DON’T LOSE OUT

WE TALK TO THE EXPERTS ABOUT THE TREATMENTS YOU CAN OFFER YOUR CLIENTS EXPERIENCING PERMANENT HAIR LOSS TO ENSURE THEY (AND YOUR BUSINESS) FEEL THE FULL BENEFIT

TIME TO GET TALKING

Hair loss has traditionally been a taboo topic, but with the selfcare industry growing in recent years, clients are beginning to recognise that as consumers, they have more control than ever before. Despite this, broaching the conversation as a barber can still be a little tricky, and as Miles Wood-Smith, Master Barber at Murdock London explains: “Every client is different, so you’ll need to adjust your approach from person to person.”

Environment is also a key factor when it comes to discussing hair loss; “Some barbershops can be small and therefore not an inviting place to share feelings,” says Rob Wood, one of the Founders of Novo Cabelo. Leading the conversation with a simple question can help make it feel like a safe space, creating an opening for discussion.

Barbering has historically been less treatment-focused than hairdressing, something Ryan Lewis, STMNT Advocate, believes is a result of walk-in appointments. “This means there has been significant time restraints, leading to a rushed, or overlooked, consultation process,” he says. However, you can easily incorporate treatment-talk and scalp care at the start of your appointments, meaning it remains prioritised if you’re short on time.

"On average, one client can make a shop around £1,700 per year." - Novo Cabelo

IT STARTS WITH THE SCALP

If you’re looking to provide hair loss services in your barbershop, then ensuring you understand the science behind the condition is key. Steven Goldsworthy, Trichologist and Owner of Goldsworthys, a L’Oréal Professionnel Paris salon, breaks down the different causes, explaining: “In males, the most common form of hair loss is androgenetic hair loss. The three main causes of this are genetic predisposition, the presence of androgen testosterone and age.” While it cannot be cured, Steven notes that it can be drastically slowed down with the correct advice. He also adds: “Other causative factors for hair thinning or loss can be a sudden change to diet, stress, medication or illness.”

After & Before

EDUCATION IS KEY

Although male haircare is becoming more mainstream, there is still work to be done to ensure clients are empowered to make the best choices for themselves. Jamie Stevens, owner of Jamie Stevens Hair, points out: “I think we’ve had to really battle to help men understand that just because they tend to wear their hair shorter, that doesn’t mean they can just shampoo and go.” Likewise, Ian Harrold, Lead UK Educator for American Crew, explains: “Too many men are still using their partners’ shampoo without knowing why they are using it or if it’s right for them. Men need to find a brand that provides a product that is male specific – those shampoos and conditioners will have the right pH for male skin and hair.”

Meanwhile, Glenn Lyons, Senior Consultant Trichologist and Clinical Director at Philip Kingsley, believes there is little difference in the perceptions of hair and scalp care between hairdressing and barbering, instead suggesting that a general lack of trichological knowledge in both industries is causing limitations on education. But with most people not realising they are losing hair until they have lost around 50% of it, this lack of knowledge can’t be afforded. As barbers, it is important to share your expertise with your clients, before they look elsewhere.

BOOST YOUR BUSINESS

Aside from boosting your profits, offering hair replacement services can show that your business is forward thinking. Hair replacement is the fastest growing market in barbering right now and will only get bigger, which makes this an exciting time to get involved. Tom Walker, from The Hair Repair Club, adds: “Sometimes barbers can be under appreciated, but since offering hair replacements, the positive feedback you get from helping someone can be priceless.”

Hair replacements are also a beneficial business move because they can be marketed purely through social media. Tom says: “Social media works brilliantly for us and it’s bought in nearly all of our clients. They sell themselves, due to the positive results.”

After & Before

"Hair replacement systems are a part of a growing economy, worth £2.1 billion in 2022 globally. This is expected to grow to £12.6 billion by 2030." - Alopecia UK and Grand View Research

PRODUCTS

Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Anti-Thinning Shampoo, Conditioner and Tonic form a salon-strength system that gently helps to address thinning hair. It’s infused with the exclusive Regeniplex botanical blend to promote optimal scalp health and encourage fuller, thicker hair. RRP from: £25.65

Nioxin Anti-Hair Loss Serum is clinically proven to reduce hair loss by 20% in only eight weeks, thanks to Sandalore (a synthetic Sandalwood fragrance), Caffeine, Lauric Acid, and Niacinamide. RRP: £52.25

Toppik’s Hair Building Fibers are game-changing in disguising thinning hair, whilst acting as a hair thickener. The keratin-derived fibres are safe, natural and blend undetectably to create the appearance of naturally thicker, fuller hair. RRP from: £6.95