People put a lot of trust in their barbers to create styles that make clients feel confident. With hair being a huge part of our identity, it’s essential for barbers to understand the basic barbering techniques that will help them create precise styles that keep clients coming back. And don’t forget to create a vibe that your clients love with simple barber shop design ideas!
Hair trends come and go, meaning basic techniques and desired styles may change over time. But don’t worry, we will go over the barbering basics every barber should know.
Tools Every Barber Should Have
Whether you’re lining up a client or doing a close shave, there are several tools that a barber should have in their arsenal. Having all of these tools allows you to accommodate every client and any kind of style they would like.
Scissors
Clippers
Shavers/razors/blades
Capes
Towels
Comb
Sponge brush
Neck duster
Hand mirrors
Hair Picks
Products Every Barber Should Have
Pomade – To create the perfect style for your clients, you should keep some pomade on hand for sculpting and styling. We love using STMNT hair products.
Deep Conditioner – You may have clients who have curly or long hair where their hair texture requires a deep conditioner.
Shaving Cream – Usually, a fresh shave is included with a haircut, which is why barbers should always keep shaving cream on hand.
Aftershave – Applying aftershave to your client can help prevent infections.
Shampoo and Conditioner – If you include a wash with your services, make sure you keep shampoo and conditioner in your shop.
Mousse and Gel – Some hair textures require mousse and hair gel for styling.
Now that your barber shop is stocked up with tools and products you’re going to need, let’s talk about the basic barbering techniques to master. Aside from these techniques, you will also need to learn about the many different kinds of cuts you can give your clients. Depending on hair history, length and texture, each client may prefer or need a different kind of cut. Mastering these basic techniques will allow you to provide any kind of cut or style for your clients.
Shaping Up or Lining Up Hair – Regardless of hair texture, your clients may ask you to shape up or line up their hair. This is a technique that needs to be precisely mastered and done. Line ups and shape ups more closely define your client’s hairline. If a barber doesn’t line up the client with precision, this could affect the client’s hairline.
Using Scissors with a Comb – Usually, clients who come to a barber shop have shorter hair, which means you will usually have less hair to work with than a hairstylist. Because of this, you will rarely ever take scissors straight to the hair. Rather, you will use a comb to guide your scissors and get the most precise cut possible. This technique is used to make sure you get a more precise blend on the back and sides of the head.
Clippers Over Comb – Similar to the scissors over comb technique, this can help build shape, but it gives the barber more precise control and shaping ability.
Texturizing – Your clients may not know to ask for texture, but as a barber, it’s your job to know what’s best for your clients. Using the texturizing technique, which involves scissors and sometimes a comb, can help you give the hair movement and texture. Having layers — even with shorter hair — makes it easier for your client to style their hair. Texturizing should be used sparingly, though. The last thing you want to do is over-texturize the hair.
Blending and Fading – For many different hair textures, clients prefer a fade or a blend — especially when they have a longer style on top and shorter sides. It’s essential to know how to blend and fade the hair to give your client a sharp look.
Blade on Skin – If you have clients who have a lot or a little bit of facial hair, you may need to become familiar with the blade-on-skin technique. Not only will this allow you to shape up beards or give your client a more precise lineup, but your clients will appreciate your abilities.
Source: Ivan Kochergin | Dreamstime.com
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