Q&A for How to Use Hair Clippers

Start at the front hair line with the clippers and make smooth strokes toward the back of the head. Make sure you get the crown well so it will blend. It is also a good idea to move the clippers in different directions to ensure you get all the hair even. Another tip: use a longer guard than you think you will need first to make sure you do not take it shorter than you want it.

Most just slide on or snap on. The clipper teeth should fit snug up against the guard teeth.

Absolutely, provided that you use caution around delicate areas. You'll need to be more gentle.

Lower speeds can work better for more sensitive areas, such as at the back of the neck.

No. You don't have feeling in the actual hair, only where the hair is anchored in the scalp.

Some barbers apply talc onto skin that has been shaved. It absorbs excess moisture and is supposed to prevent irritation. Anecdotally, it reduces darkness on the face by covering the 5 o'clock shadow that some men experience even being freshly shaven. Personally, I believe when used on the back of the neck after shaving (usually with a whisking brush) it frees cut hair that is stuck to the skin due to the natural oil it produces.

It depends on what clippers you have, but most brands have replacements blades, mostly for professionals. Most likely, every clipper will get dull in time. Be sure to take care of your clippers by putting lubricant on them prior to cutting. And always wash with clippercide, even if you're just using it on yourself.

No. Most of the time clippers come pre-oiled from the manufacturing process.

The lever is typically on the left side of the clipper at the front near the blades.