Why Does My Hair Look Deadly at the Barbers But Brutal at Home?

Jason Shankey reveals the techniques and products that actually make the difference

You sit down in the chair, a barber works their magic, and you walk out of Shankey Male Grooming feeling like an absolute class act. Hair’s sitting right, fade’s sharp — you’re ready to take on Belfast.

Then three days later, you try to recreate the look yourself. And … it’s brutal.

Don’t worry — you’re not alone. Every man goes through this. The good news? Jason’s here to let you in on a few wee secrets.

1. It’s Not Just the Scissors — It’s the Prep

“The biggest thing I see is men jumping straight out of the shower and trying to style wet hair with no prep at all,” says Jason. “That’s your first mistake right there.”

At the barbershop, the barbers always start with a professional blow-dry — and that’s not just to dry the hair. It’s to train it. The heat and airflow set the hair in a direction before any product even touches it.

But here’s something most fellas don’t think about — what you’re washing your hair with matters too. The Jason Shankey Hair and Body Wash (300ml, £15.99) isn’t just a handy two-in-one for the shower. It’s formulated to clean without stripping out the natural moisture your hair needs to sit properly when you style it. Starting with the right wash makes everything that comes after a whole lot easier.

The home blow-dry routine:

• Towel dry first — but gently, no rough rubbing
• Use a hairdryer on a medium heat setting
• Use your fingers or a brush to direct the hair where you want it to sit
• Finish with a cool shot to lock it in place

2. You’re Probably Using the Wrong Product

Walk into any supermarket and you’ll see a wall of styling products — and most of them are doing men’s hair no favours. This is where Jason sees the most mistakes.

“There’s no one-size-fits-all. The product you need depends entirely on your hair type, your length, and the finish you’re going for.”

Here’s Jason’s guide using his own range:

For thick or coarse hair that needs serious control: The Hostyle Extreme Fibre Paste (100ml, £13.99) is your man. It’s a multi-purpose texturising paste — five stars from customers — that gives you control and shape without leaving your hair looking greasy or overdone.

For lads who want a natural, styled finish: The Jason Shankey Formation Cream (50ml, £13.99) is a medium-hold styling cream that works great for everyday looks. It’s not too heavy, not too light — just a good all-rounder that suits most hair types.

For fine or flat hair that needs a lift: The Hostyle Extreme Volume Powder (25g, £11.99) is a game changer. A tiny amount worked through the roots gives you volume and texture that lasts all day. Huge tub too — it’ll last you ages.

For a relaxed, tousled beach look: The Hostyle Extreme Beach Spray (150ml, £11.99) is class for adding natural-looking texture, especially for wavy or longer hair. Spray it in, scrunch, and away you go.

3. Less Product Than You Think

This is one of the most common things Jason spots. Men using way too much product and wondering why their hair looks heavy, greasy, or just… off.

“A pea-sized amount is usually enough — whether it’s the paste, the formation cream, whatever you’re using. Rub it between your palms first to warm it up, then work it through from roots to ends. Don’t just slap it on the top.”

Start small, see how it sits, add a tiny wee bit more if needed.

4. Don’t Forget the Skin Under That Hair

This one surprises a lot of fellas. If your scalp is dry, flaky, or congested, it’s going to affect how your hair sits and feels — full stop.

Jason recommends using his Jason Shankey Exfoliating Scrub (100ml, £13.99) once a week. It keeps the scalp clean and clear, which means healthier hair growth and a better foundation for styling. Think of it like skincare for the top of your head.

Speaking of skincare — the Jason Shankey Moisture Balm (100ml, £13.99) is what Jason recommends for keeping your face in good nick too. It’s lightweight, non-greasy, and brilliant for after a shave or just as part of your daily routine. Looking after your skin is part of looking well groomed — simple as that.

5. A Clean Shave Makes Everything Look Sharper

If you shave, the product you use makes a bigger difference than most men realise. The Jason Shankey Smooth Shaving Cream (100ml, £13.99) is designed for a pain-free, smooth shave — no razor burn, no irritation. And when your shave looks tidy, your whole head looks more put-together, even on a bad hair day.

6. Ask your barber — Seriously

This might be the biggest tip of the lot. Next time you’re in the chair, just ask. Jason loves nothing more than helping his customers actually maintain their look between visits.

“I’ll show you exactly how I’ve styled it, what products I’ve used, and how to recreate it at home. There’s no big secret — I just want you walking out of here feeling class every single time.”

Ready to Sort Yourself Out?

All of Jason’s products are available online at jasonshankey.com with free delivery on orders over £50 — or pick them up in person at either of the Shankey barbershop locations:

📍 Ballyhackamore — 358 Upper Newtownards Road, Belfast, BT4 3EX 📞 028 9065 8001

📍 Holywood — 33 Church Road, Holywood, BT18 9BU 📞 028 9042 2466

Book your appointment at jasonshankey.com and walk out looking deadly every time. 💈