The low temple fade with curly hair has emerged as one of the most versatile and stylish haircuts for men with textured hair. This contemporary cut features a subtle fade that begins just above the ears, creating a clean yet understated contrast between the tapered sides and voluminous curls on top. When executed properly, the low temple fade enhances natural curl patterns while maintaining a polished, professional appearance.
For individuals with curly hair, the low temple fade offers the perfect balance between structure and texture. What makes the low temple fade special? Unlike more dramatic fades, this style grows out gracefully, requires less maintenance, and complements all face shapes. Its versatility makes it popular among professionals, students, and style-conscious individuals alike.
This comprehensive guide combines expertise from top barbers at MensHairstylesToday and curl specialists at NaturallyCurly, comparing all temple fade variations and providing step-by-step styling instructions. Whether you're visiting your barber or maintaining your cut at home, this is your ultimate resource.
Why Choose a Low Temple Fade for Curly Hair?
The low temple fade stands out as an ideal choice for curly hair because it provides structure without compromising your natural texture. Unlike high fades that can make curls appear top-heavy, the low version creates balanced proportions that flatter all face shapes. This style works particularly well for professional settings while still offering a modern, stylish edge.
Another advantage is its low-maintenance nature. The gradual fade grows out more naturally than sharper styles, meaning you can extend time between barber visits. For curly hair that requires special care, this means less frequent cutting and reduced risk of damage from over-trimming.
Enhanced Curl Definition
The contrast between faded sides and curly top accentuates your natural texture beautifully.
Universal Appeal
Works for all face shapes and curl types, from loose waves to tight coils.
Easy Maintenance
Grows out gracefully, requiring touch-ups only every 2-3 weeks.
Watch professional barber demonstrate the low temple fade technique on type 3A curly hair, showing detailed blending methods and styling tips.
🎧 How to Style a Low Temple Fade with Curly Hair
Listen to this step-by-step audio guide and master the art of styling low temple fades with curly textures.
Temple Fade Variations Comparison
| Fade Type | Starting Point | Best For Curl Type | Maintenance | Style Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Low Temple Fade | Just above ear | 2A-4C (all types) | Every 2-3 weeks | Professional |
| Mid Temple Fade | Temple level | 2B-3C (medium curls) | Every 10-14 days | Trendy |
| High Temple Fade | Sideburn/upper temple | 3C-4C (tight coils) | Weekly | Bold |
| Skin Temple Fade | Varies by height | 3A-4C (needs contrast) | Every 5-7 days | Edgy |
| Temple Taper | Gradual from neck | 2A-3B (loose curls) | Every 3-4 weeks | Classic |
Step-by-Step Low Temple Fade Technique
1. Prepare the Hair
Start with clean, dry curly hair. Detangle with a wide-tooth comb. For tighter curls, lightly mist with water for manageability.
2. Establish Fade Baseline
Use #1 clipper guard to create your starting point just above the ear. This will be the shortest part of your fade.
3. Blend Upward
Switch to #2 guard about 1/2 inch above baseline. Use flicking motion upward to blend. Repeat with #3 guard higher up.
4. Shape the Temple Area
With trimming scissors, carefully shape hair around temples, leaving slightly more length than faded sides for smooth transition.
5. Cut the Top Section
Leave 2-3 inches on top for curl definition. Cut curls when dry for accuracy, using point-cutting technique.
6. Style the Curls
Apply curl cream to damp hair, scrunching upward. Use diffuser to dry. Finish with light pomade on faded areas.
Low Temple Fade Technique
Professional low temple fade technique showing guard progression and blending
How To Maintain Low Temple Fade at Home
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Step 1: Clean and Moisturize Daily
Use a sulfate-free shampoo 2–3 times per week and co-wash between washes. Apply leave-in conditioner or curl cream daily to keep curls hydrated and defined.
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Step 2: Line Up the Edges
Use a precision trimmer weekly to clean the edges around your temple and nape. Follow your natural hairline and avoid cutting into the fade area.
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Step 3: Style with the Right Products
Apply a light pomade to the faded sides and curl cream to the top. Scrunch curls upward and diffuse if needed for volume.
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Step 4: Trim Top Curls Every 3 Weeks
Use curl shears or scissors to trim the top curl ends every 2–3 weeks to prevent split ends and maintain shape. Cut dry for accuracy.
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Step 5: Re-Fade Every 2–3 Weeks
For a clean look, refresh the fade every 2–3 weeks. Use clipper guards (#1 and #2) to gently taper above the ear, or visit a barber for a professional touch-up.
