SIDES#0.5 to #2, the fade line arcing DOWN behind the ear
NECKLINETapered, following the curve
UPKEEPRe-cut every 3 weeks
THE SIDES
Drop fade
A drop fade does not run level around the head. The line arcs downward as it passes behind the ear, following the round of the skull toward the nape — so the faded section is a curve rather than a band. It flatters a flatter occipital bone and gives a cleaner silhouette in profile, which is where it earns its keep.
Also called drop taper, curved fade, low drop fade.
See one on your face — freeCut with a drop fade
Every one of these is photographed at this fade. Tap any of them to see it on your own face.
Also works with one
These are cut with something else by default, so the photographs show that instead — but ask for a drop fade and your barber will know exactly what you mean.
Questions
- What is a drop fade?
- A fade whose line drops behind the ear instead of running horizontally around the head. Every other variable — how high it starts, whether it goes to skin — works the same as any other fade.
- Is a drop fade better than a regular fade?
- It is not better, it is shaped differently. A drop fade follows the curve of the skull, so it tends to look more natural in profile and slightly softer from the front. If the back of your head is flat, it helps.