A 10 guard haircut uses a #10 clipper guard, which leaves 1 1/4 inches (32 mm) of hair. Below you can see exactly how long that is, who it suits, the best combinations to ask your barber for, and how often to get it touched up.
| Number | Inches | mm | Scalp shows? | Best for |
|---|
Sizes follow the standard Wahl and Andis guard sets. Some brands differ slightly, so check your clipper’s manual.
What a 10 Guard Haircut Looks Like
A #10 leaves enough length to look like a regular short-to-medium haircut. Hair falls, moves and can be swept back or to the side.
Who a #10 Haircut Suits
- Clipper-cut tops on tapers and undercuts
- Thick or curly hair that you want even and lighter
- People who cut their own hair and want a forgiving length
- Kids’ haircuts that need to be quick and neat
Popular #10 Combinations
- Taper with length: #2 or #3 on the sides, #10 on top.
- Undercut: #1 or #2 on the sides, #10 on top for a softer version.
- All-over #10: a tidy, even trim.
How to Ask Your Barber
Say the guard number and where you want it, for example “#10 all over” or “#3 on the sides, #10 on top”. Not every barber uses a #10, so you can also ask for “an inch and a quarter on top”.
How Often to Get It Cut
Every 4 to 6 weeks. Plan your next appointment with our haircut frequency calculator, and see what it costs near you with our haircut cost calculator.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is a 10 guard?
A #10 guard leaves 1 1/4 inches, or about 32 mm, of hair.
Do all clippers have a 10 guard?
No. The #10 and #12 come with extended or premium guard sets, so check your kit.
Is a 10 guard good for the top of a fade?
Yes, it is a popular clipper length for the top when you want a fast, even result.
Compare Other Haircut Numbers
Shorter: Number 8 haircut ยท Longer: 12 guard haircut. See every length side by side on our haircut numbers chart.