12 Barber Skills: Definition and Examples
By ResumeCat Editorial Team
Updated June 7, 2023
A barber is someone who offers hair-cutting, shaving, and other grooming services. There are many skills that a barber needs to know in order to provide these services effectively. In this article, we will discuss 12 of these skills and their definitions.

Barber Skills
Trims
A barber skill is needed in order to provide customers with trims. This skill is necessary in order to create a neat and clean appearance for the customer.
Shaves
A barber shaves hair from the head, face, and neck. This skill is necessary for barbers to provide their clients with a clean, smooth shave.
Cuts
A barber skill is the ability to cut hair using a variety of techniques. This includes cutting straight, layering, and tapering. It is important for barbers to have this skill in order to provide their clients with the best possible haircut.
Fades
A fade is a hairstyle that is shorter in the back and gradually gets longer towards the front. It is a popular choice for men's hairstyles because it is easy to maintain and can be styled in a variety of ways. Fades are also popular because they can be adapted to different hair types and face shapes.
Blends
A barber needs to be able to blend hair colors together to create a natural look. This skill is important because it allows the barber to create a variety of looks for their clients.
Tapers
A taper is a gradual reduction in the diameter of a hair shaft. This technique is used to create thinner, more tapered hair styles. It can be used to create a variety of looks, from sleek and sophisticated to edgy and punk. Tapers are an important skill for barbers to know because they allow for greater versatility in hair styling.
Scissors
A barber needs scissors to cut hair.
Clipper
A clipper is a handheld tool that is used to trim hair. It is a versatile tool that can be used to create a variety of different hairstyles.
Thinning shears
Thinning shears are a type of scissors that are used to thin out hair. They have teeth on one side of the blade, which help to remove excess hair and create a more even look. Thinning shears are an essential tool for barbers, as they can help to create a variety of different hairstyles.
Razor
A razor is a sharp tool used for shaving hair. A barber needs a razor to shave the hair of their clients.
Beard trimmer
A beard trimmer is a tool that can be used to trim and shape facial hair, including beards. It can be used to create different looks, including a clean-shaven look, a more natural look, or a styled look.
Comb
A comb is a tool that barbers use to style hair. Combs come in various sizes and shapes, and each type of comb is designed for a specific purpose. For example, some combs are designed for detangling hair, while others are meant for creating specific hairstyles. A good barber will know how to use all types of combs to create the perfect look for their clients.
How to improve barber skills
As a barber, your skills are what set you apart from the competition. If you want to improve your skills, there are a few things you can do. First, practice as often as you can. The more you practice, the better you'll become at cutting hair. Second, pay attention to detail. Make sure you're paying attention to the little things, like the direction of the hair and the length of each cut. Third, be creative. Try new techniques and styles to keep your clients coming back for more. Finally, always be learning. Keep up with the latest trends and techniques by reading magazines and watching videos. By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to becoming a master barber!
How to highlight barber skills
If you want to highlight your skills as a barber, you should start by emphasizing your ability to cut hair. You should be able to show that you know how to use different types of scissors and clippers, and that you can give a variety of haircuts. You should also emphasize your people skills, as being a good barber requires being able to talk to your clients and make them feel comfortable. Finally, you should show that you are professional and take pride in your work.
On a resume
To highlight your skills as a Barber on a resume, you should list your experience cutting hair, as well as any other related experience you have. You should also list any specialties you have, such as cutting curly hair or giving shaves. Be sure to list any awards or recognition you have received for your work as a Barber. Finally, mention any continuing education courses you have taken or are taking to keep your skills up-to-date.
In a cover letter
When writing a cover letter as a Barber, be sure to highlight your skills in cutting hair, styling hair, and using various Barbering tools. You may also want to mention your ability to work with different types of hair, including ethnic hair. If you have any experience working in a salon or barbershop, be sure to mention that as well.
During an interview
When you are interviewing for a position as a barber, it is important to highlight your skills. You should discuss your experience cutting hair, your ability to use different types of equipment, and your knowledge of different styles. You should also be prepared to answer questions about why you want to be a barber and what you think makes a great barber.