Unpopular opinion: using a straight razor on every head shave client is overkill

Been cutting hair for 8 years now, mostly in a shop outside Phoenix. Used to think I had to break out the straight razor for every single bald fade or head shave to look professional. One day I had a guy in the chair who just wanted a zero guard all over. I grabbed the clippers, did the whole thing in 8 minutes, no razor. He tipped me $15 and said it was the smoothest cut he ever got. So I started trying it on more guys. Now I only use a straight razor maybe 2 out of 10 head shaves. Saves me time and most clients don't care or even notice. Has anyone else dropped a 'premium' tool for a simpler method and gotten better results?

2 comments

2 Comments

cameron_webb1mo ago

The one time I tried skipping the razor on a head shave, the guy looked in the mirror and asked if I was done or just taking a break. Now I keep a straight razor handy but only use it when the clippers leave a weird shadow or the guy specifically asks for it. Most people just want it short and even, not a whole ceremony.

abby_chen1mo ago

How long does a full razor shave usually take you vs just clippers? Cause I feel like the ceremony part is what scares people off if they're just trying to get in and out.