So here we are. Talking about burst fades and curly hair. You’ve seen it on TikTok, maybe in a barbershop, or passed someone on the street who had that crisp cut that made you do a double take. The burst fade isn’t new, but when you pair it with curly hair something happens. It hits different. And in 2025, the look’s evolved. Subtle shifts in shape, linework, volume it’s all more personal now.
ALT: burst fade curly hair on a young man looking sideways
Why Burst Fade and Curls Just Work
Curly hair’s got volume, texture, attitude. And the burst fade? It cleans up the sides without killing that natural bounce. You’re left with contrast—the kind of contrast that draws the eye but doesn’t scream for attention. Kinda like wearing something tailored that still feels laid-back.
The Different Takes on It
There’s no one way to do a burst fade on curly hair. Some go all in with a mohawk burst fade curly hair combo. Some keep it quiet with a low taper burst fade curly hair setup. Others? Full volume mullet action up top.
Burst Fade Mullet Curly Hair
Let’s not pretend this isn’t bold. It’s in-your-face in the best way. The taper burst fade mullet curly hair variation is gaining traction again—except cleaner this time. Less Billy Ray, more modern edge. Back stays longer. Sides? Tapered to the skin around the ear.
Low Burst Fade Curly Hair
Subtle. Good for tight curls that don’t wanna puff out too much. You keep the shape neat without chopping off too much. Especially solid if you’re wearing curls shorter or even cropped. If you’re curious how this compares to traditional taper styles, check out low taper fade guide.
Mid Burst Fade Curly Hair
Mid gives a little more punch. Sits right between the temple and above the ear. More defined than low, not as dramatic as high. Balanced, but with attitude. Mid burst fade curly hair works well on guys who want their curls to pop. Learn more about the mid taper fade and how it plays into different curly styles.
High Burst Fade Curly Hair
High’s dramatic. If you’re rocking thick curls, this one’s for you. It clears everything under the temple and lifts the whole cut up. Lotta guys going for this in 2025 are adding shaved designs behind the ear or even skin fades. You can also take a look at the high taper haircut for more inspiration on where the fade can land.
Burst Fade Long Curly Hair
Let’s say you’ve got shoulder-length curls or just wild volume up top. You can still fade the sides. Burst fade long curly hair’s all about that mushroom silhouette bigger on top, tighter on the sides. Let the curls do what they want. Just manage the frame.
What’s the Maintenance Like?
Here’s the deal burst fades don’t last forever. You’ll need touchups every 2–3 weeks if you want it sharp. Especially if the fade dips into the skin. And curls? Keep ‘em hydrated. Use leave-in or curl cream. Dry frizz ruins the whole shape.
Styling Tips (From One Barber to Another Guy Who Wants to Look Good)
- Use a pick or wide-tooth comb in the morning. Keeps curls from clumping too tight.
- Don’t skip the diffuser. Air-drying’s cool, but with a diffuser, you control the bounce.
- Edge it up yourself between cuts—just be careful near the fade.
Taper Burst Fade Curly Hair: Is It Too Much?
Nah. Not if your curls got that spring. A burst taper fade curly hair look can be clean and understated. Instead of dropping all the way down behind the ear, the taper ends around the mid-neck. You keep some shape around the back.
Mohawk Burst Fade Curly Hair: If You’re Feeling Brave
We’ve seen the mohawk burst fade curly hair thing explode on IG reels and barbershop portfolios. It’s for folks not afraid to be noticed. Thick curls up top, dropped sides, and a clean arch around the ear. Let the top go wild.
Fade Placement and Curl Pattern: They Matter
Loose curls? You can go tighter on the fade without it looking jarring. Coily or 4C curls? Might want more blend room. You don’t want a harsh disconnect unless you’re purposely doing a shadow fade or contrast.
How It’s Evolving in 2025
Barbers are doing more personalized taper burst fade curly hair looks. Not one-size-fits-all anymore. You’re seeing fades that blend into beard shapes, angular cuts around glasses, even slight asymmetry. We’re in the era of customized cuts.
FAQ
1. What is a burst fade on curly hair?
It’s a fade that arches around the ear and curves into the neckline, keeping curls full on top while the sides stay clean.
2. Is burst fade good for curly hair?
Yeah, especially if you want contrast. It defines the head shape without chopping your curls off.
3. What’s the difference between a burst fade and a taper fade?
A burst fade curves around the ear. A taper fade usually sticks to the sideburns and neck only. Burst is bolder.
4. How do you maintain a burst fade curly hair style?
Regular touch-ups (every 2–3 weeks), curl hydration, and edge maintenance with a liner or trimmer.
5. Can I get a burst fade with a curly hair mullet?
Absolutely. It’s one of the more popular curly styles right now—volume in the back, fade on the sides.
Kamran Shahzad is a seasoned hair fashion writer with a flair for edgy and modern styles. At The Modern Mullet, he explores bold hair trends, classic cuts, and everything in between—helping you find your next iconic look with confidence.