BarberEVO Magazine

Be part of the Barber EVOlution

Siobhan Macdonald

PBA seeking donations to Disaster Relief Fund amid California wildfires

The Professional Beauty Association (PBA), whose mission is to advocate and fight for the rights and professionalism of the beauty industry, is urgently seeking donations for the Disaster Relief Fund to help those affected by the wildfires in Los Angeles.

As an industry built on creativity, care, and connection, it’s time for us to rally together and provide the support our peers so urgently need.

For many, these fires have not only destroyed homes but also livelihoods. Salons, tools, and products have been lost, leaving countless professionals struggling to rebuild their lives and businesses.

This is where we can step in. The Professional Beauty Association’s Disaster Relief Fund is providing critical aid to those affected, ensuring they have the resources they need to begin again. Whether it’s helping to replace lost equipment, supporting salon rebuilds, or easing personal financial strain, every donation makes a real difference.

Now is the time to show the strength of our community. Let’s come together to make an impact. No contribution is too small—every dollar brings hope.

Ready to help? Donate today: www.probeauty.org/disaster-relief-fund

In The Chair With: Tomoya Nishimori

Tomoya Nishimori, the visionary founder of Mr Brother’s Cut Club, has become a celebrated figure in the global barbering community. With his distinct approach to barbering, he has not only built a brand that embodies the spirit of craftsmanship and creativity but also plays a pivotal role as an ambassador and educator for BROSH, Asia’s No.1 men’s grooming brand from Japan.

Barbering wasn’t always on the cards for Tomoya, but once he set his sights on the industry, he mastered it on a global scale. Following a chance meeting with two influential barbers in Japan, he switched from hairdressing to barbering and became the powerhouse we all know today.

“I was originally a hair stylist in Japan, but around 12 years ago I made the change to barbering, as I wasn’t happy in the job,” Tomoya explained.

“I wanted to work somewhere where I feel I could express myself within styles, and not just focus on a general cut. Around this time, Donnie Hawley, owner of Hawleywood’s Barbershop in California, came to Japan to meet Kawakami from Apache Barbershop, and I had the opportunity to meet them both.

It was because of this encounter that I felt inspired to change career paths to go into male grooming. It is something I had been wanting to do for a while, and this was my sign to take the plunge to open my own shop – and Mr Brother’s Cut Club was born!”

THE BIRTH OF A LEGEND

After its inception, Mr Brother’s Cut Club became a phenomenon. Mixing traditional Japanese styling techniques with retro American barbershop designs cemented their spot as a unique yet elevated grooming location in Tokyo.

Following this success, it’s hard to pin Tomoya down in one place – whether he’s working in the barbershop or educating across the globe with BROSH.

“My day-to-day is constantly busy,” Tomoya chuckled. “I do education almost every week, which means I am always on the road – whether that’s in Japan or across the globe.”

“There is hunger from people not just in Japan, but all over the world to expand their skill set in barbering and styling – beyond the fade,” he added.

“It’s great to spread the message of BROSH as a premium, Japanese grooming brand. People are very receptive and interested in the BROSH brand, our products, and how versatile they are. I love showing people all that you can achieve and create with these products.”

A PHOTOSHOOT WITH PURPOSE

As the cover star for this issue, Tomoya and BROSH wanted to create a photoshoot that would showcase the duality of Japan’s cultural landscape, and in turn, the duality of BROSH as a traditional barbering brand with urban roots.

When you think of Tokyo, your mind will go from ultramodern, neon skyscrapers to historic temples and cherry blossoms.

“We highlighted two different locations within this shoot as a way to represent Japan to the world in a meaningful way, as well as to represent myself and my lifestyle,” Tomoya explained.

“The neon signs and vibrant nightlife of Kabukicho showcase my lifestyle because I enjoy the moments I’m not working where I can find energy and inspiration to carry on.

We also chose to shoot some of the images in Asakusa – with its traditional craft shops and location near the Sensō-ji temple – which represents Japan and what my country looks like to the outside world.”

THE ROLE OF BROSH PRODUCTS

When planning the shoot, Tomoya also wanted to ensure it showcased the versatility of the BROSH products.

