This hairdo is an ideal balance of rigidity and freedom. Here’s why it’s a popular choice among men:

• Enhances Natural Texture: The sloppy curls bring out your hair’s natural volume and structure, making it perfect for curly or wavy hair.
• Face-Framing Appeal: The low fade highlights facial features and complements round, oval, and square face shapes.
• Low Maintenance Styling: The messy top takes little work to style, and the fade keeps the entire look neat.
• Trendy Yet Timeless: The classic fade is combined with trendy curls to keep the look relevant throughout the seasons.

How to Get a Low Taper Fade with Messy Curls

To achieve this style, you’ll need a professional barber and clear communication. Here’s a step-by-step method for achieving the ideal low taper fade with sloppy curls:

1. Find a Skilled Barber

Look for a barber who specializes in fade haircuts and works with curly hair. Check reviews or ask for advice to guarantee they know how to improve your natural texture.

2. Communicate Your Desired Look

When going to the barber, specify:

• Fade Type: Request a low taper fade that begins just above the ears and tapers down to the neck.
• Length on Top: Ask for enough length (about 2-4 inches) to show off your curls or waves in a sloppy, textured look.
• Texture Preference: Mention that you like a messy, disheveled look over a sleek or defined style.

3. Consider Your Hair Type

Curly or coily hair looks best with this style, but wavy hair can also produce the same impression. Discuss with your barber how to enhance your hair’s natural texture.

4. Optional Variations

• Low Taper Fade with Long Messy Hair on Top: Keep the top longer (4-6 inches) for a bolder, more voluminous appearance.
• Low Drop Taper Fade with Messy Hair: The fade curves gently downward behind the ears, adding a unique twist.
• Messy Crop with a Low Fade: A shorter, cropped top with a sloppy texture for a more condensed look.

5. The Transformation Process

The barber will use clippers to achieve the low taper fade, beginning with a longer guard at the top and progressively lowering to a shorter length at the neck. The top is left longer, and scissors or texturizing shears are used to emphasize the curls’ natural shape and create a chaotic look.

Styling Tips for Low Taper Fade with Messy Curls

Styling this haircut is simple, but a few suggestions can boost the style and keep it fresh.

1. Use the Right Products

• Curl Cream or Gel: Enhances curl definition while reducing frizz. Apply to damp hair for the greatest effects.
• Texturizing Spray or Sea Salt Spray: Adds volume and accentuates the sloppy, disheveled appearance.
• Light-Hold Pomade: Offers slight control without dragging down curls.
• Leave-In Conditioner: Keeps curls moisturized and manageable.

2. Styling Techniques

• Finger-Coiling: After applying the product, swirl little pieces of hair around your finger to create curls.
• Scrunching: To encourage natural curl patterns, gently twist moist hair upward.
• Diffuse with a Blow Dryer: To dry curls without frizz, use a diffuser attachment set to low heat.
• Tousle for Messy Effect: To achieve a casual, messy look, arrange curls freely with your fingers.

3. Daily Routine

• Wash your hair 2-3 times per week with a sulfate-free shampoo to avoid stripping natural oils.
• After washing, apply a curl-enhancing product and style your hair while it is still moist.
• Use a silk or satin pillowcase to prevent frizz and keep curls intact overnight.

4. Styling for Different Lengths

• Low Taper Fade with Long Messy Hair: Use additional product to keep longer curls under control and from looking unruly.
• Low Taper Fade with Messy Hair on Top: Keep the top shorter for a cleaner, more structured, chaotic appearance.
• Low Fade Curly Hair: To avoid weighting down curls, use lightweight cosmetics when defining them.

Maintenance Tips for Low Taper Fade with Messy Curls

To keep your low taper fade with messy curls looking crisp, use these care tips:

1. Regular Barber Visits

• Trim every 2-4 weeks to keep the fade’s crisp edges.
• Ask your barber to freshen the fade while maintaining the length and texture of the top.

2. Hair Care Routine

• Moisturize Daily: Curly hair can be dry, so apply a leave-in conditioner or lightweight oil to keep it nourished.
• Avoid Heat Damage: Minimize heat styling to preserve curl health.
• Detangle Gently: To avoid breakage, untangle curls with a wide-tooth comb or your fingers while they are still wet.

3. Scalp Health

• Use a mild shampoo to keep your scalp clean and avoid buildup.
• To stimulate healthy hair development, massage your scalp with a lightweight oil.

4. Protect Your Curls

• Wear a durag or bonnet at night to protect your curls and keep them in form.
• Avoid overbrushing, since it can alter curl patterns and cause frizz.

5. Seasonal Care

• In humid locations, utilize anti-frizz treatments to keep curls defined.
• In dry or chilly weather, use more hydrating moisturizers or oils.

Low Taper Fade with Messy Curls for Men: Styling Inspiration

This haircut is particularly popular among guys due of its striking yet approachable appearance. Here are some ways men can wear the low taper fade with sloppy curls:

• Casual Look: For a casual look, pair with jeans and a graphic tee.
• Professional Look: For a refined look, style your curls nicely and pair them with a button-up shirt.
• Bold Statement: Try longer curls on top and a sharper fade for a dramatic, eye-catching style.

Celebrities such as Jaden Smith and athletes such as Kylian Mbappé have worn variations of this design, demonstrating its flexibility in different circumstances.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overloading Product: Too much product can weigh down curls and make them appear oily. Begin with a tiny amount and increase as needed.
• Neglecting the Fade: Waiting too long between cuts might make the fade appear uneven and messy.
• Using Harsh Products: Avoid sulfates and alcohol-based products, as they can dry out curly hair.
• Ignoring Hair Type: Not all curly hair is the same; use products and practices that are appropriate for your curl pattern.

Low Taper Fade Curly Hair Transformation: Before and After

The low taper fade with messy curls can improve your appearance by adding structure and emphasizing hair natural texture. Prior to the haircut, longer, undefined hair may appear unmanageable or thick. Following the makeover, the fade provides a sleek outline, but the chaotic curls offer individuality and volume. This style is especially useful for men who have curly hair and want a low-maintenance yet attractive update.

Conclusion

The low taper fade with messy curls is more than simply a haircut; it expresses style, confidence, and uniqueness. This design combines the accuracy of a low fade with the whimsical texture of chaotic curls, providing the best of both worlds: a polished image with a relaxed edge. With the correct barber, products, and care program, you can keep this hairstyle looking fresh and lively. Whether you’re new to fades or a seasoned master, the low taper fade with sloppy curls is a flexible, timeless look that will turn heads.