WELCOME TO THE ANTIQUE BARBER.COM
By admin | August 24, 2008
The Antique Barber is the worlds first premier clothing and accessory company geared to celebrate, explore, and style today’s barber/ Stylist.
The mission of our company is simple: to provide the best product and service to our customers at a most competitive price. We take extreme pride in our company and the product we sell. Our commitment is to provide you with a safe and secure environment while browsing our on line store.
Thank you for visiting us – take your time leaving but hurry back!
331 W57th St
NY, NY 10019
917.207.2536
Topics: ABOUT US | 3 Comments »
Alopecia Areata
By The Antique Barber | April 12, 2009
Alopecia is the medical term for baldness; there are various types of alopecia, including alopecia areata, alopecia areata totalis or entire body alopecia areata universalis.
Alopecia areata is a condition that causes a person’s hair to fall out in spots or entirely. It is an autoimmune disease. A person’s immune system attacks their body, “hair follicles. “ When this happens, ones hair begins to fall out, mostly in patches the size of a quarter to a half dollar coin. The amount of hair loss varies person to person; in some cases, it is only in a few spots. In others, the hair loss can be greater.
Alopecia areata is unpredictable. In some people, hair grows back but falls out again later. In others, hair grows back and remains. Each case is unique. Even if someone loses all of his or her hair, there is a chance that it will grow back.
Anyone can develop alopecia areata; however, your chances of having alopecia areata are slightly greater if you have a relative with the disease. In addition, alopecia areata occurs more often among people who have family members with autoimmune disorders such as diabetes, lupus, or thyroid disease.
Alopecia areata cannot be cured; however, it can be treated and the hair can grow back.
In many cases, alopecia areata is treated with drugs that are used for other conditions. Treatment options for alopecia areata include:
* Corticosteroids: Anti-inflammatory drugs that are prescribed for autoimmune diseases. Corticosteroids can be given as an injection into the scalp or other areas, orally (as a pill), or applied topically (rubbed into the skin) as an ointment, cream, or foam. Response to therapy may be gradual.
* Rogaine: This topical drug is already used as a treatment for pattern baldness. It usually takes about 12 weeks of treatment with Rogaine before hair begins to grow.
* Reducing stress. Many people with new onset alopecia areata have had recent stresses in life, such as work, family, deaths, surgeries, accidents, etc. However, this has not been proven scientifically as a cause of alopecia areata.
While the disease is not medically serious, it can impact people psychologically. Support groups are available to help people with alopecia areata deal with the psychological effects of the condition. Further information may be found at the National Alopecia Areata Foundation (www.naaf.org).
Topics: INFO | No Comments »
ANTIQUE BARBER 2009 CATALOG
By The Antique Barber | December 6, 2008
Designer Barber Jacket
Safari Barber Jacket
Reflector B/W Sweat hood
Antique Barber Chair T
Barber Pole Black & Gold Fleece hood
Barber Toones
Club Pic
Gold Foil AB Logo
Wood handle Razor
High Top T
Master T
Mohawk T
Shield short sleeve fleece
Zip Shield fleece & Antique hand clippers T
Who’s Next T
Glitter Razor Fleece
AB Reflector Fleece Hood
Studded Pic T
Razor Rope T
Barber Pole Fleece
Mirror T
AB Logo T
Antique Barber Aprons
Studded Pic Cape
Topics: CATALOG | 4 Comments »
BARBERS INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE NOVEMBER 2008
By The Antique Barber | November 27, 2008
On November 8, 2008 I took a trip with my assistant and first cousin De Norval. We headed down to Tunica Mississippi for the third annual Barbers International conference. The trip to the airport was hectic, we were hard pressed to catch a cab that would take us to the airport with one wheelchair and 8 bag of luggage. Once we pulled that off we had to make a few changes in the weight of our bags because if they exceeded 50 lbs the price would jump to an extra $50 per bag. When we finally got to our seats on the plane everything went smoothly, the flight was quick and easy. We touched down in Memphis around 12:30 and ran into about ten barbers at the baggage claim, it must have been my Antique Barber sweat hood that gave me away. I made two sales that morning, thanks guys. We all introduced ourselves and stated our place of residence. De Norval and I met our surrogate bother Scott Sales from Iowa that morning, what a funny guy.The car service was nowhere to be found so after an hour we got lucky with a fella by the name of Issac, he and his associat had two vans and drove us to the Sam’s Town Casino. Thank you so much Issac.
