The burst taper is one of the most popular and versatile haircuts of today, especially among those looking for a unique and edgy look. It blends traditional tapering techniques with a modern twist to create a fade that is both sharp and stylish. This hairstyle has caught the attention of many, offering a clean and bold look that can suit a variety of face shapes and hair types. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the burst taper, its history, styling tips, and how to maintain it.
What Is a Burst Taper Haircut?
A burst taper haircut is a modern take on the classic taper fade, where the hair gradually shortens towards the nape and sides. Unlike the traditional taper, which is more uniform, the burst taper involves a fade that “bursts” out around the ear, creating a more dynamic and angular shape. This cut is typically paired with a high fade, starting from the temples and swooping down in a rounded shape toward the ear, giving it a burst-like appearance.
The burst taper is often used to enhance other popular styles such as the Mohawk, Afro, or pompadour. It provides a bold contrast with longer hair on top, allowing for a combination of textures that makes the overall style look fresh and modern.
Why Is the Burst Taper Popular?
The burst taper has gained significant popularity in recent years due to its ability to create sharp lines and a clean look without being overly harsh. Many people choose this style for its versatility. The fade can be adjusted to suit different preferences and can be paired with various top styles, including curly, straight, or wavy hair. Additionally, the burst taper is ideal for men who want a trendy yet low-maintenance haircut that requires minimal styling but still looks polished.
The unique shape of the fade also adds a layer of personality and flair to a simple haircut, making it a standout choice for many individuals.
How to Style a Burst Taper
Choose the Right Length
The first step in creating the perfect burst taper is to decide on the length you want for the top of your hair. For a dramatic contrast, leave the top longer and keep the sides tapered short. For a more subtle effect, you can opt for a medium-length burst taper. The versatility of this style makes it adaptable to different preferences, whether you prefer a sharp contrast or a more blended look.
Fading Process
The burst taper requires an experienced barber to create the fading effect around the ear. The fade should start high, typically above the ear, and gradually decrease as it moves down toward the nape of the neck. The “burst” aspect is key to this cut, so it’s important for the fade to have a rounded shape that emphasizes the angular effect.
Maintain the Fade
To keep the burst taper looking sharp, regular trims are essential. The fade tends to grow out quickly, so to maintain its sleek and clean appearance, a touch-up every 2-3 weeks is recommended. Keep the top section trimmed as well to ensure that the balance between the top and the fade is maintained.
Add Texture to the Top
To enhance the look of your burst taper, add texture to the top of your hair. Depending on your hair type, you can use styling products such as pomade, wax, or a light mousse to create volume and movement. For curly hair, leave the curls natural and use a curl cream for definition.
Regular Maintenance
For those who have a burst taper with longer hair on top, it’s important to maintain the health of your hair. Regular conditioning treatments will keep the hair nourished and prevent dryness or frizz, especially when the hair is styled with products.
Burst Taper vs. Traditional Taper
While both the burst taper and traditional taper involve a fade, there are notable differences between the two. A traditional taper features a more even fade, where the hair gradually decreases in length towards the ear and nape. On the other hand, the burst taper emphasizes a bold, rounded fade that starts at the temple and arcs towards the ear, creating a burst effect.
The burst taper is often favored for its more dynamic and edgy look, while the traditional taper offers a cleaner and more classic style. Your choice will depend on the look you prefer, but both styles offer a timeless appeal.
Best Hair Types for a Burst Taper
The burst taper works well with a variety of hair types. However, it tends to look best on individuals with medium to thick hair. The style suits straight, wavy, and curly hair, as the burst fade complements different textures and adds volume to the top.
For curly-haired individuals, the burst taper can create a nice contrast between the defined curls on top and the faded sides. For straight-haired people, the burst taper offers a sleek, modern appearance with a clean fade. Wavy-haired individuals can also benefit from the burst taper by allowing the natural waves to flow while maintaining a sharp fade on the sides.
Burst Taper with Beard
For men who have facial hair, combining a burst taper with a beard can result in an incredibly stylish look. The clean fade on the sides contrasts nicely with a well-groomed beard, making the overall style more masculine and refined. Whether you have a short stubble or a longer beard, the burst taper can enhance your facial features while maintaining a well-balanced, sharp look.
Benefits of Choosing a Burst Taper
- Versatility: The burst taper can be paired with many different hairstyles on top, allowing for endless customization.
- Low Maintenance: While it requires regular trims, the burst taper doesn’t require much daily styling, making it an easy-to-maintain cut.
- Bold Look: The unique burst fade creates a distinctive look that sets you apart from others, making it a great option for those seeking something different.
- Modern Appeal: The burst taper has a modern, youthful vibe that appeals to people of all ages and looks great with a variety of fashion styles.
FAQs
What is a burst taper haircut?
A burst taper is a type of fade that features a rounded, burst-like shape around the ear, transitioning from a high fade to a low fade at the nape.
How often should I get a burst taper haircut?
To maintain the clean look of a burst taper, a trim every 2-3 weeks is recommended, depending on how quickly your hair grows.
Can I style a burst taper with curly hair?
Yes, the burst taper works well with curly hair, as it creates a sharp contrast between the curls on top and the fade on the sides.
Is the burst taper suitable for all face shapes?
Yes, the burst taper can complement most face shapes. However, it works especially well with oval, square, and heart-shaped faces due to the way it frames the face.
How do I maintain a burst taper at home?
To keep your burst taper looking sharp, regularly trim the sides and the top to maintain the contrast and fade. Use styling products to add texture to the top for a fuller look.