Should my hair be clean or should it be dirty when i come into the shop
Inspired by Mark…
A question we are always asked…. “Should I come in with clean hair or should I come in with dirty hair? It's a great question, and one that many people wonder about! Here's a breakdown of the differences between going to the barber with clean vs. dirty hair, and how it can affect your barber:
Clean Hair
Benefits for the Barber:
Precision: Clean hair provides a "blank canvas" for the barber. They can see the hair's natural texture, fall, and growth patterns more easily, leading to a more precise and accurate cut.
Easier to work with: Clean hair is less likely to clump or be weighed down by product, making it easier to section, comb, and cut.
Better for certain styles: For styles that require sharp lines, detailed fades, or intricate layering, clean hair is often essential.
More hygienic: Clean hair is simply more pleasant to work with for the barber.
Potential Drawbacks:
Can be too slippery: Freshly washed hair can sometimes be a bit too slippery, making it slightly harder to grip and cut, especially for certain hair types.
May not reflect natural style: If you heavily rely on products to achieve your everyday hairstyle, clean hair might not accurately represent how your hair usually looks.
Dirty Hair
Benefits for the Barber:
Texture and grip: Natural oils and product residue can provide some texture and grip, which can be helpful for certain hairstyles, especially those that require volume or a slightly "lived-in" look.
Shows natural style: If you typically use products to style your hair, coming in with your hair styled as usual can give the barber a better idea of your typical look and how to best cut your hair to complement it.
Potential Drawbacks:
Product buildup: Product buildup can make it difficult for the barber to see the hair's natural texture and can dull their clippers.
Uneven cuts: If the hair is too dirty or greasy, it can be difficult to section and cut evenly, potentially leading to an uneven haircut.
Hygiene: Working with excessively dirty hair can be unpleasant for the barber.
The "Sweet Spot"
For many, the ideal is somewhere in between "squeaky clean" and "very dirty." Hair that's a day or two after washing often has the right balance of clean texture and natural oils.
Communication is Key
Ultimately, the best approach depends on your hair type, the style you want, and your barber's preferences. It's always a good idea to communicate with your barber about your hair care routine and how you typically style your hair. They can then advise you on whether they prefer you to come in with clean or slightly dirty hair.
Important Note: When it comes to chemical treatments like coloring or perms, clean hair is almost always necessary for the products to penetrate evenly and effectively.