Want a cool, easy-to-manage hairstyle that offers a clean, uniform look? Who doesn’t? Whether you want to look good with a unique hairstyle, are a student enrolled in a hairstyling training course at a professional beauty academy such as Orane International, or are an established professional, this will undoubtedly come to mind. And the good news is that there is one haircut that will satisfy all of your requirements: the “buzz cut.”
It delivers a sleek, uniform look, with minimal styling required. This classic haircut has always made waves for its low-maintenance appeal and fresh aesthetic. And it is not the first or the last time we’ll see buzz haircuts in huge demand and gain popularity. Their popularity has always been up, and even celebrities have adopted them.
For example, famous singer and celebrity Zayn Malik, a founding member of the now discontinued pop band One Direction, is known for his daring fashion and hairstyle choices. He is frequently seen carrying buzz-style hair.
Source: Instagram
Another example is Kristen Stewart’s fashionable buzz cut, which was a big rage’
Source: Instagram
But why should you get this haircut? What is the definition of a buzz haircut, and what are the top 10 styles you can try under this haircut? This blog will shed light on all of these aspects related to the buzz-style haircut. Let’s begin.
What is a Buzz Cut?
According to Wikipedia, it refers to a range of short hairstyles, especially those where the hair length is uniform across all parts of the head.
In simple language, a buzz-style haircut is a short hairstyle achieved using clippers with a guard attachment to uniformly trim the hair all over the head. It’s a simple concept, but the length and fading details can be customised to create various looks. You can consider it a blank canvas for your barber’s artistry.
Now, let us move on to understand why it is so popular globally and even among celebrities.
Why is the Buzz Cut So Popular?
Its popularity stems from its numerous advantages:
- Low-Maintenance: This haircut requires minimal effort. A quick shower, and you’re good to go, freeing up precious time in your morning routine.
- Versatile: Contrary to popular belief, this haircut offers surprising versatility. You can adjust the length, add fades or designs for a personalised touch, and even incorporate a beard for a complete look. Experiment and find a variation that best suits your style and face shape.
- Cooler in Hot Weather: Let’s face it, long hair can be a burden in the summer heat. Buzz-styled hair keeps you cool and comfortable, allowing you to stay active outdoors.
- Confidence Booster: There’s something undeniably empowering about a clean and simple haircut. This short, hair-styled cut projects confidence and a no-nonsense attitude. It shows you’re comfortable in your own skin and ready to take on the world.
- Suits Most Face Shapes: Unlike some hairstyles that require specific face shapes, buzz-styled hair can fit a wide range of faces. The key lies in choosing the right length and fade style. A skilled barber can advise you on the perfect buzz-styled hair to compliment your features.
Top 9 Buzz Cut Styles to Consider
Now that you’re intrigued by this hairstyle, let’s explore some variations you can try to personalise your look:
1. Induction Haircut
The induction cut, a variant of the buzz haircut, stands out because it involves clippers without any guard or attachment, creating the shortest possible cut.
Unlike shaving the scalp with a razor, the induction cut leaves an extremely short stubble, maintaining a distinctively close-cropped appearance. The induction cut gained popularity through military practices, where recruits have their heads shaved completely upon joining the service, hence its name. You can achieve a similar look by removing the guard from your clipper or using a 0.5 or 1 setting,
2. Fade Buzz Haircut
The fade refers to the gradual transition from shorter hair to longer hair. In the context of a buzz haircut, the fade typically starts above the ears and blends seamlessly into the longer hair on top. Different fade variations exist, such as low fade, high fade, and skin fade. The key to an excellent fade buzz haircut lies in the precision of the fade. Barbers use clippers to create a smooth gradient, ensuring a clean and polished look. The length of the top can vary based on personal preference.
Source: https://i.pinimg.com/originals/bd/9b/ee/bd9bee9f4a2f560d7795d2b675246e9e.jpg
3. High and Tight Buzz Haircut
In this style, the sides are faded very high, creating a sharp contrast with the slightly longer hair on top. This look is ideal for those who want a clean-cut and modern appearance. It’s a popular choice for military personnel and anyone who enjoys a low-maintenance yet edgy style. The high fade draws attention to the top, adding a bit of height and dimension to the overall look.
Source: https://i.pinimg.com/originals/3f/3f/6a/3f3f6a244fa40add157095deaacbaa26.jpg
4. Buzz Style Cut with Design
Feeling creative? For a personalised touch, use a trimmer to add a design, such as lines, shapes, or even initials. This unique haircut is a great way to express your personality and stand out from the crowd. Therefore, you should experiment with different patterns and designs to find a style that suits you the best. Don’t be afraid to get creative and try something new; your hair is your canvas!
