The numbers 1, 2, and 3 refer to the different length guards on hair clippers. The lower the number, the shorter the haircut will be. Number 1 is approximately 1/8 inch, number 2 is 1/4 inch, and number 3 is 3/8 inch.
Number 1. The next clipper size up, number 1, cuts to a length of ⅛ inches with the clipper guard closed. With a 1 clipper guard open, 3/16 inches of hair is left on your head. This is a buzz-cut length, so the scalp is completely exposed.
The numbers correspond to the length of hair the clippers will leave behind. The rule of thumb is that for every 1 increment on clipper size, it's an eighth of an inch in length. A 1 is 1/8'' hair, 2 is 1/4``, 3 is 3/8'', and so on up to about an inch at #8.
If you ask your barber for a number one cut, you are asking them to cut your hair so it is an eighth of an inch long.
A number 1 haircut typically leaves the hair about 1/8 inch (3 mm) long. This length is achieved using a clipper guard labeled as ``number 1.'' It's a very short hairstyle often used for buzz cuts or fading styles.
Number 3 haircut – This guard length is ⅜ of an inch and will give you a short but still noticeable amount of hair on top. It's perfect for those who want a bit more volume and texture.
Number 1 (⅛ inch or 3.2 mm): Leaves a very short length, ideal for a close buzz cut or fade. Number 2 (¼ inch or 6.4 mm): Slightly longer than number 1, still in the buzz cut category but with a fuller look. Number 3 (⅜ inch or 9.5 mm): Provides a short but manageable length, suitable for a crew cut.
Consider the style you're aiming for, whether it's a short buzz cut, a crew cut, a longer style or a fade. This'll then help you to choose the right guard size. Lower numbers (e.g., #1 or #2) result in shorter haircuts, while higher numbers (e.g., #4 or #6) leave longer hair.
Simply put, a number 2 buzz cut is achieved using the #2 guard on hair clippers, trimming the hair down to approximately 1/4 inch or 6 mm. This length is short enough to be incredibly low maintenance and cool, yet just long enough to give a hint of texture and coverage on the scalp.
On the flipside, if you ask for a 1, you will receive a nearly-shaved head. Here, 0 is no guard attached, so it's the shortest haircut possible. Think of a 0 as a fade/skin, and a number 8 as a light trim to the hair.
Choosing the right clipper cutting length depends on the look you're going for. Here's a simple guide for different styles: Buzz Cut: Use a #2 or #3 guard for a classic buzz cut look. Fade Haircut: For a fade, you'll typically use a combination of #0 to #4 guards to create a gradual blend from skin to a longer top.
Generally, a haircut every 4-6 weeks will be good to maintain the shape and style of your hair. This is especially important if you have layers or a specific haircut, as it will help prevent your hair from looking unkempt and losing its shape.
Guard numbering
It's just a little maths. Generally, each haircut number represents 1/8 of an inch of length. As the numbers increase so does the amount of length of the haircut.
The length of short hair can vary, but usually, anywhere up to 2 inches in length is considered short hair for men. Short haircuts can range from close to the scalp to a few inches in length, with some men opting for a close buzz cut while others prefer a bit more length for styling purposes.
Most barbers perform buzz cuts based on the golden 3-2-1 rule. That means a #3 guard on the top, a #2 guard on the sides, and a #1 guard to trim up the edges. A #3 guard is common to start with because it's about as short as you can go before you start seeing your scalp.
A buzz cut requires an even growth pattern to look its best. If your hair grows unevenly or has different textures, a buzz cut might not be the most flattering choice. In such cases, a slightly longer haircut or one that allows for some textural variation might be a better fit.
When your blades start to pull the hair the first thing to try is apply two drops of clipper oil to the blades and test cut again. Oil lubricates the blades and allows them to run at the correct speed and ensure better cutting.
Many professional hairdresser and barber clippers to choose from including renowned favourites from Wahl, Oster, and Andis.
If you want 95-percent trimming and shaving, it's Wahl all the way. If you want true all-in-one for head — shave, trim, detailing, and body — then go with Philips. Still, it's Wahl with a capital W for the win. Read on to learn why.
Using a Number 1 guard on your clippers will cut your hair down to 1/8 of an inch (3mm). This means it removes the majority of your hair, leaving a very short, uniform layer. It's a popular choice for those looking for a low-maintenance and hassle-free hairstyle.
Let your barber know whether you're going for a complete style change or just a simple trim. If you're after a new style, communicate the specific details of what you want – length, texture, layers, and style. If you're just looking to tidy up your current style, let them know what areas you want trimmed or shortened.