Method 1 Basic Cut
1. Learn the numbering system for the blade guard lengths.
Understanding the numbering system for blade guards is crucial. The numbers indicate the length of hair they will cut. Smaller numbers denote shorter lengths, with “1” being the shortest guard and “8” providing a length of 1 inch (2.5 cm). Subsequent guards increase by 1⁄8 inch (3.2 mm) for each number. The guard numbers and corresponding lengths are as follows:
- 1: 1⁄8 in (3.2 mm)
- 2: 1⁄4 in (6.4 mm)
- 3: 3⁄8 in (9.5 mm)
- 4: 1⁄2 in (13 mm)
- 5: 5⁄8 in (16 mm)
- 6: 3⁄4 in (19 mm)
- 7: 7⁄8 in (22 mm)
- 8: 1 in (25 mm)
- The “0” setting implies using the clippers without any guard or attachment.
2. Wash and dry your hair.
Prepare your hair by washing it thoroughly. Wet hair is more manageable and easier to comb as it lacks bends or waves. Shampoo your hair and ensure it is completely dry, as hair clippers may not function well on wet hair. If your hair is tangled, use a detangler to eliminate knots.
3. Cover the person’s shoulders with a cape.
Drape a barber’s cape made from a slick material around the shoulders of the person whose hair you’re cutting. Pull it tight against their neck and secure it in place to prevent hair from getting on or inside their clothes during the haircut. Opt for a slick fabric to allow hair to fall onto the floor, or choose a location that is easy to clean.
4. Secure with the longest blade guard you need for the style of your clippers.
Select the blade guard that corresponds to the desired length for the hairstyle. Slide the attachment onto the hair clipper blade until it clicks into place. This ensures a uniform length when buzzing the entire head, and you can go back to trim specific areas shorter.
5. Move your hair clippers against the direction your hair grows.
Hold the hair clippers upside-down with the top of the guard against the scalp. Begin either behind an ear or at the nape of the neck and move the clippers upward, going against the direction of hair growth. Similarly, move from the front to the back when working on the top of the head. Avoid skipping around to different areas to ensure even cutting.
6. Scoop the hair away from the person’s head with the blade.
Hold the top of the hair clippers’ blade close to the skin. When concluding the cut, gently scoop the blade away from the scalp. Employ short scooping strokes all over the head to achieve a softer cut. Avoid lifting the clippers straight away from the head to prevent noticeable lines in the hair.
7. Blend different areas of hair with a guard in between lengths.
If you notice If you observe a distinct line between shorter and longer lengths, use a blade guard that falls between the sizes of the others you’ve used. Move the clippers against the direction of hair growth and scoop the blade away from the scalp to create a smooth transition.
For example, if you used #2 on the sides and #4 on top, blend the line with a #3 guard. If your hair clippers have a lever, adjust it for a more precise fade—up for a slightly closer cut and down for a slightly further cut.
Opting for a hair clipper at home provides a straightforward and convenient method to upkeep your hairstyle, eliminating the need for salon visits. This essential grooming tool is a must-have in every man’s grooming kit. In addition to hair clippers, beard trimmers play a significant role in sustaining a well-groomed appearance. Armed with these grooming essentials, you can effortlessly attain a refined look from the comfort of your own home.
