What Are the Best Haircuts for Teenagers and Young Adults?

May 19

When it comes to hairstyles, teenagers and young adults have more freedom than ever to express their personalities and keep up with the latest trends. Whether you're going for a sharp, clean look or a bold, edgy style, the right haircut can boost confidence, complement your features, and fit your lifestyle.

At In The Cut Barbershop in Vancouver, we work with young men every day who want to look sharp without spending hours styling their hair. So, whether you're heading to high school, college, or starting a job, here’s a breakdown of the best haircuts for teens and young adults looking to keep their style fresh and current.

1. The Fade: Always a Classic, Always in Style

The fade is a go-to for a reason—it's clean, modern, and incredibly versatile. It works well with many hairstyles, from short crops to longer textured tops.

Popular fade variations include:

Low Fade – Starts just above the ears and is more subtle; perfect for a polished look.
Mid Fade – A balanced fade that starts around the temple, offering a stylish contrast.
High Fade – Begins higher on the head and adds a bold, edgy vibe.
Skin Fade – A fade that goes down to the skin for a super clean, fresh appearance.

Fades pair well with almost any style on top, making them a great base for experimentation.

2. The Textured Crop: Low Maintenance, High Impact

This cut has become increasingly popular among teenagers and young adults. The textured crop features short, choppy layers on top with a faded or tapered back and sides. It’s easy to style with just a bit of product and works especially well for guys with wavy or thick hair.

Why it works:

No need for constant touch-ups
Great for guys with active routines
Looks effortlessly cool with minimal effort

3. The Quiff or Pompadour: Modern, Stylish, and Bold

For those who don’t mind putting in a bit more styling time, the quiff and pompadour offer a trendy, standout look. These styles feature volume in the front that is brushed upward and back, paired with faded or tapered sides.

Best for:

Guys who like styling their hair
Formal events or nights out
Making a strong first impression

Use a blow dryer and strong-hold product to keep the shape intact throughout the day.

4. The Buzz Cut or Crew Cut: Simple and Sharp

Short haircuts like the buzz cut or crew cut are timeless and ideal for teens and young men who prefer minimal maintenance. These cuts also work well for guys with busy lifestyles or athletic routines.

What makes it a good choice:

Very low maintenance
Easy to grow out or reshape
Clean and professional appearance

If you want a fresh, masculine look with zero fuss, this is your style.

5. The Messy Fringe or Curtains: Relaxed and Youthful

This laid-back look works best for teenagers and young adults who want something more relaxed and expressive. Fringes and curtain styles let the hair fall forward or part in the middle, creating a casual and slightly rebellious aesthetic.

This style is perfect for:

Straight or wavy hair types
Those experimenting with style
Guys who prefer a softer, creative look

Add a light styling cream or wax to control volume and texture.

6. Personalized Styles: Make It Your Own

The truth is, the “best” haircut really depends on your face shape, hair texture, lifestyle, and personal taste. Don’t be afraid to ask your barber for a style that combines elements from different cuts. Whether it’s adding a hard part, a line design, or growing out the top, you can customize your haircut to match your vibe.

Tips when working with your barber:

Bring photos of styles you like
Be honest about how much effort you’re willing to put into styling
Ask for a style that grows out well if you’re not visiting the barbershop frequently

A good barber will guide you to something that both looks great and fits your everyday routine.

Conclusion

When it comes to haircuts for teenagers and young adults, the key is finding a style that feels fresh, suits your personality, and fits your lifestyle. From classic fades to bold, modern looks, there’s a cut out there for everyone—whether you want to stand out or keep it clean and simple.

At In The Cut Barbershop in Vancouver, our skilled barbers are here to help you discover the style that’s right for you. Whether you're going for your first fade, trying out something trendier, or just need a sharp clean-up, we’ve got you covered. Book your appointment today and let’s level up your look.