Getting a haircut in Canada can feel intimidating if English is not your first language. Knowing a few common haircut terms can help you communicate clearly with your hairdresser or barber and get the style you want.
đBasic Haircut Vocabulary
| Vocabulary | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Trim | A small haircut that removes only a little hair to maintain the current style and length. |
| Bangs | Hair that is cut shorter and falls over the forehead. Commonly used in North America. |
| Layers | Hair cut at different lengths to create movement, texture, and volume. |
| Split Ends | Damaged hair ends that have separated into two or more strands. |
| Sideburns | The hair grows on the sides of the face in front of the ears. |
| Part | The line is created when hair is divided and combed in different directions. |
| Curl | Hair that naturally forms waves or spirals, or hair that has been curled using styling tools. |
đCommon Hairstyles
| Hairstyle | Description |
| Pixie cut | Perfect for those who love minimal fuss, this is a short, layered haircut thatâs great for oval and heart-shaped faces. |
| Crew cut | Ideal for a clean, athletic look, this is a short haircut where the hair stands up on top of the head â best suited for square or oval faces. |
| Bob | Timeless and elegant, a bob cut is the same length all around and usually hovers around the jawline. Itâs a versatile hairstyle that works well with most face shapes. |
| Undercut | A bold statement, this style features shaved or very short sides and back with longer hair on top. It suits oval and round faces really well. |
| Bangs | A chic style, bangs (also known as a fringe) is hair cut straight across your forehead, normally sitting just below your eyebrow and offering a stylish frame for your face. This style suits a variety of face shapes. |
| Curtain bangs | Soft and romantic, these bangs part in the middle and frame the face â a great choice for round or square faces. |
| Buzz cut | A no-nonsense style, this is a very short, all-over haircut, fitting best with oval and square faces. |
| Faux hawk | A playful, edgy style, where hair is longer in the centre of the head and gradually gets shorter at the side. Itâs great for the heart and oval-shaped faces. |
| Fade haircut | For short haircuts, a fade is a gradual shortening of the hair from top to bottom, offering a sleek and modern look that suits most face shapes. |
đŁď¸ How to Communicate with Your Hair Stylist
Clear communication can help you get the haircut you want. Here are a few simple tips:
Bring Reference Photos
Showing a photo is often the easiest way to explain the style you like.
Be Specific About Length
Instead of saying “shorter,” try:
- “Please cut about 2 inches off.”
- “I’d like to keep the length.”
- “Just a trim, please.”
Describe What You Like
Tell your stylist what you want:
- “I’d like layers for more volume.”
- “I want something easy to maintain.”
- “I prefer a natural look.”
Ask Questions
Don’t be afraid to ask:
- “Would this style suit me?”
- “How should I style it at home?”
- “How often should I come back for a trim?”
Speak Up During the Cut
If something doesn’t look right, politely let your stylist know. Most stylists appreciate feedback and want to make sure you’re happy with the result.
Related Articles:
