Getting a haircut is a struggle for everyone. For men, they are stuck with limited hairstyles that fit their face shape and other physical features. On top of that, they also have a hard time communicating with their barbers to get the exact cut they want.

If you’re someone who has experienced sitting on a barber’s chair, not knowing what to ask for, here’s a quick guide for you. Next time you’re going to a barbershop, sit and explain the hairstyle you like to your barber by remembering these five things. Let’s get started.

1. Use a Photo Reference

Describing is difficult, especially for hairstyles we know nothing about. Therefore, the best way to achieve the look you’re going for is to show a picture. Before going to the barbershop, make sure to download photos of the haircut you like and simply direct them to the barber in the shop.

2. Understand Your Hair

Human hair varies in color, texture, thickness, and moisture. Most of the time, people who go into salons or barbershops do not know their hair type. It is an advantage that you can take to your barber for easier transactions. Before choosing a haircut, make sure it fits your face shape and the kind of hair you have. Do not go for looks that require limp hair when you have the exact opposite. If you’re unsure if a specific hairstyle fits you, ask your barber about it.

3. Master the Barbershop Lingo

Jargons are also present in barbershops. There are specific terms that barbers use that are worldwide standards in the industry. For example, never use the word “texture” if you are unsure of what it precisely refers to or means. Instead, go for the terms you know, such as “layers” or “trim.” It’s easy to go overboard using jargon. That’s why it's best to keep the terms simple and understandable at all times.

4. Know When to Ask for a Fad

A fade is a classic haircut that looks great on people, especially those who are confident about what haircut they want. However, remember that the style involves going all the way down to the skin at the hairline. If you prefer a subtle cut that follows a gradient to the top, go for a taper instead. The fade is a tricky haircut to sport; make sure it does not ruin your look.

5. Ditch the Razor Number System

People assume that going for a specific razor number on the settings will give the same cut all the time. Although it’s a common practice for most men, it will not deliver the same results on everyone’s hair. For example, if you think a number one looks good on your friend’s hair, the same thing may not look good on your hair—it might not even look close to the cut your friend got. The best thing to do is to ditch the numbers as a reference and go for cut names that are more accurate than one, two, or three.

Conclusion

Getting a haircut in a barbershop has come a long way. Men are now more confident in stating the look they are after. In effect, barbers have to learn new styles and adapt to their clients’ preferences and requests. Now, the process of getting a haircut in a barbershop is more collaborative and extensive—leaving men more options than a simple barber’s cut.

Scotch & Fades is the best barbershop in Vancouver if you’re looking for a barbershop near you. Aside from the classic cut, we also offer beard grooming services to help men manage their facial hair. Book an appointment today, and let’s get to cutting!