Jan 10, 2023

How to Choose a Barbershop in Santa Barbara

How to Choose a Barbershop in Santa Barbara: A Barber’s Checklist + Pomade Picks

Real advice from Wolf’s Head Barbershop. Use this checklist to pick the right barber in Santa Barbara—and see which Wolf’s Head pomades our barbers use for fades, tapers, slick backs, and waves.

Why local, barber-led guidance matters

Choosing a barbershop is about more than the closest chair. At Wolf’s Head Barbershop (Santa Barbara), we focus on clean technique, consistent results, and products that fit your hair type and routine. Here’s how to evaluate any shop—then lock in your best look.

Find us: Visit Us • Google Maps • Book Now

Barber’s checklist: what to look for

Portfolio & specialties: Do you see recent fades, tapers, slick backs, curls—like yours?
Cleanliness & sanitation: Stations swept, tools sanitized, capes fresh.
Consultation first: A good barber asks about lifestyle, length, neckline, part, and product.
Tools & products: Professional clippers, Kent combs/brushes, and high-performance, water-based pomades.
Booking & convenience: Easy online booking, reminders, reasonable parking/arrival tips.
Consistency: Return clients, repeatable results, clear aftercare advice.

Barber-approved pomades by hairstyle

Fade (high-contrast, sharp): Structure without shine—Clay Pomade (strong hold, matte). Polished surface—finish lightly with Styling Gel Pomade (strong hold, high shine).
Taper (subtle, classic): Clean lines that stay—Water-Soluble Pomade (strong hold, classic shine). Prefer soft-matte movement? Cream Pomade (medium hold, matte).
Slick back / side part (polished): Apply Styling Gel Pomade on damp hair, comb clean lines, let it set. Easier rinse with Water-Soluble Pomade.
Textured crop (modern): Finger-style Clay Pomade through dry hair for separation and grit; comb only where you want definition.
Curls & waves (defined): Emulsify Cream Pomade and scrunch into damp hair; for glossier surface, smooth a touch of Water-Soluble Pomade.

Wolf’s Head Styling Gel Pomade used on side part hairstyle at Wolf’s Head Barbershop in Santa Barbara – strong hold high shine water based hair product made in U.S.A.

How our barbers apply pomade (step-by-step)

Prep: Start clean; towel-dry to slightly damp (or fully dry for extra texture).
Portion: Nickel-size for short hair (less for fine hair). Add only if needed.
Emulsify: Rub between palms until smooth for even distribution.
Placement: Work mid-lengths first, then roots and surface.
Define: Use a Kent comb for parts/lines; fingers or brush for looser texture.
Set: Comb the final shape and let it dry—or blow-dry for lift, then a light finish pass.

FAQs

How often should I visit? Most short cuts (fades/tapers) look best at 2–4 weeks; longer styles 4–8 weeks.

Can I restyle during the day? Yes—water-based pomades rework easily with a bit of water and a comb.

Matte or shine? Matte feels natural (Clay/Cream). Shine looks classic (Water-Soluble/Gel).

Book your next cut

Get a consultation, a precise cut, and the right product for your hair type—start to finish.

Visit Us • Google Maps • Book Now

Explore the Wolf’s Head Line

Choose a clean, water-based pomade that matches your cut and finish goals. All formulas are designed for performance and easy rinse.

Clay Pomade — strong hold, matte finish.
How to use: Apply to dry hair for maximum texture and separation.
Cream Pomade — medium hold, soft matte.
How to use: Work through towel-dried hair for natural movement.
Styling Gel Pomade — strong hold, high shine.
How to use: Apply to damp hair, comb clean lines, and let it set.
Water-Soluble Pomade — strong hold, classic shine.
How to use: Distribute through damp hair and comb into place.