Posted on May 24, 2022

In his most recent column for Concept Hair Magazine, the award-winning men’s hairdressing expert and educator Jim Shaw, focuses on the do’s and don’ts of men’s hairdressing

DO'S

• Use scissor-over-comb instead of clippers where possible to create a more clean and to create a more precise finish

• Have a hairdryer within your kit to provide a more polished appearance for clients

• Be knowledgeable on the best hair products for the client’s hair type and texture. Don’t just use generic products such as waxes. Always evaluate the client’s hair type and texture and identify the finish you want to provide to the hair (matte, shiny) and also use the product that will best allow you to create the desired style you wish to create. E.g. for texture you may want to use a texturising product like a salt spray. Experiment with different products both separately and by mixing them together to help you to create different looks and finishes.

• Push yourself into as many courses as possible in regards to not only barbering but men’s hairdressing and women’s hairdressing. This will allow you to be able to adapt your skills and knowledge further. For example, helping with working on longer hair types.

• Research trends via books, magazines, online, fashion shows etc. This will allow you to always be in the know of recent and emerging trends, it will also give you inspiration for creating new looks within the salon.

• Always cut men’s hair with a comb to ensure length is even all over

DON’TS

• Don’t go too short on your clipper setting. Always start with a higher setting and work your way down to ensure you don’t take too much length of when starting off the cut and instead, you can take the length off gradually.

• Don’t cut the hair too short of your client has a cow slick. This will affect the overall look and will cause the hair to stick up that will not be fixable with the help of hair products.

• Don’t rush cutting a client’s hair. Always ensure you have a dedicated amount of time to perfect the look and ensure the client is happy before they leave the salon.

• Don’t forget to trim the client’s neck and sideburns. This will perfect the finished look and ensure that it all ties together nicely and looks its best. Blending these areas together are the final touches to the look.

• Don’t ignore the beard. Always ensure the beard is trimmed and that it complements the haircut and be sure to talk to your clients about taking care of their beard at home between appointments. Be sure not to forget giving the moustache attention too.

Original article: https://www.concepthairmag.co.uk/mens-hair-dos-and-donts-from-jim-shaw/