Buzz Worthy

Back in my high school days, my brother and his friends would give each other buzz-cuts, primarily to save money.  As a young hair fanatic at the time, I opted to get my hair done at the local barbershop where I could give specific instructions to a trusted professional barber for that desired style.  However, yesterday I found myself sitting in a chair in the middle of the restroom as my brother ran the buzzer through my precious hair!  After that experience, I felt it worthy of a ManPossible write up.

Truth be told, I’ve always had deep respect and admiration for both my brother and his friends.  The ability to take a buzzer to one’s head without any experience and be able to get the desired look at a stupid young age is worth applauding.  A high five to my brother, his friends, and all those adventurous and fearless individuals who take risks in the name of grooming and fashion!

If you want to take a DIY approach to this, you’ll need the proper tools.  The one my brother used was a Wahl haircut kit.  Depending on your budget, experience, and preference, I suggest doing some proper research before shelling out the cash.  The haircut kit can range anywhere between $30 to a couple hundred dollars.  But consider this, an average (male) haircut usually costs around $20 - $30.  By purchasing a product that is 2 - 3 times that cost, you are making an investment.  Not only will you be fine-tuning the art of buzzing, but in no time, the product will pay for itself.  As long as your hair grows back.  Lol. 

Once you’ve acquired your tool of choice, you can bravely move on to the next stage of this self-discovery journey.  If at all possible, we recommend having a friend or loved one accompany you during the first run for some moral support.  It’s also great to have those second pair of eyes to ensure your steadiness, I mean safety.  However, if you choose to fly solo, then it’s wise to prep the following:

·       A mirror is a MUST.  Although a simple wall mirror will suffice, the BEST mirror to have is a tri-fold mirror.  This mirror is separated into three parts:  left side, center, and right side.  The two sides of the mirror are hinged along the sides and can easily be folded at a given angle for an adjustable view.  This allows the user the ability to see the front, side, and back view of the head when performing the haircut.

·       When performing the buzz, it’s wise to start with a slightly lengthier buzzer “guide” or “head”.  You can use a lengthier buzzer head to get a feel for the buzzer:  how it feels, where the blade begins and where it ends, how much of the hair it removes, etc.  Once you have a good feel for the tool, then go for the kill and replace it with the desired length.

As efficient as the shaver is, it’s good to note that it’s not an “end all, be all” item.  In my case, my brother used the shaver to shorten the length of the hair around the sides and back of my head.  It’s also great to adjust sideburns, shorten hair, or when all fails, just go BALD.  For others that are looking to be more stylish and trim off couple inches at the top, it’s recommended to use a pair of grooming scissors and comb.

Nevertheless, in the name of science and grooming, if you are one of the brave MP souls who’ve gone this journey, please send us your pics and style at [email protected].  We’d love to post your new hair joy or pain.  

by ManPossible

Photos used under Creative Commons from AngryJulieMonday, Steve Snodgrass