“I wanted to show readers that no matter what style, length, or hair type, there is always a BROSH product that will help you achieve your goals,” Tomoya enthused.

We asked Tomoya what some of his hero products were when styling for this collection.

“For the photoshoot, I always start off using the BROSH Styling Base Spray, and this is very essential to me to ensure the hair is prepped,” he explained.

“In conjunction with the spray, I also used the BROSH Feather Weight Fiber Pomade to add texture, while holding the hair in place when adding the final touches.”

PRIDE IN CRAFTSMANSHIP

There were multiple points of inspiration and motivation for Tomoya during this process, but pride was a central feeling.

“Not only do I want to highlight BROSH and my own barbering skills, but I want to show the world how skilled Japanese barbers actually are,” he told us.

“I am very proud that Japan is known for producing highly skilled barbers and high-quality products, so I want to ensure that this opportunity reflects that too.”

Captain Fawcett founder Richard Finney receives MBE

Richard Finney, founder of Captain Fawcett Ltd, has been honoured with the prestigious Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the 2025 New Year Honours List in recognition of his outstanding contribution to International Trade and to Charity.

This honour highlights Richard’s leadership in expanding British enterprise globally along with his dedication to charitable causes. These include men’s mental health, homelessness, and children’s welfare.

A key initiative is the annual BarbersRide charity motorcycle ride, co-founded with Xavier Berrell and Colin Petrie, and now entering its ninth consecutive year, which has to date raised over £180,000, for children’s charities such as Alder Hey and Great Ormond Street Children’s Hospitals as well as ‘Make-A-Wish’.

In his acceptance of the MBE, Richie is quick to emphasise that this esteemed recognition is not his alone, but rather a reflection of collective dedication and team work.

“In the guise of Captain Fawcett, I am but truly honoured to have been awarded ‘Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire’ — Huzzah! However, this highly esteemed accolade should and will be shared, for I am but the conductor of a hugely professional and incredibly creative orchestra of talent that has in turn contributed so much to Captain Fawcett’s ongoing success. Together, we are building something both disruptive and extraordinary to boot.”

Founded in 2010 at a kitchen table in Terrington St Clement, Norfolk, Captain Fawcett has grown to become a beacon of British quality and craftsmanship in Gentleman’s Grooming and Hair Care, exporting to 48 countries and earning a reputation for its award-winning products and distinctive character.

Beyond business, Richie has driven Captain Fawcett’s commitment to social responsibility, with initiatives like ‘BarbersRide’ becoming a flagship of the brand’s mission.

This award serves as a reminder of the importance of creating a community, celebrating the combined efforts of the entire team, suppliers, distributors, partners, and stakeholders around the globe, who have all played essential roles in Captain Fawcett’s remarkable story.

“Life isn’t a straight track. It’s full of pot holes, detours, steep climbs and alarming descents,” reflected Richie. “As such, it’s important that you surround yourself with a motivated team who both subscribe and add to the brand ethos and believe in it as fiercely as you. Getting this formula right, will result in the remarkable. For in truth, one’s journey is defined by fellow travellers who are willing to take the road with you. Teams grow, people come and go, however, every individual adds to the creative whole. This honour isn’t mine alone; it belongs to my stalwart companions who share the weight and lift one another when we stumble. Step by step, we press on together.”

As Richie accepts this prestigious honour, he hopes that his story will serve as an inspiration to others, as indeed others have inspired him, proof that with a commitment to hard work, a dash of good fortune, a certain amount of resilience, and having the right people in your corner, your dreams can become reality.

Richard Finney MBE looks forward to continuing the company’s growth. “Captain Fawcett has always been about forging lasting relationships. It is people who cement the sturdiest of foundations, the cornerstone of Captain Fawcett’s success is in supporting communities, and expanding the horizons of UK trade,” he said. “I look forward to the challenge. Here’s to 2025!” 

For more information on Captain Fawcett, please visit www.captainfawcett.com

Rising Star: Montel Campbell

In each edition, we choose a rising star – someone who is taking ownership of their path and building a booming career in the barbering world. With previous rising stars coming from all across the UK, this time it’s a little closer to EVO’s home. Made in Glasgow, but making waves across the UK… let us introduce Montel Campbell.

