Many bad haircuts are the result of ineffective communication. After all, barbers are not mind readers, and they need you to tell them your specific requests for a great haircut. 

How do you actually tell them what kind of haircut you’re looking for? What terms are there to use, so they understand your requirements? What should you say so you can get exactly what you want? 

Follow our tips below, and you will soon find yourself walking out of the barbershop with a bright grin and a dashing new look.

“I Want This Much Taken off Here”

Do not hesitate to tell your barber how much hair you want to be taken off in any specific area. Giving vague instructions can only result in a hairstyle that is entirely different from what you imagined. 

If you aren’t sure how much you want to be trimmed, be honest about it to your barber. Then they will know to cut a little bit off, take a second for you to check, and then continue until you see what you have in mind. 

“I Want This Kind of Texture”

Modern men’s haircuts have started including a wide variety of textures. If you are interested in adding some texture to your hair, try any of the following barber terms:

  • Thinned out
  • Layered
  • Choppy
  • Razored 

“I Want Something Like This Style”

Too many times, people hesitate to tell what general style they have in mind simply because they’re not sure if something like that even exists. Bear in mind that barbers are professionals and are likely familiar with even the slightest description of hairstyle you can give. You can even bring a photo with you and show this to your barber before giving more specifics. 

“I Want My Sideburns to Be This Length”

In addition to the thickness, you may need to demonstrate just the right length you want for your sideburns to your barber. Use your ears as a reference, and describe them with any of these:

  • Bottom of the ear
  • Mid-ear 
  • Top of the ear

“I Want My Arches Trimmed This Way”

Arches are the spaces between your ears and the hairline. You can opt for something natural or a high arch. Just tell your barber which one you prefer, and they’ll know exactly what to do. 

“I Want a Taper”

A taper is the gradual narrowing of the hair from the top of your head to just above your nape. The taper on your hair can be short or long; just be sure to tell your barber if you want one and the length you want it to be.

“I Want This Sort of Neckline”

Even though you don’t often see it, your neckline is an integral part of your haircut. The key to a nice and neat hairstyle is to pick a neckline that perfectly complements the shape of your head. Neckline options include rounded, tapered, and blocked. 

Conclusion

Using these tips and terms to express your preferences will significantly improve the haircut you will end up getting from your barber. They actually appreciate it if you give them a precise guide on what you want to look like. 

However, if you are still unsure about what you prefer or what looks best on you, feel free to ask them for recommendations too, as they’re the ones experienced in working with different types of hair, face shapes, and overall styles.

Are you looking for a skilled barber in Denver for your next banging cut? Wise Guys Barber Shop is the best choice for you. Book an appointment with us today!