Introduction

Burst fades are becoming one of the most popular and stylish haircuts for curly hair types. This dynamic style combines the boldness of a fade with the natural texture of curly hair, creating a look that is both modern and unique. The burst fade is characterized by a gradual tapering of the hair around the ears, giving the impression of a circular burst on the sides. When paired with curly hair, it enhances the natural volume and texture, creating a modern, edgy look.

This style works exceptionally well with curly hair because it allows the curls to shine while keeping the sides neat and tapered. It adds definition and contrast, making the curls stand out more. With its bold appeal, the burst fade is more than just a haircut. It is a statement of modern style and individuality. Whether you want to embrace your curls or want a fresh, new look, this haircut offers the perfect blend of comfort, confidence, and creativity.

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Table of Contents

What is a Burst Fade?

A burst fade is a unique and bold hairstyle that involves a fade around the sides of the head, especially around the ears. The hair gradually tapers in length, creating a circular “burst” effect. This fade style starts at the temples and curves around the ear to create a semi-circular shape, blending seamlessly into the rest of the hair.

Key features of a burst fade:

Circular Fade: The most prominent feature of a burst fade is the round, curved fade that wraps around the ear, giving it a sharp and defined look.
Tapered Sides: The hair gradually tapers from long at the top to shorter at the bottom, making it appear clean and sleek.
Contrast with top hair: The burst fade works well with a variety of top hairstyles, whether curly, wavy, or straight, because the contrast emphasizes the texture of the top hair.

How it’s different from other fade styles

Taper fade: The taper fade involves a gradual fade of hair from top to bottom around the sides of the head but doesn’t have the distinctive rounded shape that a burst fade creates. A taper fade is more even and usually doesn’t focus as much on the ear area.
Skin fade: A skin fade takes the hair down to the skin level, creating a very sharp, dramatic transition. A burst fade, on the other hand, doesn’t go as low and focuses on the distinctive, rounded shape of the ear.

Low, medium, or high fade fade: These fades describe the starting point of the fade, while a burst fade focuses specifically on creating a curved, circular fade around the ears.

Why is it great for curly hair?

The burst fade works exceptionally well with curly hair because:

Enhances curls: The fade helps define the curls on top while keeping the sides clean and controlled. This contrast makes the curls stand out.
Volume and texture: Curly hair naturally has added volume and texture, and the burst fade ensures that these features are emphasized by keeping the hair short around the ears.
Versatility: Whether the curls are tight or loose, the burst fade gives those with curly hair a edgy, stylish look without compromising on the natural texture.
Bold and modern look: Curly hair paired with a burst fade creates a unique, modern, and bold appearance, making it a great choice for those who want to show off their curls in a fresh and exciting way.

Why Choose a Burst Fade for Curly Hair?

1. Accentuates the Natural Texture of Curly Hair

A burst fade is a great choice for curly hair because it highlights and enhances the natural texture. By keeping the top long and allowing the curls to flow freely, the fade creates a perfect balance between neatness and volume. The tapered sides allow the top curls to stand out more, giving them a well-defined, bouncy look without overwhelming the face.

2. The fade’s ability to frame curls for a stylish, clean look

One of the most attractive features of a burst fade is its ability to frame curls in a clean and organized way. The fade around the ears and sides softens the overall look, creating a balanced look. The rounded, flared shape around the ears adds a unique flavor that complements the natural curl pattern, giving you a stylish and shiny look without sacrificing the natural beauty of your curls.

3. Versatility: Suitable for Casual and Professional Settings

The burst fade is versatile enough to work in both casual and professional settings. Whether you’re heading to the office or heading out for a weekend hangout, this style can be adapted to suit a variety of occasions. The clean lines and sharp contrast of the fade make it suitable for a more professional look, while the curls on top add a touch of personality and flair that can be enjoyed in casual and relaxed moments. It’s a flexible, stylish choice that fits seamlessly into a variety of settings.

By opting for a burst fade for curly hair, you get a haircut that is not only fashionable and trendy, but also practical and suits your lifestyle.

