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The number 3 buzz cut is a very popular choice for men who want a low-maintenance hairstyle. It is simple and easy to style and works well for all hair types. It can be trimmed in various ways, so you can experiment with different looks to find the one that suits you best. If you’re looking for a stylish and versatile haircut, this buzz cut is a great option.
To learn more about this buzz cut and find answers to questions like “What is a number 3 buzz cut?” and “How do I get the number 3 buzz cut?” and more, read on.
What is a number 3 buzz cut?
A number 3 buzz cut is a medium-length buzz cut buzzed down to 3/8 of an inch (10mm). It is named the number 3 because to get this haircut, you or your barber will need to use a number 3 clipper guard. It is one of the most popular buzz cut lengths because it is long enough to style in several ways but short enough to be low-maintenance.
Related Article: 3 On The Sides Haircut: Everything You Need To Know [With Photos]
What length is a number 3 buzz cut?
A number 3 buzz cut is 3/8 of an inch (10mm), and you need to use a number 3 clipper guard to get this haircut. While in the original version of this buzz cut, all hair should get clipped to the same length, there are different variations with various hair lengths (more on that later). For example, in a tapered style, you will have shorter hair in the back and sides and longer hair on top.
Related Article: Buzz Cut Lengths: Complete Guide from 0 to 8
Benefits
The number 3 buzz cut became popular because of its many advantages and benefits. Let’s take a look at some of them:
- It is a versatile haircut. The number 3 buzz cut can be trimmed in different ways, and you can experiment with different looks. For example, you can fade the sides or keep them longer and style the hair on top in different ways.
- It is a low-maintenance hairstyle. This buzz cut length is short enough that you won’t have to spend much time it in the morning.
- It is not as short as other buzz cuts. This makes it an excellent choice for guys who want a short hairstyle but don’t want to go too short. With this buzz cut, your scalp won’t be as visible, which is something that a lot of guys appreciate.
- It is a hairstyle that fits any occasion. It is a hairstyle that is appropriate for both casual and formal occasions. It is not an “extreme” hairstyle that can limit your options and make you feel out of place in certain settings.
How do I get a number 3 buzz cut?
Time needed: 30 minutes.
Getting a number 3 buzz cut is simple and easy. You can either go to a barbershop or do it yourself at home. If you are going for the classic cut, you should be able to do it yourself at home with a pair of hair clippers and a number 3 clipper guard. However, if you want a more customized buzz cut, like a tapered one, it is best to visit a barbershop.
So, if you want to take the DIY route, here is how to cut a number 3 buzz cut at home:
- Wash and dry your hair
It is essential to start with clean, dry hair so that your hair clippers can work more smoothly and evenly. There is a reason that barbers always wash and dry your hair before they start cutting it. So, the first step is to wash your hair with shampoo; then towel dry it until it is slightly damp. This step is straightforward, so I will not go into too much detail here.
- Prepare the area and gather your supplies
First, you need to decide where you will be cutting your hair. If you have never cut your hair before, I recommend doing it in the bathroom to have easy access to a mirror. Once you have decided on the location, make sure to clear off the area. If you have a rug or a towel, you might want to place that down on the floor to avoid making a mess. As for supplies, you will need a good pair of clippers, a number 3 clipper guard, and some scissors. And that is it!
- Start clipping
Now it is time to start cutting your hair. If you have never used electric hair trimmers before, don’t worry, they are very easy to use. Just remember to start with the clipper guard on and to take your time. I recommend starting at the sides of your head and working your way up to the top. Be extra careful around your ears. When you are done with the sides and the back, it is time to move on to the top of your head. Start at the front hairline and work your way back.
- Trim the neckline
This is the most challenging part of the entire process. What makes it so tricky is that it is very easy to mess up. And once you mess it up, it can be very difficult to fix. The visibility is also not the best, so it can be challenging to see what you are doing. I recommend using a handheld mirror to get a better look at the back of your head. If someone is around to help you, that would be even better.
To start, take the guard off of your clippers. Then, start at the base of your hairline in the back and slowly work your way up. Be very careful not to go too high or too low. You can always trim off more later if needed, but it is impossible to fix if you go too high. - Take a shower
Now that you are all done, it is time to shower. This will help remove any loose hair from your head and neck. It will also allow you to see how your new haircut looks without the hair in the way. And that is it! You have now successfully cut a number 3 buzz cut at home.
