Light-hearted lessons from behind the chair
Every barber has a mental notebook of client quirks—those little habits we see every day that make our job trickier than it needs to be. None of them are deal-breakers, but if you recognise yourself in a few of these, a small tweak could mean a sharper cut, a smoother appointment, and an all-round better experience.
1. The “Just a Trim” Mystery
You’d be amazed how many interpretations of “just a trim” exist. For one guy it’s half a centimetre, for another it’s a full restyle. Bring a photo or at least use your fingers to show length. A picture eliminates guesswork and saves you from post-cut regret.
2. DIY “Edge-Ups”
We get it—you spot a rogue neckline hair and grab the clippers. But uneven home touch-ups can create wonky lines that force us to take the whole cut shorter than planned. Let those strays grow until your appointment; a quick professional tidy is faster than a rescue mission.
3. Arriving with Product Build-Up
Heavy wax or dry shampoo can gum up scissors and dull clippers. If possible, arrive with clean, dry hair. We’ll still give you a rinse if needed, but starting fresh keeps the tools sharp and the finish precise.
4. Moving Targets
We love a good story, but sudden head turns while we’re detailing a fade are a recipe for an unplanned design. Save the animated gestures until the cape comes off—or at least keep your head still while your hands do the talking.
5. Skipping the Consultation
Even regulars sometimes assume we “know what they want.” Hair changes with the seasons, with stress, and with age. Two minutes of catch-up—what you liked about last time, what you’d change—keeps your cut current.
6. Neglecting After-Care
A fresh style is only half the equation. Using the right shampoo, a dab of product, and a quick blow-dry can extend the life of your cut. We’re always happy to demonstrate a simple routine before you leave.
7. Last-Minute Rush
Booking an appointment for a wedding or big presentation on the same morning is a no-go! Allow a day or two for the cut to settle and for you to get comfortable styling it yourself.
Why We Share These Secrets
None of this is meant to shame anyone—quite the opposite. A barber’s chair is one of the few places where a small tweak can make a huge difference to your look and confidence. By avoiding these common missteps, you help us deliver the cleanest fade, the sharpest beard line, and the most relaxed experience possible.
Ready to see the difference?
At Shankey Male Grooming, we combine precision cutting with a luxury experience that leaves you looking—and feeling—like the best version of yourself. Book your appointment today, settle into our chair, and let our experts show you what a perfectly planned visit can do. Your next great cut starts right here
The UK’s leading male grooming expert and creator of the Jason Shankey range of hair and skincare products, Jason Shankey also developed the first luxury, all services modern men’s only concept grooming salon in Europe, back in 1997. From extensive appearances as an expert on TV shows such as 10 Years Younger, The Apprentice, Celebrity Scissorhands, The Vanessa Show, LK Today, GMTV and dozens more, to consulting with giants including Gillette, Braun and the Honda Formula 1 team, Jason’s 30+ years of expertise in the male grooming business has positioned him as a true pioneer in the industry. His salons became synonymous with high-end grooming services, offering everything from haircuts and skincare to massage and grooming advice tailored specifically for men. Jason’s innovative approach to male grooming not only redefined the standards but also paved the way for the booming men’s grooming market seen today.
In addition to his work in salons and on television, Jason has designed and developed quality men’s grooming products and penned numerous articles on men’s grooming, sharing his expertise with a wider audience. His brand, the Jason Shankey range, continues to reflect his passion for quality and innovation, offering a curated selection of products designed to meet the modern man’s grooming needs.
Jason remains a sought-after consultant and public speaker, regularly sharing insights into the future of male grooming, wellness, and self-care. With over three decades of experience, he continues to lead the conversation around men’s grooming, setting trends and standards that others follow.
