In the barbering profession, haircut numbers are like a second language and important to attaining your desired haircut. Cutting hair is an art that employs its own set of instruments and phrases. It’s equally as complicated as any other design art. The most vital equipment in a barber’s arsenal is the hair scissors.
In this in-depth guide, find out what the numbers imply for haircut lengths and learn about the different hair clipper sizes that effect your style and haircut lengths.
Before your next trip to the barber, discover everything you need to know about haircut numbers and hair cutter sizes.
HOW CAN I GET A HAIRCUT NUMBER?
Haircutters for men come in a variety of sizes, and these variations are known as “haircut numbers.” The recommended length of hair to wear following a haircut is indicated by each number.
The common range for the integers is 0 to 8. The shortest possible length is 0, which is nearly bald, and the longest possible length is 8. This system makes it easier for clients to specify the desired length of their haircuts and allows barbers to provide more consistent trims.
Measurements for Hair Clipper Sizes
A handy table with measurements in inches and millimeters for various haircut clipper sizes is provided here. Always keep in mind that a longer haircut is indicated by the number.
| Haircut Number | Length In Inches | Length In Millimeters |
| Number 0 Haircut | 0 in | 0 mm |
| Number 1 Haircut | 1/8 in | 3 mm |
| Number 2 Haircut | 1/4 in | 6 mm |
| Number 3 Haircut | 3/8 in | 10 mm |
| Number 4 Haircut | 1/2 in | 13 mm |
| Number 5 Haircut | 5/8 in | 16 mm |
| Number 6 Haircut | 3/4 in | 19 mm |
| Number 7 Haircut | 7/8 in | 22 mm |
| Number 8 Haircut | 1 in | 25 mm |
Examining Haircut Length Measurements
Now that we know the fundamentals, let’s take a look at each hairstyle individually to get a better feel for them.
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HAIRCUT NUMBER 0
There is no need for cutter guards while cutting a haircut number 0, as it is only 0 inches long. Another name for this style of cut is the “skin” or “bald” haircut, which refers to the fact that it leaves the hair completely uncut. Buzz cuts and military-style haircuts frequently employ this hairstyle number. Additionally, it can be utilized as a foundation for faded haircuts.
HAIRCUT NUMBER 1
Here is the first hairstyle. This size of cutter is significantly longer than the zero size, leaving your hair approximately eighteen inches long. The length is still quite short, allowing the flesh to be visible. On the other hand, there is some extra hair that gives it a subtle, shadowy appearance. You can’t go wrong with the number 1 cut if you’re going for a short, non-bald style.
HAIRCUT NUMBER 2
After the second trim, your hair will be about a quarter of an inch long. This style is ideal for shorter buzz cuts and taper fades since it is a shortcut that conceals the scalp better than shorter cuts. A neat, businesslike appearance is yours with the number 2 cut, keeping your hair longer.
HAIRCUT NUMBER 3
When you get the haircut number 3, your hair will be longer. It’s great for people who want more hair but still want to look neat and put together because it leaves hair three-eighths of an inch long. Many people like this style for regular crew cuts because it hides the scalp better.
HAIRCUT NUMBER 4
If you get the haircut number 4, your hair will be about half an inch long. This is a famous and versatile level of short hair. It gives you more styling choices and is more gentle than lower numbers. People who want to keep their hair short and stylish should get the number 4 haircut.
HAIRCUT NUMBER 5
Five-eighths of an inch of hair is left over after a haircut number 5. There are more ways to style and change the look of this haircut because the hair is long enough to be brushed and styled in different ways. It’s great for people who want their hair short and loose.
HAIRCUT NUMBER 6
Compared to smaller numbers, the haircut number 6 leaves three-quarters of an inch of hair, making the hair look longer and fuller. This haircut is excellent for guys who want a longer shortcut that can be styled differently, like a short pompadour or a smooth back.
HAIRCUT NUMBER 7
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Seven-eighths of an inch of hair is left over after the haircut number 7. It’s a good choice for guys who want to keep their hair long but neat and easy to style. It’s mainly used for narrowing rather than for all-over cuts.
HAIRCUT NUMBER 8
Last but not least, the haircut number 8 is the longest. It leaves an inch of hair behind and is usually used to cut long hair in a way that makes the ends thinner. It’s great for people who want to keep their hair long but still look clean and put together.
LAST THOUGHTS
Knowing the numbers for haircuts and the sizes of hair cutter guards can make your trips to the barber shop much better. It helps explain the look you want and ensures you’re happy with your haircut when you leave the chair.
FAQs
How does the size of a hair clipper work?
Different hair clipper sizes have guards that control how long hair is left after cutting. The number of guards ranges from 0 to 8, with 0 cutting the hair the least and 8 cutting it the most.
How do different hair clipper sizes vary in size?
About an eighth of an inch is equal to each hair cutter size. And so on. A number 1 guard will leave behind an eighth of an inch of hair; a number 2 guard will leave behind a quarter of an inch, and so on.
Just what do the haircut numbers mean?
The hair lengths achieved with varying clipper guards are called “haircut numbers.” They give you a standard way to tell your barber what hair length you want.
There must be a lot of haircut numbers?
There are nine standard haircut numbers, numbered from 0 to 8. Each number stands for a different hair length.
What sizes should I use for a fade haircut?
To make a gradient look, fade haircuts often use a mix of lower haircut numbers, such as 0, 1, and 2. However, the exact numbers can differ depending on the fade style and personal taste.
Remember that the number of cuts that will work best for you will depend on your hair type, face shape, and personal style. Try different-sized hair clippers and talk to your barber to find the best style.
