20 Burst Fade Haircuts

The burst fade haircut has quickly been one of the most requested styles in the UK – being loved for its clean, sharp silhouette. The burst fade is defined by its signature shape — a smooth, rounded taper that curves neatly around the ear and gradually fades into the neckline. This distinctive style is both eye-catching and versatile, being easily adapted to suit a wide variety of styles and hair types. If you’re wanting to experiment with a burst fade haircut, this guide will allow you to explore the range of styles and how to keep your trim looking fresh. 

What Is a Burst Fade?

Worn by many celebrities, the burst fade haircut features a curved taper around the ear to create the illusion of a “burst” effect with the focal point of this cut being just around the ear, maintaining the volume throughout the rest of the cut. It’s highly versatile, complementing crops, mohawks, mullets, curls, and textured tops.

Key Considerations for a Burst Fade

Hair Type

Hair type plays a massive role in which type of burst fade you may opt for and how to style it. On straight hair, the burst fade appears sharp and clean, drawing attention to the curved taper edge. With wavy hair, the tapered edge is more relaxed, blended. For those with curly or coily hair, the burst fade creates striking definition—tight curls or coils add height and shape, making the curved fade pop with bold texture. RUSH stylists are experts in adjusting the taper to suit your individual hair type, ensuring the type of burst fade haircut that you choose complements your overall style. 

Face Shape

Burst fades are completely customisable, being used to balance and enhance different face shapes through the adjustment of the height, shape, and blending of the fade. For rounder faces, a high burst fade adds height and structure at the sides and top, which will create the illusion of a slimmer, more defined jawline. For those with a square or diamond face shape, a mid-to-low burst fade will soften the jawline and harmonise your face’s features. 

Lifestyle and Maintenance

Choosing a fade style that fits your daily routine and grooming habits is key to keeping your look sharp. While burst fades offer a bold, stylish finish, they do require regular maintenance every 2 – 3 weeks to keep the clean taper and curved lines. For clients who prefer lower maintenance cuts, crops or buzz cuts are the ideal option with their minimal styling time and the same modern appearance.

Top Burst Fade Style

1. The Classic Burst Fade

Description: A clean, curved taper around the ear that blends smoothly into the neckline. It’s sharp, balanced, and easy to style – ideal for a modern, low-fuss look with impact.

Celebrity References: Worn by Zayn Malik and Jack Harlow – a go-to for sharp yet wearable style.

Suitable Hair Types: Great for straight, wavy, or loose curls with medium to thick texture. Adds structure and shape to natural volume.

Styling Tips: Use sea salt spray or mousse for texture. Finish with matte clay for hold or edge control to keep the fade looking fresh. Blow-dry for added lift if needed.

2. Low Burst Fade 

Description: A low burst fade curves around the ear and drops slightly at the nape of the neck, emphasising its shape without going too high. It’s subtle, modern, and pairs well with curly or coily hair. 

Celebrity References: Seen on Usher and Drake – a favourite for clean fades with personality.

Suitable Hair Types: Best for curly, or wavy hair with medium to thick texture. This cut adds contrast and definition to natural volume.

Styling Tips: Use curl cream to add more texture to the curls. Apply curl cream to the fingertips and style as desired.

3. Mid Burst Fade

Description:
The mid burst fade starts higher up the head, curving around the ear and blending into the back for a bold, rounded shape. It offers more contrast and edge while keeping a clean, wearable finish.

Celebrity References:
Worn by Chris Hemsworth and Travis Scott – loved for the combination of sharp lines with height from the crown.

Suitable Hair Types:
Ideal for thick, luscious curly hair which gives the top more body by enhancing the cut’s natural texture. 

Styling Tips:
 For volume or shape, blow-dry with a diffuser and finish with a matte product to amp up the volume. Keep your fade fresh with regular salon visits. 

4. High Burst Fade

Description: The high burst fade starts well above the ear, making it a bolder option for a burst fade cut.  It offers an edgy look with a strong contrast between the fade and longer hair on top of the head.

Celebrity References: The high burst fade has been made popular thanks to its striking, modern style, being worn by the likes of The Weeknd.

