What Are Barber Enhancements? A Beginner’s Guide

If you’ve ever spotted a haircut with a super sharp hairline, some that look fuller, or a beard that’s particularly sharp and defined, barber enhancements sometimes might be the reason why. On the flip side, I think we've all seen the enhancements that LOOK like enhancements, we aren't talking about those, well at least not today. 

Enhancements are products and techniques used to enhance the look of an existing haircut. They can add definition, temporarily fill in sparse areas, create the illusion of fuller hair and help a barber put the finishing touches on a cut.

But all enhancements are not created equal, and they’re NOT meant to replace a good haircut. Here's a breakdown of how they work, the different options available, and what to expect after leaving the barber chair.

What Are Barber Improvements and How Do They Work?

Barber enhancements are short-term cosmetic add on services designed to improve the appearance of a haircut, hairline, beard or other facial hair areas. Depending on the result desired, a barber may use hair fibers, pencils, dyes, sprays, airbrush systems or a combination of products.

Enhancements can be used, for example, along the hairline to give it more definition or in areas where the hair is thinner to give the hair a fuller look. They are also available for use by a barber when forming a beard to give it cleaner, more defined edges.

Augment is the key word. A good enhancement should enhance the haircut underneath, not compensate for a bad haircut. Enhancements can be very subtle and natural looking or bold and crisp depending on the client’s preference.

Barber Enhancements: What Kinds Are There?

There are many kinds of enhancement barbers. Different products produce different effects and may also differ in how they are applied and how long they last.

Hair fibers are small human hair or keratin fibers that are meant to temporarily make thinning or sparse areas appear fuller.

Enhancement pencils can help create definition or help guide a barber as you shape your hairline or beard.

Temporary dyes and pigments can add color and definition, and airbrush enhancement systems allow barbers to apply pigment with greater control.

Enhancement or holding sprays may also be used by barbers in the process. Depending on the formula and the technique, they can help prep the area, help in the application of other enhancement products, or help in the finishing result.

The right way to do it is determined by your hair, the desired look, their lifestyle and the application method the barber recommends. Someone who wants an ultra natural finish may need something very different to someone who likes a sharp defined line-up.

How Long Do Barber Enhancements Last & How To Make Them Last Longer?

Barber enhancements are not permanent and there is no set amount of time they will last. Longevity depends on products used, application technique, skin and hair type, activity level, moisture exposure and aftercare.

Water, sweat, shampooing, rubbing the area, and natural skin oils can slowly erode or remove an enhancement. 

To keep your enhancements longer, GripMist Multi-Purpose Spray can help elongate your enhancements. With water-resistant technology, it can give you the confidence to get hair fibers and swim in a pool, take a shower, go to the gym etc. To purchase, click here. Ask your barber about GripMist on your next visit to the shop.

It's also worth asking your barber what enhancements were used and what you should realistically expect from them.

Conclusion

Barber enhancements give barbers another way to customize a haircut and give clients the finish they want. They can subtly fill sparse areas, sharpen a hairline, define a beard, or create a more dramatic finished look.

The best enhancement isn't necessarily the darkest or sharpest one. The enhancement for you is the one that fits your hair, your preferences, and your lifestyle.

If you're unsure whether enhancements are right for you, talk to your barber before your service. Communication is important on both ends. Tell them if you want a natural or more defined finish, ask them what products they’re using and don’t be scared to ask how long you can expect the result to last. More importantly, ask how to maintain it.