A burst fade mohawk is a dynamic hairstyle where the sides and back of the head are tapered in a circular, “bursting” pattern, typically around the ears, while the top remains longer, styled into a mohawk. Unlike the traditional mohawk with its fully shaved sides, the burst fade offers a softer, more gradual transition from short to long hair, creating a polished yet rebellious look. The fade starts high near the temples and curves downward, blending seamlessly into the skin or a low taper.
This style’s versatility makes it a favorite among men of all ages and backgrounds. From curly to straight hair, low to high fades, and subtle to dramatic designs, the burst fade mohawk adapts to various textures and preferences. It’s a haircut that screams personality while remaining approachable for professional settings when styled appropriately.
Why I Fell in Love with the Burst Fade Mohawk
A few years ago, I walked into my barber’s shop feeling stuck in a style rut. I wanted something fresh, modern, and uniquely me. After some back-and-forth, my barber suggested a burst fade mohawk with a curly top. The moment I saw the result in the mirror, I was hooked. The clean taper around my ears accentuated my face shape, and the voluminous curls on top gave me a confident edge. Since then, I’ve experimented with different variations—low burst fades, high bursts, and even a dyed mohawk for a music festival. Each version felt like a new chapter of self-expression.
Types and Styles of the Burst Fade Mohawk
The beauty of the burst fade mohawk lies in its adaptability. Below, I’ve broken down the most popular types and styles to help you find the perfect fit for your vibe, hair type, and lifestyle.
1. Classic Burst Fade Mohawk
The classic version features a moderate fade that starts high at the temples and tapers down around the ears in a semicircle. The mohawk strip on top is kept medium-length, making it easy to style with pomade or gel for a sleek, polished look. This style suits most face shapes and is ideal for those dipping their toes into the mohawk world for the first time.
Styling Tip: Use a lightweight pomade to define the mohawk without weighing it down. I’ve found that a quick blow-dry with a round brush adds extra volume for a standout look.
2. Curly Burst Fade Mohawk
Perfect for guys with naturally curly or coily hair, this variation lets your curls take center stage. The burst fade keeps the sides tight, allowing the textured top to shine. This style is a favorite in urban barbershops and works well for African American hair textures or anyone with tight curls.
Personal Note: As someone with curly hair, I love how this style highlights natural texture. A curl-defining cream or mousse is my go-to for keeping the mohawk bouncy and frizz-free.
3. High Burst Fade Mohawk
For a bolder take, the high burst fade starts the taper closer to the crown, creating a dramatic contrast between the short sides and the longer top. This style is perfect for those who want a head-turning look that screams confidence.
Maintenance Tip: High fades grow out quickly, so book a barber appointment every 2-3 weeks to keep the burst sharp. I learned this the hard way when my fade started looking uneven after a month!
4. Low Burst Fade Mohawk
If you prefer a subtler approach, the low-burst fade mohawk is a great choice. The fade begins lower on the sides, blending gradually into the longer top. This style is workplace-friendly and suits straight or wavy hair textures.
Styling Hack: I often use a matte clay for this style to add texture without the glossy finish, giving it a more natural, effortless vibe.
5. Designed Burst Fade Mohawk
For those who love to push boundaries, adding shaved designs or patterns to the fade elevates the mohawk to an art form. From lightning bolts to geometric shapes, barbers can create intricate designs that make your haircut a conversation starter.
My Experience: I once got a Starburst design shaved into my fade for a summer festival. It was a hit, but I’d recommend keeping designs simple if you’re in a professional setting.
6. Burst Fade Mohawk Little Boy Mullet
This playful variation combines the burst fade mohawk with a mini mullet, featuring a longer back section that adds a fun, retro vibe perfect for young boys. The burst fade starts high around the temples and curves around the ears, keeping the sides clean while the top and back are left longer to create a short mullet effect. This style is great for kids with adventurous personalities and works well with various hair textures, from straight to curly.
Styling Tip: Use a small amount of lightweight gel to shape the mohawk and mullet sections. A quick tousle with your fingers keeps the look natural and kid-friendly, perfect for school or playdates.
7. Straight Hair Burst Fade Mohawk
Designed for those with straight hair, this version emphasizes a sleek, structured mohawk with a clean burst fade that tapers smoothly around the ears. The straight hair on top is kept medium to long, allowing for versatile styling, from spiked to combed-back looks. This style is ideal for men or boys seeking a polished yet edgy appearance that highlights straight hair’s natural sheen.
Styling Tip: Apply a medium-hold pomade or wax to enhance shine and hold the mohawk in place. I’ve found that blow-drying straight hair upward with a round brush creates a sharp, voluminous look that lasts all day.
8. Burst Fade Mohawk for Black Men
This iconic style celebrates the natural texture of African American hair, often featuring tight curls or coily hair on top with a precise burst fade that curves around the ears. The fade can be high, mid, or low, depending on the desired intensity, and the top is styled to showcase the hair’s volume and texture. This variation is a staple in urban barbershops, offering a bold, confident look for black men.
