It’s no secret that in the world of cosmetology, there’s a lot of overlap. Stylists and cosmetologists might dabble in the world of barbering and barbers might dabble in the world of cosmetology.
Overall, it’s no big deal if these two unique but similar worlds mix and mingle a little bit. After all, that’s the fun of our industry, right? There are always plenty of fun, different opportunities to tack onto what you already know, love, and are damn good at.
But just because these two worlds mesh really well doesn’t mean they don’t have elements that make them totally unique.
One of those elements? The distinct difference between a barbershop and a hair salon—because, yes, these marked distinctions totally exist (even if some of the same things happen within the walls of each).
Are you ready to dive into the differences between a barbershop and a salon? Good, we’ll take you through the top, most distinct things that set these two unique places apart.
What Shops and Salons Each Bring to the Table: Differences Make the World Go ‘Round
The best way to really narrow down these differences? Let’s start with the basics. Yep, we’re taking you all the way back to the fundamental definitions of each—because how these spaces are defined is one of the most formative differences between them.
Barbershops Tend to Cater to Men
While this is definitely not always the case (and there are plenty of talented barbers out there who can handle literally anyone’s hair or cosmetology needs, genders be damned), the truth is that typically barbershops tend to cater to and attract a more male-dominant crowd.
Why? Because in most cases, barbers have been traditionally trained to cut short and classic styles along with beard and facial hair management—traditionally, this applies to more men than women.
That being said, “tradition” is pretty much being thrown out the window—barbers are qualified and trained to handle longer, fuller, curlier, and more natural styles, just as stylists are being trained to tackle what normally would fall under a barber’s criteria.
The general vibe of most typical barbershops—despite the new-found trends—typically caters to men.
The Environment is Different Than a Salon
The cool thing about barbershops is that they tend to have a very heavy community vibe (obviously, there are exceptions, but this is a traditional mark of a great barbershop). Barbershops tend to be warm, welcoming, and typically aren’t trying to be anything they’re not—they’re down to earth, relaxed, and open.
Salons can be this way, too—but they do sometimes require more planned socialization. In other words, they have less of a “walk in and take a seat” feeling simply because they usually require an appointment—barbershops don’t always require this.
Tools Are Rarely the Same
While there’s obviously some overlap in the tools department, barbershops are typically stocked a lot differently than salons.
Take a look at your shop’s tool supply and then compare it to a salon—you’ll see a lot fewer clippers razors, straight razors, and shears, and you’ll see a lot more scissors, hot styling tools, products, dyes, conditioners, and beyond.
It’s important to realize that this is a generalization and that you can’t always make these assumptions just based on the type of salon or shop you’re stepping into. It’s wholly possible that a salon has a pro barber on staff who could give you the best fade of your life, just as it’s possible a traditional barbershop might have a barber who knows his or her way around a curly girl cut like no other.
Like most things (especially in the cosmetology world), it’s all on a case-by-case basis.
How Salons and Barbershops are Similar: We’ve All Got a Little in Common, Right?
Here’s the deal, at the end of the day, barbershops and salons have quite a few things in common, too. What, exactly? We’ll lay this out for you super quick.
Both shops and salons:
Are home to supremely talented individuals within the world and realms of cosmetology
Foster ways for creative and skilled cosmetologists to change clients’ lives
Likely require licensed professionals to work within their walls
Offer barbers and cosmetologists a space to host their clients, market their services, and make an income
Are you loving this type of info? We sure hope so. If you’re keen on staying in the barbering world (or even the cosmetology world, remember, there’s a big overlap), then you’re in the right place.
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