What is the difference between a fade and a taper?
A fade blends the hair down very short around the sides and back, sometimes to skin. A taper is usually more subtle, cleaning up the sideburns and neckline while leaving more weight. Both can look sharp when the shape fits your head and style.
Which one should I ask for?
Ask for a fade if you want a stronger contrast and a cleaner, tighter look. Ask for a taper if you want something easier to grow out or more conservative for work, school, or family photos. Photos help the barber match your idea faster.
What should I tell the barber?
Tell the barber how high you want the blend, how short the shortest part should be, how much length to keep on top, and how you style your hair day to day. That information matters more than using perfect haircut vocabulary.
How often should I maintain it?
Fades usually need touch-ups every 2 to 4 weeks. Tapers can often go 4 to 6 weeks depending on hair growth and how polished you want the edges. Book the interval that fits your style and schedule.