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Barbers with a mission - cutting the men’s mental health stigma

Thursday, 07 March 2019

We speak to the crew at Stigma Cutz in Brisbane, a traditional and not-for-profit charity barber focusing on positive mental health for men.

For a gentleman, a barbershop is a great space to relax, where conversations flow freely and, of course, you can pick up a few handy grooming tips. And at Stigma Cutz in Brisbane, they’ve taken the idea of having a good chat with your fresh cut and shave even further. Priding themselves on no stigma and judgement, they’ve created a place for blokes to feel more comfortable speaking up. Whether that be to a barber certified in mental health first aid or to any friendly face in the shop. The crew have heard many interesting tales while in the barbershop, and they love a friendly chat.

Looking good has never felt so good. Because 100% of the profits go to A Chance For Change, a grassroots charity breaking the stigma of men’s mental health.

Sharing the driving factor behind their incredible initiative along with some top male-grooming tips and the mistakes they wish you'd avoid, Stigma Cutz are passionate about conversation (and it shows).

Why do you think the barbershop is the perfect place for gentlemen to sit back, relax and have a chat?

Sometimes sitting and relaxing for half an hour, where nothing is required of you but your presence, can be soothing. But it's also a place where you can get things off your chest. Starting a conversation could be the best thing you've ever done for yourself, and many don't realise it until they do.

Do you think men are more inclined to open up to their barber? If so, why?

Absolutely! Barber shops are like an unofficial 'men's shed' in our opinion. They're a safe zone with a non-judgemental atmosphere. Even if you don't want to chat, I'm sure your barber has a few tales to tell. At Stigma Cutz, we also have a pool table, a dart board and a flat-screen TV for the pure reason of giving men a place to unwind. Even if they don't want to chat.

What is it about being a barber you enjoy the most?

By default, you have to be a people person if you want to become a barber. It's synonymous with the role, and it's truly our favourite part of the job. Every day we meet different people and hear about their life experiences. And there’s nothing more rewarding than when a gentleman leaves the shop with a smile on his face.

What are your top 4 grooming tips for gentlemen over 50?

Pluck those cheeky long ear, nose and eyebrow hairs. Don't shave them!
Moisturise everywhere. Active ingredients like shea butter and hyaluronic acid are great for hydrating your skin - and these products can now be found in your local Supermarket or Chemist! You'll probably find products with these in them in your wife's bathroom cabinet.
Condition your hair, gentlemen! Don't just shampoo.
Have a hot shower or use a hot towel before you shave.

What are some of the biggest grooming mistakes that gentlemen make?

Trimming your sideburns. Don't do it.
Trying to shave your neck hair. Best leave that job to us as we have a way better view than you do.
Shaping your facial hair. It never looks as good as you think.

Can you share an interesting moment that only a barber would experience?

A client decided to duck in for a quick cut (as they do) and asked us to give him a style cut like Ellen Degeneres. We hesitantly agreed after our suggestions were pushed back multiple times. Needless to say, after he left, he soon returned with his tail between his legs, saying, ‘Can you please fix it?!’

The moral of this story? Trust in your barber!

Learn more about Stigma Cutz.

For more information about the lifestyle and support offered at our retirement villages, call our customer service team on 1800 550 550.

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