Barbershops around the Valley: fades, walk-ins, kids cuts

AZ Business Directory lists local barbershops around the Phoenix area, in Tempe, Scottsdale, Avondale and more. Each listing has a phone number, so you can ask whether they take walk-ins, how long the wait is and whether they cut kids' hair. Call ahead on weekends, when most shops are busiest.

How do you choose a barbershop?

A good barber is part skill and part conversation. Here is what to check.

• Walk-in or appointment? Some shops take walk-ins only, some book ahead, and some do both.
• Do they do your style? Fades, tapers, line-ups and beard work are different skills. Ask what they do most.
• How long is a cut? Plan your lunch break around the answer.
• Do they cut kids' hair? Ask if there is a kids' price or a slower pace for little ones.
• What are the hours? Many shops stay open evenings and weekends, but check.
• How do you pay? Ask whether they take cards or cash only.

How do you ask for a fade?

Two things help your barber: the shortest length and where it starts. Say "low, mid or high fade," then how short you want it on the sides, such as a number guard or "skin." Then tell them what you want on top and whether to blend into a taper.

A photo on your phone is the clearest way to explain. If you are not sure, ask the barber what suits your head shape and hair type.

Walk-in or appointment?

If your schedule is tight, book. If your day is flexible, walk in on a weekday morning, which is often quieter.

MQ's Barber Shop on East Apache Boulevard in Tempe lists walk-ins welcome with appointments available. Dmnd Kutz Barbershop Avondale on Dysart Road lists kids and adult haircuts, beard work and full-week hours including Sundays. Blurred Lines Barbershop has two Scottsdale locations, one on Main Street in Old Town and one on Camelback Road in Optima Sonoran Village, listing fades, tapers, beard line-ups and hot towel shaves.

Kids' haircuts

Take your child at a calm time of day, not right before nap or after a long afternoon in the sun. Tell the barber it is the first cut if it is. A photo of the style you want helps, and so does a short wait. Many shops are patient, so ask when you call.

Keeping your cut fresh in the desert

Sun and dry air can dry your scalp, so use a moisturizer or a light oil if your skin gets flaky. Hats help, but a damp hat after a hike can mess up a fresh fade. Most people book again every few weeks to keep lines sharp.

Not sure who to call? Ask the directory helper or browse every listing in Phoenix.

Questions people ask

How often should I get a haircut?

It depends on your style. Short fades start to grow out in a couple of weeks, while longer cuts can go longer. Ask your barber what schedule keeps your cut looking right.

Do I need an appointment at a barbershop?

Not always. Some shops welcome walk-ins and some work by appointment. Call the number on the listing to find out.

Should I tip my barber?

Tipping is common and appreciated. Many customers tip if the service was good. If you are unsure, ask the shop what is typical.

See every barbershop in Phoenix