What Face Shape is Burst Fade Good for? | A Complete Guide

Discover the burst fade, a popular and modern element in men’s style that offers a great variety of looks to fit a multitude of face shapes. When properly executed, focusing on key aspects of this dynamic haircut like its characteristic very short sides and back combined with longer hair on the top it creates a strong contrast that suits some while providing a challenge for others. Take a detailed look at how to pull off the burst fade with our expert guidance, and learn which face shapes wear it best:

What face shape is burst fade good for?

Oval Face Shape

For those with an oval face shape, the burst fade is nothing short of ideal. This well-proportioned face type, characterized by a rounded hairline and a gently curving jawline, serves as the perfect canvas for haircuts aiming for high contrast, notably the burst fade with its short sides that beautifully show off the oval shape. Adding volume on top with this cut not only adds height but ensures the face doesn’t risk looking too long, maintaining the oval’s symmetry. This haircut is neat, and stylish, and creates a balance that’s unmatched. In my tenure as a stylist, recommending a burst fade to someone with an oval structure always yields a satisfied nod, the cut laying impeccably against the naturally neat lines of their face.

Rectangle Face Shape

Those sporting a rectangle face shape, with their strong jawline, wide forehead, and identical widths and lengths, are good candidates for a burst fade with very short sides. This style serves to counteract the rectangle’s length, offering an illusion of a wider face, while height on top effectively complements the forehead’s width. Attention must be paid to maintaining proportions that appear more even, achieving a flattering look, and avoiding overly tall cuts, as excessive fade height or a flat top might unduly elongate their appearance. In my experience, a medium fade or low fade works wonders in not over-accentuating length, giving that rectangle face shape a harmonious aesthetic.

Diamond Face Shape

The diamond face shape, with its defined, angular features, narrow chin, and wide cheekbones, greatly benefits from the tailored edges of a burst fade. Short sides artfully show off the face’s unique proportions without hiding its distinctive charm, while the fade’s contrast can add a touch of softness that counteracts the otherwise sharp angles. Adding length and volume at the top nicely balances out the narrow bottom half, preventing a bottom-heavy feel. It’s critical to avoid pointy fringe shapes that can make the chin appear even smaller. Over the years, I’ve seen how a burst fade can transform and give balance and definition to diamond-shaped faces without over-intensifying their natural angles.

Heart Face Shape

The heart face shape comes with its challenges a wide forehead and cheekbones tapering to a delicate, pointed chin, giving an inverted triangle shape. Careful styling with a burst fade can enhance just the right features by playing with height and width to offer a desirable contrast against the narrow jawline. Engaging short fade sides to artfully display the face shape without obscuring it, and funneling volume towards the crown rather than over the temples, balances a prominent forehead. In my craft, urging clients to stay away from a flat top that can overemphasize width or an expanded pompadour shape that can seem imposing has proven beneficial; a taper that fades gradually can add width to the chin area and symmetrize the overall look.

Square Face Shape

A square face shape marked by wide jaws, broad foreheads, and strong right angles at the hairline and jaw can be softened through a burst fade that tames the sharp edges. Opting for short faded sides helps to prevent a boxy expression, while a taller top can effectively elongate to counteract a potentially stocky look. As someone who has styled countless square-faced clients, I advise against very short fades and flat fringe shapes; instead, an angled fringe that is tapered diagonally achieves a dynamic effect, slims the face, and introduces flattering angles to the overall style.

What Face Shapes Should Avoid the Burst Fade?

Although numerous face shapes are complemented by the burst fade, certain ones might consider bypassing it. Particularly, individuals boasting elongated facial contours should sidestep this hairstyle with its trimmed sides and copious volume atop.

Oblong Face Shape

For an oblong face, which is characteristically longer with a wide and long straight cheek and jawline, the burst fade may not be the best contender. This haircut can add tall height and short sides, potentially creating an overload on a face that’s already long, thereby making the oblong face seem even longer. Finding a balanced style that reduces perceived length is a better option for oblong-shaped faces. Drawing from my experience, clients with this face shape leave happier with haircuts that diminish rather than extend their facial length.

Triangle Face Shape

On the same note, for those with a triangle face shape, where the jawline is very wide and the forehead is narrow, leading down to a slender chin and considerable cheekbones, the burst fade might not be flattering. It tends to overemphasize the wide jaw, making the face appear bottom-heavy. Instead, styles that provide volume at the temples and cheekbones are preferable, offering more symmetry to the facial structure. Over the years, I’ve guided those with a triangle face shape towards haircuts that soften and balance their features for a more harmonious look.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the modern and edgy burst fade haircut is a versatile style that flatters many, adding definition and creating an illusion of balance. Oval, diamond, rectangle, and square face shapes are well-suited for this cut, while heart-shaped faces can shine when the fade is properly adjusted. However, face shapes like oblong, triangles, and particularly round faces tend not to suit the burst fade, as it can exaggerate certain disproportions. Ultimately, personal preference and styling play a significant role, and a skilled barber can tailor the heights, angles, and proportions to flatter any face shape.