Let’s be real. In the personal appearance industry — where we shape confidence, express identity, and create transformation — it’s easy to fall in love with the hands-on work.
The feel of clippers in motion. The precision of a color application. The art of sculpting shape and structure.
But behind every masterpiece is a foundation. And that foundation? It’s not just in your hands — it’s in your mind. This is where theory comes in.
Theory still matters, possibly more now than ever. In an industry that's cluttered with too much noise, too much information, and too many distractions, theory remains a solid, reliable footing to stand on no matter what.
The Real Power Behind the Chair
Theory isn’t just for passing tests. It’s not something you “get through” on the way to the fun stuff.
You can’t break the rules until you understand them. Theory gives you that understanding — so when the clipper hits the skin, the work is intentional, not accidental.
Theory is what makes you trustworthy. It’s what ensures you’re safe, skilled, and sustainable in this work.
It teaches you:
- Why different hair types respond the way they do;
- How chemicals interact with the body;
- What sanitation really means — and why it’s a non-negotiable; and
- How to spot skin conditions before a treatment begins.
Without theory, you’re guessing. With theory, you’re grounded.
Teaching to Every Type of Learner
As instructors and leaders, we’ve got a responsibility not just to teach, but to reach. That starts with honoring how different students learn. Everybody can learn, but not everybody learns in the same way.
Here are the different types of students, how they are hard-wired to learn, and best ways to teach them.
- Visual Learners: Use diagrams, color-coding, and demonstrations. Let them see it.
- Auditory Learners: Bring in real conversations. Record lectures. Let them hear it.
- Kinesthetic Learners: Mix in movement. Label mannequins. Let them touch it.
- Reading/ Writing Learners: Use journaling, flashcards, and note summaries. Let them write it out.
The best classrooms are not one-size-fits-all. They’re flexible, alive, and built for connection.
There are other ways to reach students that fit a wide variety of learning styles, personalities, and backgrounds. Here are some of my favorites:
- Connect theory to real-life scenarios. Explain why this lesson matters today and why it will matter 10 years from now.
- Tell stories that illustrate the importance of theory. Let students feel the “why,” not just memorize the “what.”
- Reinforce their progress. When someone gets it, pause and celebrate. That’s growth!
This is an excerpt from my upcoming book, The Silent Work: More Than Just Teaching on the importance of theory:
“I used to think the loudest thing in the room was my clippers. But I’ve learned: it’s not the sound of the tool — it’s the silent knowing behind it.
"The confidence. The preparation. The theory. That’s what sets you apart. That’s what lasts when the crowd stops clapping."
Learning Theory: Tips for Barber & Beauty Students
- Study with purpose. Don’t cram — understand.
- Ask deeper questions. Let your curiosity lead.
- Teach someone else. If you can explain it, you’ve mastered it!
This industry doesn’t just need more stylists and barbers. It needs more prepared, thoughtful ones. More professionals who care just as much about what they know as what they do.
Theory is the silent work. And when you take it seriously, the results speak volumes.
Let’s raise the standard. Let’s teach with intention. Let’s learn with heart. Because when education meets passion, the whole industry levels up.
Wahl educator and platform artist Rodrick Samuels is the author of the upcoming book, The Silent Work: More Than Just Teaching. Samuels is Director of Education at Hair Lab Detroit Barber School, and an Advisory Board member for the National Association of Barber Boards of America. He was recognized by the North American Hairstyling Awards in 2023 as its Educator of the Year and by America's Favorite Teacher as a 2025 nominee.