Barbering and Men's Grooming
What this domain tests
This domain covers clipper work, fades, beard shaping, shaving, moustache work, hot towels and aftershave care. The exam tests direction of hair growth, guard numbers, blade angle and sanitation.
Core rules
- Study the grain: cutting with the grain leaves more length; against the grain cuts closer but raises irritation risk.
- Clipper guards are numbered by length. A skin fade starts with the shortest guard or bare blade at the nape and blends upward with longer guards.
- Razor shaving needs a hot towel, lather, skin tension and about a 30-degree blade angle. Shave with the grain first, then across the grain if needed.
- Outline beards with a trimmer, keep both sides symmetrical and place the neckline about one finger above the Adam’s apple.
- Use single-use blades, disinfect clippers between clients and never double-dip a brush into product.
- Use styptic for minor nicks and finish with aftershave or balm.
Worked example
A client asks for a skin fade. Reasoning: start at the nape with the shortest guard, work upward in sections, then blend the transition line with gradually longer guards. Check the fade from the side and against the growth pattern before finishing the top. Skipping the blend leaves a visible step.
Traps
Do not shave against the grain first; do not use a dull blade; do not cut the beard neckline too high; do not reuse a razor; do not disinfect clippers by immersion.