barber

A barber is a professional who specializes in trimming, cutting, and styling hair, as well as grooming facial hair such as beards and mustaches. Traditional barbering focuses on men’s haircuts, beard shaping, and shaving, often using clippers, straight razors, and hot towels. In many regions, barbering is a distinct occupation from cosmetology or hairdressing, with its own training, licensing, and stylistic conventions.

Historically, barbering has roots in ancient civilizations where barbers performed basic grooming and barber-surgeons carried out medical procedures, including bloodletting. In Europe during the Middle Ages, barber-surgeons combined medical and grooming work. By the 18th and 19th centuries, barber shops had become social hubs in many towns, distinguished by barber poles and simple, efficient services. In the modern era, barbering remains a specialized trade, though many shops now emphasize modern styles and grooming products while retaining classic techniques such as the hot-towel shave.

Services commonly offered include haircuts using clippers and scissors, beard trimming, mustache shaping, neck and scalp massages, and straight-razor shaves or trim-and-shave finishes. Equipment typically used includes clippers, trimmers, scissors, straight razors, combs, brushes, razors, barber chairs, capes, and neck duster. Hygiene practices emphasize sanitization of tools, blade replacement, and adherence to local health regulations.

Training and licensing for barbers vary by country and region, but generally involve formal barber schools or apprenticeships and passing practical and theory examinations. Barber shops continue to adapt with trends in male grooming, product selection, and the blend of traditional and contemporary styling.