Things don’t get much simpler than a men’s buzz cut. However, this style is also brilliant and bold, and it helps you show off your handsome good looks without worrying about styling your hair every day.
Some people don’t realize that there are lots of different types of men’s buzz cuts that you can model your look on, from a classic crew cut to a top fade. In this article, we introduce you to five amazing buzz cut styles and reveal the steps you need to follow to achieve this haircut at home.
Men’s buzz cut – the basics
A men’s buzz cut is one of the simplest hairstyles for men. It’s easy to achieve, can be done at home, and there are several variants to try if you want to spice things up a little.
To achieve a buzz cut, you will need a decent pair of clippers and a mirror. Some guys go for the one-all-over Army-style buzz cut, while others go for something a little more refined, such as a fade or crew cut.
Whichever style you go for, buzz cutting men’s hair is easy, and it’s a low-maintenance style that any man can achieve. For inspiration, check out the following men’s buzz cut styling ideas, before we reveal how to buzz cut men’s hair at home to help you get started:
5 best men’s buzz cut hairstyles
From the classic crew cut to a fade, here are five of the best men’s buzz cut hairstyles to try out in 2024:
1. Crew cut
Though slightly longer than most other buzz cuts, the crew has been a long-time popular style among men with short hair. The key to a crew cut is that the sides are blended and there’s a little extra length on top.
Most guys with crews opt for a scissor chop on the tops and a buzz cut on the sides, which delivers a winning style that’s easy to maintain with a sliver of wax or gel in the fringe.
2. Bleached buzz cut
A noteworthy style with some soccer players, a bleached buzz cut is a daring way to show off your style. With clippers, a number two works well for the bleached buzz cut, as if the hair is too short, it can be difficult to achieve the look you’re going for. You can opt for various colors of bleach, so feel free to get creative if this is the buzz cut for you.
3. Induction buzz cut
If you’re looking for a military-style buzz, the induction is the cut for you. It gets its name from the induction process in the military, where recruits’ hair is shaved to the shortest possible level. Some men opt for a 0.5 or 1 on the clippers for an induction cut, but it’s up to you. If you’re new to the buzz, the induction cut is the easiest and most hassle-free option.
4. Faded buzz cut
The faded buzz cut is extremely popular right now with men all around the world. The sides are super short – sometimes razor-short or a 0.5, with added length on top. As the name suggests, the hair fades gradually upwards in levels, ensuring uniform growth over the course of several weeks. A top-quality fade is hard to master, so it’s best to speak to a talented stylist if this is the buzz cut for you.
5. High and tight buzz cut
Last but certainly not least is the high and tight buzz cut. This style gives you good length on top for styling and is great for people with rounder faces. It’s like a fade in some respects, lengthening slightly from the sides to the top. Again, getting your barber on board is a good idea if you want a high-quality, high and tight buzz cut.
3 2 1 buzz cut rule
With the #3 guard on top, you keep enough length to show texture and natural density. It gives the haircut softness and structure to prevent that “fresh recruit” look. The hair still feels short and low-maintenance, but it has a little more room to show your natural growth pattern.
Moving down to a #2 guard on the upper sides creates a smooth transition. This step is what makes the haircut look professional with no harsh lines, no bulky corners. It subtly slims the face and enhances the jawline.
Finally, the #1 guard around the edges and neckline adds sharpness. This shortest length acts like a natural fade for giving the cut tightness and definition. The contrast between the #3, #2, and #1 guards delivers that blended result you get from a barbershop.
What fade to do with a buzz cut?
When you pair a fade with a buzz cut, you instantly upgrade a minimal hairstyle into something sculpted. The fade becomes the detail that gives your buzz cut personality. Instead of looking plain, your haircut suddenly has depth and that unmistakable barbershop polish.
A low fade is yours if you prefer a more natural look. It starts low around the ears and then blends upward, creating a shadow effect. It’s neat and ideal for men who want a clean outline without going too bold.
A mid fade offers the most balanced style. Sitting right around the temples, it adds enough contrast to make the buzz cut stand out while still looking smooth and classic. This fade works with nearly every head shape and is easy to maintain.
If you want maximum impact, the high fade is your go-to. This fade sits high on the sides and removes more hair. And makes the top looking slightly fuller and more defined. The sharp transition gives an athletic vibe that instantly sharpens the jawline.
How to buzz cut men’s hair with clippers – step-by-step
You’re probably aware that a buzz cut is one of the easiest styles to achieve and maintain for men, and you wouldn’t be wrong. Still, if you don’t want to visit your barber, here are the steps you need to follow to buzz cut your hair at home:
Step 1. Begin by washing and drying your hair
Use a high-quality shampoo and conditioner and massage your scalp. Then, use a high-quality blow dryer – such as the Laifen Swift – to blow dry your hair.
Step 2. Print off a picture of a buzz cut that you want to model your style on
Whether it’s a crew cut or a faded buzz cut, having an image as a source of inspiration is a good way to achieve the exact style that you’re going for.
Step 3. Adjust your clippers and apply the correct number
You will have attachments ranging from 1 all the way up to 8 – the lower numbers provide shorter trims than the higher ones. You will need to adjust your clippers and add the correct attachment to get started.
Step 4. Start buzzing
There’s no right or wrong way to do it, but slowly moving the clippers in a straight line will make things easier for you. Don’t apply too much pressure, as you might damage your scalp.
Step 5. Style your hair if you’re working on anything other than an induction buzz cut
Remember, fading your hair and opting for a crew cut is a little technical, so you might need a barber to help you with the finer details.
The bottom line
It’s little surprise that so many men love a buzz cut. From Drake to Frank Ocean, we’ve seen lots of stylish men rock a buzz cut to show off their style and fashion. This style is so popular because it’s so easy to achieve and so easy to maintain. So, whether you’re looking for a classic fade or an induction buzz cut, you can get started in 2024 with one of the classy styles introduced above.
FAQs to men's buzz cut
1. Is a buzz cut suitable for every head shape?
Mostly yes, but head shape matters more with a buzz cut because there’s no length to hide uneven contours. Round, oval, and square head shapes wear it best. If you’re unsure, get a slightly longer guard (like #4) to test the look before going shorter.
2. What guard length should I choose for my first buzz cut?
For beginners, a #3 or #4 guard is ideal because it’s short enough to get the clean buzzed look but long enough to avoid exposing scalp or harsh lines. Once comfortable, you can experiment with shorter guards like #1 or #2 for a sharper, more defined last.
3. Does a buzz cut require maintenance?
Yes, but it’s minimal. To keep the length even and sharp, most men trim their buzz cut every 1–2 weeks. If you have a fade or line-up, you may need touch-ups even sooner. Day-to-day maintenance is low; just wash, moisturize, and you’re done.
4. Can a buzz cut make thinning hair look better?
Absolutely. A buzz cut can reduce the contrast between thinning areas and denser areas. Shorter lengths minimize scalp shine and create a uniform look. Many men find it refreshing and confidence-boosting.
5. What should I know before buzzing my hair at home?
Use sharp clippers, start with a longer guard, and move against the grain for an even cut. Check your progress with multiple mirrors or have someone help with the back. After buzzing, rinse off loose hairs and moisturize your scalp to prevent dryness or irritation.
6. How do I care for my scalp after getting a buzz cut?
With more exposed skin, scalp care becomes essential. Use a mild shampoo, moisturize daily, and apply sunscreen when outdoors since the scalp can burn easily. If your skin is sensitive, avoid alcohol-based aftershaves and choose soothing products like aloe or lightweight balms.
