The ability to fade and blend hair is a hallmark of skilled barbering. This requires clippers with a wide range of blade lengths.
Hair clipper guards are numbered, and each one corresponds to a certain haircut length. Higher numbers leave hair longer, while lower ones cut it shorter.
Using the right clipper guard size is essential for creating a perfect fade. This guide will help you understand the haircut number system and how to select the best clipper guards for your fade.
They Prevent Damage
Hair clipper guards, also known as attachment combs, are tools for achieving specific hair lengths during haircutting. They are a crucial component in the barbering industry and play a major role in ensuring precise, uniform haircuts. Properly selecting and using guard sizes ensures that all clients receive their desired results, without risking damage or uneven cuts.
Understanding the correlation between guard sizes and blade size is important for achieving a variety of haircut styles. Guard sizes are numbered and correspond to a particular hair length that is left on the head after cutting. This helps barbers and hairstylists achieve precise and uniform haircuts, while minimizing the risk of damaging the scalp or causing unintended results.
The lower the number on the guard, the longer the hair will be left on the head after cutting. For example, a closed clipper guard 1 leaves a client with up to 2 inches of hair on the top of their head, while a open guard 1 will leave only up to 3/16 inch of hair on the head (depending on how far you cut). This is why it is so important to use the correct guard size when creating fades and other haircut styles that require precise blending and tapering.
Clipper guards are available in a wide range of sizes, which makes it easy to find one that is perfect for your particular haircut. It is also recommended to experiment with different combinations of guard and blade sizes to determine the best options for your individual hair type and style preferences. Proper maintenance of both the guards and the blades is also crucial to ensure that they work smoothly and effectively. Regular cleaning and oiling of the comb attachments will help prevent clogs and extend their lifespan.
Whether you’re looking to upgrade your fade game or simply improve your overall haircutting skills, Wahl premium guards are the ideal choice. Featuring exceptional durability and compatibility with a variety of clipper models, these guards offer versatility in styling options for all hair types. Plus, they’re made from high-quality materials that make them suitable for everyday use and even professional use.
They Prevent Split Ends
If you are cutting your hair with a clipper, it’s important to have the right blade attachments for your desired haircut. If you don’t have the correct attachments, the blade will cut your hair unevenly, and it can also lead to split ends. If you want to prevent this from happening, choose a clipper with magnetic guards that attach to the blades without removing them. These types of clipper guards are easy to use and will ensure that you get the perfect fade every time.
Whether you are going for a skin fade or a classic buzz cut, it is crucial that you have the right clipper guards for your haircut. This is because the guards will determine how long your hair will be when it’s finished. In addition, the right attachment comb will help you achieve the correct length by blending different hair lengths together. This will give your haircut a polished look.
As you can see, there are many reasons why clipper guards are essential for any barber or stylist. Not only do they protect the blades of the clippers, but they also prevent damage and injury during the cutting process. Additionally, they allow you to create a variety of haircut styles and are an integral part of the barbering industry.
When it comes to hair fading, selecting the correct clipper guard size is vital. It can be challenging to know which guard size is best for a particular style, so it’s important to do your research and find out what each guard size comb will do to the length of your hair. Once you have selected a clipper guard size, simply slide it onto the blades of your clippers and make sure that it snaps into place securely. Once you have done this, your haircut will be completed and you’ll be ready to show off your new look.
To get the best results when using a clipper with guards, be sure to store them in a dry location away from direct sunlight and in a container designed for hair clipper accessories. Additionally, it is important to regularly inspect the guards for signs of wear and tear so that you can replace them as needed.
They Prevent Hair Breakage
A clipper guard acts like a rake, preventing the fixed blade from coming too close to the scalp during cutting. This prevents a harsh cut, which can cause painful hair loss and irritation. This is especially important for individuals who have sensitive skin and hair or those with chronic scalp issues such as folliculitis.
Hair clipper guards are also helpful for achieving various haircut styles, such as a fade or taper. This involves gradually reducing the length of your hair from the bottom to the top or sides. Different clipper guard sizes can be used to achieve this, ensuring a seamless transition of hair lengths and a professional-looking finish.
Most clipper guards are numbered, with each number representing a specific hair cutting length in either inches or millimeters. This system was developed as a way for stylists to easily identify and select the appropriate guard size for each client’s hairstyle. It is also possible to use half guards, which are designed to cut a little shorter than the previous guard size while still leaving more hair on the head for blending purposes.
To avoid confusion over what the different clipper guard lengths mean, it’s best to ask your barber or stylist what their preferred clipper guard is for each particular style. Depending on your preference, it may be a good idea to have several different sizes of clipper guards with you, so that you can experiment with different options until you find one that works for you.
In addition to using the right clipper guard, it’s also important to regularly clean and maintain your hair clippers and blades to keep them in top condition and perform at their best. Washing and oiling your clippers can help extend their lifespan, while replacing worn-out parts can improve performance and help ensure a smooth, precise cutting experience. With regular care and maintenance, you can expect to get the most out of your hair clippers and enjoy a beautiful fade for years to come.
They Prevent Unevenness
Whether you’re looking for a skin fade or taper haircut, you can’t achieve your desired style without using the right clipper guards. These metal attachments help create even and precise cuts. But it’s important to understand the correlation between the clipper guard size and blade size to ensure you’re achieving your desired hair length.
Achieving a perfect fade requires switching between different guard sizes to ensure smooth and even transitions. For example, you can start by shaving the sides and back of the head with a large guard size and then switch to a smaller one to achieve the fade lines. This helps eliminate unsightly gaps or lines where the hair hasn’t been cut evenly.
When choosing the appropriate clipper guard size, it’s also essential to consider the thickness and texture of your hair. Thicker hair can look shorter when paired with a certain guard size than thinner hair, so experiment with different combinations to find the best results for your specific hair type. Additionally, it’s a good idea to consult with a professional hairstylist or refer to the manufacturer guidelines for your specific clippers to get a better understanding of which guard and blade sizes work best for your particular needs.
While there’s a lot to learn about clipper guards, they’re incredibly useful tools for anyone who wants to achieve a clean and professional-looking haircut at home or in their barbershop. By following the tips above and learning how to use clipper guards correctly, you can be confident that your haircut will be perfectly even every time.
Remember to keep your clipper guards in good condition by regularly cleaning and oiling them. This will prevent them from becoming damaged or rusting and help them maintain their efficiency and longevity. Finally, be sure to store your guards in a safe and secure place where they won’t get lost or misplaced. This will help you avoid a messy and frustrating cutting experience. Also, be sure to always use a clipper guard holder or storage container designed specifically for these accessories to avoid damage and ensure they’re easily accessible when you need them.
