What is 4 on the sides haircut no fade?

4 on the Sides Haircut (No Fade)

A "4 on the sides" haircut refers to using a number 4 clipper guard on the sides of the head. The defining characteristic of this style, when specified as "no fade," is the absence of a gradual transition in length between the sides and the top. Instead, there is a more abrupt and noticeable change in length.

• Length: The sides will be approximately ½ inch long (as a number 4 guard corresponds to ½ inch).
• No Fade: Instead of a smooth gradient from short to long, the hair is cut to the designated length of number 4 all around the sides and back, without blending into other lengths.
• Top: The hair on top can be styled according to preference, typically longer than the sides to create contrast. Common choices include longer, layered styles, a quiff, or a pompadour.
• Clean Lines: To keep the style neat, it's important to keep the edges clean. Line up refers to trimming around the hairline and sideburns.
• Maintenance: Requires regular trimming to maintain the desired length and sharp contrast between the sides and the top.

This is a more blunt, straightforward haircut compared to styles with fades, offering a clean and defined look. It is important to explicitly request "no fade" to your barber to avoid them unintentionally adding a faded effect. Also specifying a taper vs no taper will further define the cut.