The Best Barbering and Male Grooming Advice
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Welcome to your go-to source for the best barbering and male grooming advice! Here, we are dedicated to providing you with expert tips and techniques to help you elevate your barbering skills and keep your hair, beard, scalp, and skin in top-notch condition. Whether you're a seasoned barber looking to refine your craft or someone just starting out in the world of male grooming, we've got you covered.
Our mission is simple - to address common problems, share valuable insights, and delve into relevant topics within the barbering and male grooming industry.
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“Knowledge makes you sharp on the inside. Applying it makes you sharp on the outside!”

Top 3 Clippers for Professional Barbers

1/17/2024

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Clippers on a Barber Station
Aaron Brown at his Barber Station
As a barber, your tools are an extension of yourself, and your clippers are the most important tool. Whether you're just starting out or have been in the business for years, finding the right clippers can make all the difference in your work. That's why I want to share with you my favorite clippers right now.

Stylecraft Rebel Clipper
Style Craft Rebel Clippers
This brushless motor clipper is not only strong but also lightweight, making it easy to use for extended periods of time. It also has a lithium-ion battery and 3 hours of run time on a 1-hour charge. 

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One of the best things about the Stylecraft Rebel is that it's fully customizable and adjustable. Blades, levers and colors can all be swapped out and changed for preference of style and performance. 

​I use mine with a faper blade that works great for trimming afros, shaping beards, and getting rid of flyaway hairs. It gives you the precision and control you need to get the job done right.

Mythic Clipper
Mythic Clippers
One of my favorite tools is the Mythic Clipper. This heavy-duty, full metal-body clipper packs a punch with its 10,000 rpm brushless motor. It's a workhorse perfect for detailing, fades, and finishing work. It can go up to 3 hours on a single 2-hour charge.
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Another thing to note is that the Mythic clipper is also customizable and pairs well with a Fusion blade. This blade is designed specifically for detailing, fades, and finishing work, so it's a great match for the power of the Mythic clipper. With this combination, you can achieve blurry fades and clean blends.

Babyliss Pro Gold FX 
Babyliss Pro Gold FX Clippers
The Babyliss Pro Gold FX is a quality metal clipper with a Lithium-ion batter has over two hours of run time. Its higher speed and torque, and brushless motor make it an all-around great workhorse for shaping, fading, and removing bulk from hair.
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All clippers have different weights, and all barbers have their preferences, but I think these clippers are pretty light and easy on the wrists.

A Note About Oster Fast Feed Cordless Clipper
Oster Fast Feed Cordless Clipper
I love this clipper and it would have made my Top 3 List, however I feel it has a motor issue. The motor of a clipper is a key factor in its performance.  I experienced two (of my favorite!) motors failing. Oster could have an exceptional product if they address this issue.

One of the standout features of the Oster Clipper is its ability to handle bulk and thick hair. This is great news for those with coarse or unruly hair, as they need a clipper that can handle the job.




It's no secret that many old-school barbers have been hesitant to make the transition to cordless clippers. They fear that they might have to sacrifice power for the convenience of being cord-free. A company that can develop a cordless clipper with a long-lasting battery, high power, and excellent performance would undoubtedly win over many barbers who have been resistant to the cordless trend. It would provide them with the convenience of cordless operation without sacrificing the power and performance they need to deliver excellent haircuts.
 ​Wahl and Andis have cemented their place in the hair grooming industry by producing high-quality and reliable products. And now, after celebrating their 100-year anniversaries, they are expanding their product line to include cordless options. Along with Oster, they are entering the cordless realm, and customers are excited to see what they have to offer.
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When it comes to cordless products, battery life and power are two features that customers should pay close attention to. These brands are known for their powerful motors, and they are working hard to ensure that their cordless products have the same level of power. In addition, battery life is crucial for those who want to use their tools for extended periods. I am looking for detachable batteries like power tools.

Now, let's talk about replacement parts. Many companies have their own replacement parts and parts/repair departments. However, it's worth noting that most newer clippers are made with plastic instead of metal. While plastic parts may be cheaper to produce, they are more prone to breaking. Unfortunately, when these plastic parts break, they are often replaced with more plastic parts instead of metal. This means that the durability of clippers has decreased over time due to the transition from metal to plastic parts.
colorful graphic of clippers
So many options exist for customization! You can really adjust your tools to best suit your preferences for your hands and posture. Think about the types of cutting you'll be doing, and which tools would be best for each job. And don't forget to consider how holding each tool will make you feel after several hours of work.

But customization doesn't just stop at functionality. You can also choose clippers in colors and designs that fit your personal style. Imagine having a station that's not only functional, but also aesthetically pleasing with a color-coordinated array of tools!
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If you're looking to purchase clippers, you can find them either online or at your local barber supply store. One thing to keep in mind is that most clipper manufacturers offer a 1-year warranty, but some may offer a limited 2-year warranty.
What are some of your favorite clippers? Let us know in the comments!
​Knowledge makes you sharp on the inside. Applying it makes you sharp on the outside!
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Guide to The Perfect Grooming Gift for Your Bearded Guy!

