Mar 25, 2024

Fades vs. Tapers vs. Blends: What's the Difference?

Fade, Taper, or Blend? The Complete Guide to Men’s Haircuts & the Best Wolf’s Head Pomades to Style Them

Choosing between a fade, taper, or blend can completely change your look. This guide breaks down the differences and shows you how to style each cut at home, plus which Wolf’s Head pomade pairs best for the finish you want. If you’re deciding on matte vs. shine, strong hold vs. flexible control, or the best pomade for men’s haircuts, you’re in the right place.

Barber demonstrating men’s fade, taper, and blended haircuts

1) Fade: High-Contrast & Sharp

A fade haircut moves from very short (often down to skin) up to longer length, creating bold contrast and a crisp outline. It’s ideal if you want a precise silhouette and clean edges that hold throughout the day.

Best for: Clean, structured styles with sharp edges and minimal flyaways.
Style with: Clay Pomade for a matte finish and firm structure, or Styling Gel Pomade for high shine and locked-in hold.

Pro tip: Apply pomade from root to tip and comb into place; for extra structure, finish with a light pass of Styling Gel Pomade only on the surface.

Wolf’s Head Clay Pomade styled on a fade haircut – strong hold, matte finish

Wolf’s Head Styling Gel Pomade on fade with side part – strong hold, high shine, water-based

2) Taper: Subtle & Classic

A taper haircut gradually shortens at the sideburns and nape, keeping some length at the shortest points for a refined, low-contrast look. It transitions easily from casual to professional and works with both matte and shine finishes.

Best for: Everyday, versatile styles that move naturally and can be refreshed fast.
Style with: Styling Gel Pomade for a locked-down polished look, or Water-Soluble Pomade for a classic hold and natural shine.

Pro tip: For a soft-matte taper with movement, use a fingertip amount and add only if needed. For a sleeker taper, apply to damp hair and comb clean lines.

Wolf’s Head Cream Pomade on taper haircut – medium hold, soft matte finish

Wolf’s Head Water Soluble Pomade used on modern side part hairstyle atWolf's Head Barbershop in Santa Barbara – strong hold, shine finish water based hair product

3) Blend: Seamless & Smooth

A blended haircut transitions smoothly from short to long with no harsh lines. It’s the most natural-looking option and remains neat and intentional with minimal effort—perfect for low-contrast, professional styles.

Best for: Professional looks that need minimal upkeep and reworkable control.
Style with: Cream Pomade for lightweight control and matte sheen, or Clay Pomade for a natural matte finish with defined shape.

Pro tip: For natural definition, emulsify first, work through mid-lengths, then surface-smooth with a comb.

Wolf’s Head Cream Pomade in use on a modern light hold hairstyle at Wolf's Head Barbershop in Santa Barbara – Medium Hold Matte Finish Hair Product. Made in California

Back view of Wolf’s Head Cream Pomade in use on a modern light hold hairstyle at Wolf's Head Barbershop in Santa Barbara – Medium Hold Matte Finish Hair Product. Made in California

FAQ: Fades, Tapers, Blends & Pomades

What’s the difference between a fade and a taper?: A fade goes very short at the sides (often to skin) and creates high contrast; a taper keeps some length at the shortest points for a low-contrast, classic look.
What’s the best pomade for a fade haircut?: Use Clay Pomade for matte texture and Styling Gel Pomade for high shine and strong hold.
Which pomade should I use for a taper?: For a polished taper, try Styling Gel Pomade. For a classic, easy-rinse shine, pick Water-Soluble Pomade.
How do I style a blended haircut?: For lightweight control with a soft-matte look, use Cream Pomade. For more structure with a matte finish, choose Clay Pomade.

Explore the Wolf’s Head Line

Choose a clean, water-based pomade that matches your cut and finish goals. All formulas are designed for performance and easy rinse.

Clay Pomade — strong hold, matte finish.
How to use: Apply to dry hair for maximum texture and separation.
Cream Pomade — medium hold, soft matte.
How to use: Work through towel-dried hair for natural movement.
Styling Gel Pomade — strong hold, high shine.
How to use: Apply to damp hair, comb clean lines, and let it set.
Water-Soluble Pomade — strong hold, classic shine.
How to use: Distribute through damp hair and comb into place.