Not long ago, barbershops plastered celebrity portraits on their walls and mirrors to help customers choose their hairstyle — from former One Direction member Zayn Malik’s quiff to Jason Momoa’s manly mane.
And though some still cling to the posters, most have gradually taken them down as the industry moves towards a sophisticated and personalised approach, combined with the rise of the more self-aware man.
“When a client sits down in the chair, we consider a lot of factors,” Muj Ali, a barber at Abu Dhabi’s lifestyle spot Local, tells The National.
He recommends a cut based on a mix of their personal preference and lifestyle, as well as more practical factors such as hair texture and density.
The ultimate goal should be a style that is “easy to manage during their day-to-day”, according to Ali.
With that in mind, and with an increasing number of men expected to embrace this approach this year, here are some basic tips to keep in mind when it comes to achieving one’s best hairstyle.
Haircare and style tips from UAE barbers
Invest in a hairdryer
A hairdryer is not simply for drying, it also plays a big part in styling, says Ali.
“Imagine your hair is like plastic, you expose it to high heat to melt it down so that you can mould and manipulate the shape,” he says.
Although messy hair is also a look some men go for, a clean look requires one to lock their hair in a particular shape, such as a modern pompadour or a sleek side parting.
Choosing the right hair products
Gels, creams and sprays are a must when styling and shaping hair.
“It is important to use the right product,” says Ghassan Haririh, head barber and managing director of Dubai’s Akin Barber & Shop.
“Men with long wavy hair are advised to use a texturising spray, which provides great volume and a surfer look. For finer hair, we recommend a simple hair cream to allow a little control.”
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