adjusting to hearing aids
How to adjust to hearing aids after not wearing them for years
February 21, 2020
Competing in DECA with hearing loss
February 25, 2020

Tips for getting a haircut with hearing loss

haircut with hearing loss
Every few months, you may notice your hair getting too long or visible split ends and you know it is time to go to the barber.

However, being deaf or hard of hearing presents its own unique set of challenges when getting a haircut. There are ways to make the haircut process go smooth once your hearing technology is off and the barber starts to trim. These tips for getting a haircut with hearing loss can guide you!

Getting a haircut with hearing loss

1) Go with a hearing friend/family member

I always find it useful to go with a friend or family member when going for a haircut. This is because you can tell the hearing friend/relative what hairstyle you want so they can tell the barber while they are doing the haircut.

2) Tell the hair-cutter beforehand

I would suggest telling the hairdresser exactly what you want before you take out your hearing aids/cochlear implants and inform the barber that you have hearing loss.

3) Ask them to face you

I find it very useful that if the barber has a question on the type of style I want, they should ensure their face is in my line of vision so I can lip- read and respond accordingly. Also, when a barber is cutting your hair, they may ask you to look down or to the side, then continue talking to you. If you remind them that you can’t have conversations unless you are facing them, you can eliminate moving your head to try and read lips while they are cutting your hair.

4) Find a barber who communicates in sign language

There are many barbershops where many the hairdressers are proficient in sign language, you can find them with a quick Google search! Or if you have been visiting your barber for a while, you could teach them a few signs to use while they are cutting your hair.

5) Be proud of your deafness

I would suggest having a hairstyle that clearly shows off your hearing aids. That way you can show the world that you are deaf and proud! Also, that your disability doesn’t have to dictate who you are as a person and what you can achieve. You can find hair tutorial videos like @sweethearts_hair posts to show off your hearing technology!

Read more: SweetHearts’ braids makes hearing aids shine

Be sure to tag #phonak and #hearinglikeme on Instagram and show off your fresh haircut with your hearing aids/cochlear implants!

Author Details
Aatish Patel is a 18 year old who loves to try out new things. He has moderately severe bilateral hearing loss who currently wears Phonak Boleros. He is college bound in fall of 2019, an avid gamer and loves learning about the deaf and hard of hearing communities. His blog can be reached at: https://theeartrumpet.wordpress.com.