The bald fade haircut is a very popular and stylish look for men. It features very short hair on the sides and back that fades up to slightly longer hair on top. Maintaining this haircut requires regular trimming and upkeep to keep the fade sharp and the edges clean.
Here are some tips on how to properly maintain a bald fade:
Get It Trimmed Every 2-3 Weeks
The faded sides and back grow out quickly, so to keep the bald fade looking fresh, you’ll need haircuts about every 2-3 weeks. Any longer than that and the fade will start to lose its shape. Go to your barber regularly for a trim to keep the edges crisp.
Use Clippers to Touch up in Between Cuts
In between barber visits, you can maintain the fade yourself by using clippers at home. Go over the sides and back with a close trim every 3-4 days to keep the bald fade clean. Use clipper guards to blend the edges so there is no line of demarcation.
Shampoo and Condition Regularly
Keep your hair and scalp healthy by using a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner a few times a week. Make sure to rinse thoroughly so there is no product buildup along the hairline. This will prevent flakiness and itching as the hair grows out.
Use a Beard Trimmer for the Edges
A beard trimmer that has adjustable guards works well for edging and trimming the outline of the fade. Define the hairline around your neck, sideburns and behind the ears with the trimmer to keep the edges neat and clean-cut.
Apply Moisturizer or Balm Daily
The skin on your scalp and along the hairline tends to get dry with this close of a cut. Rub a moisturizer or balm into the hairline daily to prevent irritation, dandruff and ingrown hairs as the stubble grows out.
Style with Products Daily
Styling products like pomade, wax or gel will help keep the longer hair on top looking neat and shaped until your next cut. Apply a small amount to damp hair and style as desired. The products will help hold the shape and style throughout the day.
Protect Your Hairline While Sleeping
Use a satin pillowcase or durag to cover your hair at night. Cotton pillowcases can be drying and can cause friction that damages the hairline. A satin covering will reduce breakage and keep the hair on your headline smooth.
Avoid Over-Washing
You don’t need to wash a bald fade every day. Washing too often with shampoo can dry out your scalp. Limit washing to 2-3 times per week and simply rinse with water on the other days to keep your scalp and hair moisturized.
Get a Skin Fade Redo Monthly
Over time, the sharply faded look will grow out and start to lose its shape. See your barber monthly to get the bald fade edged and cleaned up for a fresh skin fade. Ask for a razor line if you want an extra sharp look.
Limit Sun Exposure
Too much sun exposure can dry out your scalp since there is no hair to protect it. Wear a hat when outdoors or use a moisturizer with SPF to prevent sun damage and keep the bald fade looking its best.
Use Facial Cleanser on the Hairline
An astringent facial cleanser can help keep the hairline free of dead skin cells, oil buildup and debris from hair products. Use a small amount on the hairline and scalp as needed to refresh the skin.
Don’t Pick at Ingrown Hairs
Ingrown hairs can occur along the hairline as the hair grows out. Resist the urge to pick at them to avoid infection. Use a warm compress and exfoliating scrub to relieve inflammation. If they don’t clear up, see a dermatologist.
Get Regular Maintenance From Your Barber
Consistent touch ups every few weeks are key to keeping a bald fade looking its best. Find a skilled barber you trust and schedule standing appointments to have the back and sides trimmed regularly. Ask for their recommendation on maintaining the cut between visits.
The bald fade is a high-maintenance haircut that requires vigilance to keep it looking sharp and defined. With regular trimming and proper hairline care, you can maintain this popular style and look your best.
The above tips will help you keep the bald fade haircuts looking fresh in between barber visits. Be sure to communicate with your barber so they know how to best maintain the cut for you. With proper upkeep, you’ll love sporting this cool, contemporary style.