There was nothing to do day one except register meet, greet then get something to eat. The buffet was our best deal for the weekend. I think I must have gain about 5 pounds at Sam’s Town Casino. I can’t believe Hotels have to throw away all that food at the end of each day because there are laws that will not permit them to give away the food.
Sunday morning we got up and headed to the conference room to set up our table for The Antique Barber. It was good to see so many warm professionals of the barber industry all in one place. We met barbers from all around the country such as North Carolina, California, Mississippi,Iowa, and Memphis just to name a few areas.
ANTIQUE BARBER
The panelist were entertaining and informative. The stand outs were Ivan Zoot spokesperson for Andis, Rodrick Samuels of Profile Barber Institute and Ronald Hampton of H42. Ivan holds the genius book of world records for the fastest haircut (55 seconds), the most haircuts in an hour (34) the most haircuts in 24 hours (340). Rodrick Samuels from Profile Barber Institute, who was most energetic, entertaining and interactive gave a shaving demonstration and coloring demonstration. The most memorable panelist was Ronald Hampton of H42 which is a EPA approved virucidal anti/bacterial that kills all viruses and bacteria. Ronald talked about Staphylococcus witch is a group of bacteria familiarly known as staph that can be spread in barbershops if barber’s and there tools are not disinfected properly. For more information visit www.medicinenet.com
IVAN ZOOT
RODRICK SAMUELS
There were a few barber competitions going on simultaneously in an adjacent room but I didn’t really get a chance to see it because I was working myself. Shawn E. Boston from BosMan’s Barber-world was crowned the champ of the most creative cut. As you can see he hit the nail right on the head literally with the Barak Obama piece less than a week after his presidential sweep.
SHAWN BOSTON
The Antique Barber (TAB) had one of the most creative booths at the event, If I do say so myself. The reception of (TAB) was more than expected, attendees really took to the idea of a clothing line geared toward barbers. They also liked the creativity and quality of the garments. The black designer barber jacket was the star of the show and the studded barber pole cape came in second.
To sum up the weekend I had a great time, there’s not many if any other events out there like this one for barbers. I would like to thank Don Fagan and Charles Kirkpatrick of Barbers International for setting a president in the industry. Please let’s all work together to build up the profession of barbering. In closing,” take your time leaving but hurry back” Antique Barber.
IVAN & DE NORVAL
Topics: CURRENT EVENTS | 6 Comments »
2ND ANNUAL ALL BARBER LEAGUE 2008
By The Antique Barber | October 15, 2008
Two weeks ago, on Sunday October 5th I attended the 2nd annual ALL BARBERS LEAGUE held at Baruch College. Malik Morris an associate and friend is the founder of this event. A barbers basketball league wow, this is something that has been talked about for a long time but finally someone had the gusto to put it all together, thanks Malik. I wasn’t able to stay until the final whistle but I must say competition was on an all time high. The competitors goes as such Matrix Barbershop, Against The Grain, Harlem Unisex Salon, Diamond Cuts, The Shop and Leos Barbershop. I may have missed a few so forgive me like I said I didn’t stay until the end. Now back to the action, I’m not trying to burst any bubbles but these guys looked like they play ball for bread and meat if you know what I’m saying. I’m a barber and I’ve played ball in my day but if I played like that I would have had to choose the latter.
The entertainment was stellar as well, music by DJ Big Ray, guest host Sharlamain from the Wendy Williams Experience 107.5 and performances by a few up and comming artist for the halftime show. All in all it was a great day for barbers to get out there and cheer for there fellow brethren in a game played by few watched by many.
Topics: CURRENT EVENTS | 1 Comment »
BARBER 101
By The Antique Barber | September 14, 2008
THE BARBER’S CORNER
I would like to give a few tips to barbers out there just to help out, I have years of experience to share so take notes.
