16 Guard Buzz Cut for Men: Styles, Tips, & How To Get It

A 16 guard buzz cut gives you a stylish, manageable haircut that works for all hair types. This cut has gained huge popularity on TikTok, where many men call it the "forbidden 16 guard buzz cut." I want to help you understand what this cut is, how to get it, and ways to style it for your hair type.

You can get this cut at a barber shop or try it at home with the right tools. The 16 guard leaves your hair about 2 inches long - longer than typical buzz cuts but short enough for easy care. This length works great for most face shapes and gives you styling options other buzz cuts don't offer.

What Is a 16 Guard Buzz Cut?

The 16 guard buzz cut creates a medium-length style using hair clippers with a size 16 attachment. This cut leaves your hair about 2 inches (5.1 cm) long across your head. The style looks similar to a textured fringe but with a more uniform length.

People on social media often call this a "forbidden" haircut because the guard size is much larger than standard clipper sets include. Some barbers argue it isn't a true buzz cut due to its length, but many men prefer this extra length for styling flexibility.

This cut works best for men who want short, easy-care hair but don't want the extremely short look of traditional buzz cuts. You get the best of both worlds - the simplicity of a buzz cut with enough hair to create different styles.

How Much Hair Does a 16 Guard Cut?

A 16 guard attachment cuts hair to a length of 2 inches (5.1 cm). Each clipper guard number increases the hair length by about 1/16 inch (1.6 mm), starting from zero. Most standard clipper sets only include guards up to number 8 (1 inch), so you'll need to buy a 16 guard separately.

The extra length from a 16 guard gives you more styling options compared to shorter buzz cuts. You can create texture, slight partings, or waves, depending on your hair type. This length hits the sweet spot between too short and too long for many men.

Some barbers might not have a 16 guard available, but they can achieve the same length using scissors. Simply ask for a 2-inch textured scissor cut all over your head for similar results.

How to Get a 16 Guard Buzz Cut

At the Barber Shop

Your barber can give you this popular cut quickly and accurately. I recommend you show pictures of the style you want when you visit. This visual reference helps your barber understand exactly what you're looking for.

Ask specifically for a 16 guard buzz cut during your appointment. If your barber doesn't have a 16 guard, request a 2-inch textured scissor cut instead. This creates the same length and similar style using scissors rather than clippers.

The barber will likely ask about your preferences for the sides. You can choose tapered or faded sides for a smooth transition to skin or keep the same length all over for a more uniform look. Both options work well with this cut.

DIY at Home

You can cut your own hair with a 16 guard attachment if you want to save money. Home buzzing requires patience and attention to detail but follows simple steps:

First, purchase a 16 guard attachment compatible with your clippers. Attach it securely and set the lever to the closed position for consistent cutting.

Run the clippers against the grain of your hair growth. This means moving the clippers upward on the sides and back, and from front to back on top. Make multiple passes to ensure even cutting across your entire head.

Define the edges around your hairline using a smaller guard (0 or 1) for clean lines. Use mirrors to check all angles, or ask a friend to help with hard-to-see areas like the back of your head.

For a more finished look, consider creating a fade on the sides. This gradual transition requires practice but elevates your cut from basic to professional-looking.

Styling Your 16 Guard Buzz Cut

For Straight Hair

Straight hair with a 16 guard cut looks clean but can appear flat without styling. I find that adding sea salt spray to damp hair creates a natural-looking texture. This product helps fine hair stand up rather than lie flat against your head.

Apply the spray after showering while your hair is still damp. Blot excess water with a towel first, then spray the product evenly throughout your hair. Avoid rubbing the product in, as this can cause frizz.

Another option for straight hair is texture clay. This product provides hold and definition that lasts all day. Work a small amount between your palms until it becomes clear, then scrunch it into your hair to create shape and volume.

For Curly Hair

Curly hair looks fantastic with a 16 guard buzz cut. The length allows your natural curls to show their pattern while keeping them manageable. You should use curling cream to enhance your curl definition.

Apply the cream to wet hair and twist small sections with your fingers. This technique helps curls form their natural shape. Then, use a blow-dryer with a diffuser attachment on low heat and low speed settings.

The diffuser gently dries your curls without causing frizz or damage. Bring sections of your hair up to the diffuser rather than moving the dryer around your head. This method preserves the curl pattern and adds volume.

16 Guard Buzz Cut Variations

With Low Taper

A 16 guard buzz cut with low taper starts transitioning to shorter hair just above your ears. This subtle gradient keeps most of your hair at the 2-inch length while creating clean edges around your ears and neckline.

The low taper works well for professional settings because it looks neat without being too dramatic. You get a polished finish while maintaining the casual style of the longer top hair.

This variation suits men who want a classic, conservative look. The low taper creates structure without removing too much hair from the sides, making it versatile for different face shapes and personal styles.

With Mid Taper

The mid taper creates a transition point between your ear and temple. This balanced approach offers more contrast than a low taper but remains less dramatic than a high taper. Many barbers recommend this option for first-time 16 guard cuts.

Mid tapers provide a smooth flow from the longer top to the shorter sides. This creates a flattering frame for your face while maintaining the 16 guard length on top for styling options.

You can style the top with textured clay for definition or leave it natural for an effortless look. Either way, the mid taper adds structure that enhances the overall appearance of your cut.

With High Taper

A high taper starts the transition near your temples, creating more contrast between the top and sides of your head. This bold variation works especially well for men with thick hair because it removes bulk from the sides.

The high taper with a 16 guard buzz cut on top creates a modern, fashionable look. The longer hair on top can be styled with volume for maximum impact, while the tapered sides keep the style clean and defined.

