Buzz cuts are low-maintenance and sharp, but growing out a buzz cut takes a little patience, planning, and smart styling. The awkward in-between stages can be tricky, but with the right approach, you can turn every phase into a style opportunity.
This guide covers everything you need to know about growing out a buzz cut including how to handle each stage, common mistakes to avoid, transition styles, and grooming tips for a smooth grow-out journey.
Why Growing Out a Buzz Cut Can Be Challenging
Awkward Length Stages
As hair grows out, it can hit lengths where it sticks out, looks uneven, or loses its original shape.
Visible Growth Patterns
Cowlicks, scalp patterns, or hairline irregularities become more noticeable during the grow-out.
Patience is Required
It can take months to reach medium length styles, and resisting the urge to cut it all off again is half the battle.
Best Practices for Growing Out a Buzz Cut
Commit to the Process
Accept the transition. Knowing there will be awkward stages makes it easier to embrace them with confidence.
Regular Neckline and Side Maintenance
Even if you’re letting the top grow, keeping the neckline, sideburns, and edges clean makes a huge difference in appearance.
Hydrate and Nourish Your Scalp
Healthy hair growth starts with a healthy scalp. Use gentle shampoos, scalp oils, and conditioners to maintain a good environment for growth.
Brush or Comb Regularly
Brushing the hair, even when short, helps train it to lay flatter and improves blood circulation to the scalp, supporting healthier growth.
Adjust Your Style Gradually
As hair grows, adjust how you style it from brushing forward to slight side parts to eventually introducing full hairstyles.
Common Mistakes to Avoid While Growing Out a Buzz Cut
Ignoring Regular Maintenance
Skipping edge-ups or neckline cleanups makes the grow-out phase look unkempt and messier than it needs to be.
Overstyling Too Early
At super short lengths, using heavy products can weigh hair down unnaturally or make it look greasy.
Impatient Trimming
Getting frustrated and shaving it all off again can break the grow-out momentum. Stick it out and trust the process.
Neglecting Hair Health
Dry, brittle hair doesn’t grow well. Focusing only on length without scalp and hair care slows down progress.
Stylish Stages of Buzz Cut Growth
Buzz Cut Largo Phase
When your buzz cut starts getting longer (around ½ inch to 1 inch), embrace a buzz cut largo for a rugged, fuller look.
Crew Cut Phase
As the top hair reaches about 1–2 inches, it naturally enters a crew cut stage. Neaten the sides slightly for a military-chic vibe.
Ivy League Phase
At around 2–3 inches, you can transition into an Ivy League cut with a defined side part and tapered sides for a polished style.
Textured Crop Phase
Once you hit about 3–4 inches, opt for a textured crop. This is a low-fuss, stylish option that enhances natural movement.
Medium-Length Styles
At 4 inches and beyond, you can begin exploring side sweeps, short pompadours, bro flows, and other medium styles.
Essential Hair Care Tips for Buzz Cut Grow-Out
Use Lightweight Products
Opt for light styling creams or mousses rather than heavy pomades and gels to maintain a natural look.
Protect Your Hair from Sun and Pollution
Sun damage and pollution can cause dryness and breakage, slowing down your growth. Use hats or protective sprays when outdoors.
Consider Supplements (If Needed)
Consult a professional about biotin, collagen, or multivitamins that support hair growth, but only if necessary.
Moisturize the Scalp
A healthy scalp leads to healthier hair. Regular scalp massages with oils like argan or jojoba can keep both scalp and hair in great condition.
Grooming Tools You’ll Need While Growing Out a Buzz Cut
Good Quality Clippers
If you plan to maintain your neckline and sideburns yourself, invest in professional-grade clippers.
Soft Bristle Brush
To help train hair direction and keep it neat during early stages.
Lightweight Hair Products
Look for styling creams, texturizing sprays, and leave-in conditioners that won’t weigh your hair down.
Wide-Tooth Comb
Essential once your hair starts reaching 2 inches or longer to avoid breakage and promote a natural shape.
How Long Does It Take to Grow Out a Buzz Cut?
Typically, hair grows about ½ inch per month.
Depending on your goals, here’s a rough timeline:
- Buzz Cut Largo (½ to 1 inch): 1–2 months
- Crew Cut (1–2 inches): 2–4 months
- Ivy League (2–3 inches): 4–6 months
- Medium Length (4–6 inches): 8–12 months
Everyone’s hair grows at slightly different rates based on genetics, diet, and overall health.
FAQs About Growing Out a Buzz Cut
How do I avoid the awkward phase when growing out a buzz cut?
Regular neckline cleanups, light styling, and embracing textured, natural looks help make the transition stylish rather than messy.
Can I use products when growing out a buzz cut?
Yes, but stick to lightweight products like creams and texturizing sprays, especially in the early stages.
How often should I trim while growing out a buzz cut?
Trim the neckline and sides every 4–6 weeks, but let the top grow freely unless you’re aiming for a specific shape.
What hairstyles can I transition into from a buzz cut?
You can easily move into a crew cut, Ivy League, textured crop, or short pompadour as your hair gains length.
Does brushing help hair grow faster after a buzz cut?
Brushing improves blood circulation and trains hair growth direction, promoting healthier-looking hair, though it doesn’t speed up growth itself.