Gents, is your grooming routine just a slap of gel and a rushed shave in the morning? To help you up your game, we checked in with ADONIS, Head Barber and General Manager at high-end barbershop Jermyn Street on Amoy Street. Here, this Singapore barber shares his top grooming tips and tricks.
As a Singapore barber, what are your best styling tips for keeping hair looking sharp and well-groomed?
#1 Style with the grain, not against it. When styling, I always work with the hair’s natural crown direction. Start applying your product from the back and move forward. This helps you avoid over-applying at the front and ensures a more balanced look.
#2 Apply product directly to the roots and work it thoroughly through. Focus on the back of your head first, and then work the product down to the front, ensuring it’s evenly distributed, then style. This prevents your hair from getting weighed down at the front.
#3 Don’t over-wash your hair! Over-washing strips your scalp of its natural oils. Aim for two to three washes a week. Follow up with a good conditioner to keep your hair healthy and hydrated.
#4 Always make sure your hair is completely dry before applying any product. Wet hair won’t hold the product as well, and you risk it looking greasy or weighed down. Dry hair absorbs product better and gives you a more defined style.
#5 Regular maintenance is key. For shorter cuts like fades, I recommend visiting your Singapore barber every two to three weeks to maintain that fresh, clean look. If you’re rocking a longer style, aim for a trim every four to five weeks to preserve the shape and prevent excess growth on the sides.
What are the biggest grooming mistakes you see guys making?
As a Singapore barber, I’ve seen it all – great cuts, bad trims and everything in between. Here are some of the top grooming missteps I see in the shop, especially when it comes to hair and beard care.
#1 Skipping regular haircuts. One of the most common mistakes I see at Jermyn Street is neglecting regular trims. Hair grows at different rates for everyone, but skipping cuts can lead to split ends and an unkempt appearance. Aim for a trim every four to six weeks to keep your style fresh and prevent damage. Even if you’re growing out your hair, trims help maintain shape.
#2 Over-using hair products. Men often think more product equals better results. However, over-applying products like pomades, gels or wax can weigh hair down, make it greasy or cause build-up on the scalp. Use a small amount and work it evenly through your hair. A good rule of thumb: start with less, and you can always add more.
#3 Neglecting the beard. A beard requires maintenance, too. Don’t just let it grow wild! Regular trimming, shaping and proper care with beard oils or balms can keep your beard soft and healthy. Avoid the “I’ll just let it grow” approach without attention – it can look patchy or uneven.
#4 Ignoring scalp health. A healthy scalp is the foundation of healthy hair. Many men forget that proper scalp care – like using the right shampoo and conditioner – can make a world of difference. So don’t just focus on the hair; nourish the scalp with regular exfoliation and the right products for your hair type.
#5 Using the wrong tools. Invest in the right grooming tools. Low-quality razors or clippers can cause irritation, nicks and uneven cuts. A good-quality razor and trimmer can make a huge difference in achieving that sharp, clean look.
On the topic of tools – what should every guy have in his grooming kit?
First, styling products that suit your hair type are a must. As a Singapore barber, I recommend a high-quality wax like Purple Muk. It provides a strong hold and natural finish, making it easier to achieve your desired look without stiffness or residue. For those who want extra texture and volume, a salt spray as a pre-styler is a game-changer. It adds grip and movement, making styling effortless while maintaining a natural, effortless look.
If you have a longer beard, beard oil is non-negotiable. It keeps facial hair soft, tames frizz and hydrates the skin underneath to prevent dryness and itchiness. A few drops each day help maintain a well-groomed, healthy beard.
For shorter beards, beard balm is key to styling and control. It provides light hold to keep stray, wiry hairs in place while also conditioning and nourishing the beard. Unlike oil, beard balm adds a slight shaping effect, making it perfect for those who want a more defined, polished look.
By including these essentials in your grooming routine, you’ll not only look your best but also maintain healthier hair and skin with minimal effort. You can purchase all these items at the Jermyn Street shop. Not sure what product suits you? Book in for a Signature Haircut at Jermyn Street and get some advice from myself or one of our Singapore barbers today.
Jermyn Street is at 108 Amoy Street.
6220 4010 | jermynstreet.com.sg | [email protected]