The Low Fade Pompadour | Featured Style Guide
What is a Low Fade Pompadour?
The low fade pompadour is like the perfect blend of old-school cool and modern flair.
Imagine the classic pompadour style that Elvis made famous — you know, with all that big, bold volume on top — but add a sleek, tapered fade starting just above the ears.
credit/barber_lot
Visual Breakdown: A Bold Top with Sleek Sides
Here’s how it works:
- The Top: All about volume! The longer hair on top gives that signature pompadour height.
- The Fade: A smooth taper begins around the ears, blending effortlessly down to the skin.
- The Contrast: The dramatic top and sleek sides create a bold, balanced look that’s perfect for any occasion.
How Does It Compare to Other Fades?
Not all fades are created equal! Here's a quick rundown of the different pompadour fade types:
- Low Fade: The fade starts around the ears, giving you a smooth, subtle look that’s easy to style.
- Mid Fade: Starts higher, around the temples, for a bit more contrast and a sharper vibe.
- High Fade: Begins near the top of the head, offering a dramatic, edgy look with a high contrast between the top and sides.
Quick Facts about the low fade pompadour:
- It’s ideal for men who want volume up top but prefer subtle sides.
- Works for both casual days and formal occasions.
Who Suits a Low Fade Pompadour?
The low fade pompadour is like that one pair of jeans that fits everyone just right!
credit/humbertomuxfeldt
Not all haircuts work for every face shape, but the low fade pompadour? It’s pretty flexible.
Here’s how it can flatter different face shapes:
Oval Faces:
- Square Faces: Got strong, chiseled features? The low fade pompadour softens your jawline while the fade keeps things clean and sharp.
- Heart-Shaped Faces: If you have a wider forehead and narrower chin, the pompadour adds height to balance your proportions perfectly.
- Round Faces: Want to elongate your face? The volume on top adds height, while the low fade slims the sides for a more defined look.
credit/toughtigerbarbershop
Hair Type: Will Your Hair Play Nice with the Low Fade Pompadour?
- Straight Hair: Straight hair is a jackpot for pompadours! It naturally lifts, making it easy to style into the signature volume a low fade pompadour needs.
- Wavy Hair: Wavy hair adds texture and movement to the pompadour. With the right product, you can get that tousled, “I woke up like this” look while staying sleek.
- Curly Hair: Yes, you can rock a pompadour with curly hair! Just embrace your texture and tame the volume with some product for a bold, unique twist.
Quick Tip: Got fine or thin hair? No worries! A bit of volumizing mousse and blow-drying will give you that fuller, lifted look.
How to Style a Low Fade Pompadour
Styling a low fade pompadour might seem like a lot of work, but once you’ve got the hang of it, you’ll feel like a hair pro every morning!
Here's a simple, step-by-step guide.
Step 1: Prepping Your Hair for Greatness
Before you even think about grabbing a blow dryer or pomade, it’s all about the prep work.
Starting with a clean base makes all the difference.
- Wash and Condition: A good men' shampoo and conditioner combo is key here. You want clean, soft hair that’s easy to style but not weighed down.
- Add Some Lift: For that all-important volume, work in a volumizing mousse or sea salt spray while your hair is still damp. These products will give you the texture and body you need to achieve that signature height on top.
Step 2: Blow-Drying: The Magic Trick for Volume
Now, here’s where you create that dramatic pompadour lift.
A blow dryer and a round brush are your best friends.
- Start at the Roots: Using a round brush, lift the hair at the front (this is where the magic happens!). As you pull the brush upward, blow-dry the roots to lock in the volume.
- Create Shape: Focus on the front section for that classic pompadour shape. Don’t be shy about the height here—go big or go home, right?
Step 3: Pomade or Wax: Pick Your Weapon
Choosing the right product is key to getting the look you want without making your hair feel sticky or weighed down.
- Pomade: Want shine and sleekness? Pomade is your go-to.
- Wax: If you’re after more texture and a matte finish, wax is your best bet.
How to Apply:
- Take a small amount of product (you can always add more later if needed).
- Warm it up between your palms.
- Apply evenly, focusing on the top and front of your hair, then work your way back.
Pro Tip: Less is more! You don’t want to weigh down your pompadour.
credit/schorembarbier
Step 4: Comb and Shape That Pompadour!
Now for the fun part — shaping your pompadour!