Types of Burst Fade Curly Hairstyles

The burst fade is extremely versatile and can be adapted to suit a variety of curly hair types, offering different looks for different preferences. Here are some popular styles that incorporate the burst fade:

1. Low Burst Fade with Tight Curls

This style features a low fade that starts near the ear and gradually fades upward. Paired with tight curls on top, this combination creates a clear contrast between short, clean sides and large, defined curls. It’s perfect for those who want a clean, manageable style that still shows off the natural texture of their tight curls.

2. Mid Burst Fade for Loose Curls

For those with looser, more relaxed curls, a mid-burst fade starts high around the temple area, giving the hair a more noticeable taper. The fade complements the natural bounce and flow of the loose curls on top. This style is great for creating a balanced look that’s modern and easy to maintain.

3. High Burst Fade with Afro Curls

If you have a thick, large curl pattern, a high burst fade is a great choice. Starting high on the sides, this matte color creates a dramatic contrast with the full, rounded afro curls on top. The burst fade accentuates the natural volume and shape of the curls, while the tapered sides keep the style clean and defined. This look is bold, striking, and full of personality.

4. Burst Fade with Curly Mohawk

For those who prefer a more bold, edgy look, the burst fade with curly Mohawk is a great fit. This style involves fading the sides and back, while the top is left long and styled into a curly Mohawk. The contrast between the short, faded sides and the thick, textured curls on top creates a bold and dynamic look, ideal for those who want to make a statement with their hair.

5. Burst Fade with Curly Top and Beard Combo

The Burst Fade with Curly Top and Beard Combo is a classic look that combines a sharp fade with curly hair on top and a well-groomed beard. This style enhances the face shape and gives a mature, polished appearance. The contrast between the fade and curly top, combined with the beard, creates a sophisticated yet edgy style that is perfect for those looking for a full, well-rounded look.

Each of these Burst Fade Curly hairstyles offers a unique way to embrace and showcase your natural curls, giving you a look that is not only stylish but also versatile and tailored to your personal taste. Whether you prefer tight curls, loose waves, or a bold Mohawk, the Burst Fade ensures that your curls stand out with elegance and flair.

How to Get the Perfect Burst Fade for Curly Hair

Whether you decide to see a professional barber or take a DIY approach, achieving the perfect burst fade for curly hair involves a combination of the right technique, the right tools, and an understanding of your natural curl pattern. Here’s how you can achieve this stylish look:

1. Appointment with a professional barber: What to ask for

If you’re planning to see a barber, it’s important to be clear about the style you want. Here’s what to ask for:

Specify the burst fade: Tell your barber that you want a burst fade, which gradually tapers down to the skin around the ears and curves around the natural shape of your hair.

Specify the level of fade: Depending on the look you’re going for, tell your barber whether you want a low, medium, or high fade. You can also specify how much length you want to leave on top of your curls.

Accentuate the texture of curly hair: Make sure your barber understands that you have curly hair and that the top should be left longer to show off your natural texture. This will ensure that they don’t cut it too short.

Discuss blending techniques: Ask your barber to use blending techniques to ensure that the fade seamlessly transitions from the shorter sides to the longer curls on top.

2. DIY Approach: Tools and Techniques to Maintain the Style

If you prefer to maintain your burst fade at home, you’ll need a few essential tools and techniques:

Clippers with adjustable guards: These are essential for achieving the fade. Use the shortest guard (number 1 or 2) for the shorter section near the ears, and gradually increase the length of the guard as you move up. This will help you create a smooth transition.

Comb and Scissors: You’ll need a good comb to manage your curls from the top. Use scissors to trim any stray curls or to shape the top to your liking.

Blending tool: If you’re going for a seamless fade, a blending tool or slightly longer clipper guard can help you gradually blend the shorter sides into the longer curls on top.

Precision trimmer: A precision trimmer is useful for cleaning up edges around your hairline and ensuring the fade is clean and sharp.

3. Tips for Seamlessly Blending a Fade with Curly Hair

Start with dry hair: Curly hair can shrink or change shape when wet, so it’s important to cut and fade your hair until it’s dry to see its true texture.

