The Merging of Two Worlds: Barbering and Hairdressing

Over the years, the two age-old professions of hairdressing and barbering have operated in distinctly separate spheres. However, more recently, the boundaries between the two have begun to blur, ushering in a new era where hairdressing and barbering merge into a more unified and diverse industry.

Traditionally, hairdressers primarily focused on cutting, coloring, and styling women’s hair, often working by appointment to account for the time needed to create a bespoke experience. Barbers, on the other hand, were known for quick trims, fades, and straight-razor shaves. Most barbershops operated on a walk-in, first-come, first-served basis—I remember waiting over an hour for a trim back in the day! Yet now, the two industries are undoubtedly converging.

One key factor in this merging is the shift in gender roles and societal expectations. Today, more people are opting for gender-neutral and androgynous styles (I touched on this in my last blog post about fashion trends, so be sure to check it out). As a result, men, women, and non-binary individuals are increasingly seeking more varied grooming services.

For instance, men are now requesting services traditionally associated with salons—such as hair coloring, longer cuts, and textured styles—while women are embracing shorter, more structured haircuts once synonymous with barbers. The choice of stylist is no longer about gender but about skill and personal preference. Men, too, now seek the experience of a trim, not just the necessity of one.

This shift has prompted many barbers to expand their skill sets, incorporating hairdressing techniques to offer a more comprehensive service. The result is that barbershops now attract not only men but anyone seeking a traditional yet high-quality grooming experience. This evolution has also revitalized the community spirit, with barbershops once again becoming social hubs—welcoming all genders. UNDERFOUND is a prime example of this shift, offering non-gendered booking options and services for everyone, regardless of age or gender. We pride ourselves on being an inclusive, safe space for all, and the reviews speak for themselves!

The UNDERFOUND team has had several opportunities to experience the evolution of the industry firsthand at events such as Hair Con, Salon International, and more recently, Evo on the Road. Evo on the Road—a collaboration between Barber Evo, Salon Evo, Wahl, American Crew, Booksy, and Revlon—seamlessly showcased the latest products and technological advancements while exhibiting men’s and women’s cuts on the same stage. It was a perfect reflection of the industry’s future.

It’s clear that the future of grooming is inclusive, personalized, and driven by a passion for the craft—whether you call it hairdressing, barbering, or simply the art of helping people look and feel their best.