The burst fade mohawk is a haircut that blends sharp, clean fades around the ears with a bold strip of longer hair down the center of the head. It’s a daring and expressive look, offering countless ways to personalize and style it. The beauty of the burst fade mohawk lies in its versatility—it works with curly hair, straight hair, dreadlocks, twists, and even dyed styles. Here are the top 12 burst fade mohawk styles for men who want to turn heads and express their personal flair.
1. Classic Burst Fade Mohawk
The classic version of the burst fade mohawk features a sleek fade around the ear that “bursts” out in a semicircle, with a consistent strip of longer hair from the forehead to the nape of the neck. This style is ideal for men who want a bold yet structured look. It suits most hair types and works especially well with thick or curly textures. To maintain it, regular edge-ups and a good styling product like pomade or curl cream are essential.
2. Curly Mohawk with Burst Fade
This variation embraces natural curls and elevates them with a sharp burst fade. The curls remain untouched on top and down the middle, adding volume and texture, while the sides are tapered to perfection. It’s an excellent choice for men with tight curls or coils and offers a great balance between edgy and approachable. Use a curl-defining cream or leave-in conditioner to keep the curls bouncy and frizz-free.
3. Burst Fade Mohawk with Twists
For a more textured and defined look, twists are a perfect option. Paired with a burst fade, twisted hair adds depth and dimension while keeping the mohawk sleek. This style works best for men with medium to long hair and requires regular twisting and moisturizing to stay fresh. It’s a great protective style and looks fantastic with clean edges and a sharp fade.
4. Burst Fade with Braided Mohawk
Combining braids with a burst fade mohawk brings cultural richness and high-impact style. The braids can be cornrows, box braids, or even creative patterns running down the mohawk strip. This look is excellent for men who want both style and practicality—since braids last longer and need less daily maintenance. A well-executed line-up will make this style pop even more.
5. Short Textured Mohawk with Burst Fade
For men who prefer a low-maintenance, clean-cut look, the short textured mohawk with a burst fade is a winner. The hair down the middle is cropped short but textured, creating a subtle but stylish contrast against the faded sides. Ideal for straight or wavy hair, this style is easy to maintain and perfect for professional settings while still showing off a modern edge.
6. Burst Fade Mohawk with Dreads
Dreadlocks offer a bold aesthetic, and when combined with a burst fade mohawk, the result is striking. The locks can be medium to long in length, either styled downward or pulled into a ponytail or bun. The burst fade around the ears gives structure and modernity to the look. This style is perfect for men wanting to showcase their dreads in a unique, fashion-forward way.
7. Faux Hawk with Burst Fade
Not ready to fully commit to a mohawk? The faux hawk with a burst fade offers a more conservative alternative while still keeping the style edge. The top hair is styled upward and slightly inward, mimicking a mohawk, while the burst fade on the sides maintains clean, modern lines. This look works great for men with wavy or straight hair and is very adaptable for both casual and formal environments.
8. Burst Fade Mohawk with Hair Design
Add some flair to your mohawk by incorporating hair designs into the burst fade area. Geometric lines, tribal patterns, or freestyle designs elevate the haircut and personalize your look. This style requires a skilled barber and regular upkeep, but the result is eye-catching and artistic. It’s a great way to combine creativity with a bold silhouette.
9. Long Mohawk with Burst Fade
If you’re into dramatic and standout hairstyles, the long mohawk with burst fade is the way to go. The hair on top is kept significantly longer—shoulder-length or even more—while the burst fade adds structure around the ears. This look is particularly powerful when paired with curls, waves, or layered textures. It’s a rebellious, rockstar-inspired style that demands attention.
10. Colored Burst Fade Mohawk
Want your hairstyle to really stand out? Add color. Whether it’s platinum blond, bright red, or subtle highlights, color brings a whole new vibe to the burst fade mohawk. This style works best when the mohawk portion is left longer to showcase the hue. Make sure to use color-safe products and deep conditioners to maintain hair health and vibrancy.
11. Afro Mohawk with Burst Fade
The afro mohawk is a celebration of natural volume and texture. The burst fade adds contour to the afro shape, creating a stunning blend of traditional and modern. This style suits men with tightly coiled hair who want a standout cut without sacrificing length or natural structure. Keep it moisturized and shaped with a pick or sponge for a neat and defined look.
12. Spiky Mohawk with Burst Fade
Spikes and burst fades are a match made in edgy hairstyle heaven. This look uses styling products to spike up the center strip of hair, while the burst fade keeps the sides sharp and clean. It’s perfect for men with straight or slightly wavy hair and gives off a punk-inspired vibe. Use a strong hold gel or wax to keep the spikes upright throughout the day.
