Achieving the Perfect Blowout Taper: A Step-by-Step Guide
The blowout taper, also known as a temp fade or burst fade, is a stylish and versatile haircut that combines a taper fade with a textured, voluminous top. This popular style offers a clean, modern look suitable for various hair types and personal preferences. This comprehensive guide provides detailed instructions on how to achieve the perfect blowout taper, covering everything from preparation to styling.
## What is a Blowout Taper?
Before diving into the how-to, let’s clarify what a blowout taper entails. A blowout taper features a gradual fade on the sides and back, blending seamlessly into longer hair on top. The ‘blowout’ effect refers to the voluminous, often textured, hairstyle achieved on the crown. This style differs from a traditional fade where the top hair might be relatively flat and neatly combed. In a blowout taper, volume and texture are key.
**Key Characteristics:**
* **Tapered Fade:** The hair gradually shortens from the top down to the skin, creating a clean and defined look around the ears and neckline.
* **Voluminous Top:** The hair on top is left longer and styled to achieve a voluminous, textured effect.
* **Seamless Blend:** The transition between the faded sides and the longer top is smooth and natural, avoiding any harsh lines.
* **Versatility:** Suitable for different hair types (straight, wavy, curly) and can be customized to individual preferences.
## Tools and Equipment
To successfully execute a blowout taper, you’ll need the following tools and equipment:
* **Clippers:** Essential for creating the fade. Invest in a quality clipper set with various guard sizes.
* **Trimmers (Outliners):** Used for creating sharp lines around the hairline and edges.
* **Scissors:** For trimming the hair on top and blending the fade.
* **Comb:** For sectioning hair and guiding the clippers.
* **Mirror:** A handheld mirror is helpful for checking the back of your head.
* **Spray Bottle:** For dampening the hair.
* **Hair Dryer:** Crucial for achieving the ‘blowout’ effect and adding volume.
* **Round Brush:** Helps to lift the hair and create volume while blow-drying.
* **Styling Products:** Such as mousse, sea salt spray, texturizing powder, or hair wax, depending on your hair type and desired style.
* **Hair Clips:** For sectioning the hair and keeping it out of the way while working on other areas.
* **Neck Strips or Towel:** To protect the client’s neck and clothing.
* **Optional: Cape:** Protects clothing during the haircut.
## Step-by-Step Guide to Achieving a Blowout Taper
Now, let’s break down the process of creating a blowout taper into manageable steps:
**Step 1: Preparation**
* **Consultation:** Begin by discussing the desired length and style with the client (or yourself). Consider their hair type, texture, and face shape.
* **Hair Washing:** Wash the hair thoroughly with shampoo and conditioner. Clean hair is easier to cut and style.
* **Towel Dry:** Gently towel-dry the hair, leaving it slightly damp.
* **Sectioning:** Section the hair into three main areas: the top section (which will be the longest part), the sides, and the back. Use hair clips to secure the top section away from the sides and back.
**Step 2: Establishing the Baseline**
* **Determine the Fade Height:** Decide where you want the fade to start. For a low taper, the fade will begin closer to the ears and neckline. For a mid taper, it will start slightly higher, and for a high taper, it will begin even higher, typically around the temples.
* **Using Clippers (No Guard):** Start with the clippers with no guard attached. Carefully create a line around the head at the desired fade height. This line will be the shortest point of the fade.
**Step 3: Creating the First Fade Layer**
* **Clipper Guard #1:** Attach the #1 guard to your clippers. Starting just above the line you created in Step 2, work your way upwards, creating the next layer of the fade. Flick the clipper outwards as you reach the top of this layer to avoid creating a harsh line.
* **Flicking Technique:** The flicking technique involves angling the clippers slightly away from the head as you reach the top of each stroke. This helps to blend the layers and create a smoother transition.
**Step 4: Blending the Second Fade Layer**
* **Clipper Guard #2:** Attach the #2 guard to your clippers. Starting just above the layer you created with the #1 guard, work your way upwards, again using the flicking technique. This will further blend the fade and create a smoother transition.
* **Pay Attention to Symmetry:** Ensure that both sides of the head are symmetrical. Use a mirror to check your work and make adjustments as needed.
**Step 5: Fine-Tuning the Fade**
* **Using Half Guards (Optional):** If you have half guards (e.g., 1.5 guard), use them to further blend any harsh lines between the layers. This will create a more seamless and natural-looking fade.
* **Clippers Over Comb Technique:** This technique is useful for blending the fade into the longer hair on top. Hold the comb at an angle and run it through the hair, using the clippers to trim any hair that extends beyond the comb.
* **Detailing with Trimmers:** Use the trimmers (outliners) to clean up the hairline around the ears, neckline, and forehead. Create sharp, clean lines for a polished look.
**Step 6: Blending the Top**
* **Scissors Over Comb:** Using scissors and a comb, blend the hair on top with the faded sides. This will create a seamless transition between the shorter faded hair and the longer hair on top.
