Low Taper Haircuts in Frisco, TX
The low taper keeps almost all of your length on the sides and only cleans up the sideburns and neckline. It looks sharp and finished without looking freshly buzzed — a good fit if you want something clean that still grows out well.
What Is a Low Taper?
A low taper gradually shortens the hair just above the ears and at the nape of the neck. Everything above that line stays at your normal length, so from the front you mostly see a tidy edge rather than a visible fade.
It's different from a low fade: a fade blends the sides down all the way around the head, while a taper only works the edges. If you've seen it on TikTok as the "clean but not too short" look, this is it.
Who Is a Low Taper Best For?
There's no single "right" haircut — but these are the things that help decide whether a low taper will work for you.
Hair texture
Works with straight, wavy and curly hair. On curls and coils it keeps volume on top while the edges stay neat.
Length
Ideal if you want to keep length on top and through the sides — including longer textured or flow styles.
Work & school
Subtle enough for conservative dress codes while still looking deliberate.
Maintenance
Low. Because so little is taken short, it grows out more gracefully than a high fade.
Variations of the Low Taper
Low Taper Fade
The taper is blended a little tighter to the skin at the very bottom for extra contrast.
Low Burst Taper
The taper curves around the ear in a half-moon shape — popular with textured tops and mullet-style backs.
Low Taper with Texture
Paired with a choppy, scissor-textured top for movement.
Low Taper on Curly Hair
Keeps the curl pattern full on top with clean temples and nape.
Real Low Taper Examples From Elevate
Every photo below is real work from our chairs in Frisco. Browse the full gallery →
Low Taper Specialists
These Elevate barbers have real low taper work in our gallery.
How to Ask Your Barber for a Low Taper
- Bring two or three reference photos, ideally from the side and back.
- Say "low taper" and point to where you want it to start — usually just above the ear.
- Tell your barber whether you want the bottom taken to skin or left with a little shadow.
- Be specific about the top: how much length to remove, and whether you want texture or a clean, blended finish.
- Mention how you style it day to day so the cut works with your routine.
How to Style It
- Natural or wavy hair: a light cream or sea-salt spray, then air-dry or rough-dry with your fingers.
- Curly hair: a leave-in or curl cream on damp hair; avoid brushing once it's dry.
- Straight hair: a matte paste or clay worked through dry hair for texture.
How Often Should You Get It Cut?
Most clients come back every 3–4 weeks to keep the edges crisp. If you're growing the top out, you can stretch to 4–5 weeks and just have the taper refreshed.
Related Haircuts
If you're considering a low taper, you may also like:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a low taper?
A low taper shortens the hair only around the sideburns and neckline, keeping length everywhere else. It's one of the most subtle ways to look freshly cut.
What's the difference between a low taper and a low fade?
A taper only works the edges (temples and nape). A low fade blends the hair short all the way around the bottom of the head, so it's more noticeable from every angle.
Does a low taper work with curly hair?
Yes. It's one of the most popular options for curly and textured hair because it keeps the curls full on top while the edges stay clean.
How long does my hair need to be?
There's no minimum — the taper itself is short. If you want a textured or longer style on top, 2–3 inches or more gives your barber something to work with.
How often should I get a low taper?
Every 3–4 weeks keeps it sharp. Because it grows out softly, some clients go a bit longer.
Where can I get a low taper in Frisco, TX?
At Elevate Barber Studio, 8750 E Main St, Ste 204 in Frisco. Book online or walk in — we're open six days a week including Sundays.
Ready to try a low taper?
Not sure which variation works best for your hair? Book with one of our Frisco barbers and we'll help you choose a version that fits your hair type, length and personal style.
Book Your Haircut →