When should a barber use a guard on clippers?

A guard on clippers is specifically designed to help barbers achieve a desired hair length by controlling how much hair is cut. Guards, which come in various lengths, allow the barber to maintain a consistent cut without losing precision. By selecting the appropriate guard, barbers can ensure uniformity in hair length, catering to the specific style or look the client desires. This technique allows for a cleaner, more professional finish while also minimizing the risk of cutting hair too short.

While using guards can also be helpful when performing a fade or when cutting wet hair, the main purpose of a guard is to achieve a specific hair length. Additionally, the experience level of the barber does not influence the decision to use a guard exclusively for first-time users, as the necessity for guards applies across all levels of experience based on the desired outcome of the haircut.