- Comb Up and Back: For a classic pompadour, comb the hair upward and backward. This creates that smooth, voluminous look with a sleek finish.
- Get Creative: If you prefer a more modern or textured style, use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to mess things up a little.
Step 5: Lock It In With Hairspray
To make sure your low fade pompadour lasts all day (because you deserve a full day of fabulous hair), finish it off with a light mist of hairspray.
- Hold & Shine: If you want a bit more shine, go for a hairspray that also adds a light sheen. If you're keeping it matte, a simple firm-hold spray will do the trick.
Product Recommendations: Tried and True Favorites
Not sure where to start with products?
Here are some fan favorites to help your pompadour look its best:
Texturising Spray:
Pomade:
- Beard Beasts Lockdown Pomade: A classic for that shiny, slick look without the greasiness.
- Baxter of California Clay Pomade: Excellent for creating structure with a natural finish.
- TIGI Bed Head Masterpiece: Adds hold and shine without the stiffness.
Now you’ve got the full scoop on how to style a low fade pompadour like a pro.
How to Maintain This Hairstyle Between Barber Visits
Keeping your low fade pompadour fresh between barber visits is easier than you think.
credit/schorembarbier
With a few simple tricks, you can keep that fade clean and the pomp perfectly styled.
Keep the Fade Sharp
Let’s face it, fades can grow out faster than you want — but you don’t have to let it get messy.
- Use Clippers: Invest in a good pair of hair clippers. Focus on the sides and back, using a low guard (#1 or #2) near the ears, and gradually blend upwards for a smooth transition.
- Take Your Time: Be patient and go slow. Small, steady strokes work best for keeping the fade looking sharp without risking any mishaps.
Maintain the Pompadour Shape
The top of your pompadour is the real showstopper, and you don’t want to lose that volume as it grows out.
- Blow-Dry for Volume: To keep that signature pomp high, use a round brush and blow-dry the top, lifting at the roots. This refreshes the shape, especially as your hair starts to grow out.
- Dry Shampoo for a Quick Fix: If your hair feels flat or greasy, dry shampoo is your best friend.
Hair Care Routine
Here’s how to keep your low fade pompadour looking its best while also keeping your hair healthy.
- Wash 2-3 Times a Week: Over-washing can strip your hair of its natural oils, which are essential for keeping your pompadour full of volume. Stick to washing your hair 2-3 times a week to maintain the ideal texture.
- Condition After Every Wash: Conditioning keeps your hair soft and manageable, which makes styling your pompadour much easier.
- Use Lightweight Products: Avoid heavy styling products that can weigh down your pompadour. Opt for lightweight pomades or leave-in conditioners that provide hold without buildup.
When to Visit the Barber: How Often Should You Go?
Even with your home grooming skills, you’ll still want to hit up your barber for that professional touch every now and then. But how often, you ask?
- Every 2-4 Weeks for Fade Maintenance: To keep your fade looking sharp and your overall style intact, aim to visit your barber every 2-4 weeks. This will keep the sides clean and prevent that grown-out, bulky look.
- Tops Can Wait: The pompadour itself doesn’t need as frequent touch-ups. If you’re maintaining the volume at home, you might only need a trim up top every 6-8 weeks.
With these easy tips, you can keep your low fade pompadour looking fresh and stylish, even between trips to the barber.
Stay sharp, stay stylish, and keep that pomp standing tall!
Conclusion: Why This is the Perfect Style Choice
Whether you're going for that timeless, polished look or a modern, laid-back vibe, this versatile style works for just about anyone.
Plus, with the right tools and a bit of know-how, it’s easier than ever to maintain between barber visits.
Here’s why the low fade pompadour should be at the top of your style list:
Why You’ll Love It:
- Versatile: Perfect for everything from casual weekends to formal events.
- Face-Flattering: Works for a variety of face shapes (especially oval, square, and heart-shaped).
- Adaptable to Hair Types: Straight, wavy, or curly — it’s all about how you style it.
- Easy to Maintain: Follow our simple steps, and you can keep that fade and pomp looking sharp without living at the barber’s.
Whether you're aiming for a sharp, professional look or a more relaxed, stylish vibe, the low fade pompadour has your back (and your hair!).
It’s all about the balance between sleek and voluminous — and who doesn’t love that?
So go ahead, give the low fade pompadour a shot!
With its flexibility, flair, and easy upkeep, it’s no wonder this style is a favorite for men everywhere.