Chris Hemsworth’s Extraction Haircut: The Gritty Buzz That Redefined Action Style

When Chris Hemsworth traded Thor’s long, golden locks for a tight buzz cut in Extraction, fans didn’t just notice—they went wild. The transformation from mythic hero to rugged mercenary, Tyler Rake, marked a whole new era for Hemsworth’s on-screen style. His short, no-nonsense haircut became a statement of power, precision, and practicality—perfect for a man dodging bullets across Dhaka or Tbilisi.

What makes this haircut stand out? It’s the balance between raw masculinity and minimal upkeep. The buzzed sides, clean fade, and matte texture mirror Tyler Rake’s gritty persona: no frills, no fuss, just function. This guide dives into everything you need to know about recreating the Extraction haircut—from its cinematic origins to how you can nail the same look at home.

The Origin Story: Behind the Extraction Haircut

A Cut Built for Combat

In Extraction (2020), Chris Hemsworth plays Tyler Rake, a former Australian Special Forces operator turned black-market mercenary. The character spends most of his time in chaotic war zones, so the close-cropped buzz cut wasn’t just for aesthetics—it was a practical choice. Short hair means less sweat, less maintenance, and zero distractions during high-stakes missions. Director Sam Hargrave, a former stunt coordinator, even mentioned that the look was meant to “reflect Tyler’s stripped-down, no-nonsense nature.”

From Long Locks to Buzzed Bravery

Fans were used to Hemsworth’s flowing Thor hair, often styled in glossy waves fit for a god. But for Extraction, he went all in—ditching the Hollywood glam for a tough, military-inspired buzz cut. In interviews, Hemsworth admitted the change was refreshing, saying he “felt lighter, faster, and more grounded in character.” The shift also showed his willingness to transform physically for roles, proving he’s more than just a superhero stereotype.

A Viral Phenomenon

When Extraction hit Netflix in April 2020, social media lit up. Within days, the “Tyler Rake haircut” hashtag trended on TikTok and Instagram. Barbers worldwide reported an uptick in buzz cut requests, with men citing Hemsworth’s rugged new look as inspiration. Even fitness influencers began pairing the style with tactical workout routines, dubbing it the “mercenary aesthetic.”

The buzz returned again in Extraction 2 (2023), where Hemsworth kept the same cut but added a more defined fade and cleaner edges—proving that a simple haircut can evolve without losing its signature grit.

Detailed Haircut Breakdown

The Anatomy of the Tyler Rake Cut

At first glance, Chris Hemsworth’s Extraction haircut looks like a basic buzz—but it’s more strategic than that. The style combines a short, uniform buzz (around a #1–#2 guard length) with lightly faded sides that blend seamlessly into the neckline. It’s clean, tactical, and deliberately low-maintenance—ideal for men who want something tough but refined.

Here’s a simple breakdown of the cut’s core elements:

This simplicity is what gives the cut its power—it looks good even when you’ve been through a 12-hour day or a gym session.

Who It Works Best For

The Tyler Rake haircut suits men with oval or square face shapes, as the even buzz emphasizes jawline strength and bone structure. For round faces, ask your barber for a slightly tighter fade on the sides to add definition. Men with heart-shaped faces can balance proportions by leaving the top a touch longer (around #3 guard).

If you’ve got thick or wavy hair, this cut helps reduce volume and heat—perfect for warmer climates. For finer hair types, the even length can make hair appear fuller and more consistent.

Maintenance and Cost

One of the biggest appeals of this haircut is its zero-stress upkeep. You’ll only need to visit the barber every 2–3 weeks to keep it crisp, or simply maintain it at home with clippers. Expect to pay around £15–£30 ($20–$40) depending on your location and barber.

At home, upkeep is simple:

• Run clippers through once every 10–14 days.
• Exfoliate your scalp weekly to prevent buildup.
• Moisturize with lightweight argan oil or aloe-based lotion.

The result? A rugged, sharp look that’s always ready for action—no cape or Asgardian hammer required.

Step-by-Step DIY Tutorial

Get the Tyler Rake Look at Home

You don’t need a Hollywood barber or Netflix budget to pull off Chris Hemsworth’s Extraction haircut. With the right tools and a steady hand, you can easily recreate it at home. Here’s how to do it the pro way.

Step 1: Prep Like a Pro

Start by washing your hair with a mild shampoo and towel-drying it until it’s slightly damp. Comb it through to remove tangles. If your hair is longer than two inches, use scissors or a longer clipper guard to trim it down evenly before buzzing. This ensures a smooth, clean finish.

Pro Tip: Work in a well-lit area with a handheld mirror or a three-way mirror setup—visibility is key for clean fades.