• A barber should always get a good nights sleep so he may rise early in the morning for work. It is very important to arrive early and timely to work each and every day. I know you have heard the expression the early bird catches the worm, it has never been more true. Clients depend on there barbers because time is very precious to us all. If you say you will be at work at a particular time each day then you need to keep your word. Being dependable is a great trait to have.
• A barber should also keep himself clean and hygienic, A barber should wash each day brush his teeth and groom his hair. A professional appearance will attract clients. Having a well groomed appearance makes a barber more approachable and easy on the eyes. This will aid in making more revenue. Keep breath mints handy as well, a fresh mouth is needed because of the close contact, not to mention you can offer a mint to your clients.
• A barber’s attitude is very important. One should always try to be pleasant as much as possible. Try and smile a lot, this type of attitude is very appealing to clients, especially new or potential clients, your first impressions can be your last impressions.
. A barber should make it a habit to remember as many clients names a possible. A persons own name is one of the best sounds in the universe to the individual. When you remember a persons name it makes them feel special and it appears that you really care.
• A barber should try to stay abreast of current events such as weather, news, sports and politics just to name a few. Staying abreast of current events is good for conversation, clients sometimes want to talk and a barber should be a good listener and also be able to give his own opinion if asked.
• A barber should also educate himself on the latest hair styles, grooming trends and products. Men really don’t have access to a lot of information and also don’t like to ask just anybody personal questions so understand that your clients confide in you for information and privacy.
OK this is just a little something to get you started check back next week and I will give you part two on how to retain clients.
Topics: THE BARBER'S CORNER | No Comments »
THE HISTORY OF THE WAHL CLIPPER CORPORATION
By The Antique Barber | September 1, 2008
LEO J.WAHL
In 1911 a high school junior by the name of Leo J. Wahl began experimenting with an electromagnetic motor. Who knew he would found the worlds largest clipper corporation.
While Leo attended the University of Illinois he designed a medical massager that his uncle Dr. J. Frank Wahl began to manufacture and he began to sell at barbershops.
While frequenting barbershops he realized there were many tools that needed improvement. Leo eventually took over his uncle’s manufacturing business and started working on a new electric hair clipper.
On October 14, 1919 Leo J. Wahl applied for a patent and Wahl manufacturing company was born. Leo’s electromagnetic clipper was the first practical clipper with a drive motor in the hand. By the end of the 1920’s Wahl manufactured and sold approximately 1,000 clippers all over the United States.
Receiving his patent on February 2, 1921 Leo purchased 100% of the Wahl manufacturing company his uncle started. Leo renamed and incorporated as Wahl Clipper Corporation. Much money was made from patent infringement royalties and penalties paid to Wahl by others.
In the 1940’s Wahl expanded its production to hair dryers, shear sharpeners, curling brushes, combs and attachments for hair clippers. These additions made productions close to 2,000 items per day.
In 1957 Leo J. Wahl’s life ended on May 20th. Mr. Wahl had applied for over 100 patents on many different inventions.
Over the years the Wahl Clipper Company has maintained its leading edge on its competitors with the first cordless clipper, cordless rechargeable soldering iron, foot and back massager and the worlds first battery operated facial hair trimmer.
Wahl Clipper Corporation is an international industry leader in the manufacture of consumer personal care appliances and products for the professional beauty and barber salon trade. The company currently employs many people worldwide in Australia, Canada, China, England, Germany, Holland, Hungary, Japan and the United States.
Wahl Clipper Corporation made a major commitment to international business and opened operations in South Africa and Brazil. Besides opening new operations in other countries, they also introduced three new products to the Wahl family: The Complete Hair cutting Kit for Dummies, the Wahl Deluxe Chrome Pro Complete Hair cutting Kit, and the Porta-Clip (Barber in a Bucket).
Topics: HISTORY | 5 Comments »
THE SHAVING MUG
By The Antique Barber | August 31, 2008
American Barber Supplies began to buy scented shaving soaps from over seas in the early1840’s. The shaving soaps were packaged in porcelain containers decorated with fancy advertisements. By 1870 paper wrapped soap replaced the containers to be used with a shaving mug.