Related Article: 1-inch (Number 8) Buzzcut: Complete Tutorial With Photos
Top Number 3 buzz cut styles
Wash and dry your hair
Now that you know the basics of cutting a number 3 buzz cut, it is time to look at some of the most popular styles.
The classic number 3 buzz cut
This is the most basic style and the one that most people think of when they hear the word “buzz cut.” It is a simple, no-frills style that is easy to maintain. To get this style, all you need to do is buzz all your hair all over with a number 3 clipper guard.
3 on top, two on the sides
This is a popular variation of the classic buzz cut. The main difference is that it is shorter on the sides and slightly longer on top. To get this style, start by buzzing your hair with a number 3 clipper guard. Then, use a number 2 guard to buzz the sides and back of your head.
Related Article: 7 Best 2 On The Sides Haircuts [With Photos]
Number 3 buzz cut with a fade
This is a modern take on the classic buzz cut. It is similar to the 3 on top, 2 on the sides style, but with a fade at the sides and back. The fade could be low, medium, or high. To get this number 3 fade style, we strongly recommend seeking out a professional barber. Doing a fade is very difficult and requires a lot of skill.
Number 3 buzz cut with a beard
This is an excellent style for those who want to show off their beard. It is also a very easy style to maintain. To get this style, all you need to do is buzz your hair with a number 3 clipper guard and then let your beard grow out. There are many different ways to style your beard, so feel free to experiment.
Number 3 buzz cut with a design
This is a great way to add some personality to your buzz cut. There are many different designs that you can get, so feel free to be creative. Some popular designs include stars, lightning bolts, and hearts. To get this style, you should definitely seek out a professional barber.
Related Article: Blonde Buzz Cuts For Guys: All The Different Styles & Colors
Is A Number 3 Buzz Cut Good For Receding Hairlines?
Yes, the number 3 buzz cut is an excellent choice for those with receding hairlines and thin hair. All buzz cut styles are good for receding hairlines, and the shorter the buzz cut, the better. This is because shorter styles minimize the contrast between your hair and scalp, making your receding hairline less noticeable. The number 3 buzz cut is not the shortest style, but it is still a good choice.
Related Article: The Number 1 Buzz Cut: Complete Tutorial With Photos
Number 3 Buzz Cut On Females
If you are into fashion, you probably know that the number 3 buzz cut is a trendy style for females right now. This is because it accentuates facial features and is very easy to style. A common style is to buzz the hair all over with a number 3 clipper guard and then bleach it blonde. This gives the hair an edgy, punk rock look.
Number 3 vs. Number 2 Buzz Cut
The length is the main difference between a number 3 buzz cut and a number 2 buzz cut. A number 3 buzz cut is about 3/8 an inch long, while a number 2 buzz cut is about 1/4 of an inch long. If you decide to go with the number 2 buzz cut, keep in mind that your scalp will be more visible. This may not be a big deal to some people, but it is something to keep in mind. So, if you are looking for a more “extreme” look, go with the number 2. If you want a more subtle look, go with the number 3.
Related Article: Number 2 Fade Haircuts: Everything You Need To Know
Number 3 vs. Number 4 Buzz Cut
Again the length is the main difference between these two buzz cut styles. A number 3 buzz cut is about 3/8 an inch long, while a number 4 buzz cut is approximately 1/2 inch long. Both of these styles are not that short and are considered “medium-length” buzz cuts. A number 3 buzz cut may be a better choice if you are looking for a more subtle style, while a number 4 buzz cut may be better if you want a little more length. Both of these hairstyles are a great entry point into the world of buzz cuts, so you can’t go wrong with either one.
Conclusion
This is everything you need to know about the number 3 buzz cut. It is a great choice for those who want a low-maintenance hairstyle that is easy to style. It is very easy to be done at home and is also a good choice for those with receding hairlines, as it minimizes the contrast between your hair and scalp. There are many different variations, so feel free to experiment. And finally, don’t forget that it is also an excellent choice for females. So if you are looking for a trendy, edgy style, this may be the perfect choice for you. Thanks for reading!
Russell is the founder of themensattitude.com. He is a barber a beard enthusiast and he is obsessed with trying men’s lifestyle products and blog about them. If you have any questions you can hit him up via the contact page.
