It is about time guys realise that a proper haircut, styled specifically to suit his looks can only be achieved at a salon, not the barber! Those familiar should know that contrary to the blade and shaver treatment at a barber, a haircut at a salon involves clips, shampoo and styling. This of course, comes at a price.

  A basic salon cut-and-wash usually range from 20-30 dollars. Getting a senior stylist to whip his scissors on your mane can cost up to $70 at some places. Among the popular name of salons are Tony & Guy, Cuts and Curls, Shunji Matsuo, Storm and Jean Yip(Yes, Jean Yip is not just a beauty salon for ladies). It is not to say that barbers are not professional, but salons usually provide better and a wider range of service. For example, few barbers offer hair colouring and if any, it would be as good as a DIY. Expect no highlighting, textured colour and the like. Of course, we know that most DIY attempts come with the risk of looking like an overgrown Orang-Utan (not uncommon along Orchard Road).

  For those who have been "too-manly" or simply shy, and have never ventured into a salon dominated by mainly female clients, a visit to one often goes like this. An assistant greets you with a couple of magazines as you take your sit. They will offer you magazines like Men's Health and Torque, not just Cleo and Female, so don't worry. Some will even serve a glass of drink. You read as the assistant, hopefully a babe, shampoos your hair and massage your scalp. Relax and enjoy. After washing your hair, a stylist takes over. They usually ask you for any specific style of cutting and if you are totally clueless, take a peek and their hair guides. In most cases, they will give recommendations on styles to suit your features. If you look bold enough, the stylist might just request to try on new cuts on your hair. Either way, its all about styling. Clips and pins might come into play here. Be confident, and notice how it differs from a barber's job. Once done, another hairwash follows. After blow drying your hair, the stylist finishes the job with one of many hair-styling products. An advice here: If you are unfamiliar, or think that the style really looks good on you, go ahead and ask what is being used. Is it wax, mud, gel or gum? More importantly, how to style it. Take note on how your hair actually takes form and try it out the next time. Do not be dismayed if it does not look as astonishing, its all about experience. So there you go, feeling good. You are now ready to go to town feeling one notch hotter, there is no need to head home for a shower to wash off those fine hair.

  On colouring, I advise that one have an idea of what one wants. Different colour suits different skin tones; different style of cuting suits different colours. The best option of course, is to cut and colour together. It cost from $50-60 for single colour. Highlighting adds a textured look to your hair and is a result of the influx of J-pop icons. It commonly incurs and additional cost of about $30. Brown and Ash brown with a shimmering effect goes well with asian complexion. Metallic blue goes well with a dark tan.
So, what are you waiting for. The next time you need to get a hair cut, give it a thought. It never hurts to try something new does it? Remember, its all about looking good.