When getting a haircut, men often face the age-old question: Should I go to a hairstylist or a barber? While both professionals have their strengths, knowing which one to choose can make a huge difference in your look. Let’s break down the differences and help you determine the best choice for your next haircut.
The Case for Seeing a Stylist
If you’re looking for a cut that doesn’t involve a fade or want a style that relies more on scissors than clippers, a hairstylist might be your best option. Stylists are trained in a variety of cutting techniques that focus on shape, texture, and how the haircut complements your head shape. Here’s when you should consider seeing a hairstylist:
Finger-Length Cuts and Longer: If you want your sides to be finger-length or longer, a stylist will give you the precision and detail that you’re looking for. They’ll use scissors to create layers and movement, giving you a more customized look.
Shape and Style: Stylists excel at creating hairstyles that work with your natural hair texture and head shape. They take into account how the hair grows, falls, and moves, ensuring that your cut looks great even as it grows out.
Customization: Because of their training, stylists can offer more versatility in your style. They can adapt your haircut to your personal style preferences, whether that means a more polished look or a relaxed, natural vibe.
Advanced Training: Many hairstylists have undergone extensive training, learning techniques like Technical Cutting or specialized methods for curly and textured hair. This level of expertise is invaluable when you want a cut that’s personalized and tailored specifically to you.
When to Visit a Barber
Barbers are highly skilled in the art of clipper cutting and are the go-to experts for short styles. If you’re looking for a clean, classic cut that involves more clipper work, a barber is your best bet. Here’s when to head to the barbershop:
Fades and Tapers: Barbers specialize in fades and tapers, which involve gradually blending hair from longer to shorter. If you’re looking for a crisp fade or a close-cropped style, a barber has the tools and expertise to deliver sharp lines and precision.
Short Cuts: For styles that are shorter than finger-length on the sides, barbers can execute these cuts with speed and accuracy. Their experience with clippers means they can achieve a uniform look that’s both clean and stylish.
Classic Men’s Cuts: Traditional hairstyles like crew cuts, buzz cuts, and other classic looks are where barbers truly shine. Their focus is on achieving a structured and polished finish that looks sharp and professional.
The Bottom Line
When deciding between a hairstylist and a barber, think about the length and style of the cut you want:
Go to a hairstylist if: You want a more customized style that involves scissors, shape, and length that is finger-length or longer.
Visit a barber if: You’re looking for a cut that involves clippers, like a fade, taper, or any style shorter than finger-length on the sides.
Ultimately, both stylists and barbers have their specialties, and knowing which one to choose will help you get the look you want. For me, I go to a stylist when I want a longer style that works with my head shape, and I see a barber when I’m after a shorter, more structured cut.
Choosing the right professional means understanding their strengths, so the next time you're due for a cut, think about the style you want and head to the expert who can make it happen!
I am Michael Swanson and I work out of Sherwood, OR in the Old Town area. I work with short, long, curly hair cuts, color.... Looking for a new style or to wear the hair a little longer. Come in for a technical cut. Reach me at https://www.michaelswansonhairstudio.com/ to find more info or ONLINE BOOKING at https://www.vagaro.com/michaelswansonhairstudio
Appointments Michael Swanson Hair Studio located inside True Salon 15922 SW Second St Sherwood, OR 97140
Text: 503.208.4172
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