Yep, you read that right–we said hair tattoos.
If this phrase is a little unfamiliar, let’s go with a more common one–hair art. In the barbering industry, hair art is a big deal, and if you’ve been in the biz for any amount of time, it’s likely that you’ve had a customer come in requesting something super cool.
And, when that happened, were you able to deliver? Listen, hair art is an awesome skill and an even more awesome thing to offer on your menu of services, but if you’re not 100% confident in your hair art capabilities, it can be tough to tack them on to your service list. So, what’s the secret to creating killer hair tattoos that aren’t just satisfying for your clients but also super Insta-worthy?
If that’s the answer you seek, then good news–we’ve got your back. This blog is about dropping all the knowledge we’ve acquired from expert barbers in the biz. We’ll share secrets, tips, and advice, all with the intent to help you beef up your hair tattoo skills, knowledge, and of course, confidence.
Why? Because if offering your clients next-level hair tattoos is important to you; there’s no reason you shouldn’t make that happen. And when it comes to boosting your barbering career, we’re always on your side. Read on to learn a few more tips and tricks for conquering your hair tattoo and hair art skills.
What Exactly is a Hair Tattoo?
A hair tattoo might sound super permanent, but it’s just an expression. A hair tattoo is actually a term to describe hair art, a skillful design that talented barbers will shave, cut, and trim into a client’s hair.
Hair tattoos are a unique way for barbers to show off their skills, for clients to express themselves, and of course, to have a little fun.
Hair tattoos–or hair art–can be anything. From simple but stunning geometric shapes to actual portraits of people shaved into hair, there’s no limit on what can be done with hair art. Where’s the best place to scout killer hair art or hair tattoo designs? Social media, of course.
As you probably know, social media is a huge part of your barbering career–and this facet is no different. Take to social media to check out the latest and greatest in hair tattoos–and don’t forget to update your platforms when you start posting your killer hair art, too.
Top Tips for Creating Killer Hair Tattoos
Free Your Mind, Forget the Rules
The primary rule behind creating stunning hair tattoos is this–forget the rules. We know, we know, that sounds a little contradictory, but hear us out.
Hair art is more than just a skill; it’s an expression–tapping into your creativity and forgetting the techniques and rules that go hand-in-hand with barbering can actually help you unlock some seriously sweet looks.
Look to your favorite barbers for inspiration but leave it at that–inspiration. It’s OK to replicate looks when practicing your skills, but ultimately, don’t mimic; create instead.
Practice at the Nape of the Neck
If you’re struggling to get the hang of a design or feeling nervous, start at the nape of the neck, where it’s easiest to blend and fade downwards without “messing up” the look.
Start with shorter lines, and don’t take on anything too tough when you’re beginning. Tackle the basics, then move on to curves and more complex shapes.
Draw it On First
Guess what? There’s no rule against drawing your client’s design on their head first. (Remember, there are no rules in the first place).
Take a bright-colored or white-colored eyeliner pencil and draw that design on it to give yourself some guidelines. There’s no need to work from memory–go ahead and draw on your design.
3D is Key
Highlights and shadows are the top two shading considerations for hair tattoos. But if you’re leaving out midtones, then you’re leaving out a super important dimension. Try practicing your 3D designs by including different levels of shading. This type of detail makes designs look all the more stunning.
Consider the Client’s Hair
Above all, remember that certain designs will work better with certain hairstyles, types, textures, and shapes. Consider your client’s details before starting your hair art journey.
Think about what would look best on them, what would work for them, and what might work against you during the process. Then, tackle that hair tattoo.
Love what you learned? Well, good news–there’s more where that came from.
We’re constantly sharing our next-level advice, career-boosting tips, and skill-sharpening insight on our blog, which, BTW, is regularly updated.
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