This variation makes a stronger statement than other taper options. It pairs well with textured styling on top and suits men who want a contemporary, eye-catching haircut.

Other Buzz Cut Styles to Consider

Induction Buzz Cut

The induction buzz cut represents the shortest possible clipper cut, using no guard attachment. This military-style cut leaves minimal hair and requires zero styling or maintenance.

This cut works well for men who want the absolute simplest hair care routine. With hair cut so close to the scalp, you don't need products or styling time - just occasional trims to maintain the length.

The induction cut shows more of your scalp and head shape than a 16 guard buzz cut. Consider your head shape and features before choosing this ultra-short style.

Burr Cut

The burr cut uses a #1 or #2 guard to create a very short but visible layer of hair. This classic style provides slightly more coverage than an induction cut while remaining extremely low-maintenance.

Like the induction cut, a burr cut requires no styling products or effort. The uniform length creates a clean, straightforward appearance that works in professional and casual settings.

This style shows less scalp than an induction cut but still reveals your head shape. The burr cut offers a good middle ground between the barely-there induction cut and longer buzz cut styles.

Crew Cut

A crew cut combines shorter sides (typically a #2 guard) with longer top hair (often a #6 guard). This classic men's cut provides more styling versatility than uniform-length buzz cuts.

With more length on top, you can create different looks using styling products. Apply pomade for a sleek finish or texture clay for a more casual, textured appearance.

The crew cut's tapered sides create a flattering silhouette that works for most face shapes. This time-tested style offers more versatility than the 16 guard buzz cut but requires more styling effort.

Ivy League Cut

The Ivy League cut leaves about 1 inch of hair on top (using a #7 or #8 guard) with shorter sides. This preppy style allows enough length for a side part and more structured styling options.

This sophisticated cut bridges the gap between buzz cuts and longer hairstyles. You can style it with pomade for a classic look or texture products for a more casual appearance.

The Ivy League requires more maintenance than shorter buzz cuts but offers greater styling flexibility. Consider this option if you want short hair with classic styling possibilities.

Maintaining Your 16 Guard Buzz Cut

How Often to Trim

Your 16 guard buzz cut will need maintenance every 3-4 weeks to keep its shape and length. Hair typically grows about half an inch per month, so regular trims help maintain the style.

You can touch up the edges more frequently if you want to keep the lines crisp. A small trimmer works well for cleaning up around the ears and neckline between full cuts.

Consider learning basic maintenance techniques if you want to extend the time between barber visits. Simple edge trimming can keep your cut looking fresh longer.

Best Products for 16 Guard Buzz Cuts

The right products enhance your 16 guard buzz cut's appearance. I suggest texture clay for most hair types as it provides definition without stiffness or shine.

Sea salt spray works well for straight or fine hair that needs volume and texture. Apply to damp hair and let it air dry for natural-looking waves and movement.

For curly hair, curling cream helps define your natural pattern while preventing frizz. Look for lightweight formulas that enhance curl structure without weighing hair down.

Choosing the Right Buzz Cut for Your Face Shape

For Oval Faces

Oval face shapes work well with almost any buzz cut variation, including the 16 guard cut. You have the flexibility to choose based on personal preference rather than face shape limitations.

Try a 16 guard cut with a mid or high taper to emphasize your balanced proportions. This combination creates a flattering frame that works with your natural advantages.

Style the top hair with texture products to add dimension and interest to your cut. The longer length of the 16 guard allows more styling options than shorter buzz cuts.

For Round Faces

Round faces benefit from buzz cuts that add height and angular elements. A 16 guard buzz cut with a high taper creates vertical lines that visually lengthen your face.

Style the top hair upward and forward rather than flat to add height. This simple styling trick makes your face appear longer and less round.

Avoid uniform-length buzz cuts that emphasize roundness. The contrast between longer top hair and tapered sides helps create a more oval appearance.

For Square Faces

Square faces pair well with softer buzz cut styles. A 16 guard buzz cut with a low or mid taper maintains your strong jawline while softening harsh angles.

Style the top hair with texture and movement rather than rigid, structured styles. This approach complements your angular features without competing with them.

The longer length of the 16 guard allows hair to fall naturally, creating a balance between structure and softness that works well for square face shapes.

FAQ About 16 Guard Buzz Cuts

Will a 16 guard buzz cut work for thinning hair?

Yes, a 16 guard buzz cut can work well for thinning hair. The uniform length helps hide sparse areas and creates an even, full appearance across your head.

How much does a 16 guard buzz cut cost?

Prices vary by location, but expect to pay $15-30 for a basic buzz cut. Higher-end salons might charge more for additional styling or detailed fades.

Can I get a 16 guard buzz cut with long hair?

Yes, you can transition from long hair to a 16 guard buzz cut. The cut removes anything longer than 2 inches, creating a clean, fresh start.

How do I know if a 16 guard buzz cut will suit me?

Consider your face shape and head contours. This cut works best for balanced faces without prominent forehead or back-of-head bumps.

Can women get 16 guard buzz cuts, too?

Absolutely! The 16 guard buzz cut works for anyone, regardless of gender. The 2-inch length offers styling flexibility that works for everyone.

Conclusion

The 16 guard buzz cut offers the perfect balance between traditional short buzz cuts and longer styles that require more maintenance. You get the simplicity of a buzz cut with enough length for styling options that express your personal style.

I recommend trying this trendy cut if you want an easy-care hairstyle with versatility. The 2-inch length works for all hair types and most face shapes, making it a safe choice for most men.

Whether you visit a barber or try cutting at home, this style delivers a fresh, contemporary look with minimal upkeep. Add the right styling products for your hair type, and you'll have a cut that looks great day after day with minimal effort.