5 Haircut Mistakes Most Guys Make

Every guy thinks he’s getting a good haircut until he sees the back of his head in a photo. Here are the mistakes most men make at the barber—and how to avoid them.

1. Saying “Just Clean It Up”

This tells your barber nothing. Clean up what? The sides? The neck? Everything? Be specific or you’ll get whatever interpretation they feel like giving you that day.

2. Bringing a Photo of Someone With Different Hair

That textured crop looks great on the guy with thick, straight hair. But if you’ve got fine, wavy hair, you’re setting yourself up for disappointment. Find someone with your hair type.

3. Going Too Long Between Cuts

Waiting until your hair is a mess means your barber has to do more corrective work. Every 3-4 weeks keeps things manageable and looking intentional.

4. Not Speaking Up Mid-Cut

See something going wrong? Say something. It’s way easier to adjust during the cut than after. Your barber won’t be offended—they want you happy.

5. Skipping the Product Conversation

Your barber styled your hair perfectly. Now you need to know how to do it yourself. Ask what they used and how they applied it before you leave the chair.

Avoid these five mistakes and you’ll actually look forward to haircut day instead of dreading it.