If you are interested in learning how to become a barber you should know that though barbering may seem simple at first glance, it can actually be a rather complex skill to master. A barber is someone who has trained in styling and caring for men’s hair, skin and nails. To become a barber, you must acquire education, training and a license.

Skills
Before you decide on becoming a barber, you need to make sure you’re the right match for the job. A barber requires a friendly personality that helps put people at ease. You must have the ability and interest in being a confidant and friend to your customers. You need to have strong hands and fingers to endure the daily tasks. You also need to be a detail-oriented person who will finish a task correctly.

Education
To earn a barbering education, you must take and pass barbering classes. Classes can be found at barbering schools, or cosmetology schools with barbering programs. Acceptance to barbering school usually requires some sort of high school diploma or local equivalent. School can last anywhere from nine months to two years, depending on the exact program you enlist in.

While at barbering school, you learn how to care for men’s hair, including facial hair. You’ll learn about hair growth patterns and how to master each type. You’ll also learn how to shape, style and trim both head and facial hair. Most barbers also know how to perform men’s manicures, scalp massages, shoulder rubs and facials.

Training
Once you’ve gone through school and earned your degree as a barber, you will need to do some training at a functioning barber shop business. This apprenticeship time gives you hands-on learning and exposes you to the everyday experience of your chosen career. It will also give you time to tune your barbering skills.

License
After you obtain a barbering education and do the required amount of training, you can apply for your license. Most areas require you to take and pass an exam before you’ll be accepted for a license. Once you pass the exam and pay the related fees, a barbering license will be sent to you.