Suitable Hair Types: Works well with curly, coily, or wavy hair which enhance the hair’s thickness and texture. 

Styling Tips: Use curl-enhancing products to enhance and define texture of the curls. Sometimes this cut can look messy when grown out, so ensure you keep your edges sharp with regular trims.

5. Burst Fade V-Cut

Description: The burst fade V-cut features a curved fade around the ear that tapers into a sharp V-shaped cut at the nape of the neck, giving the classic burst fade a modern, edgy twist.

Celebrity References: Sported by Justin Bieber and Usher, the burst fade v-cut is known for its creative and bold fade designs.

Suitable Hair Types: Best suited to curlier hair types, this style works well with textured tops that contrast with the sharp definition of the V-cut.

Styling Tips: Maintain the sharpness of the V-cut with regular visits to your salon. Use styling gel to keep the hairline and the V-shape crisp and clean.

6. Burst Fade with Sharp Contrast 

Description: The burst fade with a sharp contrast features a pronounced fade around the ear that dramatically contrasts with longer, well-defined hair on top. 

Celebrity References: Worn by rappers like J. Cole and Kendrick Lamar – this style is renowned for its clean silhouette and strong top textures.

Suitable Hair Types: Works well with more defined curls, or waves that stand out against the fade.

Styling Tips: Use curl-enhancing cream to define the hair’s texture and keep your fade look fresh with frequent trims. 

7. Burst Taper Fade

Description: The burst taper fade features a curved fade around the ear that gradually tapers down toward the neckline. It offers a smooth, subtle transition that keeps the look clean and polished while adding shape and dimension.

Celebrity References: Seen on Michael B. Jordan and Bruno Mars, this style is popular for its versatile and refined appearance. 

Suitable Hair Types: The burst taper fade works well with straighter hair styles, amping up the volume and definition to less defined hair. 

Styling Tips: Use styling cream to enhance texture without weighing hair down. Keep edges neat with regular line-ups.

8. Burst Fade with Line-Up and Curls

Description: The burst fade with a sharp line-up and curls features a curved fade around the ear blended with a defined hairline and natural curls on top. This style blends clean edges with textured volume for a polished look. 

Celebrity References: Worn by celebrities like Zayn Malik and Jaden Smith, the burst fade with line-up and curls is loved for its visually geometric appeal. 

Suitable Hair Types: Best for curly or coily hair with medium to thick density. The sharp line-up enhances facial structure, whilst the addition of curls enhances individuality. 

Styling Tips: Keep the fade and line-up fresh with regular visits to the salon. Apply edge control to maintain that sharp hairline and finish with an oil to hydrate your curls and add shine. 

9. Burst fade with Design

Description: The burst fade with design focuses on a customisable shaved patterns or lines that is personalised to the individual’s preference. The design adds artistic flair while keeping the overall style sharp and clean.

Celebrity References: In the 90s, David Beckham often incorporated bold fade designs into his hairstyles.

Suitable Hair Types: Best suited for straighter hair with a medium to thick texture – the fade provides a clean canvas for intricate designs.

Styling Tips: Choose a skilled barber for precise, detailed designs and ensure you keep your scalp healthy and moisture to stimulate healthy hair growth around the shaved areas. 

10. Burst Fade Comb-Over

Description: A burst fade comb-over curves around the ear and tapers into the neckline, while the top is styled into a sleek comb-over. It’s structured, smart and looks ultra-polished for both formal and informal occasions. 

Celebrity References: Worn by Justin Timberlake and Nick Jonas, this is a classic cut that blends gentleman style with a modern twist.

Suitable Hair Types: Best for straight to wavy hair with medium thickness. Ideal for those who want a clean-cut style that adds a touch of sophistication. 

Styling Tips: Use a side parting to section the hair and blow-dry in the direction of the comb-over for a smooth, sleek finish. Add a light spritz of hairspray to hold your style in place all day.

11. Slick Back with Burst Fade Blend

Description: A slick back paired with a burst fade blend is the perfect balance between sophistication and edge – being the perfect option for those who want to express their personality with their hair. 

