Comparing styles
Skin fade or shadow fade: exposed skin or a short shadow?
A skin fade finishes the lowest section down to skin. A shadow fade retains a very short, visible layer of hair there. Both can be low, mid or high. The difference is the bottom finish, not the route of the transition.
Choose by visible contrast
Skin at the bottom increases the jump to darker hair. A shadow retains a subtle visible layer. Compare side photographs in similar light, as strong lighting can make exposed skin look more pronounced.
Indicate how large that lowest area may be. Even with the same finish, a narrow strip creates a different result from a larger area.
Include comfort in the decision
If a very close finish felt uncomfortable before, say so. You can request a visible shadow without making the whole transition less tidy. Someone else’s photograph should not outweigh what feels right on your skin.
For a new kind of finish, ask what the barber means by the shortest zone. This gives you room to adjust the choice before the area is finished.
Be realistic about grow-out
With a skin fade, the exposed bottom becomes a shadow quickly as hair returns. With a shadow fade, the change may feel more gradual. Both grow out; choose neither expecting it to remain unchanged.
Decide when to tidy it according to your own preferred contrast. Product on top does not alter the length at the bottom.
Explore further
Discuss your preferences in the chair
Bring your reference and explain your everyday hair routine. Browse the treatments, then choose an appointment at L’Artiste in Almere.