1/8/2024

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Guy opening gift from girl
What to get a man with beard?  What to get your boyfriend or husband for Valentines Day?  If you're looking for the perfect gift for your bearded man, look no further! We've compiled a list of our favorite soaps, oils, butters, and balms to help him achieve a soft, well-shaped, clean, and great-smelling beard. These male grooming products are made with the highest quality natural ingredients, so you can feel good about giving them to your man. ​
Soap
Beard Soap from Razors Image
Beard Soap is a crucial step to a healthy and well-maintained beard. Razors Image soaps are specially designed to clean and nourish facial hair while protecting skin underneath. Our all-natural beard soaps are made with the finest ingredients, including Shea Butter, Cocoa Butter, and Coconut Oil, which are known for their nourishing and moisturizing properties. These ingredients are carefully blended to create a soap that will leave the beard feeling soft and smelling great.
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What sets our beard soap apart from others is the addition of African Black Soap. This soap is known for its antibacterial properties and helps to keep the beard clean and healthy.

African Black Soap Shampoo is known for its many benefits, including improving skin texture and reducing ingrown hairs, spots, and wrinkles. What's more, it's unscented and has antimicrobial and antibacterial properties, making it an excellent choice for those with sensitive skin or those suffering from conditions like eczema or psoriasis. Regular use of the soap can help keep your skin soft and supple without the need for harsh chemicals or synthetic fragrances.  You can read more on the amazing benefits of this soap in this article by Medical News Today,  What To Know About African Black Soap. 
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Looking for an all-natural soap that will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated? Look no further than this fantastic Face and Beard Soap-- This soap contains chunks of African Black Soap, is made with natural plant oils and butters, and provides a luxurious lathering experience. One bar can last months, making this soap both eco-friendly and cost-effective.
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Not only is this soap great for skin, it's also great for the environment. Unlike traditional soaps containing harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances, this all-natural soap is gentle on your skin and the earth. Made with ingredients like shea butter, cocoa butter, and coconut oil, it's no wonder this soap is a favorite.

Coconut Hair and Body-- With extra coconut oil, this all-natural soap is perfect for those with sensitive skin who need a little extra care.  Not only is this soap gentle on skin, but it also lasts a long time thanks to its slow oxidation. You won't have to worry about constantly replacing your soap bar when you choose this option.
Oils
Beard Oils help keep the beard feeling soft and shiny, but it's also an essential step in deep hydration. Using plant-based oils like Argan Oil, Avocado Oil, Canola Oil, and Jojoba Oil can ensure the beard gets the nutrients it needs to stay healthy and promote growth.
One of the main benefits of using beard oil is the vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants it contains. These essential nutrients help to nourish and protect the beard, preventing dryness and split ends. Additionally, beard oil can help to reduce itchiness and irritation, making it a must-have for anyone with a thick, full beard.  Check out Essential and Fragrant varieties; they all smell wonderful!
Butters
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Beard Butters are here to rescue an unruly, itchy, patchy beard and provide it with the nourishment it needs. A high-quality plant-based beard butter is essential to keep your beard moisturized and free of flakes and frizz. When it comes to beard care, Beard Butters are a heavenly solution. They contain a blend of natural oils and butters, such as Shea butter, coconut oil, and Argan oil. These natural ingredients hydrate and protect the beard while also soothing skin itchiness and irritation.
If you're looking for a Vegan Butter option, you might want to consider those that contain Candelilla wax. Candelilla wax is derived from the Candelilla shrub and is a popular alternative to beeswax. It is entirely bee-free and won't clog pores, making it an excellent choice for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin. Our Vegan Butters containing Candelilla wax are made with the same plant butters and oils as traditional butter, making them just as creamy.  

Balms
 Beard balms are here to help achieve a more refined and put-together appearance. Our Beeswax Balms contain natural ingredients such as Argan and Jojoba oils, Avocado, Moringa, and Shea butters that work together to shape and style the beard while also protecting it from environmental stressors. These ingredients are known to promote healthy hair growth and keep the beard looking fresh and nourished. Say goodbye to frizz and hello to a sleek and sophisticated beard!
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We offer Vegan Balms that contain Candelilla wax, all made with the same plant butters and oils as traditional balms. This means you won't have to sacrifice quality or creaminess for a product that aligns with your values.  Biome's The Difference Between Beeswax and Candelilla Wax is a great resource.
Shaving Accessories
Every guy appreciates a smooth and comfortable shave. We're excited to tell you about our vegetable-based Shaving Soap! Not only is it 100% biodegradable, but it's also gentle on the skin. Our shaving soap is made with natural ingredients that provide a rich lather, allowing the razor to glide smoothly across the skin. No more nicks, cuts, or razor burns! And because it's vegetable-based, you can feel good about using an environmentally friendly and sustainable product.
A great Shaving Brush is an essential tool in any man's grooming arsenal, and there's nothing better than frothing up your own soap for the perfect shave. One of our synthetic bristled brushes set in a hand-crafted base is just what you need to give the gift of a great shaving experience.
Lather shaving soap brush
Our brushes are soft and gentle on the skin while still providing the perfect amount of exfoliation to help prepare the skin for a smooth, close shave. The hand-crafted base is beautiful and functional, providing a sturdy base for the brush and soap while allowing easy access to both.
Moustache Wax adds shine and can protect split ends and breakage, helping the moustache stay strong and healthy. Many commercial waxes contain synthetic ingredients that can be harsh on your hair and skin. By shaping the ‘stache with an all-natural wax, you can avoid these harsh chemicals and enjoy the benefits of an effective and gentle product.
 