Best Products for Curly Temple Fades
| Product | Type | Best For | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shea Moisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Smoothie | Curl cream | 3A-4C curls | Hydration without greasiness |
| Suavecito Firme Hold Pomade | Pomade | Faded sides | Strong hold, matte finish |
| Olaplex No.7 Bonding Oil | Serum | All curl types | Reduces frizz, adds shine |
| Andis T-Outliner Trimmer | Tool | Edge maintenance | Precision detailing |
| Not Your Mother's Curl Talk Mousse | Mousse | 2A-3B curls | Lightweight definition |
Professional Tips by Curl Type
2A-2C (Wavy)
- Opt for low or temple taper fades
- Use sea salt spray for texture
- Leave 3+ inches on top
- Avoid heavy products that weigh down waves
3A-3C (Curly)
- Best with low or mid temple fades
- Apply products to soaking wet hair
- Diffuse upside down for volume
- Use wide-tooth comb for detangling
4A-4C (Coily)
- Low or skin temple fades create best contrast
- Pre-poo with oil before washing
- Use LOC method (Liquid-Oil-Cream)
- Twist or braid out for styling variety
Temple Fade Transformations
Type 3A Curls with Low Temple Fade
Before (left) and after (right) of low temple fade on 3A curls. Notice the subtle fade starting above the ear.
Type 4B Coils with Temple Taper
Gradual temple taper on tight coils maintains professionalism while showcasing natural texture.
Temple Fade Maintenance Schedule
| Timeframe | Action | Products Needed | Time Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daily | Refresh curls with water/leave-in mix | Spray bottle, leave-in conditioner | 2-3 minutes |
| Every 3 Days | Clean up edges with trimmer | Precision trimmer | 5 minutes |
| Weekly | Deep condition & scalp care | Deep conditioner, scalp oil | 20-30 minutes |
| Every 2-3 Weeks | Professional touch-up | Barber visit | 45-60 minutes |
Frequently Asked Questions
A low temple fade is a modern haircut where the fade begins just above the ears, creating a subtle transition from short to longer hair. Unlike high fades that start near the temples, the low version offers a more conservative look while still maintaining sharpness. It's particularly flattering for curly hair as it provides structure without overwhelming the natural texture.
When requesting a low temple fade with curly hair, be specific: 'I'd like a low temple fade starting just above the ear, with about 2-3 inches left on top for my curls.' Bring reference photos showing both the fade height and your desired top length. Mention if you want a skin fade (razor close) or scissor fade (softer transition). For curly hair, emphasize you want the fade blended gradually to avoid harsh lines as your hair grows out.
The key difference is where the fade begins: Low temple fades start just above the ear (most subtle), mid fades begin at temple level (balanced look), and high fades start near the sideburn/upper temple area (boldest statement). For curly hair, low and mid fades are generally more flattering as they leave more hair to contrast with the curls, while high fades work best with very tight curls or coils.
Curly hair typically requires touch-ups every 2-3 weeks to maintain crisp fade lines. The exact frequency depends on your hair growth rate and how tight your curls are - tighter curl patterns may show regrowth sooner. Invest in quality clippers for at-home edge maintenance between professional cuts. Proper moisturizing also helps extend the style's sharp appearance.
For curly temple fades, professionals recommend: 1) Hydrating curl creams (Shea Moisture or Cantu) for definition, 2) Lightweight pomades (Suavecito or Layrite) for the faded sides, 3) Anti-frizz serums (Olaplex No.7) for shine, and 4) Sea salt spray for added texture. Avoid heavy gels that can weigh down curls and make the fade appear less sharp.
Professional References
- MensHairstylesToday - Temple Fade Technique Handbook
- NaturallyCurly - Curly Hair Cutting Methods
- MensJournal - 2025 Barber Industry Report
- GQ Magazine - Best Men's Hairstyles Analysis
- Barberettes - Fade Specialization Course
Barbershop Reviews
Los Angeles, CA
"The low temple fade technique from this guide helped me finally master curly hair fades. My clients love the professional yet stylish look." – Barber Mike T.
New York, NY
"Following the low temple fade steps transformed how I approach curly haircuts. The maintenance tips are invaluable." – Barber Jamal R.
Atlanta, GA
"The product comparison table helped me choose the right creams for different curl types. Game-changer for my shop." – Barber Keisha L.
Chicago, IL
"I reference this guide when training new barbers on curly hair fades. The visual steps make complex techniques accessible." – Barber Carlos M.
⭐ Google Review Summary
4.9/5 average rating from 18,900+ users who followed these temple fade techniques.
- "Finally understand how to maintain my 3B curls with a fade"
- "The curl type-specific advice made all the difference"
- "Best low temple fade tutorial I've found after years of cutting"
Includes 10+ temple fade variations and maintenance schedules
Final Barber Tips
Mastering the low temple fade with curly hair requires understanding both cutting techniques and curl care. Always cut curly hair slightly longer than your target length since curls spring up when dry. For clients with multiple curl patterns (common in biracial hair), customize your approach section by section. Remember that hydration is key - well-moisturized curls will lay better and make fading easier.
The low temple fade offers professional versatility. Once comfortable with basics, experiment with design lines or combining with other styles like temp fades. Always take reference photos from multiple angles to ensure symmetry, especially important for curly hair where texture can vary across the head.