Is there really a difference between a cheap $30 haircut and a more expensive $65 haircut? Hair is hair, right? Well, not so fast. Getting a haircut can be a very different experience depending on where you go.
We all know about the $15 special at the local barber, but that won’t get you much more than a buzz cut. If you’re unsure if spending a little more on your look is right for you, we’re breaking down the difference between a $30 men’s haircut and a $65 men’s haircut.
The $30 Cut:
A $30 men’s haircut can just as quickly go great as it can go awry. Of course, this all depends on the stylist and your expectations. $30 haircuts are pretty standard for chain salons and barbers, and you might find someone who you vibe with at this price. What won’t you get? A full-service salon with a variety of talent and products, customized styles, and the luxury experience.
The Quality of the Cut
More affordable salons usually don’t have the resources to offer their stylists continued education. So while you may be saving some cash, your stylist is most likely not going to be well-versed in the latest cutting methods, how to work with various hair textures, techniques, and hairstyles.
Barbershops and chain salons often use clippers rather than shears to trim the hair, leaving customers leaving the salon with a similar style. Plus, not everyone wants their hair shaved off on the sides. The only way to achieve a fully personalized cut is with scissors.
The $65 Cut:
A great haircut usually lasts longer and, of course, looks better. Paying a little more on your hair doesn’t just mean getting shampooed and pampered; it also means having your hair cut by someone with more training.
The entire “experience” is also quite different. Higher-priced haircuts often come with luxurious shampoo, high-quality products, beverage service, and better customer care. You get what you pay for. You could order a 12 oz. Ribeye at Applebees, but the same meal at Capital Grille will be superior quality (and tastier!).
The Quality of the Cut
With a more expensive cut, you can expect to spend more time with your stylist while they give you a cut customized to your style and head contour. Even more high-price chain salons can’t offer the same quality cut as a salon where the stylists have been over-educated on the hair and head shape.
And speaking of the time spent with your stylist, cheaper salons can’t afford to give up a chair for much longer than 20 minutes for a men’s haircut. The stylists are trained to work fast. Haircuts are rushed, and the stylists don’t have time for cross-checking and dry cutting.
Are High-Price Haircuts Worth it?
At the end of the day, deciding between a $30 men’s haircut and a $65 men’s haircut is all about the level of service you’re accustomed to receiving as well as how much consideration you’d like taken into account for your shape and style. Like any craft, experience and knowledge of face shape, texture, suitability and lifestyle will take your haircut much further.