Whether your guy is serious about his grooming routine or just getting started, he will love the range of products available to him. So go ahead and spoil the bearded man in your life with a gift that he'll truly appreciate. Trust us, his beard will thank you!  Knowledge makes you sharp on the inside. Applying it makes you sharp on the outside!​
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Everybody's Talking About This Textured Trend: The Textured Top Haircut

1/2/2024

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four men with textured top hair styles
Hey there! Have you heard of the Textured Top with a Fade? It's the hottest hair trend of 2024! Barbers all around the world are expanding their clipper game with razor techniques on straight hair to create that perfect textured look!  We've got the cuts, the products, and the tips to get you trending!
The Texturized Top Cut
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man with textured top haircut
The textured top cut is a modern and stylish look perfect for anyone who wants to add some edge to their hairstyle. This cut involves cutting the hair on top of the head to create a textured and layered look while keeping the sides and back of the head short. Longer hair can benefit from a textured cut by adding a ruffled, playful appearance. On the other hand, a shorter textured cut on top and blended sides can create a more sophisticated and professional look.
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Short curls with layers can be a showstopper. The correct layering technique will give your curls a voluminous look that's sure to turn heads. However, it's important to note that maintaining a short curly hairstyle requires frequent upkeep to ensure that the layers don't get too long and lose their shape.

Products for Texture
There are plenty of products to help you achieve and maintain that perfect texture. From pomades and gels to texturizing powders and waxes, there's something for everyone.
styling a textured top haircut with blowdryer
When it comes to hair styling products, there are tons of options to choose from.  If you're looking for a product that is easy to wash out and won't leave your hair feeling greasy, you should definitely consider using a water-soluble pomade. One great option is Suavecito pomade. This high-quality product is available in both matte and glossy finishes, so you can choose the one that best fits your style. 

using texturizing spray on a textured hairrstyle
If you're looking for even more hold and lift, consider using a blow dryer in conjunction with your texturizing spray. This can help to further distribute the product while also adding some extra volume to your hair. If you're looking to add a bit of texture and volume to your hair, texturizing spray is a great option. You can use the spray before or after drying. We recommend this Definition Spray by STMNT.

Inspiration and Your Style
Overall, textured cuts are a great way to add some movement and personality to your hair. Whether you're looking for a playful or professional appearance, a textured cut will work for you. 29 Short and Stylish Haircuts for Men is a great resource for inspiration.  Be sure to consult a professional barber to determine the best approach for your hair type, desired look, and lifestyle.
Barbers
Barbers can use several techniques to achieve this popular style, including point cut, twist cut, and razor cutting. While these methods require some skill and practice to master, an experienced barber will be able to create the perfect textured look.
Point cutting involves using scissors to make small, angled cuts into the ends of the hair. This technique can be used to add texture and movement, giving a more natural, effortless look. Twist cutting, on the other hand, involves twisting sections of the hair before making cuts, creating a more uneven, choppy effect. Finally, razor cutting involves using a razor blade to slice through the hair, creating a wispy, feathered look.  For further review of these techniques, check out Men’s Hairstyles and the Barber’s Pursuit of Texture.
4 examples of texturizing haircutting techniques
So why not step out of your comfort zone and try something new? The textured top cut is the perfect way to add some edge to your look and stay on top of the latest hair trends. Knowledge makes you sharp on the inside, applying it makes you sharp on the outside!
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    Aaron & Kristi Brown, Authors

    Aaron Brown is a Master Barber, Cosmetologist, Educator, and Entrepreneur.  As a shop owner and product developer, he has a passion for promoting healthy hair and scalp.  He loves to connect with others and share knowledge on industry trends and products to solve common problems with the hair, scalp, and skin to help clients look and feel their best.

    Kristi Brown is a seasoned Entrepreneur who holds down the fort in an administrative role for the business.  When she's not working, you'll most likely find her spending quality time with her kids, dogs, or tending to her flower gardens. Kristi and Aaron have been married 13 years.

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