“Honestly, I just want to be a powerhouse of a person in every way possible… and barbering is the vessel for me to get there,” Montel Campbell told us from his East Kilbride, Glasgow barbershop, 1147.

“But my barbering journey has really been propelled by the people around me – and they’re who I keep going for.”

At only 25, Montel Campbell has built his booming career upon hard graft, continual education, and a humility toward those who raised him – both at home and in the barbershop (which, in Montel’s world, often overlap).

Montel’s journey hasn’t been an easy one, but it is one that proves him a beacon of resilience. So, let’s go back a few chapters to learn about the beginnings of our barber on the rise to stardom…

A HUMBLE START

“I remember it was a really difficult time. My mum, my sister, and I had been living in a refuge after certain circumstances meant we had to move homes. We were still trying to get settled when I met Tony for the first time.

I remember going to get my haircut with him, and thinking he was just so cool. We had the same V-cut mullet, with bleach at the back – so it just felt serendipitous to me.”

“He was my barber until he gave me a job, and he became my boss. I always wanted to work with him – and I’m extremely fortunate that I did for 10 years.

But what I’ve realised only recently was that it wasn’t just about liking cutting hair: it was Tony and the environment he had created.”

BUILDING A CAREER

Since Tony helped Montel start out in the business, his career has boomed – and he has recently gone into business with “one of the best barbers in the game,” Adam Berry, to open their shop 1127. Still based in East Kilbride, the pair aren’t far from Tony.

Montel has also built up a reputation for his forward-thinking cuts and styling.

“I always find inspiration on social media. I mean, Tony would always be blasting out mad trims that East Kilbride hadn’t seen yet – but through Instagram, I’ve been able to check out people’s styles from across the world and make friends with a lot of them.

Although, I have to say, what South American barbers are putting out there right now is insane. It’s mad colours, with super clean fades and designs – just all-out madness.”

THE POWER OF EDUCATION

Not only is Montel an advocate for pushing the limits of hair – he is also a firm believer in the power of education.

The barber recently joined the OP Barberschool as part of the education team after completing the Year One course and credits the OP D.F.S Formula for changing his career.

“Honestly, Josh OP is now one of my industry icons. What he’s done with his online academy is insane. He’s made it accessible for so many people, which is rare. I always tell people that I got my course on sale – and I don’t know where I’d be without it.”

“I am lucky to say that I get to work closely with the UK team, which consists of Tony Forrest and Marie Rainsford, who have both provided me with the support I need in the process of becoming an educator.

Shout out to those two because they’ve really supported me on this journey as an educator – always being patient and understanding.”

SUPPORT SYSTEM

Throughout our interview, Montel consistently referred to those who have supported him so far on his journey… “Tony Cairney, Adam Berry – they’ve been integral to my success so far.”

But Montel’s greatest support? His mum. “I grew up watching my mum work three jobs just to make ends meet. She didn’t ever let my sister nor I go without anything growing up. My gran, too – she would even chip in with my mum whenever I needed tools. It’s why I do what I do. It’s for my mum and my gran always.”

THE SECRET TO SUCCESS

Perhaps this humility and resilience is why Montel’s rise has been so swift. But as our conversation came to a close, we asked Montel: What’s the secret to success in this industry?

“You might face some difficult challenges in your life, but things happen to people – not because they deserve it – but because the world knows they can handle it.

Work hard, become great at what you do, and invest in yourself. Network with anyone you can – every single interaction you have, whether it be professionally or at the gym, is creating a network.

But the most important things? Be kind. Be yourself. Be positive… and put smiles on people’s faces whenever you can. The sky is the limit, and you set the height of your own possibilities.”

NHBF Top 100 Influencers

The NHBF Top 100 Influencer Index Award Ceremony is back for its fourth year!

Now in its 4th year, the award offers an opportunity to recognise those in the industry who use social media to influence, educate and innovate our sector.

Click below to watch the countdown for the Top 20 winner announcements.

