So you rocked a buzz cut for a while, but now it's growing out into that awkward in-between phase where it's too long to be a buzz cut but too short to style like a regular haircut. Don’t sweat it—this stage doesn’t have to be a hot mess. With the right approach, you can turn your grown-out buzz into a stylish look that works for you, not against you.
First things first: stop fighting your hair’s natural texture. A grown-out buzz cut often has a bit of wave or unevenness, and that’s not a bad thing. Instead of trying to force it into submission, work with what you’ve got. If your hair is on the wavier side, a light styling cream or sea salt spray can enhance the natural movement. For straighter hair, a matte paste or clay can add definition without making it look greasy or stiff. The key here is to avoid heavy products—your hair isn’t long enough yet to handle thick gels or pomades without looking crunchy.
If you’ve never used a blow dryer before, now’s the time to start. A quick blast of heat can make all the difference in shaping your hair as it grows out. Use a round brush to lift the roots and create some volume, especially if your hair is still in that "fluffy" stage. Point the nozzle downward to smooth any flyaways, and finish with a cool shot to lock in the shape. This technique works wonders for adding polish to an otherwise unruly length.
When your hair is in that awkward phase, changing up your part can completely transform your look. If you’ve always worn a middle part, try shifting it slightly to the side for a more modern vibe. No part at all? Sweep everything forward for a textured fringe effect or push it back for a subtle faux-hawk. Playing with direction helps disguise uneven growth and keeps your style looking intentional rather than accidental.
Just because you’re growing it out doesn’t mean you should skip the barber. Regular trims every 4-6 weeks will keep the shape clean and prevent mullet territory. Ask your stylist to focus on blending the sides while letting the top grow—this maintains structure without sacrificing progress. A slight taper on the neckline and around the ears also helps the grow-out phase look polished rather than scraggly.
If your hair is in that frustrating stage where it’s too long to stay put but too short to tie back, accessories can be a game-changer. A fitted cap works for casual days, while a headband can keep strays out of your face during workouts. Beanies are another great option in cooler weather—just make sure they’re not too tight, or you’ll end up with awkward dents in your hair.
Let’s be real: growing out a buzz cut isn’t always pretty. There will be days when your hair seems to have a mind of its own, and that’s okay. The good news? This phase is temporary. Stick with it, keep experimenting with different styling tricks, and before you know it, you’ll have enough length to play with more versatile cuts. In the meantime, own the messy, textured look—it’s way cooler than stressing over perfection.
Growing out a buzz cut doesn’t have to be a style disaster. With the right techniques and a little patience, you can navigate the awkward stage like a pro. Whether you’re embracing texture, playing with partings, or keeping up with trims, the key is to work with your hair, not against it. Before long, you’ll be onto your next great haircut—no awkward phase required.
