To tell your barber what you want, you should prepare beforehand by considering your hair type, face shape, and lifestyle, learn some basic barbering terminology, use photos to show the desired look, be specific about the length you want, and generally use words you understand to communicate clearly.
Communicating effectively with your barber is key to getting the haircut you want. It goes beyond just sitting in the chair and asking for "a little off the top." By providing specific details and understanding a few basic concepts, you can ensure your barber understands your vision and delivers results you'll love.
Based on advice from grooming experts, here's a breakdown of what you should tell your barber:
Prepare Before You Go
Before you even step into the barber shop, take some time to think about your hair and lifestyle. This initial consideration will help you articulate your needs better.
- Think about your hair type, face shape, & lifestyle before you go.
- Hair Type: Is your hair thick, thin, curly, straight, fine, or coarse? This affects how a certain style will look and behave.
- Face Shape: Certain hairstyles complement different face shapes (round, oval, square, etc.). Consider what will look best on you.
- Lifestyle: Do you need a low-maintenance style for a busy schedule, or do you have time for daily styling? Does your job require a specific look?
Effective Communication in the Chair
When you're talking to your barber, being clear and providing visual aids can make a significant difference.
Show, Don't Just Tell
- Describe the haircut with photos. Bringing a few pictures of the haircut you want is often the most effective way to communicate. A visual example removes ambiguity about length, style, and texture. You can find inspiration online or from magazines. Try searching for styles based on your hair type and desired length, like "short hairstyles for thick hair". (Note: This is a placeholder link.)
Be Specific About Length
- Tell them what sort of length you want (be as specific as you can). Don't just say "short." Specify how short!
- Use clipper guard numbers (e.g., "a number 3 on the back and sides, blended up").
- Describe the desired length in inches or centimeters (e.g., "leave about two inches on top").
- Explain how you want the length to transition from the sides/back to the top.
Use Understandable Language
- Use words you understand. While learning some basic terminology helps, don't feel pressured to use complex barbering terms if you're not sure what they mean. It's better to describe it in your own words or point to exactly what you mean.
- Learn some barbering lingo & terminology. Knowing a few key terms can certainly streamline communication. Examples include:
- Fade: Gradual transition from very short hair to longer hair. There are different types (low, mid, high, skin fade).
- Taper: A more gradual, less dramatic shortenings of the hair towards the neckline and ears, usually involving clippers and scissors.
- Texture: Refers to how thick or coarse the individual hair strands are, or how the haircut is finished (e.g., using thinning shears to reduce bulk).
- Blended/Scissored: How the different lengths of hair connect smoothly.
What Else to Discuss?
Beyond the basic cut, consider mentioning:
- How you style your hair: Let your barber know if you push it back, part it, wear it forward, etc. This helps them cut it so it falls correctly for your usual style.
- Problem areas: Do you have cowlicks, thinning spots, or areas that are hard to manage? Mention these so the barber can adjust the cut accordingly.
- Maintenance: Discuss how often you plan to get it cut to maintain the style.
Here's a quick summary table of key points:
| Action Item | Why It Helps | How to Do It |
|---|---|---|
| Preparation | Ensures the style suits you and your routine | Think about hair type, face shape, lifestyle. |
| Provide Visuals | Eliminates guesswork, shows exact desired look | Use photos or saved images on your phone. |
| Specify Length | Crucial for achieving the right cut | Use guard numbers, inches, or clear descriptions. |
| Use Understandable Language | Prevents miscommunication | Use your own words, point, or use known lingo. |
By following these steps, you can have a confident and productive conversation with your barber, leading to a great haircut experience.
