Haircut Hacks: How to Communicate Exactly What You Want to Your Barber
Ever walked out of a barbershop feeling like you got the wrong haircut—but you’re not even sure where the miscommunication happened? You’re not alone. Many people struggle to translate the image in their head into clear instructions for their barber. The good news? A few simple tweaks in how you communicate can make all the difference. Let’s break it down.
Why Do Haircut Misunderstandings Happen?
Barbers aren’t mind readers (even though the best ones come pretty close). The disconnect usually happens because:
Vague Descriptions – Saying “just a trim” or “short on the sides” leaves too much room for interpretation.
Not Knowing Key Terms – If you’re not familiar with barbering jargon, your request might not mean what you think it does.
Lack of Visual References – Descriptions alone can be subjective. Your version of a “low fade” might be different from your barber’s.
Trust Issues – Some clients hesitate to let barbers guide them, while others over-rely on the barber without giving any input. Finding the right balance is key.
Know the Key Terms to Speak Your Barber’s Language
Barbers use specific terminology to achieve precise styles. Knowing the basics will instantly improve how well you communicate your desired look:
Fade – A seamless transition between short and long hair, usually on the sides and back.
Taper – A gradual shortening of hair that blends into the skin, often around the neckline and sideburns.
Undercut – The sides and back are clipped short while the top remains significantly longer.
Texture – How the hair is cut and styled to add movement, volume, or a messy, natural look.
Guard Numbers – Clippers have different guard sizes (e.g., #1 is very short, #4 is longer). Knowing your preferred guard number helps get the length right.
Reference Photos: Helpful or Not?
Bringing a photo of the style you want can be a game-changer—if you use it correctly. A few things to keep in mind:
Be Realistic – The model in the photo may have a different hair type, thickness, or face shape than you do. Your barber can help adjust the style to suit you.
Multiple Angles Help – A single front-facing photo doesn’t show details like the fade, back, or sides. If possible, find a few images from different angles.
Use Photos as a Guide, Not a Demand – Your barber can customize the look to complement your features rather than just copying a photo exactly.
At Salt City Barbershop, we encourage clients to bring in reference images while also trusting our expertise to make the necessary tweaks for a sharp, personalized result.
How to Get the Best Results from Your Barber
Once you’re in the chair, here’s how to ensure you walk out with the cut you envisioned:
Be Specific About Length – Don’t just say “short.” Instead, mention a clipper guard number or how many inches you’d like taken off.
Talk About the Details – Do you want a hard part? A natural neckline? A skin fade or a subtle taper?
Explain Your Maintenance Preferences – If you don’t want to style your hair daily, mention that so your barber can suggest an easy-to-manage cut.
Ask for Adjustments – Before leaving, check the cut from all angles. If something feels off, say so—barbers appreciate feedback.
Why Salt City Barbershop Gets It Right Every Time
At Salt City Barbershop, we know a great haircut isn’t just about skill—it’s about understanding what you want. Our barbers:
Take the time to consult with every client before starting the cut.
Use professional expertise to guide you toward a style that fits your face, hair type, and lifestyle.
Ensure precision and attention to detail so you leave feeling confident with your look.
Book Your Perfect Cut Today
Stop rolling the dice with your haircut. Get the look you truly want—every time. Book an appointment with Salt City Barbershop’s expert barbers today and experience the difference.