Baldie Barbershop 101

Going to the barbershop can sometimes be stressful if you haven’t found your go-to barber yet…

I have been to almost a million different barbers since I cut my hair 3 years ago. I have had many different experiences - good, bad, and impartial. The page has shown me that many of you have had similar experiences so I thought I would compile some of the things I do before going to get a cut to ensure that I leave the barbershop a happy camper :)

Here are a few tips on how to make your barbershop visits a more positive experience!

Tip #1: Make sure to see pictures of the barber’s work

Searching on instagram #(city)barber will help you find barbers in your area that have tagged their work. You can also search on instagram via the search tab → places → search “barber” and barbershops near your current location will appear. Both of these methods will show you pictures of work from a barber. This is how I try to figure out if the barber can give me the type of cut I want. I know it’s hard because most barbers only cut or advertise cutting for men but the main things I look for are: any pictures of women’s cuts, a smooth fade, and how well they can do a taper. Looking for these type of things help you decide if the barber is able to do a haircut that you would actually be happy with and have less anxiety while in the chair.

Tip #2: ALWAYS bring a picture of what you want

This is the best thing to do when going to a new barber. I like to bring 2-3 options from simplest cut to more complicated/stylized. I always show the barber as I take a seat and CLEARLY ASK if they are able to do this type of cut. If they hesitate, go to the more simpler haircut. If they seem confident, I would again ask - are you sure you’re able to do this because if not we can do a more simple one. 9/10 here is where the barber either remains confident or back pedals. Communication is key!

Tip #3: Use apps like The Cut and StyleSeat to find barbers

These apps (found in your respective phone’s app store) will show you barbers in your area. I always take note of barbers that specifically include “women’s cuts” in their pricing lists because that typically means they have experience cutting women’s hair. These applications allow the barbers to upload pictures of their work and their patrons can leave reviews about their experiences. This is a great way to find good barbers in your area and actually make an appointment with them.

Tip #4: Speak up!

If you notice your barber doing something that you do not like or are uncomfortable with during the haircut, there is nothing wrong with politely speaking up. For instance, if he begins lining up your edges and this is something you do not want/like, communicate that with him. It is always easier to say something before the hair is gone versus having to do damage control after. This will save you and the barber time because the haircut can be saved prior to the big reveal at the end and not extend the appointment to fix the haircut.

I hope these tips help you all with your haircut experience! If you have a case of a flirtatious barber, I would say use your own discretion how to respond. Comment below if you have any other tips on how you make your haircut experience!