Source: Pinterest
5. Buzz Haircut with Beard
Don’t underestimate the power of pairing your buzz cut with a well-groomed beard. It can add depth and dimension to your face, creating a more balanced and stylish look. The beard style can vary depending on your preference – a short stubble for a clean-cut vibe or a longer, fuller beard for a rugged appearance.
A buzz-style cut without a beard is a classic, clean-cut hairstyle that’s stylish and easy to maintain. The hair is clipped uniformly short across the entire head, often using clippers with a guard attachment, typically ranging from very close to the scalp to about a quarter inch in length. The beard is completely shaved off, leaving a smooth, clean face. This combination offers numerous advantages: it requires minimal upkeep, eliminating the need for elaborate styling products or frequent haircuts; it suits most face shapes; and it presents a sharp, confident appearance.
6. Buzz Haircut Without Beard
A buzz-style cut without a beard is a classic, clean-cut hairstyle that’s stylish and easy to maintain. The hair is clipped uniformly short across the entire head, often using clippers with a guard attachment, typically ranging from very close to the scalp to about a quarter inch in length. The beard is completely shaved off, leaving a smooth, clean face. This combination offers numerous advantages: it requires minimal upkeep, eliminating the need for elaborate styling products or frequent haircuts; it suits most face shapes; and it presents a sharp, confident appearance.
7. Textured Buzz Haircut
This modern variation uses styling products like wax or pomade to add texture and definition to the short hair on top. This creates a more attractive look compared to the traditional smooth buzz-style haircut, adding a touch of personality.
8. Long Buzz Cut
A long buzz haircut is a short hairstyle achieved with clippers, typically with the top hair kept at a #3 to #4 length or longer. Unlike shorter buzz-styled hair, long-styled buzz hair offers more versatility. Such a hairstyle is designed to blend simplicity with style, offering an effortlessly cool look that suits various preferences. This allows for more styling flexibility, like brushing the hair forward for a casual look.
Source: Pinterest
9. The Tapered Buzz Haircut
The tapered-styled buzz haircut is a sharp hairstyle that blends the classic buzz style with a modern twist. Ideal for circular, square, and round face shapes, it gradually shortens the sideburns and nape, creating a faded effect that transitions smoothly to the skin. This style is favoured by athletes, actors, and musicians for its versatility and contemporary appeal. Whether opting for a high, mid, or low fade, the tapered buzz haircut offers a low-maintenance yet fashionable look that stays stylish throughout the year.
Now that you understand what a buzz haircut is and the top 9 buzz hairstyles, let’s explore how you can get this hugely famous haircut for yourself or give it to someone else.
How to Give Yourself a Buzz Hair Cut: A Step-by-Step Guide
Giving yourself a buzz-style cut may be difficult, but you can achieve this look at home with the right tools and know-how. Here’s a step-by-step guide to walk you through the process of getting yourself a buzz haircut:
Gather Your Supplies:
- Hair clippers
- Attachment combs for the clipper (different lengths)
- Hair trimmers for detail work
- Comb (optional)
- Hand mirror (or a swing-arm mirror for better visibility)
- Steady hands and patience
- Broom and dustpan (for post-cut clean up)
Choose a Length:
A standard buzz cut follows the 3-2-1 rule:
- No. 3 guard on top for a medium length
- No. 2 guard on the sides for a slightly shorter length
- No. 1 guard around the edges for the shortest length
Alternatively, you can use a No. 2 guard against the grain for a uniform, shorter buzz haircut.
Wash and Dry Hair + Set Up Your Station
- Start with clean, dry hair for a more even cut.
- Set up a well-lit area with 360-degree visibility using mirrors (a three-way mirror or a combination of hand and swing-arm mirrors work well).
Buzzing the Sides:
- Attach the No. 3 guard to your clippers.
- Begin trimming the sides of your head in the opposite direction your hair grows, starting at the back of your neck.
- Work your way up from the hairline towards the top of your head in smooth, controlled strokes.
Buzzing the Top:
- Switch to the desired guard for the top (No. 3 for the 3-2-1 method).
- Drag the clippers from your forehead towards the crown of your head to buzz the top.
- You may need to review the cutting area several times to achieve an even cut. For additional coverage, consider using a side-to-side motion.
- Pay extra attention to the crown, where hair growth forms a circle. Then, go in different directions of the head to ensure even cutting in this area.
Professional Tip: Invest in high-quality clippers and maintain them properly for optimal performance. Choose a clean, well-lit area for the haircut process to make cleanup easier.
