Thinning Shear Consultation Scripts for Stylists & Barbers

Clients ask predictable questions about thinning shears. Use these scripts before, during, and after services to build trust, communicate clearly, and reinforce your expertise. Adapt the language to suit your brand voice while keeping the facts accurate.


1. Opening the conversation

Consultation introduction

“Today we’ll refine your shape using thinning shears. They remove a small amount of weight without changing your overall length. I’ll work mid-shaft to the ends so your outline stays strong.”

Confirm understanding

“Have you had thinning done before? If there’s anything you didn’t like previously, let me know so I can adjust the approach.”


2. Explaining benefits by hair type

Fine hair

“I’m using a 40-tooth blender to soften seams. That keeps fullness at the perimeter while polishing the surface.”

Wavy/curly hair

“I’ll thin in the direction your wave falls and limit passes to avoid frizz. Stepped teeth diffuse weight without disturbing curl.”

Thick hair

“We’ll start with a 26-tooth texturizer internally and finish with a 32-tooth blender so the outline stays strong but the bulk eases.”

Chemically treated hair

“Because your hair has been lightened, I’ll use a softer 40-tooth shear and single passes only. We’ll also finish with a bond-repair treatment.”

Men’s fades / facial hair

“After the clipper work I’ll blend with 38-tooth thinning shears. They erase lines quickly without dropping the fade.”


3. Addressing common concerns

“Thinning made my hair frizzy before.”

“Frizz usually happens when tools are dull or used too close to the root. I’m keeping at least five centimetres away from your scalp and using freshly serviced shears.”

“Will my hair look thinner overall?”

“No, we’re removing weight from the interior only. The outline stays intact so your shape remains full.”

“I don’t want to lose curl spring.”

“I’ll thin mid-lengths and work with the curl pattern. After we’re done I’ll apply a curl cream to seal the cuticle.”

“I had a bad thinning experience.”

“Thank you for sharing. I’ll explain each zone before I thin, take a single pass, and show you the result as we go. If something feels off, tell me straight away.”


4. Mid-service check-ins

  • During slide thinning: “I’m gliding the blades as they close to create movement without removing length. Let me know if you feel any tugging.”
  • During shear-over-comb: “Teeth are against the comb to soften this transition. We’ll cross-check from the front before moving on.”

5. Aftercare and follow-up script

At the chair

“Between visits, cleanse product build-up and use the volumising mousse we discussed. Book in 6–8 weeks so we can maintain balance without over-thinning.”

Post-visit message

“Thanks for visiting. How is your hair feeling after the thinning today? If you have a moment, send through a photo once you style it so I can note any tweaks for next time.”


6. Documenting the service

  • Log tooth count, passes, and zones in the client record.
  • Note products used for finishing (especially on chemically treated or curly hair).
  • Flag follow-up reminders for corrective cases.

Refer to our training case study to see how salons systemise these notes.


Clear explanations and set expectations turn thinning into a trusted part of your service menu. Adjust these scripts to your own tone, keep records updated, and clients will feel informed every time they sit in your chair.