* **Point Cutting:** Point cutting involves holding the scissors at an angle and making small, precise cuts into the hair. This technique helps to remove bulk and create texture.
* **Thinning Shears (Optional):** If the hair on top is very thick, you can use thinning shears to remove some of the bulk and make it easier to style.
**Step 7: Styling the Blowout**
* **Apply Styling Product:** Apply a styling product such as mousse, sea salt spray, or texturizing powder to the hair on top. The choice of product will depend on your hair type and desired style.
* **Blow-Drying:** Using a hair dryer and a round brush, blow-dry the hair upwards and outwards to create volume and texture. Focus on lifting the hair at the roots to achieve maximum volume.
* **Round Brush Technique:** Wrap sections of hair around the round brush and hold them in place while blow-drying. This will create lift and curl, adding to the ‘blowout’ effect.
* **Directional Drying:** Direct the airflow of the hair dryer upwards and outwards to create volume and texture. Avoid drying the hair straight down, as this will flatten it.
* **Finishing Touches:** Once the hair is dry, use your fingers to style it into the desired shape. You can add more styling product if needed to achieve the desired hold and texture.
**Step 8: Final Inspection**
* **Check for Symmetry:** Use a mirror to check the haircut from all angles. Ensure that the fade is even and symmetrical on both sides of the head.
* **Make Final Adjustments:** Make any necessary adjustments to the fade, blending, or styling to achieve the perfect blowout taper.
## Tips for Achieving the Perfect Blowout Taper
* **Start with Clean Hair:** Always start with clean, washed hair. This will make it easier to cut and style.
* **Use Sharp Clippers:** Sharp clippers are essential for creating a clean, even fade. Dull clippers can tug on the hair and create uneven results.
* **Take Your Time:** Don’t rush the process. Take your time and pay attention to detail to achieve the best results.
* **Use a Mirror:** A mirror is essential for checking your work and ensuring that the fade is even and symmetrical.
* **Practice Makes Perfect:** The more you practice, the better you will become at creating blowout tapers.
* **Watch Tutorials:** Watch online tutorials and videos to learn new techniques and improve your skills.
* **Experiment with Products:** Experiment with different styling products to find the ones that work best for your hair type and desired style.
* **Consult a Professional:** If you’re not confident in your ability to create a blowout taper yourself, consult a professional barber or stylist.
* **Communicate Clearly:** If you are getting the haircut from a barber, communicate clearly about the kind of taper you want. Show images if possible.
* **Regular Maintenance:** Get regular trims to maintain the shape and style of your blowout taper. This will typically involve trimming the top and tidying up the fade.
## Styling Variations for Blowout Taper
* **Textured Top:** Use texturizing products to create a messy, textured look on top.
* **Slicked Back:** Use pomade or gel to slick the hair back for a more polished look.
* **Spiky Top:** Use hair wax or gel to create a spiky, edgy look on top.
* **Faux Hawk:** Style the hair on top into a faux hawk for a bolder look.
* **Curly Blowout:** Embrace your natural curls by using curl-enhancing products and styling the hair to create defined curls on top.
## Choosing the Right Styling Products
The best styling products for a blowout taper will depend on your hair type and the desired style. Here are some recommendations:
* **Mousse:** Mousse adds volume and hold without making the hair stiff.
* **Sea Salt Spray:** Sea salt spray adds texture and creates a beachy, tousled look.
* **Texturizing Powder:** Texturizing powder adds volume and grip, making the hair easier to style.
* **Hair Wax:** Hair wax provides strong hold and definition, allowing you to create a variety of styles.
* **Pomade:** Pomade provides a classic, slicked-back look with medium hold and shine.
* **Hair Spray:** Hair spray is used to set the style and provide long-lasting hold.
## Maintaining Your Blowout Taper
* **Regular Trims:** Get regular trims every 2-4 weeks to maintain the shape and style of your blowout taper.
* **Proper Washing:** Wash your hair 2-3 times a week to keep it clean and healthy. Avoid over-washing, as this can strip the hair of its natural oils.
* **Conditioning:** Use a conditioner after shampooing to hydrate and nourish the hair.
* **Deep Conditioning:** Use a deep conditioner once a week to provide extra moisture and repair damage.
* **Protect from Heat:** Use a heat protectant spray before using heat styling tools such as hair dryers and straighteners.
* **Sleep with a Satin Pillowcase:** Sleeping on a satin pillowcase can help to reduce friction and prevent breakage.
## Conclusion
The blowout taper is a stylish and versatile haircut that can be customized to suit any hair type and personal preference. By following these step-by-step instructions and tips, you can achieve the perfect blowout taper and elevate your style. Remember to practice, experiment with different styling products, and consult a professional if needed. With a little patience and effort, you’ll be rocking a fresh, modern look in no time!