Hairbrained – Barbering is Back! by Beauty Expert, Gina Rivera

For many of us seeing a barbershop pole, with its red and white stripes, invokes a feeling of nostalgia. It brings us back to simpler times when haircuts were a few bucks and each town had its own local barber that everyone knew.  Perhaps it’s that incredible legacy which has been the key to placing barbers as one of the biggest emerging trends in the beauty industry.

Barbering is not just for men anymore. Nowadays we see both female and male barbers, all well versed in their craft, studying the latest designs.  As a matter of fact, barbering is becoming so mainstream that recently Forbes magazine predicted the cultural resurgence of the trade will result in a 26B industry by 2020.  Forbes also went on to name Barbering as the fastest growing profession in the United States.

The rise in popularity could be attributed to many items. However, part of the appeal surely involves the artistic designs that have been deeply integrated into the art.  Barbering is not just a haircut anymore. While there are still many folks that frequent the barber shop for a simple cut that they have worn for years, today barbering is so much more.

Many experienced barbers can do everything from create a portrait of a person on the scalp to draw a design, or even write a word, or a name. The scalp can virtually be used like an artist canvas to make a statement or to illustrate creative and beautiful artwork.  And, barbering isn’t just for the male client either. Today everyone from senior citizens to men, women and children frequent the barber for these chic’ looks.

There has also been a terrific mix of old and new. The incorporation of designs into classic cuts such as the fade or the crew allows for both versatility and creativity. How fun to be able to change the artwork on your scalp with just a visit to the barber.

The art of Barbering is truly captivating the industry. It’s a terrific asset for a beauty professional to add to their resume. And, even better, it’s not a job skill that the internet or automation will replace anytime soon. Barbering is back to stay.