Guard Length Guide

Number 3 Buzz Cut & 3mm Hair Length Guide

Everything you need to know about the #3 guard buzz cut (10mm length). Interactive demo, styling tips, and see how it looks on you with our AI preview.

Interactive Guard Length Demo

Slide to compare different guard lengths and see the difference

Guard #3 exampleGuard #3
Guard #310mm

Professional buzz

Short but visible hair

💡 Pro Tips:

  • • Guards 1-2: Perfect for hot weather or professional environments
  • • Guards 3-4: Most popular choice, easy maintenance
  • • Guards 5-8: Good for transitioning or growing out
  • • Always start longer and go shorter if needed

Why Choose a Number 3 Buzz Cut?

The #3 guard (10mm) is the most popular buzz cut length for good reason

👔Professional Look

Perfect balance between too short and too long. Appropriate for most workplaces while still maintaining a modern, clean appearance.

Low Maintenance

Requires trimming every 2-3 weeks. No daily styling needed, just wake up and go. Perfect for busy lifestyles.

🌟Versatile Style

Works with fades, can be styled with light products, and suits most face shapes. Great starting point for buzz cut beginners.

How #3 Guard Compares to Other Lengths

#3
Guard #3 (10mm)
Most Popular

Perfect Balance

Not too short, not too long. Visible hair texture with easy maintenance.

#2
Guard #2 (6mm)
Shorter

Close Crop

More military-style appearance. Less hair texture visible.

#4
Guard #4 (13mm)
Longer

More Length

Closer to crew cut territory. More styling options available.

How to Ask Your Barber for a #3 Buzz Cut

✅ What to Say

Perfect Request:

"I'd like a #3 buzz cut all around, please. That's 10mm length."

  • • Be specific with the guard number
  • • Mention if you want faded sides
  • • Ask about tapering the neckline
  • • Bring a reference photo if possible
❌ What to Avoid

Vague Request:

"Just make it short" or "Give me a buzz cut"

  • • Don't use vague terms like "short"
  • • Avoid saying "not too short" without specifics
  • • Don't skip the consultation
  • • Don't rush the decision

Does #3 Buzz Cut Work for Your Face Shape?

🟢
Oval Face
Perfect

Ideal proportions work great with any buzz cut length

🟢
Square Face
Great

Softens angular features while maintaining masculine look

🟡
Round Face
Good

Works well, consider faded sides for added definition

🟡
Heart Shape
Okay

Can work, but consider leaving sides slightly longer

Ready to Try a #3 Buzz Cut?

See exactly how you'll look before you commit. Upload your photo and get an instant AI preview.

Get Your AI Preview Now