How male grooming has shaped the barber industry

Male grooming has changed considerably in just the last 10 ten years, alone. Men are spending more time on their appearance and society is making it much more acceptable to do so. 

According to Retail Times, men’s skincare is on the rise and with over 100% increase in sales for men’s face-masks alone, it appears men are going beyond their basic hygiene routine and are creating a world where it is normal to pamper themselves.

Beard envy 

Men are taking the time to care for their beards. Beard shaping and cutting tools, as well as beard oils and balms are just a few products men are reaching for on the shelves when they go shopping. 

It seems beards are becoming a fashion statement and the longer the moustache, the more fashionable. Men aren’t afraid to try out new trends and as they are becoming more aware of how to style a beard to suit their face shape, we’re seeing many more styles with goatees, moustaches and stubble. It’s also becoming increasingly common for men to have eyebrow treatments such as eyebrow trimming and shaping.

Meanwhile, others are using their beards to make more political or charitable statements, particularly throughout ‘Movember’, when men grow a moustache in November to raise money for men’s health charities. 

RIP hair 

Historically, when men lost their hair, it was just accepted. Men are much more confident in discussing hair loss treatments and wanting advice on how to better style their changing hair. They’re also much more likely to invest in products that might slow down the hair loss process and are even more likely to consider permanent treatments such as hair replacement.

Overseas influence 

Perhaps the world is getting smaller as social media and the success of Turkish barbers have heavily influenced the definition of the British ‘barbershop’. Now we’re seeing a much more diverse range of treatments offered to men, from manicures to waxing and threading treatments and facials. Men are spending much longer in barbershops and as a result we’re seeing a physical change to their interiors- from Hollywood style mirrors to cushioned leather seats. 

Colouring 

The influence of celebrities and social media has given men the confidence to try colouring, whether it is highlights, lowlights or bleaching. Some are even experimenting with bolder colours, such as pastels and even intentionally going grey. 

Older men are also embracing their natural greys by requesting more toning and conditioning treatments to brighten their natural colour. 

As male grooming habits continue to evolve, it’s vital barbers are in a position to keep up with the changes. At Walsall College, we have a state of the art salon equipped with industry standard equipment to provide you with the skills you need to get ahead.

Apply now to secure your place for September.  See our Barbering and Hairdressing courses.