The back of the head is an often-overlooked but balancing element in a men’s haircut that generally features a masterful blend into the neckline for a smooth, classy finish. A short back seamlessly transitioning into the neck can add dimension and visual interest to your look, framing the style’s view from behind.

With modern appeal, the most popular haircuts in the back are timeless choices like the elegant taper, stylish fade or traditional rounded neckline, which complement the sides and highlight the longer hair on top.

The edgy way to personalize the back of your head is to ask your barber for a cool design, such as a shaved line or v-shaped cut, symbolizing your rebellious and fashion-forward spirit.

From simple to creative, an attractive men’s back-of-the-head haircut embraces artistry and precision to achieve a fresh look that will stand out.

Popular Men’s Haircuts From The Back of the Head

Classic Taper

A classic taper offers a clean and polished appearance at the back of the head, creating an understated, blended style that flatters textured hair. The timeless taper works with several classy and modern men’s hairstyles, including the stylish quiff, comb over or voluminous brush-back with its refined, well-groomed flair. You’ll need regular trims to maintain the shape, but the gradual tapered cut avoids highlighting any noticeable, harsh lines as it grows out.

Fresh Fade

A fresh fade is geared towards modern men who appreciate sharp styles with solid contrast and a smooth, sleek appearance. Like this example, maintaining a few inches on top allows you to slick the hair back with pomade for a classy, high shine that blends into the neckline. A skin fade with a slight drop will provide an angled silhouette that flatters more masculine features.

Taper Fade

A versatile taper fade can be a low-maintenance cut that pairs well with short and medium-length hairstyles, offering a sophisticated, handsome look with youthful energy. A short, tapered neckline blends down the back and sides, working to accentuate the longer, layered hair on top.

Rounded Neckline

A rounded neckline is a classic haircut in the back that removes sharp edges and forms a softer aesthetic. The sophisticated shape mimics the natural curvature of the back of the head and neck, creating a balanced and harmonious look that blends perfectly into longer, brushed-back layers.

Drop Fade

A drop fade is a modern haircut on the sides and back that curves around the head, blending into the neckline for a sleek appearance. A drop taper fade can provide effortless drama that enhances simple styles with minimal effort. A mid fade can balance a longer, voluminous top, while a high skin fade provides an edgy framework.

Burst Fade

The bold burst fade, characterized by a precise haircut that curves around the head and into the back, provides a standout look with contemporary appeal. This variation of the classic fade drops behind the ear, making it a popular style to highlight a longer top. Lightly taper the back for a subtle edge or fade the cut down to the skin for a more dramatic take. Lightly muss the hair with pomade or wax to let your playful side shine without spending hours in front of the mirror.

Undercut Fade

An undercut fade makes a stylish statement by pairing the gradual tapering of a fade with the sleekness of a closely cropped or buzzed back and sides. Comb the hair to one side with a strong-hold gel for a retro style or add a sharp, shaved line for a daring element. Style a slick back, pompadour or faux hawk to draw attention to the disconnect between the longer top and tapered back and sides.

Traditional Neck Taper

A traditional neck taper is a contemporary take on a timeless and flattering haircut, allowing the buzzed neckline to emphasize the textured longer top. In this example, the smooth transition at the neckline gradually eliminates weight at the back of the head. It maintains a clean appearance that avoids abrupt length changes to keep the vibe professional.

Cool Haircut Design in the Back

A cool haircut design in the back involves intricate patterns, shaved lines or stylish shapes, adding a unique touch to your style. Shaved lines at the base of the nape give a stylish dimension while breathing life into classic, layered haircuts. Experiment with zig-zags, lightning bolts, tribal patterns or initials to showcase your creative edge. A sexy line up at the forehead brings subtle angularity and balances more daring designs.

Mid Fade

The mid fade is a balanced, stylish cut with a low-maintenance back and pairs effortlessly with any man’s hairstyle, straight, wavy or curly hair. This versatile fade typically starts at the middle of the head and combines a short back and sides with a longer top for an attractive look. Maintain youthful flow with a tousled quiff or sport a stylish crew or functional buzz cut for a masculine finish.

Low Fade

The low fade offers an elegant, universal look perfect for the business professional man who appreciates light structure in their haircut. The low fade tapers down from the ears, drawing attention to a textured top or classic quiff without pulling focus or looking overly edgy. Go for a taper fade if you want a seamless skin blend, or rock a fresh blowout for an eye-catching look with volume.

High Fade

A high fade is a bold haircut on the sides and back that quickly buzzes down and transitions into the skin. Starting the fade higher on the head creates instant contrast against even the shortest men’s styles. While flowing brush backs and retro pomps can look trendy with this fade, a buzz cut removes the need for heat and styling products.

Skin Fade

The skin fade combines sharpness and precision for a naturally smooth, blended cut, giving your neckline a fresh look. With this haircut, your barber gradually blends the hair in the back of the head, using a shaver at the end for a smooth, clean trim. The top can be mussed and layered for texture. Maintain clean-cut lines to avoid an unkempt, grown-out style.

Burst Skin Fade

The burst skin fade is a rebellious cut for guys who want an easygoing, neat look with a hint of visual interest. The sides are closely buzzed to the skin and can be styled with a sharp military top or stylish faux hawk to bring more structure and volume to the forehead. Ask your barber to keep the look seamless with a neat trim around the fade’s border.

Simple Shaved Line Back Taper Design

A classic taper design always stays in style, but adding a simple shaved line at the back lets you showcase your personality while bringing dimension to your look. A few razor-cut lines on one side bring texture, drama and contrast, allowing you to experiment with a choppy top for a youthful feel.