"How to Get the Best Haircut "

Whether we go in for a minor touch-up or a full-on transformation, all of us want the same thing after visiting the barber: to walk out feeling like the most superior version of ourselves. We want to look and feel like a man who knows who he is. That’s why we search high and low for the perfect barber and the ideal ‘look’. And once we do find them, we think we’re set.

But getting the best cut possible doesn’t stop there. A lot of guys don’t know this, but it also comes down to how you prepare for your visit: your pre-barbershop routine. I want to share with you three nothing-to-it steps that’ll help you get the most out of your next cut.

Step 1: Exfoliate your face and scalp

Hair removal of any type has been known to cause ingrown hairs, which happen when hair gets trapped beneath the skin. It results in inflamed, sometimes painful bumps, and it’s especially common with curly hair. 

That’s why exfoliation is key. It reduces the risk of ingrown hair by 1) removing dead skin cells and 2) physically lifting hair up and out. Exfoliation is your best bet to keep skin smooth and free from ingrowns, not to mention it helps achieve a closer shave and better haircut. We recommended exfoliating at least 1 day before your appointment.

Step 2: Cleanse and condition your hair

Most barbers will agree that clean hair is easier to work with. If your barber doesn’t offer that particular service, you may want to take care of it before your appointment. 

Keep in mind that a lot of barbershops have had to cut back their offerings due to COVID-19 restrictions, so even if they’ve offered shampoo services before, they might not do so now. (This more so applies to haircuts. If you’re getting a beard cut, cleansing isn’t totally necessary.)

Step 3: “The Signal”

Have you ever had a barber that spent way too much time with the pick? Employ “The Signal,” my friend. Before you get into the chair, be picking your beard. As you get into the chair, be picking your beard. When they’re putting the cape on you, still be picking your beard! This is a universal sign. You gotta let them know, “I’ve already taken care of it.”

There you have it, gentlemen. Your new pre-barbershop routine. Have you tried any of these tips? Let us know in the comments below. And as always, don’t forget to tell us what else you’d like to see here on the Evan Alexander platform.