Do you know that feeling when you’re sitting in the barber chair, and your barber goes: “Fade? Mid or high?” You nod… but deep down, you’re like: “Uhh… sure?”
Relax. You’re not alone. That’s why we put together this quick and easy barber glossary - so next time you walk in, you speak the language like a boss.
✂️ 1. Fade
A gradual blend from short to long hair - it can be low, mid, or high. The higher it starts, the bolder the look.
2. Skin Fade (aka Bald Fade)
A fade that blends all the way down to the skin. Sharp, clean, and super precise.
3. Taper / Taper Fade
A subtle fade just at the neckline and sideburns. Sleek, discreet, and great for beginners.
4. Line-Up (aka Shape-Up)
Crisp, straight hairlines around the forehead and temples. Gives your face that sharp frame.
5. Hot Towel Shave
Traditional straight razor shave with a steamed towel. Opens pores, softens the beard. Pure luxury.
6. Beard Trim
Beard grooming - shaping, trimming, lining, brushing, and styling your facial hair.
7. Beard Oil / Balm
Beard oil keeps it soft and itch-free. Balm adds shape, moisture, and volume.
8. Blowout / Blowdry
Blow-drying your hair into shape and volume - often used with Fluffy or textured styles.
9. Number (aka “a #2 on the sides”)
Clipper guard numbers - e.g., #1 = approx. 3mm, #2 = 6mm. Used to describe the hair length on clippers.
10. Texturizing / Texture Cut
Layering and thinning techniques that add volume and movement - common in messy or crop styles.
11. Crop / French Crop
Short top with texture, often paired with a blunt fringe. Modern, stylish, low-maintenance.
12. Pompadour
A retro-inspired style with the top swept up and back - classic, voluminous, and glossy.
13. Hard Part
A shaved-in part line that adds contrast and structure. Subtle but sharp.
14. Undercut
Short sides and back, with a longer top. Usually styled slicked back or to the side.
15. Buzz Cut
Uniform length all around - short, clean, and bold. Usually done with a clipper guard #1 or #2.
✅ Final Word
Now you speak the barber’s language. Whether you’re asking for a mid skin fade with a line-up and textured top or a clean taper with a shaped beard, you’ll know what’s up.
Still not 100% sure? No problem. At Real Barber, one of our three locations (Hagibor, Modřany, Kačerov) - we’ll break it down, show you your options - and most importantly, transform it into a cut that fits your style and vibe.