Half the guys who walk into SIR asking for a skin fade actually want a taper. The reverse is also true. Here's how to tell which one you actually want.
The definition
A skin fade goes to bare skin at the lowest point. A taper fade leaves a short length of hair (usually a 0.5 or 1 guard) at the lowest point. That single guard-length difference changes everything else.
How they age
Skin fades age aggressively. By day 7, the contrast starts breaking down. Tapers age gracefully — by day 30 they still look intentional.
How they photograph
Skin fades photograph with sharper contrast, especially under direct light. Tapers photograph more naturally in everyday light.
Which to choose
If you can come in every 2 weeks: skin fade. If you can come in every 4 to 5 weeks: taper. That's the entire decision.
—SIR Management