How Should I Ask My Barber to Cut My Hair?
Sitting in the barber’s chair can be a bit awkward, especially for new customers. This guide will help you explain what you want to your barber and leave feeling and looking your best.
A fade refers to the gradual transition from longer to shorter hair. To achieve this, you can specify the desired length using clipper guard numbers or just tell the barber to fade your hair.
1. Know What You Want
Whether you're going to your regular Barber St George shop for a new look or trying out a different shop, it's important to know exactly what you want. Barbers and hairstylists aren't mind readers, so you need to tell them how you want your haircut to look. The best way to do this is to use specific language, like "I want my hair to be a fade," or "I want it to be a taper." This will help your barber or stylist understand what you're asking for.
You can also try bringing in photos of the look you're going for. This will help your barber or stylist get a better idea of what you're looking for and how to achieve it. This might seem obvious, but you'd be surprised at how often people go into the barbershop with an idea of what they want and then end up not getting it.
The most common mistake is simply saying, "I want a fade." While this is a good starting point, it's not very helpful for your barber or stylist to understand what you mean. You should be specific about what kind of fade you want, like a high, mid, or low fade. You can even ask for a blend or taper if you don't want the fade to be as sharp.
You can also give your barber or stylist feedback throughout the cut. If you think that something isn't quite right, let them know and they'll fix it. It's a lot easier to touch up a shorter style than it is to do the whole thing over again. Just make sure to be polite and not interrupt them while they're working.
2. Be Specific
Your hair isn’t just a haircut; it’s an avenue for self-expression, a way to boost your confidence, and can even influence how others perceive you. That’s why it’s important to know what you want from your hair, and to communicate that clearly with your barber. That means using clear language and bringing pictures.
Many people use vague terms when asking for a haircut, such as “short on the sides and long on top” or simply "a trim." However, your barber wants to hear what you want to achieve in specific terms. They need to know how much to cut off the top and sides, for example, if you are trying to achieve a fade or taper. They also need to understand how much volume you want (thinning, layered, etc).
You should also be sure to mention whether you prefer a tapered or block neckline in the back, and how long you would like your fringe (aka bangs) to be in the front. Then your stylist can determine what haircut will best suit your face shape and personal style.
Finally, if you aren’t sure how to phrase your request, try describing the length that you want to achieve in inches. This will give your barber a clear idea of how short or long you want to go, and they can adjust accordingly as they work.
It’s important to be as specific as possible, but don’t be afraid to be open to suggestions. It can take a few tries to find the perfect hairstyle for you, and that’s okay. Just be sure to communicate clearly each time you visit the barbershop, and show your appreciation for their work with a big tip.
3. Be Direct
When you’re talking to your barber, be as clear as possible about what you want. This will make it easier for him to understand you, and it will help ensure that he gives you the haircut that you’re looking for. It may help to bring in a photo of the style that you’re going for, so that he can see what you’re envisioning.
When it comes to hair, most people have a very vague idea of what they want when they walk into the barber’s shop. They might say something like “Give me a trim” or “Let’s keep it short”. But this kind of vague description can lead to miscommunication, and ultimately, a haircut that isn’t what you were hoping for.
It’s important to be direct with your barber when explaining what you want, but don’t be rude or mean. Your barber is just trying to do his job and give you a great haircut. If you’re rude or mean, then it will be much harder for him to do his job well.
Be sure to let your barber know if you have any specific requests or concerns about your haircut. For example, if you have sensitive skin or scalp, you might need to tell your barber that you want him to be gentle when cutting your hair. You can also talk to your barber about any other personal concerns or questions that you have. Just be sure to avoid any controversial topics, such as politics or religion. These are subjects that should be discussed with your friends and family, not with strangers.
4. Be Flexible
A good barber will try and give you the haircut that you want. But if the style you're trying to achieve isn't feasible or just doesn't look right, it's okay to be flexible. Just tell your barber what you like about the style and ask them if they can change anything. This way, you'll end up with a haircut that you love.
It's also important to be familiar with some barbering terminology. For example, you should know that each clipper guard size represents a different length. For example, a "2" guard will leave 1/8 of an inch of hair. This will help you communicate the exact length you want for various parts of your haircut.
Another thing to keep in mind is that your hair grows about half an inch each month. This means that if it's been a while since your last haircut, the barber may suggest a buzz cut or shorter than what you originally intended. However, this isn't always the case and you should let your barber know if they are going too far.
It's also a good idea to bring a photo of your desired haircut to the salon. This will help the barber get on the same page as you and ensure that they are cutting your hair to the proper length. You can also jot down the final length on the back of one of your business cards. This will make it easier for you to reference the details of your haircut when you return for a visit. This will help to prevent confusion and prevent frustration. It's also a great way to build a positive relationship with your barber.
5. Be Honest
Barbers can’t read minds, so you need to tell them what you want. Just asking “a short style” isn’t clear enough and you might end up with a haircut that doesn’t suit you. Also, if you have a picture of the hairstyle you’re looking for, bring it with you. If you lack descriptive ability, a picture can help you convey what you’re thinking.
If you’re a regular, your barber may know exactly what you like and can just give it to you. But if you’re just visiting, don’t be afraid to ask for something new. Chances are they’ll be more than happy to try something new and make sure you’re satisfied.
During your appointment, it’s best to stay focused on what they’re doing. While it can be tempting to hold up your phone to text or read, this is seen as rude by many barbers. Besides, it can be difficult to cut your hair with you tilting your head in all sorts of different directions.
It’s also a good idea to show your barber that you trust them, even if you have some doubts. For example, if you’re worried about your receding hairline, let them know. This way, they can tell you how to deal with it. They can also talk to you about their work experience and give you some tips on how to get the best results for your hair. They may even offer some suggestions based on your unique needs. If you’re not comfortable with these conversations, then you should probably look for a new barber. However, if you’re willing to be honest, it’s a great way to build a long-lasting relationship with your barber.
Sitting in the barber’s chair can be a bit awkward, especially for new customers. This guide will help you explain what you want to your barber and leave feeling and looking your best. A fade refers to the gradual transition from longer to shorter hair. To achieve this, you can specify the desired length using…