What Are Haircut Numbers And How To Convert Them Into Haircut Lengths (2024)

We often underestimate such valuable information as haircut numbers. Meanwhile, it contributes greatly to the success of the final result. The thing is, using the number of a haircut allows you to avoid a lot of confusion and misunderstanding when explaining to your barber how long you want your hair to be. To help you sort things out, we have prepared this informative guide, where we have all the numbers of haircuts explained.

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Haircut Numbers And Hair Clipper Sizes

It makes sense to start from the very beginning. When you talk about clipper guard sizes, you imply the attachments that you place on clippers or a hair trimmer. All the hair clipper lengths are represented by numbers that can be found on the surface of combs. In general, there are eight clipper sizes and each refers to the hair length that you will get after the trim. As a rule of thumb, haircut lengths change at intervals of 1/8 in., increasing with the haircut numbers.

Quick Reference Guide For Hair Clipper Sizes And Haircut Numbers

Like we said before, clipper size numbers increase proportionately with the lengths of haircuts. Thus, when you are requesting the number 1 haircut, it means that the barber will trim your hair to 1/8 of an inch length. For your convenience, we have prepared the clipper sizes converted into hair length chart men can refer to whenever they are choosing their haircut.

To get a better understanding of what different clipper lengths look like in terms of haircuts, we have prepared these visual examples.

Number 0 Haircut

For the number 0 haircut, you use attachment-less clippers. As a result, you get the shortest version of the buzz cut existing, also known as a bald fade or simply a shaved head.

Pro Tip: For a #0 haircut, which is essentially a buzz cut with no guard, it’s crucial to protect the scalp since it’s more exposed. Use a daily SPF designed for the scalp to shield against sun damage. Also, keep the scalp hydrated with a non-comedogenic moisturizer to prevent dryness or flaking. Regular washing with a gentle shampoo can help maintain scalp health without irritation.

Number 1 Haircut

The #1 haircut length is one-eighth in. It is slightly longer compared to a zero haircut but is still pretty short. So, when you opt for it as an all-out haircut, you should be aware that you will get a buzz cut that will expose the scalp. That is why it is most suitable for getting the sides faded.

Pro Tip: Moisturize your scalp regularly to prevent dryness. A light hair oil can keep the skin nourished without causing buildup.

Number 2 Haircut

Men very often use the number 2 haircut for a one-fourth in. long buzz cut as well as to get their hair on the sides faded, which makes it the most common size of clippers. With the # 2 haircut, your scalp is not showing, so it is a great way out for guys who have thin hair.

Pro Tip: Use a gentle shampoo to keep the hair clean without stripping away natural oils.

Number 3 Haircut

The # 3 haircut implies taking the hair to the three-eighths in. length. This is the longest fade haircut that barbers use. Similar to the #2 clipper length, it is still quite short thus easy to maintain. And it does not expose the scalp as well. One of the best things about this haircut is that it works for both thin and thick locks.

Pro Tip: Start using a conditioner to keep hair soft and manageable.

Number 4 Haircut

With the number 4 haircut, you can expect your hair to be one-half of an inch long. As it comes out the pretty low-key and reserved, it is in great demand by men who need to look professional or conservative.

Pro Tip: Incorporate a leave-in conditioner for added moisture and to ease styling.

Number 5 Haircut

The number 5 haircut is five-eighth of an inch long. Its length allows you to brush and style your hair in multiple ways. Besides, with these haircut numbers, you can easily complement the long top with tapered sides for a soft and smooth transition between different clipper lengths. So, it is not hard to guess that this is a go-to option for gents who choose an elegant and classy look.

Pro Tip: Use a wide-tooth comb for detangling to prevent breakage.

Number 6 Haircut

When you want your haircut to be three quarters in. long, you go for the number 6 haircut. You can also use it to taper the hair on the sides and all in all end up with a haircut that looks very much like a crew cut.

Pro Tip: Apply a styling cream to enhance your hair’s natural texture while providing a light hold.

Number 7 Haircut

To get a crew cut using your hair clippers, go for the guard size number 7. It will leave your hair seven eighth in. long and is a great way to cut the top if you do not want to bother to employ shears. On the sides, it is better to go with a shorter length for a defined look.

Pro Tip: Regular trims are essential to maintain the shape and health of the hair.

Number 8 Haircut

The number 8 haircut is usually the highest of all clipper lengths in haircut numbers. The hair it leaves is an inch long, so you can use it to trim the top while getting the sides faded with the help of a lower hair clipper size.

Pro Tip: Use a medium-hold pomade for styling flexibility and to tame any unruliness.

When you know what haircut numbers mean, you are almost guaranteed to leave the hair salon with the desired hair look. So, we highly recommend you to study our guide carefully. And next time when you visit your barber, you can simply tell them the number of a haircut you want to get without the need to explain it.

FAQs

REFERENCES:

• What do the numbers mean when I get a haircut? (2020) – Quora. Source
• Haircuts 101. | Wahl USA. Source
• A hair clipper is a specialised implement used to cut human head hair. | Wahl USA. Source