This year’s Top 100 are:

  1. Cal Newsome – @cal_newsome
  2. Samuel A Bentham – @samrascals_
  3. Rob Wood – @novocabelohair
  4. Chlöe Swift  – @chloeswiftstylist
  5. Josh Lamonaca – @joshlamonaca
  6. Sarah Brawley – @sarahbrawleyhair
  7. Sarah Keane – @slkbleachexpert
  8. Casey Coleman – @caseyc_hair
  9. Jaymz Rigby-Marsters – @jaymz.marsters
  10. Jack Mead – @jackmeadstylist
  11. Richard James – @cyrl_cymru
  12. Errol Douglas – @erroldouglashair
  13. Okikiola Emaleku – @theskinpriest
  14. Daisy Goord – @daisy_goord
  15. Heffy Wheeler – @heffyx
  16. James Earnshaw  – @jhair_stylist
  17. Helena Brookes – @hellsbellshair
  18. Dale Mehmet – @dalehuncho
  19. Sophia Hilton – @hiltonsophia
  20. Simon Tuckwell – @heavy.metal.hairdresser
  21. Alan Beak – @alan_beak
  22. Emily Rosemonk – @emilyrosemonkhair_
  23. Charles Gray  – @charliegray248
  24. Tom Smith – @tomsmithhd
  25. Craig Henderson  – @craigsbarbershop
  26. Eleanor Szejnar – @beautybyelee
  27. Hollie Rudge – @holly_styleshair
  28. Adam Reed – @adamreedhair
  29. Mark Leeson  – @markleeson68
  30. Akin Konizi – @akinkonizi
  31. Jake Nugent  – @jakenugent.hair
  32. Lydia Wolfe – @lydwolfehair
  33. Emma Fowler – @emmafowlerhair
  34. Charlotte Harding – @the_hair_mermaid
  35. Andrew Barton – @andrew_barton_hair
  36. Kamila Borowiec – @glamliciousnails
  37. Rachel Valentine – @rachelvalentinehair
  38. Corey Jack  – @coreyjackhairr
  39. Ky Wilson – @kycutwilson
  40. Georgia Bell – @georgiabellhair
  41. Hazel Dixon – @hazeldixon
  42. Dawn Robertson  – @dawnhair24
  43. Jaz Moger  – @paintbyjaz
  44. Manshi Pandey – @manshi_priyadarshi
  45. Frazer Wallace – @frazerhair
  46. Jeseca McMahon  – @jesdoeshair_
  47. Guy Kleinhaus – @guydoeshair
  48. Dean Gleeson – @dean_gleeson_
  49. Simon Butcher – @simonshairground
  50. Siobhan Jones – @siobhanjoneshair
  51. Lewis Sidney Gumbrell – @siddabarber
  52. Stephen Hopper – @sh.hair.ne
  53. Mason Josh – @masonthestylist
  54. James Begley – @jamesbegleyliverpool
  55. Jonathan Andrew – @jonathanjandrew
  56. Simon Townley – @simontownley
  57. Justin Mackland – @justinmackland_hairartist
  58. Theresa Foddering  – @thenaildresser
  59. Dylan McConcahcie – @dylan.official_hairstylist
  60. Verity Ollerenshaw – @verityollerenshaw
  61. Rhys Whitehouse – @r.whitehouse_cuts
  62. Scott Cooper – @thecurlyscott
  63. JJ Sivani  – @jjsavani
  64. Felix Marrero Morales – @hairbyfelixuk
  65. Safy Burton – @saffffy
  66. Alyssa Davila – @thehairfairyy_
  67. Giuseppe Stelitano – @giuseppebstelitano
  68. Brooke Evans – @br00ke.evans
  69. Marlon Hawkins – @marlonjhawkins
  70. Oscar Mendoza – @oscar.mendoza_
  71. Paige Taylor Dargan – @taylordbypaige
  72. Vicki Lord – @vickilordhair
  73. Terri Harris – @terricolours_hair
  74. Laura Hill – @laurahillhair
  75. Daniel Couch – @danielcouchhair
  76. Jodie Whitehead-Booth – @jodie_whitehead_
  77. Ben Grace  – @bengracehair
  78. Keri Blue – @keribluebarber
  79. Mel Brough – @mehlun
  80. Caspar Finch – @casparfinch
  81. Darrel Starkey – @hairbydarrel
  82. Kymberley Holmes  – @kymberley_hairstylist
  83. Amy Sultan  – @amysultanhair
  84. Karis Woodward – @karisamyhair
  85. Amy O’Sullivan – @hairbyamyosullivan
  86. Rebecca Ruiz Hoynes – @bexx_hair
  87. Sophie-Rose Goldsworthy – @sophierose_golds
  88. Emma Dixon – @emmadixonhair
  89. Stephen William  – @stephenwilliamhair
  90. Simmi Lennark – @simmibeautyx
  91. Stacey Whyte – @stacey.hairartist
  92. Gemma Smidmore  – @colourbygemma
  93. Emy Roccabella – @emyroccabella_hair
  94. Adele Clarke – @adeleclarkespectrum
  95. Rhiannon Lamb – @naileditbyrhi
  96. Stacey Wright – @staceywright_hair
  97. Terry Longden  – @terrylongdencreatives
  98. Annie Barrett  – @annieb1creations
  99. Bianca Lerario – @Bianca Lerario
  100. Lauren Churchill – @lauren1creations