Work with the curl pattern: Instead of fighting your curls, guide your natural curl pattern into the fade. Focus on maintaining a shape that enhances the curls rather than creating harsh lines.

Don’t over-fade the sides: With curly hair, the fade should be subtle and not too much. The goal is for the fade to blend easily into the curls, not for it to look too harsh.

Trim regularly: To maintain a burst fade, you’ll need regular touch-ups every 2-3 weeks to make sure the fade stays fresh and the top curls are in good condition.

Use curl-enhancing products: After achieving a fade, use a curl cream or mousse to define and lift the top curls. This helps maintain the bold, stylish look of the burst fade.

By following these steps, you can either head to the barber for the perfect burst fade or maintain the style at home with the right tools and techniques. With the right approach, your burst fade will highlight the natural beauty of your curls while giving you an edgy, modern look.

Hair Care Tips for Frizzy Hair with Curly Hair

Maintaining a burst fade with curly hair requires regular maintenance to keep the fade sharp, define the curls, and take care of the scalp. Here are a few essential hair care tips to ensure your style stays fresh and healthy:

1. Keep the fade sharp with regular trims

To maintain the clean, sharp look of your burst fade, it’s important to schedule regular trims:

Trim the fade every 2-3 weeks: As your hair grows, the fade will start to lose its crisp lines. Regular trims will help maintain a smooth transition from short to long.

Shape the curls up: When trimming, make sure the top curls are the right length to preserve the natural shape. Avoid cutting the curls too short.

Edge-ups for Cleansing: For that shiny look, ask your stylist to do regular edge-ups around your hairline and sideburns to keep the burst feed crisp.

2. Hydrating and Defining Curls: Recommended Products

Curly hair needs extra moisture to keep curls defined and healthy. Use the following products to enhance and hydrate your curls:

Curl Creams: These help define curls, giving them natural bounce and a frizz-free look. Look for a curl cream with natural ingredients like shea butter or coconut oil for deep moisture.

Recommended Product: SheaMoisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie

Curl Gels or Mousses: These provide hold without making curls crunchy. Choose a light-hold gel or mousse to keep curls in place while maintaining softness.

Recommended product: Eco Styler Olive Oil Gel (for hold) or Diva Curl Frizz-Free Volumizing Foam (for volume).

Leave-in conditioner: Use a leave-in conditioner to maintain moisture and softness throughout the day, keeping your curls hydrated and shiny.

Recommended product: Ovide Moisture Lock Leave-in Conditioner

3. Scalp care to maintain a fresh and healthy look

A healthy scalp is the key to great curly hair. Follow these tips to keep your scalp clean and nourished:

Gentle cleansing: Use a sulfate-free shampoo to avoid stripping your scalp and hair of its natural oils. Cleansing 2-3 times a week will help maintain a healthy balance.
Recommended product: Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal + Tea Tree Scalp Treatment Shampoo
Exfoliate your scalp: Regular scalp exfoliation helps remove buildup and promote hair growth. You can use a gentle scrub or massage to exfoliate without damaging your scalp.
Recommended product: The Body Shop Ginger Scalp Care Scrub
Moisturize your scalp: If your scalp feels dry, use a scalp oil or treatment to prevent greasiness and dryness. Gently massage it into your scalp for better circulation and nourishment.
Recommended product: The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density
Bonus tip: Protecting your curls at night

To prevent frizz and breakage while you sleep

Use a satin or silk pillowcase to reduce friction on your curls.

Consider wearing a satin/silk hair wrap or loose pineapple to hold your curls in place and minimize frizz.

Following these hair care tips, you can maintain a sleek, sleek look while enhancing the health and appearance of your curls. Regular trims, hydrating products, and scalp care will ensure that your curly locks stay stylish, fresh, and healthy.