Styling Tip: Use a curl-defining cream or sponge to enhance the texture of the mohawk. Regular barber visits every 2-3 weeks keep the fade crisp, especially for high-contrast styles.
9. Burst Fade Mohawk Short Hair
For those who prefer a low-maintenance look, the short hair burst fade mohawk keeps the top cropped close while maintaining the signature burst fade around the ears. The shorter mohawk strip reduces styling time, making it perfect for busy individuals or those new to fades. This style works across hair types and is versatile for casual or professional settings.
Styling Tip: A matte clay or paste works wonders for adding texture to the short mohawk without a glossy finish. I like to use my fingers to pinch the hair upward for a subtle, effortless spike.
10. V Shape Burst Fade Mohawk
The V-shaped burst fade mohawk adds a unique twist with a V-shaped design shaved into the back of the fade, creating a striking focal point. The burst fade tapers around the ears, while the top is styled into a mohawk that can be long or short, depending on preference. This style is perfect for those who want a bold, artistic haircut that stands out.
Styling Tip: Use a strong-hold gel to define the mohawk and keep the V shape visible by maintaining the fade with clippers every 2-3 weeks. I’ve found that a mirror and a steady hand can help touch up the V design at home between barber visits.
How to Choose the Right Burst Fade Mohawk for You
Selecting the perfect burst fade mohawk depends on your hair type, face shape, and lifestyle. Here are some factors to consider:
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Hair Type: Curly or coily hair thrives with a curly burst fade, while straight hair suits a sleek, classic mohawk. Wavy hair can go either way, depending on the desired texture.
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Face Shape: Oval and square faces pair well with high or classic fades, while round faces benefit from a low fade to elongate the appearance.
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Maintenance: High fades require frequent barber visits, while low fades are more low-maintenance. Consider how often you’re willing to hit the barbershop.
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Personal Style: If you love bold looks, go for a high fade or a designed mohawk. For a more subtle vibe, stick with a low or classic fade.
My Advice: Talk to your barber about your daily routine and style preferences. A good barber will tailor the cut to your needs. I always bring a few reference photos to ensure we’re on the same page.
How to Style and Maintain
Styling a burst fade mohawk is easier than it looks, but it does require some effort to keep it looking sharp. Here’s a step-by-step guide based on my routine:
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Wash and Condition: Use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner to keep your hair healthy, especially if you’re dyeing or using styling products regularly.
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Blow-Dry for Volume: After washing, blow-dry the top with a round brush to add height and shape to the mohawk.
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Apply Product: Use a styling product like pomade, gel, or mousse, depending on your hair type and desired finish. For curly hair, a curl cream works wonders; for straight hair, a medium-hold pomade is ideal.
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Shape the Mohawk: Use your fingers or a comb to direct the hair upward and toward the center of your head. For a spiky look, pinch small sections of hair and pull upward.
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Maintain the Fade: Visit your barber every 2-4 weeks to keep the burst fade crisp. At-home touch-ups with clippers can help between visits if you’re comfortable.
Barber Tip: Ask for a burst fade with a specific clipper guard number (e.g., #1 or #2) to control the length of the fade. I prefer a #1.5 for a balanced look.
Why is the hairstyle Popular?
The burst fade mohawk is popular because it balances clean fades with a rebellious edge while working on different hair textures, including coarse hair, curly hair, and straight hair.
Whether you want a short burst fade mohawk for easier maintenance or a long mohawk with a high fade for a dramatic effect, this style adapts to your lifestyle while standing out in any crowd.
Final Thoughts:
The burst fade mohawk is more than a haircut—it’s a lifestyle. It’s about embracing your individuality, experimenting with your look, and owning every room you walk into. Whether you go for a classic, curly, or designed version, this style offers endless ways to express yourself. My journey with the burst fade mohawk has been one of confidence and creativity, and I hope this guide inspires you to try it for yourself.
Ready to rock this look? Book a session with your barber, bring some inspo pics, and let the burst fade mohawk transform your style. Got questions or tips of your own? Drop them in the comments—I’d love to hear how you’re making this haircut your own!
FAQs
1. What’s the difference between a burst fade and a drop fade mohawk?
A burst fade curves around the ears and back, creating a “burst” effect, while a drop fade dips lower behind the ear and follows the natural hairline. The burst fade offers a sharper contrast, making it ideal for bold mohawks.
2. How often should I get a burst fade mohawk touch-up?
To maintain a crisp look, visit your barber every 2–3 weeks. Skin fades grow out faster, while tapered bursts can last slightly longer.
3. Can I get a burst fade mohawk with curly hair?
Absolutely! A curly burst fade mohawk looks amazing—just leave enough length on top (4+ inches) to showcase your curls. Use a curl-defining cream to enhance texture.
4. What face shape suits this haircut best?
This cut works for oval, square, and heart-shaped faces. If you have a round face, opt for a higher fade to elongate your silhouette.
5. How do I style a burst fade mohawk for a professional setting?
Skip the spikes—try a slicked-back or textured faux hawk with matte paste. A tapered burst fade (instead of a skin fade) also softens the look for the office.