It’s important to be able to communicate what you want to your barber. Here are some terms you might need to know.

The Fade consists of a very short taper that “fades” into the skin — thus giving this haircut its name. You can ask for your fade to end high on the sides and back (High Fade), low (Low Fade), or at the temples (Temple or Brooklyn Fade).

These refer to the guards that go onto the clippers. Ranging from 0 (As close as you can get to bald and still have hair.) usually up to an 8 (A full Inch) If you aren’t sure just  remember to start with the bigger number and work down.

This is the back of your neck, and the hairline there should always be kept tidy, whether that means a defined hairline or natural fade.

 This is the space between your hairline and your ears. If you ask your barber to cut a high arch, then the space will be bigger, which in turn makes small ears look bigger. Most men prefer to ask for a natural arch, where the barber simply neatens up the natural hairline.

“Choppy” refers to a desired texture, which, when achieved, resembles a nonchalant, messy look.