In recent years the buzzcut epidemic has plagued the internet, extending its grasp to Gen Z and the hallways of Lawrence High. While hairstyles have always been a factor in the trend cycle, the buzz cut’s simplicity made me curious as to what inspired this movement. 

After doing some personal research, it seems to me that people get buzz cuts for one of two reasons: either they simply enjoy the convenience of low-maintenance hair or they’re having a mental break. Don’t get me wrong, there’s no doubt that this sleek statement has been relevant for decades. Brad Pitt and Jennifer Aniston’s paparazzi pictures from the 90s remain iconic, guest-starring the buzz that Pitt rocked for years. In Contrast, Britney Spears’ statement to overbearing paparazzi in shaving her head made headlines for weeks in 2007. Regardless of where my peers are finding inspiration, it’s clear that the buzz is back. 

As this trend has gained momentum over the past few years, I’ve become hyper-aware of the crowd it attracts. After seeing a range of buzzes, both good and bad, I formed a theory on the matter: 50% of men would look better with a shaved head. That’s not to say that if half of the male population got a buzzcut it would be ground-breakingly attractive. I find that many guys are unsure how to style their hair, leading to unfortunate results, and leaving the buzzcut as a simple solution to such a dilemma.

This theory takes into account three factors: head shape, hair texture, and a sense of style. Head shape proves to be the most important factor for obvious reasons, the buzz exposes every divet, every five-head, and every recession one might be hiding under their mane. While the buzzcut is pretty versatile and can adapt to many hair types, texture isn’t something that should be ignored — if considering this hairstyle one should weigh their hair thickness level and whether it allows for a carpet-like appearance upon one’s head. Last but certainly not least, those who decide to go the buzzcut route need some sort of direction in fashion. You can’t opt for this hairstyle when your daily uniform consists of tapered joggers and Nike sweatshirts, that may create an illusion that you have no regard for personal hygiene as these stylistic choices point towards laziness.  

While the buzzcut isn’t necessarily a new trend, this generation of ‘buzzers’ have taken a new approach to personalizing their look. Where some may see a lack of hair, others see a blank canvas. On my Instagram feed, in particular, I’ve seen a flood of posts showing off their new buzz designs. From the portrait of the Mona Lisa to simple flames, there are no limits to what one can transform their buzz into by simply applying some store-bought hair dye and minor artistic ability. 

Regardless of what inspired this movement, I’m interested to see how far this trend goes, and whether or not it has an expiration date. Whether it’s here to stay or make its exit like many trends, the buzzcut has certainly made its mark on pop culture.