GA.MA Professional launches new Lumine Beetle Clipper

When it comes to precision styling, the right clipper makes all the difference. GA.MA Professional, the global hair tool leader, is excited to announce the launch of their new Lumine Beetle Clipper. Small in size but packed with all the features of a larger trimmer, this compact powerhouse is the perfect choice for detailed work like finishing touches, intricate designs and precision cuts.

Designed with both ergonomics and durability in mind, the Lumine Beetle Clipper (Price: $47.20) is ideal for stylists who need accuracy without sacrificing performance. With a 6000 RPM motor, it effortlessly delivers professional-grade results, whether you’re perfecting a sharp fade design, refining edges around the ears, beard, or sideburns or tidying up the nape. Its lightweight beetle-inspired design prioritizes safety, enhances productivity and allows for faster work to keep up with the fast pace of salons and barbershops.

What sets the Lumine Beetle Clipper apart is its Professional Sintered Blades. These blades blend the durability of forged steel with the lightweight feel of synthetic materials, created through a cutting-edge sintering process. This advanced technique fuses metal powders into a corrosion-resistant structure that’s built to thrive in wet environments like salons. The result is a blade that’s as reliable as it is precise.

Additional Features:

  • Cord: Professional Cord/Cordless
  • Additional Professional Sintered Blade Included
  • Battery: Lithium Battery
  • Autonomy: 90 min.
  • Hanging Hook
  • Minimum Cut: 0.3 mm

For added convenience, the clipper includes three comb attachments (1.5 mm, 2 mm and 3 mm), perfect for tackling a variety of hairstyles and fade techniques. Whether you’re working in a salon or on the go, this compact tool can even easily slip right into your pocket, delivering pro-level results wherever your styling journey takes you.

With its advanced technology, ergonomic design and powerful performance, the Lumine Beetle Clipper is the ultimate creative partner. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, this clipper helps unlock your potential and keep your work sharp, precise and inspired.

The Lumine Beetle Clipper will be available for purchase at www.gamaprofessional.us.

Jay’s Barber Club Charity Christmas Cut’athon at Denman HQ

Jay Millar and the awesome team at Jay’s Barber Club in Belfast ran a cuta’thon for charity at the Head Office of Denman International on December 18, 2024.

The team took time out of the hectic pre-Christmas rush to devote three hours to cutting the hair of up to 25 staff members and ALL proceeds went to Haircuts for Homeless.

“Haircuts for Homeless is one of our chosen charities and when the opportunity arose to raise money through the cuta’thon we were incredibly grateful to Jay and his team for stepping in. The staff loved having the convenience and novelty of getting a cut and finish without even leaving the premises,” Maria Stafford, Partnership Development Manager. 

Jay and the team were delighted to support this amazing charity founded by Stewart Roberts, as they are no strangers to helping the local community. Jay Millar already works tirelessly to promote mental health awareness and donates his time and services to those struggling with homelessness.

