How to ask for a haircut you want when you’re abroad

Have you ever needed a haircut while abroad but not known how to explain to the hairdresser/barber exactly what you want? Leaving the salon with an unwanted haircut happens all over the world, but that doesn’t mean it should happen to you!

Whether you’re a man or a woman, the desire to get a haircut may surprise you while you are abroad, so we thought of some English phrases that may come in handy: good luck!

Before cutting

Do I need to book an appointment?

Are you able to see me now? How long should I wait?

Just cut/Cut and drying.

Do you accept credit card or just cash?

Basic

What’s my hair type? Is it oily or dry? Fine or thick?

How often would you recommend I washed my hair?

What kind of shampoo works best on my hair?

I’d like to have my hair thinned out.

I just want to trim the tips of my hair, keeping its length.

I’d like my fringe to be centred/on the side.

I want my hair layered, longer on the back, shorter on the front/ shorter on the back, longer on the front.

Can you make the sides completely shaven?

I’d like my hair straightened/curly/wavy.

I usually part my hair on the right/left/centre.

I want my hair layered, longer on the back, shorter on the front/ shorter on the back, longer on the front.

Can you make the sides completely shaven?

I’d like my hair straightened/curly/wavy.

I usually part my hair on the right/left/center.

Could I please have a number 1/2/3/4 all over please?

Could you please make sure my sideburns are trimmed and tidy please?

Would you be able to tidy up my beard and define it with a cutthroat razor please?

Could you take another centimetre of length off the top please?

Can you go over this side of my head with the razor again please?

Restyle

What’s the best haircut/hairstyle for my face shape?

I’d like some highlights.

I’d like to dye my hair darker/lighter/with a new colour.

I’d like an asymmetrical/blunt cut.

I’d like it square/tapered at the back.

I’d like to get a permanent.

I’d like to get braids/dreadlocks.

I’d like a buzzcut/crewcut.

I like to keep the length on top, so can you fade the sides please?

My hair is starting to thin on one side so can you cut it into a combover style?

I’d like to have a mullet done for an upcoming costume party.

Maintenance tips

How can I maintain colour at home?

How can I style my hair based on my natural texture?

What anti-dandruff treatment would you recommend?

Is there any product you’d recommend as a deep-conditioning mask?

Is there anything I can do for my frizzy hair?

How can I protect my hair from the sun?

To conclude, we leave you with an expression and a wish in English that seems appropriate, and that means doing something better than others, in this case a haircut.

Make sure your haircut is a cut above the rest!

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