How Do You Maintain a Buzz Cut?
Keeping your buzz haircut sharp and stylish requires some regular care. Since hair tends to grow quickly after this haircut, plan for trims every 1-2 weeks for that crisp look. If you prefer a more relaxed style, trimming every 3 weeks is ideal.
- Trimming: Whether DIY with clippers or at a barber, stick to your original guard lengths for consistency. Focus on sides, top, and edges, using the same techniques as your initial cut.
- Styling: While buzz style is low-maintenance, you can add flair with products like matte styling cream for a textured, spiky look. Use pomade sparingly on dry hair for extra hold. Apply a touch of hair oil to control frizz and add a subtle shine for a smooth finish.
- Scalp Care: Protect your scalp with SPF 30+ sunscreen daily, especially in the sun. Regular scalp massages boost circulation and encourage healthy hair growth. Use a gentle shampoo designed for sensitive scalps to avoid dryness and irritation.
- Additional Tips: Maintain clipper blades by cleaning and oiling them regularly. Invest in a quality beard trimmer for facial hair maintenance. Experiment with different guard lengths to find your ideal buzz hairstyle.
This routine will keep your buzz haircut looking sharp and your scalp healthy, ensuring you always look your best.
Conclusion
A buzz cut is ideal if you want to embrace a popular, easy-to-maintain haircut. This low-maintenance yet high-impact hairstyle is not only trendy but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re aiming for a clean, classic look or something more personalised with fades or designs, the buzz haircut offers endless possibilities. It’s perfect for anyone looking to save time in their grooming routine, stay cool during hot weather, or boost their confidence with a bold new look.
This blog explains what a buzz haircut is, explains 9 different buzz haircut styles, and provides maintenance tips. With so many styles that come under a buzz haircut, you can easily find one that complements your face shape and personal style. So take the plunge and rock that buzz haircut with pride. It’s your turn to enjoy a stylish, fuss-free haircut that will make a statement!
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Orane Beauty Academy offer courses where I can learn buzz haircuts and other hairstyles?
Absolutely! Orane’s Beauty Academies offer certificate and diploma-level hairstyling courses that will equip you with the skills to master the buzz haircut and a wide range of other hairstyles. These comprehensive programmes cover everything from haircutting fundamentals to advanced techniques, ensuring you graduate with the confidence to create any style your clients desire.
How long does a buzz cut typically last?
Human hair typically grows at a speed of half an inch per month. So, depending on the length you choose initially, a buzz haircut can last anywhere from a few weeks to a couple of months before needing a touch-up.
Is it challenging to maintain a buzz cut?
One of the biggest advantages of a buzz haircut is its low-maintenance nature. Since the hair is so short, there’s no need for elaborate styling routines. A quick shower and a light trim every few weeks are all you need to keep your hair looking sharp.
Can I add any personalisation to a buzz cut?
Definitely! The buzz-styled cut offers surprising room for creativity. Here are a few ways to personalise your look:
- Fade variations: Experiment with different fade styles – high, low, or mid – to add depth and dimension to your haircut.
- Hair designs: Feeling bold? Use a trimmer to add lines, shapes, or even initials to your buzz haircut for a unique and personalised touch.
Beard pairing: Don’t underestimate the power of a well-groomed beard to complement your hairstyle. Explore different beard styles to find one that balances and enhances your overall look.
Is a buzz haircut attractive?
Attractiveness is subjective, and what one person finds appealing to another might not. However, the buzz styled hair offers several qualities that are generally considered attractive:
- Confidence: Clean, sharp, buzz-styled hair exudes confidence and self-assurance. It shows that you’re comfortable in your skin and don’t shy away from bold statements.
- Masculinity: This haircut has traditionally been associated with masculinity. Short hair emphasises robust facial features and creates a clean-cut appearance.
- Versatility: It can be adapted to suit various styles and preferences. From a classic crew cut to a modern, textured buzz cut, there’s a variation for everyone.
Ultimately, the attractiveness of this special haircut depends on the individual and how it complements their overall look.
What face shape suits a buzz cut?
The good news is that buzz-styled hair can work for most face shapes and here are some useful tips for finding the perfect fit:
- Oval: Oval faces are the most versatile and can easily rock any buzz haircut variation.
- Round: A shorter buzz-styled cut with a high fade can help elongate a round face.
- Square: Decrease the appearance of a square jawline with a textured buzz haircut and a slightly longer top length.
- Long: Balance a long face by keeping some length on top and adding a low side fade.
Remember, these are just general guidelines. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find the buzz cut that makes you feel confident and looks great with your unique facial features.