The Denman team is now all set for a handsome Christmas!

HairCon to welcome International Hairdressing Awards

The International Hairdressing Awards (IHA) is set to make waves in 2025 with its prestigious awards ceremony taking place on Saturday, June 21st, during the much-anticipated HairCon event at Manchester’s iconic O2 Victoria Warehouse. This exciting announcement marks a milestone collaboration between two powerhouse platforms in the hairdressing industry, promising an unparalleled experience for professionals across the globe.

This partnership unites the creative brilliance of the IHA with the vibrant networking, education, and business opportunities offered by HairCon, organised by The Assembly Events Ltd. Together, they aim to create a dynamic space that celebrates artistry, fosters innovation, and supports professional growth within the global hairdressing community.

Mikel Luzea, CEO and Founder of the International Hairdressing Awards, shared his enthusiasm for this groundbreaking partnership: “The International Hairdressing Awards are more than just accolades; they are a celebration of the artistry and passion of our industry. Partnering with HairCon allows us to expand our reach and impact, offering participants a comprehensive platform to connect, learn, and be inspired.”

Michael Dynan, CEO and Founder of The Assembly Events Ltd., echoed the excitement: “We’re thrilled to announce the prestigious International Hairdressing Awards’ UK debut exclusively at HairCon 2025! This collaboration solidifies the incredible success of our inaugural show and marks a milestone for both organisations, bringing together the world’s top talent for an extraordinary evening of recognition, followed by two unmissable days of creativity, connections, and commerce. Join us for this historic moment where the global hair community unites to celebrate excellence and shape the industry’s future.”

The 2025 IHAwards Ceremony promises an unforgettable evening of glamour, creativity, and well-deserved recognition as the industry’s brightest talents and pioneers are honoured on the global stage. Complementing the awards, HairCon will continue to captivate attendees on Sunday, June 22nd, and Monday, June 23rd, offering two days packed with dynamic content, product showcases, inspiring artistry, and unparalleled networking opportunities.

With Manchester set to become the epicenter of professional hairdressing for this extraordinary weekend, industry professionals won’t want to miss this unique opportunity to be part of history. From celebrating the very best in hairdressing to connecting with top brands and innovators, HairCon 2025 promises to elevate the global hair community like never before.

Save the date and prepare to be inspired at the ultimate hair industry event of the year!

Patrick Butler Joins V’s Barbershop as Director of Barbershop Experience

V’s Barbershop, the leader in authentic men’s grooming since 1999, is excited to announce the addition of Patrick Butler to its leadership team as the Director of Barbershop Experience, effective January 1, 2025. Butler brings over 30 years of industry expertise and a proven track record in education, operations, and grooming products.

“Patrick is the perfect fit for V’s Barbershop as we continue to improve every aspect of the patron experience,” said Emily Brown, Chief Operating Officer of V’s Barbershop. “I’m thrilled to work closely with him at industry events and in our shops to ensure our franchisees and barbers have the training, tools, and inspiration needed to deliver exceptional in-store experiences. His expertise strengthens our commitment to being the authority in men’s grooming.”

A respected industry veteran, Butler has built an impressive career spanning the globe. As an International Educator with American Crew, he played a pivotal role in establishing technical academies across North

America, Europe, and Asia, teaching advanced men’s haircutting and grooming techniques in 10 countries. His career also includes leadership roles in sales and operations with Peel’s Salon Services (later SalonCentric) and Floyd’s 99 Barbershops, where he focused on education, content production, franchise support, and building strong relationships with manufacturers.

In his role at V’s Barbershop, Butler will focus on strengthening franchisee support through improved training programs, ensuring consistent service quality across all locations, and introducing innovative customer engagement strategies. He will also lead efforts to expand V’s beyond its traditional barbershop model, building on its existing product line by exploring new opportunities in product development e-commerce, and digital educational resources designed for all customers, addressing the grooming needs of the modern man.

