When it comes to hairdressing professionals, the terms hairdresser, hairstylist, and barber are often used interchangeably but each carries its own differences in meaning, level of training and clientele. Understanding the difference between a hairdresser, hairstylist and barber is not just helpful for clients seeking the right service but also for professionals identifying their area of expertise.
- A barber is traditionally trained in short, classic men’s haircuts and facial grooming, often using clippers and razors.
- A hairdresser may cut hair for all genders and is usually skilled in both cutting and colouring, typically in a salon setting.
- A hairstylist is a broader term that overlaps with hairdresser but may focus more on styling, trend-led cuts, or creative work in editorial or fashion spaces.
These definitions can vary widely, especially as the industry continues to evolve and the lines between roles blur.
Men’s Hairdressers vs Barbers
There are often misconceptions about the differences between a barber and a men’s hairdresser and while both are similar, there are some key distinctions between the two. In fact, in 2024 increasingly the term 'men's hairdresser' is one that hair professionals no longer relate to as they cut the hair of people of all genders.
One thing to note is that neither role is superior to the other. Whether you call yourself a barber or a men's hairdresser is often to do with your training, where you work, your clientele and how you identify your profession. It's personal choice.
Hairdressers vs Barbers: Tools and Services
Both barbers and men's hairdressers are trained to cut hair, yet the tools of their trade are slightly different. Barbers tend to favour clippers and razors, while men’s hairdressers primarily use scissors, as they style longer hair and also offer salon services like hair colouring and specific hair care treatments. Tom Baxter, owner of Tom Baxter Hair, says: “With a barber, the client will usually receive a haircut like a skin fade and will be in and out of the chair within 10 minutes. Yet, a men’s hairstylist will spend more time with the client and ensure the haircut is completely bespoke to them.”
Men's Hairdressing Education
Dexter Johnson, TONI&GUY International Artistic Director and Head of Men’s Education says: “Typically, men’s hairstylists are primarily taught to work with a scissor and a comb, working on longer classic shapes. They are naturally more comfortable working with scissors-over-comb, rather than clippers and utilise a variety of layering techniques. Barbers are taught to apply a clipper-over-comb technique, working with fades and tapers to achieve their client’s desired style.” He continues: “There is no right or wrong way when it comes to attending male clients and there are pros and cons to both applications. To be successful and achieve a variety of looks for your clientele, you have to be proficient in both skill sets, making you a men’s grooming expert and not just a hairdresser or barber.”
The Environment of a Barbershop vs Hairdressing Salon
The interior of a barbershop traditionally has a more masculine vibe and a ‘laid-back’ environment. However, in contrast, a salon interior is generally more spacious to make room for backwash and styling hairs. Ian Tucker, former American Crew National Education Manager says: “Now barbershops have created a one-stop shop environment, where men can order a tea or coffee from a barista, shop for clothes and get their hair cut all under one roof. Most barbershops take walk-ins, but by creating this one-stop shop makes the service more enjoyable if it's a long wait."
Jonathan Andrew, Fudge Professional Global Brand Ambassador, says: “Some men feel more comfortable in a barbershop, which is generally more suited for men, whereas salons tend to be unisex. However, there is an influx of men’s grooming and hair trends which is blurring the lines between the two trades, making the differences less and less.”
So, Should Men go to a Barber or a Hairdresser?
It's very much up to personal preference, just like whether you choose to call yourself a barber or a men's hairdresser.
Here at HJ, we support both trades. We have our brother magazine Modern Barber, and you can see their annual winners of the Modern Barber Awards here.
At HJ we have a specialist category for Men's Hairdresser of the Year at the British Hairdressing Awards, sponsored by Schwarzkopf Professional. Check out the winning collection at last year's awards in the gallery below.
Hairdresser vs Hairstylist: Is There a Difference?
You may be wondering: what is the difference between a hairdresser and a hairstylist? Often the terms are used interchangeably and it can depend on location, personal branding, and the professional's area of focus.
Does a Hairstylist Cut Hair?
Yes, a hairstylist absolutely cuts hair. In fact, many hairstylists are highly trained in cutting, styling, and sometimes colouring. The term "hairstylist" often puts more emphasis on the creative and trend-led aspect of the role, particularly in fashion-forward environments or editorial settings. However, in a salon context, hairstylist and hairdresser are frequently used to describe the same role.
Hairdresser vs Hairstylist: Training and Services
Generally speaking, hairdressers may have more formal training in a wider range of services such as colouring, chemical treatments, and advanced cutting techniques. Hairstylists, on the other hand, may specialise more in cutting, finishing, and styling, though there is significant overlap. In some salons, the title of hairstylist may simply be a more modern way of describing the same role.
What is the Difference Between a Hair Designer and a Hairstylist?
The term hair designer is often used to describe someone who takes a particularly artistic or high-fashion approach to hair. Like session stylists, hair designers may work on runway shows, photo shoots, or in avant-garde hair competitions. They may also work under the hairstylist or hairdresser umbrella, depending on the setting.
Ultimately, whether someone is referred to as a hairdresser, hairstylist, or hair designer often depends more career focus than actual technical skill differences.
