What is the term for the gradual fading technique in short hairstyles?

The term for the gradual fading technique in short hairstyles is indeed the fade haircut. This style is characterized by a smooth transition from short hair to even shorter hair or to the skin, creating a seamless blend. The fading effect is typically achieved by varying the length of the hair, where the hair starts longer at the top and gradually shortens down to the sides and back. This technique is popular as it can add dimension and a clean, polished look to a haircut, often enhancing the overall style without appearing overly stark or disconnected. The fade haircut can be customized to various lengths and styles, making it a versatile choice for many clients.

In contrast, a layered cut involves cutting the hair at different lengths throughout to create volume and movement, which does not align with the concept of fading. A buzz cut is a very short hairstyle typically achieved with clippers, leaving very little length, and does not encompass the gradual fading technique. A textured cut focuses on creating varied lengths within the hair to achieve a specific texture rather than a smooth gradient from long to short. Therefore, the fade haircut is the correct terminology used for this particular technique in short hairstyles.