Blended Undercut: What It Is and How to Ask for One
A blended undercut is an undercut where the sides are blended into the top with a fade or a taper, so there is no hard line between the short sides and the longer hair above. The sides step down gradually, and the result looks smoother and easier to grow out than a plain undercut.
At Lilacroix Barbers in Laurelton, most of the undercuts we cut are blended, because they work with coily and curly hair and they look sharp at work. Here is what the cut is, who it suits, how to ask for it and how to keep it.
What is a blended undercut?
It is short sides and back, longer hair on top, and a smooth blend between the two. The blend can be a taper, a low fade, a mid fade or a high fade, and it is done with clippers over the comb or guard numbers stepping up.
A plain undercut has a sudden jump from short to long, and a disconnected undercut keeps the jump on purpose. A blended one softens it. We explain the first two cuts in disconnected undercut versus undercut.
The blend is the part that takes skill. At our shop, a fade cut is $30 and a taper is $25, and the blended undercut is built on one of those.
How is it different from a regular undercut and from no undercut?
A regular undercut is a clear line, and a blended one has no line at all. Having no undercut means the sides keep some length and flow into the top.
| Cut | Sides | Top | Look |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blended undercut | Faded or tapered | Longer, blended in | Smooth |
| Plain undercut | Very short, no blend | Longer, clear jump | Bold |
| Disconnected | Short | Long, kept apart | Contrast |
| No undercut | Same as top, trimmed | Longer | Natural |
If you want to see the choice laid out, undercut versus no undercut compares them side by side. A blended cut is the middle path, and it is also the one that suits an office best.
Does a blended undercut work on coily and 4C hair?
Yes, very well. Coily hair holds a shape at any length, so the top stays full, and the faded sides give a strong contrast with a soft transition.
On 4C hair, the top is kept about two to four inches and shaped round or square. The sides are faded down from a number 3 or 4 to a number 1 or skin. The result looks like an afro taper with a bit more shape. On curly hair, the top has loose curls and the sides are clean. On wavy hair, the top can be brushed to the side.
Because coils shrink, ask the barber to cut the top a little longer than the number you have in mind, so it settles at the right length. A line up around the hairline adds the final frame, and it is $16.
Is the undercut still in style?
Yes, though the way it is cut has changed. The hard line is gone and the blended version has replaced it, which is why men keep coming in for it.
The question comes up often, and we answer it in two separate posts: are undercuts out of style and are undercuts still popular. The short answer is that fades and tapers are the most requested cuts in Southeast Queens, and the blended undercut is a version of that idea with more length on top.
If you like the shape but do not want to commit to a short side, ask for a taper instead of a fade. It keeps more hair at the bottom, and it grows out gently.
How do you ask for a blended undercut?
Say blended undercut, show a photo and give the guard numbers. If you do not know them, say how short you want the sides and how long you want the top.
- Name the cut and show a photo.
- Say how long the top should be, in inches or fingers.
- Pick the blend height. Our low fade versus high fade comparison helps you choose.
- Pick the bottom: a number 1 or number 2, or skin.
- Ask for a line up and a clean neckline.
The barber will tell you if your head shape or hairline needs a change. It is a short chat and it saves a lot of regret.
How do you style and keep a blended undercut?
Keep the sides fresh and the top moisturized, because the blend is what people notice first. A visit every two to three weeks keeps the blend crisp.
Styling
On 4C hair, use a light moisturizer and a pick, and let the top sit. On wavy hair, a little paste and a quick shape with the fingers is enough. On straight hair, push the top back or to the side.
Upkeep
The sides grow out first, and the blend gets softer. A line up at $16 between full cuts makes the edges look new. If you want the beard blended in too, ask about a beard trim and sculpt, priced by call.
Booking it in one visit
For men who want the haircut, the line up and the beard done together, the groom package covers it, and our shop opens early on weekdays and weekends, so you can come before work. A plain men's haircut is $25.
Get a blended undercut in Laurelton
Walk in or call ahead, and bring a photo of the shape you want. Lilacroix Barbers is at 232-12 Merrick Blvd in Laurelton, NY 11413, and the number is (718) 749-5800. We are open seven days, Monday to Thursday from 7:30 AM to 7 PM, Friday and Saturday from 7 AM to 7 PM, and Sunday from 7 AM to 5 PM.
Start with a fade cut and tell the barber how you want the blend. Directions and bus routes are at contact and directions.
Questions readers ask
How long should the top be for a blended undercut?
Two to four inches is common, and longer works too. Coily hair shrinks, so ask the barber to leave a little extra.
Is a blended undercut good for work?
Yes. The smooth blend looks neat and professional, and the top can be styled to match the dress code.
Can I get a blended undercut with a beard?
Yes. The barber can blend the fade into the beard so the face looks even. Beard work is priced by call.
How long does the cut last?
The sharp look lasts about two weeks, and the shape holds for three to four. A line up helps stretch it.
Can kids get a blended undercut?
Yes, with a shorter top. The kids cut is $20, and the barber can blend the sides gently.