Celebrity References: Seen on Chris Hemsworth and Drake – the slick back style fuses classic grooming with a fresh fade.

Suitable Hair Types: Ideal for straight or wavy hair with medium to thick density. This style works well for hair that holds shape and benefits from a structured silhouette.

Styling Tips: We’d recommend applying a lightweight gel to damp hair, then combing straight back. Then blow-dry the hair for lasting hold and added volume.

12. Tied Top with Burst Fade Sides

Description: The longer hair is tied into a top knot or bun on top of the head, while the sides feature a clean burst fade. It’s bold, expressive, and sharply contrasted – perfect for showcasing length with edge.

Celebrity References: Worn by Jason Momoa and Jared Leto – a standout look that blends boho length with precision fades.

Suitable Hair Types: Best for wavy to curly hair or straight hair with length. Medium to thick texture works well to create a full, balanced top.

Styling Tips: Use a leave-in conditioner or styling cream to smooth and define the top. Tie the hair into a bun or knot at the crown for extra definition. 

13. Straight Hair Burst Fade

Description: A straight hair burst fade around the ears blends into the straight hair on top of the head for a sleek, low-maintenance look. This sleek, sophisticated style enhances the definition of straight hair with its stylish edge.

Celebrity References: Seen on actors like Cillian Murphy and Chris Hemsworth, this style is a go-to for effortless cool and precision styling.

Suitable Hair Types: Ideal for naturally straight hair with fine to medium thickness – this works well for those who prefer structure without a lot of volume.

 Styling Tips: Use a light styling cream to keep the top neat and controlled. Maintain the fade with salon visits every few weeks for that clean, sculpted look. 

14. Wavy Taper with Burst Fade 

Description: The wavy taper with burst fade is left to flow on top while the sides feature a soft burst fade that curves cleanly around the ears. This style embraces natural movement and texture, being the perfect low-fuss style.

Celebrity References: Worn by Timothée Chalamet and Harry Styles – this is a relaxed yet stylish cut that enhances your waves natural definition. 

Suitable Hair Types: Best for wavy hair with fine to medium texture for that extra oomph. The wavy taper with burst fade is great for enhancing natural volume and adding structure – giving the hair that extra oomph! 

Styling Tips: Apply a sea salt spray to the hair to define the hair’s texture. We also recommend letting the hair-dry to amplify the natural texture.

15. Curly Top Burst Fade

Description: A voluminous curly top burst fade is a textured approach to the fade cut – perfect for showcasing natural curls with a clean, modern edge.

Celebrity References: Worn by Michael B. Jordan and Khalid –  this is a stylish way to accentuate the hair’s curl pattern while keeping the sides fresh and tidy with a sharp fade.          

Suitable Hair Types: Ideal for tight to loose curly hair. Works best for those wanting to emphasise their curl pattern, whilst keeping the definition with a clean fade.                                   

 Styling Tips: Use a curl-enhancing cream to define curls and use a diffuser for added texture and dimension. Regularly visit your salon to shape the burst fade,  keeping up the bold contrast between the two. 

16. Afro Burst Fade with Shape-Up

Description: A full, rounded afro top combined with a sharp burst fade that curves around the ears and tapers into the neckline is a bold but clean choice – perfect for showcasing natural volume with sharp edges.

Celebrity References: Worn by celebrities like Kendrick Lamar  – a statement look that balances classic afro style with modern precision.                 

Suitable Hair Types: Ideal for thicker hair that’s tightly coiled. This style looks great for those wanting to emphasise natural texture while keeping a crisp, sculpted finish.

Styling Tips: Maintain the afro’s shape with products specifically formulated to afro hair. Keep the burst fade sharp with frequent salon visits. Apply  a light hair oil or butter for shine and moisture without weighing down the hair.

17. Dreaded Top with Burst Fade Base

Description: The dreaded top with a burst fade base is a striking combination of natural texture and sharp edges, creating a bold look. Long dreadlocks are styled on top of the head with a clean burst fade that curves around the ears and tapers into the neckline. 

