8 Barbershop Rules Every Guy Needs to Follow

Getting a haircut can be quite a concerning activity. Where to go, when to go, which barber to visit, how to prepare yourself – these questions circle the mind of men ahead of every haircut (admit, you know its true), but there are some fundamental rules every guy needs to follow, regardless of which barber you frequent.

Business Insider (via J. Clark Walker, a barber who works at Fellow Barber in New York City), has put together eight tips that can help your barbershop etiquette. Check them out below:

1. Don’t be impatient

As Walker says, a good barber is probably a busy barber. And a good barber takes his time. They always try to stick to their schedule, but it doesn’t always pan out that way, especially with pickier customers. Additionally, don’t jump in the chair as soon as the previous client hops out.

2. Don’t freak out about hair clippings

“Things will get a little hairy sometimes,” Walker writes, but that’s what the cape is for.

3. Don’t expect your barber to be a magician.

Bringing an inspiration photo is always helpful, but know that the person in the photo has a completely different quality of hair and scalp. Your haircut isn’t going to be a dead-ringer for the one in the photo.

4. Don’t nod

Conversation is natural, sometimes even encouraged. But talk with your hands, not the nod of your head. If your barber places his hands on your head to steady it, that’s the international sign to stop moving.

5. Don’t lay down mandates

Let the barber choose the tools. Don’t demand a scissor cut because you think it finishes better. Similarly, don’t claim you’re growing your hair out — because you wouldn’t be sitting for a haircut if that were true. Trust your barber.

6. Don’t be too picky

Your barber is happy to adjust the haircut to your liking, but speak up before the cut is finished. You’re only paying for one haircut, not five.

7. Don’t show up with messy or dirty hair

Comb it, don’t slather it with product, and, especially if there’s no pre-cut shampoo, make sure it’s clean.

8. Don’t be weird about the tip

Use it as a chance to say how much you liked the cut. Also, it’s usually preferable to hand the tip to your barber, not the receptionist.

Source: Business Insider.

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