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When Your New Stylist is a Barber

Salons can transform clients through glamorous highlights, cuts and extensions. For short, chemical-free styles, you could zip into a barbershop for a clip.

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Mature Black woman getting haircut in barber's chair
Martine Severin/Getty Images
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Have you transitioned to a shorter style or a natural style? Do you think about doing so? Share your thoughts in the comments below.


Many sisters reach a stage where they may want to fuss less with their hair, particularly when hot flashes and night sweats become a reality.

Changes in thickness, color and texture pose additional concerns, inspiring many among us to opt for low-maintenance, chemical-free styles. And if those styles are pool- or gym-friendly? Bonus!

Oftentimes, rocking a short style can be just the solution one is looking for, but it’s no secret that short hair requires regular shapeups for a crisp, neat look. Would a barber better serve this need? The answer is often yes.

Could going to a barber save you time and money?

Black women spend the most money at hair salons, according to a 2023 survey. A third of Black women surveyed spent over $100 per salon visit compared to just 24 percent of white women. On average, barbers charge between $15 and $40 for a cut. Expect to shell out more if it’s a barbershop that promises a luxury experience or “VIP treatment.”

Depending on where you go, even if you visit the barber every week, your tab would likely come out lower compared to weekly or biweekly visits to the salon.

Related: Cropped and Lovely

Related: Tribute to the Teeny-Weeny Afro

Related: Silver Lining: My Hair's Journey to Freedom

What about the camaraderie of the salon? Will it feel intimidating being in a male-dominated space?

So many of us sisters share fond memories of being at the hair salon. Our younger selves enjoyed flipping through issues of Sophisticate's Black Hair Styles And Care Guide or Essence while eavesdropping on all the juicy conversations buzzing around the shop that made us wish we were all grown up. Many of us adult women engage in that experience in a way that feels nourishing and affirming.

Many sisters say they feel welcomed at their barbershop. The female clientele has grown at barbershops as well as the number of female barbers. But these businesses in our communities remain special spaces where Black men feel seen and supported. If you see a sister with a sharp cut, consider asking here where she goes. You won’t know for sure what the vibe at the shop will feel like until your first visit. A good way to test the waters is by having your trusted hairdresser give you your desired cut first. Then, a few days later, step inside a barbershop to introduce yourself and see if it’s a style they can help you maintain going forward. Maintaining a simple look means your visit will likely last minutes, not hours.

Also keep in mind that many salons hire barbers part time. Check if yours does, and what that person’s schedule is.

Pro tips for transitioning from a salon to the barbershop

Take a little time to educate yourself on clipper guard sizes as well as common barber terms like taper and fade before your appointment so you can communicate exactly what you want. When in doubt, bring in photos.

Unlike a traditional salon, some barbershops accept walk-ins. This may require a wait. Since master barbers tend to run by appointment only, you may get paired with an apprentice, who’s still learning the trade.

Just like how you trust your hairdresser's guidance, don't be afraid to tap your barber for advice on what style is best suited for your head shape and hair texture.


Have you transitioned to a shorter style or a natural style? Do you think about doing so? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Follow Article Topics: Style