What is a burst fade haircut?

A burst fade is a type of fade that focuses around the ear, curving along the hairline and gradually fading down the neck. Unlike a traditional fade that drops low and evenly, a burst fade creates a “sunburst” effect, blending hair tightly around the ear while maintaining length at the top or back.

This makes it a brilliant canvas for creative styles like Mohawks, Mullets, Pompadours, or even just a textured crop.

A fade haircut is achieved by tapering the hair right down to the skin at a point above the natural hairline, effectively shifting the hairline above it's natural position. It looks as though the hair 'fades' away.

This cutting technique can be used to create a low burst fade, mid burst fade, high burst fade or something like a high burst taper fade. These are all burst fades but have different nuances. It all depends on how high up they are and where they are positioned on the head.

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Why is the Burst Fade Still Trending in 2025?

The burst fade is still a favourite because it:

• Works well on all hair types—curly, straight, thick, or thin.
• Pairs perfectly with modern, edgy styles like the wolf cut or modern mullet.
• Is easy to customise for men, teens, or young boys.
• Makes room for stylistic expression (designs, lines, patterns, and colour fades).

From sports stars to high schoolers, the burst fade shows no signs of slowing down.

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Popular Burst Fade Variations This Year

Let's take a look at some of the trending burst fades...

Burst Fade With Mid Length Mullet

The burst fade is cut high up around the ear on the sides of the head and drops down into a mid length mullet at the nape of the neck.

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Burst Taper Fade With Short Hair Mullet

Cut in at the temples, this burst taper fade gives away to a short hair mullet at the back, a very contemporary look.

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Low Burst Fade With Long Hair Mullet

A low burst fade cut around the ear with a radical long hair mullet.

Burst Taper Fade With Long Hair Mullet

Cut at the temples, this burst taper fade leads to a longer mullet at the back, demonstrating the versatility of this combination.

Burst Fade Mohawk / Fauxhawk

The burst fade mohawk or fauxhawk is another hairstyle where the key elements come together perfectly, complimenting each other for a bold hairstyle.

Burst Taper Fade With Blowout

This one is growing in popularity and is a burst fade haircut that's perfect for curly haired guys.

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Mid Burst Fade With Afro

The burst fade works well in all hair types and the afro is no exception, in fact this fade works amazing on afro hair.

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Much of the drive behind the popularity in burst fade hairstyles stems from the popularity of the modern mullet.

This is due to the fact that the key elements of each hairstyle work in unison and compliment each other so well.

With any mullet haircut, either long or short, you have some kind of length of hair at the nape of the neck. Then, with any kind of burst fade being cut only on the sides, it naturally and perfectly leads into creating a mullet hairstyle.

Burst Fade Hairstyles for Boys

Parents love burst fades for boys because they’re:

• Easy to maintain
• Cool during the summer
• Age-appropriate yet trendy
• Customisable with subtle lines or partings

Top burst fade picks for boys in 2025:

• Burst Fade + Hard Part
• Mini Burst Mullet
• Curly Burst with Line Design
• Burst Fade + Faux Hawk

Who Should Try a Burst Fade?

Burst fades suit nearly every face shape, especially:

• Round faces – adds structure
• Square faces – sharpens the jawline
• Oval faces – balances proportions

It also works for men of all ages. Whether you're 10, 25 or 45, a burst fade can be tailored to your style—professional, playful or performance-ready.

Styling & Maintenance Tips for a burst fade

• Use a matte paste or curl cream depending on hair type.
• Revisit the barber every 3–4 weeks to maintain the fade’s definition.
• For boys, a simpler burst style with shorter tops is easier to maintain during school weeks.
• For longer styles (mullet, mohawk), regular trims and fade touch-ups are a must.

Australian Take on the Burst Fade

Aussie barber culture embraces bursts with a laid-back twist—less flashy than US versions, more surf-inspired or clean-cut. You’ll spot a burst mullet with a subtle taper, or a fade into a curly top rather than flashy designs. It’s versatile enough for both tradies and TikTok stars.

A Final Word From The Barber

That's a wrap for this one, if you have any questions or you are ready to give one of these trendy burst fade hairstyles a crack, get in and see Ronnie and the team here at Barber Industries Westfield Hornsby.

Book your next appointment and get the freshest burst fade in town.

FAQs About Burst Fade Hairstyles (2025 Edition)

Q1: Is the burst fade still trending in 2025?
Absolutely. The burst fade remains one of the most booked hairstyles across Australian barbershops. It’s popular among all age groups—especially boys, teens, and young men who want something sharp but low maintenance.

Q2: What’s the difference between a burst fade and a drop fade?
A drop fade tapers down behind the ear in a straight arc, while a burst fade flares out in a circular shape around the ear, often higher on the sides. The burst fade is more sculpted and dramatic, ideal for edgy or creative looks.

Q3: Is a burst fade suitable for kids?
Yes! Burst fades are very popular among boys, especially when paired with curly tops, hard parts, or subtle patterns. They’re stylish yet neat enough for school—just keep the top short for easier upkeep.

Q4: How often should I get a burst fade retouched?
For a clean look, touch it up every 3 to 4 weeks. That keeps the fade sharp and the hairstyle fresh, especially if you're maintaining a detailed design or a higher contrast fade.