Before you can describe the haircut you want, you’ll first have to learn a few barber terms. Barbers have their own language, and if you want to get a good haircut, you’ll have to learn the basics of men’s hairdressing terminology.
Haircut Numbers
Haircut numbers, also known as guard sizes, represent the different lengths of hair cut by hair clippers. Hair clipper sizes range from a number 1 to a number 8 – shortest to longest. Since most guys get a fade or undercut on the sides, knowing your clipper guard sizes will come in handy when requesting a fade and telling your barber how short you want it. Similarly, hair or balding clippers can also be used when asking for a buzz cut or crew cut.
Here’s a quick reference for the different haircut lengths.
- Number 1:One-eighth of an inch
- Number 2:One-quarter of an inch
- Number 3:Three-eighths of an inch
- Number 4:Half an inch
- Number 5:Five-eighths of an inch
- Number 6:Three-quarters of an inch
- Number 7:Seven-eighths of an inch
- Number 8:An inch
Which haircut number you pick will depend on how short you want your sides and back cut. And for a low-maintenance buzz cut, we recommend you choose a number 1, 2 or 3.
source: Men’s Hair Now
FAQs
What is the Ivy League Haircut? An Ivy League is a type of crew-cut where the hair on the front of the head is long enough to style with a side part, while the crown of the head is cut short.
What does 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 mean in haircuts? ›
Number 1 clipper: 1/8 inch. Number 2 clipper: 1/4 inch. Number 3 clipper: 3/8 inch. Number 4 clipper: 1/2 inch. Number 5 clipper: 5/8 inch.
What do you say to your barber for the best haircut? ›
Tell your barber about your lifestyle
To give you a cut you'll love, your barber needs to know more about you. Tell your barber where you work, what you do for fun, where you go on the weekends, how you wear your hair, whether you put product in it every day, and anything else you think might be helpful.
What is a wiffle haircut? ›
A buzz cut, or wiffle cut, is a variety of short hairstyles, especially where the length of hair is the same on all parts of the head.
What is the Texas haircut called? ›
The Edgar hairstyle, otherwise known as the Edgar cut or the Edgar haircut, is a hairstyle that is often associated with Latino culture. In the 2010s and early 2020s, the haircut gained virality among members of Generation Z and Millennials.
What is the number 7 buzz cut? ›
Opting for buzz cut number 7, which leaves 7/8 of an inch of hair, ventures into bold and distinct hairstyle territory. This buzz cut length is a confident choice for those who appreciate the simplicity of a buzz cut but desire a more pronounced style statement.
What does 3 mean barber? ›
Here's a quick reference for the different haircut lengths. Number 1: One-eighth of an inch. Number 2: One-quarter of an inch. Number 3: Three-eighths of an inch. Number 4: Half an inch.
What is a number 7 haircut? ›
The Number 7 haircut length is a generous 7/8 inch or 22mm— a versatile cut that seamlessly marries a well-groomed look with a gamut of styling choices. This substantial length is optimal for those yearning for a polished yet laid-back style, permitting your hair to make a statement without appearing unkempt.
What is the professional term for a barber? ›
If they are licensed, look at their license. They are either a Barber or a Cosmetologist. Those are the most correct terms of identity. But, Stylist, hair stylist, or hair dresser is all acceptable for a Cosmetologist.
How to ask for an Ivy League haircut? ›
Show your barber photos of some variations of the Ivy League hairstyle that you like. This will help them to suggest what can be done with your hair. Take a picture of the style you want to achieve – their interpretation may not always be the same as yours, leaving a rather awkward situation for you both!
The recommended tipping standard for barbers is 15-20% of the total cost of the haircut. This means that if your cut costs $40, you should tip between $6-$8. Of course, tipping is always at your discretion. Feel free to tip more or less, depending on those considerations above.
What is the number 4 haircut? ›
The number 4 haircut leaves hair half an inch long, making it a medium-short style that's versatile and popular. It allows for more styling options and is less severe than lower numbers. The number 4 haircut is great for those who want to keep their hair short but stylish.
What is the Ivy League hairstyle for men? ›
The undercut Ivy League hairstyle features shaved sides and back, with longer hair on top. Moreover, the longer hair on top is combed to the side and back, resulting in a sleek and modern look. Ultimately, this style is ideal for men who desire a more edgy and contemporary look.
What is the Ivy League hair style for men? ›
The Ivy League haircut is a clean and timeless men's style that is kept short around the ears and at the neck. The top features a distinct side part (or even a hard part, if you're feeling ambitious) and a bit more length. While dozens of modern takes remix the style, the OG haircut is a fit for any age.
What is the Ivy League haircut side? ›
Classic Ivy League
Sides are carefully tapered, possibly buzz cut - remember you want above all a neat and tidy feel - and the top is longer, as in all Ivy League cuts. On the classic, the top should be just long enough to allow for a smart side parting.