Celebrity References: Worn by rappers like The Weeknd, this is a versatile style that blends urban edge with natural texture.

Suitable Hair Types: Ideal for medium to thick hair textures, suitable for dreadlocks. Works best for those who want to highlight movement, whilst keeping the fade crisp and tidy.

Styling Tips: Keep dreadlocks moisturised and neat with regular maintenance. Style the top tied back for more formal occasions, or loose for more informal occasions.

18. Burst Fade Undercut with Volume

Description: A bold undercut fused with a burst fade makes for a sleek, modern silhouette – gradually fading on the lower sides and neckline. This layered fading adds depth and dimension to the classic undercut.

Celebrity References: Worn by Zayn Malik and Lewis Hamilton – this is a contemporary approach to the classic undercut which emphasises the contrast between clean blending and sharp definition.

Suitable Hair Types: Ideal for straight, wavy, or curly hair with medium to thick texture. Perfect for those who want a seamless transition from short sides to longer top length with the addition of the burst fade.

Styling Tips: Apply a matte clay or pomade for added texture and definition on top. Blow-dry for volume or slick back for a neat finish. 

19. Burst Fade Mullet

Description: A burst fade mullet incorporates the longer length of the mullet with a sharp burst fade that curves around the ears. The contrast between the textured top, faded sides, and extended length at the back creates a bold, edgy look with a contemporary twist.

Celebrity References: Worn by Machine Gun Kelly and Brad Pitt – a rebellious style that merges with the clean fade detailing.

Suitable Hair Types: Great for straight to wavy hair with medium to thick texture. Works well for those who want to combine length with sharp, clean sides.

Styling Tips: Use a sea salt spray for extra texture on the top and back. Finish with a matte pomade for hold without shine. Regularly maintain the burst fade to keep the sides crisp and contrast strong.

20. Spiky Mullet High Burst Fade

Description: The spiky mullet high burst fade is a bold mullet cut that’s been paired with a high burst fade on the sides of the head. It’s edgy, dynamic, and full of attitude, perfect for those who want a standout, modern twist on a classic cut.

Celebrity References: Worn by the likes of Yungblud and Colin Farrell — this is an electrifying style blending edginess with the sharpness of a fade.

Suitable Hair Types: Best for straight to wavy hair with medium to thick texture. Ideal for hair that holds shape and volume to create those defined spikes.

Styling Tips: Use a strong-hold styling gel to spike up and style the top section. Blow-dry while shaping spikes for extra lift and hold. 

What Should I Ask My Barber For?

Bring an inspiration photo to show your stylist exactly what you’re after – this helps avoid any confusion and ensures that you’re both on the same page. We’d also recommend discussing your preferred fade height – whether you’re wanting a low, mid, or high burst fade as this will affect the end result. Be sure to ask your stylist for advice on how to maintain your fade between visits to the salon – from everything on how often to come in for touch-ups to which products you should use, your Rush stylist will keep you right!

Styling Your Burst Fade

The burst fade is a versatile cut that pairs well with a wide range of styles. Whether you prefer a clean, polished finish or something with more bold and edgy energy, the burst fade gives you room to experiment. Don’t be afraid to switch up the finish of your fade depending on the occasion – sleek for formal events, or textured and edgy for a more casual vibe.

Tips for Maintaining a Burst Fade

Regular Trims

Burst fades grow out quickly and can lose their clean shape, so it’s important to get a freshen-up every 2–3 weeks. Regular trims help maintain the sharp definition and keep your style looking fresh.

Hair Care Routine

To keep your burst fade looking its best, use shampoos and conditioners that are specifically formulated for your hair type. To control the top of your hair and keep a strong contrast between that and the fade, use styling products like mousse or gel depending on your desired finish.

Keeping Your Fade Fresh

To maintain the fade’s sharp edges between appointments, use a detail trimmer or visit your stylist for a quick touch-up. Occasional deep-conditioning treatments keep textured hair nourished and looking its best, ready for your next cut.

Book Your Burst Fade Appointment at Rush

If you are ready to change up your style, book into your nearest Rush salon to help choose the perfect burst fade cut for you!