Burst Fade Styling Ideas for Curly Hair

A burst fade with curly hair is a versatile and bold style that can be easily adapted for different occasions. Whether you’re getting ready for a formal event, keeping it casual and relaxed, or heading to a party, there are different ways to style your curls. Additionally, adding accessories or a fade with facial hair can enhance your look. Here are some styling ideas for different occasions:

1. Styling for Casual Occasions

For a casual and everyday look, you want to highlight the natural texture of your curls while making it easy to maintain:

Leave curls loose and natural: Use a curl cream or leave-in conditioner to enhance the natural look of your curls without heavy styling. A burst fade will give your curls a nice frame, so let them fall naturally.
Add a little texture: If you want to add volume, you can use a light mousse or texturizing spray to give your curls more body. Work the product into damp hair and let it air dry for a carefree, tousled look.
Pair with casual outfits: A burst fade curly haircut pairs best with simple t-shirts, hoodies, or casual button-down shirts. A relaxed look can still be sharp with this style.

2. Styling for formal occasions

For formal events, such as work or a professional gathering, you can make your burst fade neat and shiny:

Slick back curls: For a more polished look, comb the top curls with a light gel or pomade. A fade on the sides will hold its shape while keeping the look sophisticated.
Smooth, Defined Curls: If you like to keep your curls loose, use a curl cream or defining gel to keep them soft, bouncy, and in good shape. The burst fade will provide a clean and fresh contrast to the natural curls above.
Pair with Formal Wear: The fade looks great when paired with tailored suits, dress shirts, or blazers. It adds a modern and sophisticated touch to your formal ensemble.

3. Styling for a Party or Night Out

For a party or night out, you can take your burst fade curly hair to the next level with some bold styling choices:

Add Volume and Definition: To make your curls pop, use a curl-enhancing mousse or gel that adds volume and shine. You can fluff your curls with your fingers for more texture and volume.
Messy yet defined: A more relaxed and playful approach is to let the curls do their thing, keeping them natural but with definition. Use a lightweight product that will hold the curl in place without making it crunchy.
Pair with a modern outfit: Whether you’re wearing a sleek black jacket, a bomber, or a stylish graphic tee, your burst fade will complement the outfit and enhance your overall look.

Use accessories to enhance the look

Accessories can help elevate your burst fade curly hair, making it unique and stylish:

Headband: A wide, sleek headband can help control flyaways while adding a fashionable element to the look. For a more casual look, you can opt for a sporty or patterned headband, or for a more refined look, a black or leather headband works wonders.
Hats or caps: A snapback or fedora can complete your burst fade and protect your curls from the elements. A flat-brimmed hat gives the haircut a street-style edge, while a classic fedora can add a touch of sophistication.
Scarf: For those who want to add a little extra flair, a stylish silk scarf or bandana tied around your head can enhance your look, and add an extra pop of personality while maintaining your curls.

Pairing a Burst Fade with Facial Hair

Incorporating your burst fade curly hair can elevate your style and make it look even more modern:

Beard and Fade Combo: A well-groomed beard, whether it’s a full beard, goatee, or stubble, can be the perfect complement to your tousled curly hair. It adds balance and draws attention to your face, while the fade on the sides keeps things sharp and clean.
With a Fade Mustache: For a bolder look, pair a burst fade with a thick mustache. A mustache can give you a retro, classic vibe, especially when combined with the modern appeal of a burst fade.
Light stubble: If you’re going for a more subtle approach, pairing a light stubble or a short beard with your curly fade can easily give you a cool, stylish look.

By experimenting with different styles and adding accessories or facial hair, your burst fade curly haircut can be versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you want a casual, formal, or party-ready look, the burst fade is a dynamic hairstyle that always turns heads.

Conclusion

The burst fade curly hairstyle is a bold and modern choice for those who want to make a statement with their hair. Its clean, sharp fade paired with natural curls creates a unique and dynamic look that frames the face and enhances the texture of curly hair. Whether you’re going for a casual, formal, or party-ready style, the burst fade offers versatility and style that fits any occasion.

If you’re ready for a fresh, confident new look, a fade with curly hair might be just the style you need to stand out. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find the version of the burst fade that suits your personality and lifestyle.

We’d love to hear about your fade curly hair journey! Share your photos and experiences in the comments below or on social media. Let’s inspire each other with this bold and stylish look!