Step 2: Buzz the Top and Sides

Attach a #2 guard (¼ inch) to your clippers and run them against the grain of your hair (front to back and side to side). Keep your strokes consistent and overlap slightly to avoid patchy spots.
Once the top is even, move down to the sides and back, using the same guard for now.

If you want to mimic Hemsworth’s Extraction 2 upgrade, switch to a #1 guard for the lower half of your sides to create a subtle fade.

Step 3: Blend and Fade

To add that seamless fade, use a #1 guard below the temple line and a fade comb to blend the transition between the top and bottom.

• Move your clippers in short, upward flicks for a soft blend.
• Check both sides carefully for symmetry.

If you’re new to fading, take your time—it’s better to go gradually than to overcut.

Step 4: Clean the Neckline

Switch to a trimmer or straight razor and clean up around your neckline, sideburns, and ears. Follow your natural lines or create a sharp edge for a more defined look.
Use a small amount of shaving gel for precision, then wipe away residue with a cool, damp towel.

Step 5: Style and Finish

Apply a pea-sized amount of matte clay or dry texture paste, rubbing it between your palms before applying. Work it lightly through the top for that rugged, non-glossy texture Tyler Rake is known for.

If you want a little more volume or grit, a few sprays of sea salt spray before the clay will do the trick.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Uneven passes: Always move the clippers slowly and in overlapping motions.
• Skipping prep: Dirty or oily hair clogs clipper blades and ruins texture.
• Rushing the fade: It’s better to fade gradually than try to fix harsh lines later.

With a bit of practice, this haircut can be done in under 20 minutes. It’s practical, low-maintenance, and instantly sharp—perfect for anyone wanting that “ready-for-action” edge Hemsworth pulls off so effortlessly.

Styling & Variations

Everyday Styling Made Easy

One of the best things about Chris Hemsworth’s Extraction haircut is how effortless it is to style. The buzzed texture means no more early-morning battles with a comb or hairdryer. Still, a few tweaks can elevate the look from casual to cinematic.

Here’s how to adapt it for different occasions:

• Morning Routine: After a shower, apply a small dab of matte clay to add light texture without shine. Run your hands through your hair in random directions for a natural, rugged finish.
• Gym Session: Skip the product altogether. Just rinse with water or use a few sprays of sea salt spray for a clean, sweat-resistant hold.
• Night Out: For a sharper edge, use a clay pomade or dry paste with a bit more hold. Shape your hairline neatly for a defined, confident vibe.

Product Recommendations

These products help replicate Hemsworth’s balance of toughness and polish—rugged enough for action, but clean enough for everyday life.

Variations on the Extraction Cut

While Hemsworth’s Tyler Rake look is defined by its simplicity, there are a few cool variations you can try without losing the essence of the style:

1. Crew Cut Upgrade – Keep the buzz length on the sides but leave the top slightly longer (around a #3 guard). It adds a touch more versatility if you like a hint of texture.
2. Textured Top Fade – Ask your barber to blend the sides tighter and lightly scissor the top for extra detail. Perfect for men with thick or wavy hair.
3. Celebrity Dupes – Inspired by Hemsworth but not ready for the full buzz? Try a shorter version of Jon Bernthal’s Punisher cut or Jake Gyllenhaal’s Southpaw style for a rugged yet modern vibe.

The Extraction haircut isn’t just a style—it’s a statement. It tells the world you’re confident, capable, and not afraid of a little edge. Whether you’re heading to work, training, or just want that clean, fearless look, this cut adapts effortlessly to any lifestyle.

Grooming & Care Guide

Keep It Clean and Sharp

Even though the Extraction haircut is famously low-maintenance, keeping your scalp healthy and the buzz looking crisp takes a little care. Here’s how to make sure your Tyler Rake look stays in top form.

1. Scalp Health Matters

A buzz cut exposes your scalp more than longer styles, so keeping it hydrated is key. After showering, apply a light moisturizer or a few drops of argan oil to prevent dryness. If you’re often outdoors, use a matte-finish SPF lotion to avoid sunburn—Hemsworth himself has spoken about using sunscreen daily while filming in harsh sunlight.

Pro Tip: Exfoliate once a week with a mild scalp scrub to remove dead skin and prevent flakiness.

2. Growing It Out Gracefully

If you ever want to move past the buzz, you’ll need to manage that awkward in-between stage. Around the three- to four-week mark, start blending the sides with a #3 guard to keep the shape neat. Once you hit about two inches of growth, switch to a crew cut or textured crop, depending on how you want your next style to evolve.

3. Outfit Pairing: Channeling Tyler Rake’s Edge

The haircut pairs perfectly with Extraction-inspired streetwear—think cargo pants, dark tees, and rugged boots. Hemsworth’s off-screen looks often mirror his on-screen character: practical, masculine, and effortlessly cool. Throw on aviator shades, and you’ve nailed the full Rake aesthetic.

Quick Maintenance Checklist