Barbershop etiquette: top tips for visiting your barber

Ready to have your hair trimmed and styled? Get off on the right foot by arriving in the proper manner.

Research your favourite styles

Even the most talented barber will struggle to give you a haircut you love if you’re not sure what you want.

The first step towards a happy outcome is finding a style that you like. Take some time to research different cuts ahead of your appointment. With a little effort, finding a favourite shouldn’t take long.

Bring photos with you

Describing a hairstyle can be a challenge, even for people who know barbering terms. Skin fades, taper cuts, graduation – it quickly becomes a lot to remember.

You can skip that struggle by bringing photos for inspiration. Whether you’re trying to replicate your last cut or going for something new, photos give your barber a clear image of what you want.

Come with dirty hair

At some barbershops, they wash your hair. Others do not. In either case, you shouldn’t show up with dirty hair.

It’s not usually expected that you wash your hair immediately before an appointment, either, but many people choose to do exactly that.

So, you’ve arrived and you’re ready for your cut – what now?

Show patience

Most barbershops take walk-ins, so even if you’ve booked ahead, there’s a chance you’ll have to wait for your turn.

This might be frustrating but try to be patient. You wouldn’t want a barber rushing your haircut to keep up with their schedule, would you?

Trust your barber

When it’s time for your cut, you’ll need to tell your barber what you want. 

If it seems like your request won’t work, they might advise trying a different style. You don’t need to follow their advice, but it’s worth hearing them out. They’re the experts, after all.

They might tell you they’re unable to give you the cut you’ve asked for. If you’re not keen on their alternate suggestions, you’re better off getting your hair cut elsewhere.

Chatting is fine, nodding is not

Most barbers welcome conversations with clients. It can help pass the time and makes many people feel more comfortable. But keep your communication verbal.

Whether you’re getting a cut or beard trim, avoid nodding and gesturing. Moving too much could result in a mistake that isn’t easily fixed.

Voice your concerns, quickly

If you’re feeling unsure about the cut while the barber is working on you, voicing your concerns is fine. But make sure you do so sooner rather than later. 

The longer you take to speak up, the harder it’ll be to adjust the haircut. Of course, you can usually avoid these issues by giving a very clear idea of your ideal hairstyle at the start.

Should you tip your barber?

If you’re delighted with your haircut, you might want to leave a tip. Though it’s never required, tipping your barber is always appreciated.

As with so many other services, it’s fairly typical to tip salon and mobile barbers around the 20% mark.

Armed with this knowledge, you’ll surely have a positive experience the next time you visit your barber.

Make sure you know what you want, arrive on time, and act appropriately during your haircut.

Struggling to find good local options? Here, you can read tips for finding great barbershops. Already set on your next trim? Begin by browsing the highest-rated barbers near you, or you can post a free enquiry to hear from local barbers directly.