What is Undercut?
The undercut is not a single fixed hairstyle but a cutting principle: the top hair is visually «disconnected» from the sides. Unlike a classic fade, where the length blends softly from short to long, the classic undercut relies on a hard side section, often shaved to one uniform length (typically clipper guards 1 to 4, roughly 3 to 12 mm). This creates the characteristic, clearly visible edge between the short sides and the long top. In practice, the undercut is today often combined with a fade transition, which is then called an «undercut fade».
During the cut, the barber first separates the top hair with a parting and pins it up. The sides and back are then clipped down to the desired short length, either to one continuous length (a hard undercut) or with a soft transition. Finally, the long top is shaped with scissors and, if needed, thinning shears. Depending on your wishes, the top can be kept for slicking back (slick back), a pompadour, a side part, or a longer, casual look. A full undercut including a wash and styling usually takes about 30 to 45 minutes at a barber or salon.
The undercut suits most hair types but looks different depending on texture. Straight to slightly wavy hair works best for clean, defined styles such as a slick back or side part. Thick hair benefits from the undercut because removing the sides reduces volume and weight. Very curly or coily hair creates an appealing contrast between the shaved sides and the curly top. Even fine hair can gain the impression of more fullness on top. It is less ideal if you want to disguise a receding hairline, since hair styled back off the face emphasises the forehead more.
On maintenance and longevity: the shaved sides grow back visibly, so the look loses its sharpness without a trim. If you want to keep the crisp edge, you typically go back every 2 to 4 weeks for a re-shave; if you prefer a softer, grown-out look, you can wait 6 to 8 weeks. The long top is styled according to your chosen look using pomade, wax, clay or hair powder. Day-to-day effort depends heavily on the style: a slicked-back look needs a few minutes daily, while a natural fall needs almost none.
In terms of price, a men's undercut in Switzerland generally costs roughly CHF 40 to 70 depending on region and salon, and can be higher in larger cities such as Zurich or Geneva. Adding a carefully worked fade transition, a beard line-up or razor detailing raises the price accordingly. These figures are rough guide values without guarantee; binding prices are available directly from the salon. With CityHero's hairdresser price comparison you can compare offers and prices in your city before booking an appointment.