“Patrick’s addition to our leadership team represents an exciting step forward for V’s Barbershop,” said Jim Valenzuela, Founder and CEO of V’s Barbershop. “His wealth of experience and dedication to education will help us redefine the men’s grooming experience both inside and outside our barbershops.This hire signals our commitment to expanding into new areas while staying true to our core mission of delivering premium barbering services to gentlemen everywhere.”

Keeping It Clean with WellnessPRO

Keeping It Clean: How to Care for Barber Clippers, Shears, and Trimmers

By Alyssa Cink

Hair clippers maintenance and barber cleaning supplies may not seem like topics for a barber to “mullet” over. Insurance claims from dirty barber clippers don’t happen that often…do they?

Unfortunately, clipper care claims do plague the barbering field. It happened in 2017, a mother rushed her seven-year-old son to a hospital after visiting a local barbershop.

At first, the child’s scalp was red and irritated, reported Dana Griffin for KCRA 3 News.But as the days passed, it became itchy, then bloody, then full of pus bubbles. The boy had a painful infection known as folliculitis. His mother complained to their state’s Board of Barbering and Cosmetology and accused the barber of using unclean barber tools and equipment.

Lack of clean and sterilized tools can cause more than folliculitis. Scalp ringworm, impetigo sores, lice, tetanus, and even the spread of blood borne viral infections are possible, too. 

Improper sterilization can also cause dulled blades, meaning more frequent deterioration and replacement of expensive tools–not to mention potential nicks and cuts.In fact, clients can still accuse you of unsanitary practices even if you aren’t at fault.

Truthful or bogus, accusations of a so-called “dirty” barbershop can tarnish a barber’s reputation—sometimes beyond repair.To keep your barbering business safe, we’re reviewing how to clean and care for barber clippers, shears, and trimmers.

How to Clean Barbering Instruments and Protect Your Business

Knowing how to properly clean your equipment protects youand your clients from infection and contamination. It also keeps your tools in top shape for longer, which saves you money. Moreover, it keeps you compliant with your local laws and regulations and boosts your professionalism. Nonetheless, proper maintenance isn’t always public knowledge. Let’s explore some common questions

1. How often should you clean and maintain your barber tools?

Sanitizing, disinfecting, cleaning, and oiling barber tools should happen between EVERY client. Naturally, if you drop an instrument on the ground, that’s also a good time to clean it.Meanwhile, experts suggest doing a deeper, more intense clean once a week on top of those regular cleanings. What about sharpening? Sharpening every six months is a good rule of thumb, but testthe tension often to check for necessary touch-ups.

2. What do barbers use to clean and disinfect their tools?

Cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting are different steps that require different products. While soap and water help you clean, Barbicide immersion, sprays, and wipes are what sterilize and disinfect. Once your clippers are sanitized, you can use compressed air to remove extra clogged debris and a lightweight, heat-resistant clipper oil to keep the tools lubricated. Meanwhile, wear gloves while you clean to protect your skin from harsh chemicals. 

3. What’s the best way to clean and sterilize barbering tools?

To clean and care for most of your tools, follow these simple steps:

  • Wash: To prevent infections, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend cleaning surfaces and tools before sanitizing or disinfecting. So first, clean your equipment with soap and water to remove debris.
  • Immerse or Spray: Next, fully immerse them in Barbicide for 10 minutes. Remove all cleantools before replacing them with dirty ones, to avoid contaminating the clean ones. Can’t immerse? Spray disinfectant and let it sit for 10 minutes before wiping it off.
  • Oil: After your clippers and trimmers are dry, apply a few drops of oil across the teeth of the blade and one at the back of each rail. Oil daily or even after each use.
  • Store: Keep your clean tools in a clean container. Store dirty equipment separately.Most importantly, learn how to properly clean barber equipment per your local and state barber shop sanitation regulations. 

Keep your hands clean with WellnessPro. Even if you keep your tools clean, clients can still have a bad experience and make accusations against your barbering business. They may say you “ruined” their hair. They may blame you for their allergic reaction. Or they might slip and fall in your barbershop and send you the bill.

As you focus on keeping your tools clean, let us keep your hands clean by handling insurance claims against your business. With barbering policies as inexpensive as $159 a year, you can have peace of mind and protection in one clean sweep.