Haircut numbers identify clipper guards, not complete hairstyles. A useful barber request combines the shortest guard with the fade height, blend shape, top length and neckline.
Haircut guard numbers and lengths
| Guard | Approximate length | Typical appearance |
|---|---|---|
| #0 / no guard | About 0.5–1.5 mm | Very close; scalp clearly visible |
| #1 | 3 mm / 1/8 in | Close stubble; common fade base |
| #2 | 6 mm / 1/4 in | Short with less scalp exposure |
| #3 | 10 mm / 3/8 in | Short, fuller and easy to blend |
| #4 | 13 mm / 1/2 in | Medium clipper length |
| #5 | 16 mm / 5/8 in | Fuller clipper cut |
| #6 | 19 mm / 3/4 in | Long clipper length |
| #7 | 22 mm / 7/8 in | Near one inch |
| #8 | 25 mm / 1 in | Longest common guard |
Lengths vary slightly by manufacturer and lever position. Confirm the clipper system with your barber.
Which numbers are used for a fade?
Skin and bald fades begin without a guard. Shadow fades often begin at #0.5 or #1. Guards #2 and #3 commonly build the transition into longer hair. The barber may also move the clipper lever between those lengths to remove visible lines.
How to ask for the right length
- Show where the shortest section should begin and end.
- Specify skin, #0.5 or #1 at the base.
- Describe how much weight should remain above the blend.
- Bring side and back reference images.
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