Occupational Shaving Mugs are at the top of the list when it comes to barbershop collectibles. At the beginning of 1870’s most men owned a shaving mug at home or at his barbershop. The patrons thought it would aid in reducing the rashes caught from the barber but actually it was the unsanitary razors that caused the rashes. Shaving mugs also were a status symbol for barbers and customers as well. The amount of mugs a barber had on display would represent his clientele base. From 1870 to 1920 millions of shaving mugs were produced making them fairly available today. On any day one can connect to eBay and find hundreds of shaving mugs to bid on. Antique shaving mugs range from tens to thousands of dollars depending on how rare the occupation was the more expensive the shaving mug.
Hand Painted occupational shaving mugs are excellent examples of American folk art. Blank mugs were shipped from Germany and France to the US to be painted. Of course all mugs are not created equal. There are personalized mugs with mild detail and those with serious artistry including gold leaf trimming and ceramic glazes then a few sessions in a gas kiln. Collectors simply call it “Eye Appeal.”
Distinctions In Collectible Shaving Mugs is between the mugs used at home and those used in barbershops. Shaving mugs used at home had more appeal, style, shape and artistic expression. They were also the least expensive and could be found in almost any home and purchased from a local catalog.
“In 1932 Katherine Morrison Kahle wrote a article on old time shaving mugs which was published in Magazine Antiques and they have been popular collectible ever since.” “By 1949 writer/collector Porter Ware had collected more than 500 different mugs and wrote a book on shaving mugs.”
If you are interested in becoming a collector here are a few leads. NASMC contact Penny Nader, treasurer, at 320 S. Glenwood St. Allentown PA 18104, www.journalofantiques.com
Topics: HISTORY | 1 Comment »
RAZOR BUMPS
By The Antique Barber | August 27, 2008
What are razor bumps?
Razor bumps, also called pseudofolliculitis barbae, are small, irritated bumps on the skin that develop after shaving when strands of hair curl back on themselves and grow into the skin. Razor bumps cause irritation and the development of pimples. They also may cause scarring.
How are razor bumps treated?
To treat razor bumps, use a clean needle to release the embedded hair shaft. If possible, stop shaving. This usually stops razor bumps from developing, depending on the severity. However, when shaving is restarted razor bumps typically return.
Do shaving alternatives stop the development of razor bumps?
Razor bumps will generally go away if shaving is stopped. Hair removal products (depilatories) can be used instead of shaving. However, these products can irritate the skin and should be used only once or twice a week.
Laser treatment may be an option. Laser treatment destroys the hair follicle and reduces the number of bumps that form. A recent
study found that after 90 days, the average number of skin bumps in the treated sites was significantly lower compared with untreated sites, although some hair may regrow and return to normal thickness after 6 to 12 months. 1
Can razor bumps be prevented?
The following shaving instructions can prevent razor bumps from forming:
* Take a hot shower before shaving to soften the hair and open the pores.
* Use a thick shaving gel.
* Don’t stretch the skin when shaving and always shave in the direction your beard grows. Use the fewest razor strokes possible.
Rinse with cold water.
* An electric razor can be used if it can be adjusted to a higher setting.
* Use a moisturizing lotion after shaving.
Who is at risk for razor bumps?
Razor bumps are common among African-Americans and people with tightly coiled hair. Razor bumps tend to be more of a problem for men than women since many men shave daily.
The Antique Barber does not endorse any of these products in particular but threw my research clients have found them to work best. Remember to consult with your physician before using any new product. You can purchase these products on the site.
Topics: INFO | No Comments »
HISTORY OF THE BARBER POLE
By The Antique Barber | August 27, 2008
The Modern Barber Pole originated
in the day when blood letting was one of the principal duties of the barbering trade. The two spiral ribbons painted around the pole represented two long bandages, one twisted around the arm before bleeding (to make the vein stand out), and the other used to bind it afterwards.
The patient clutched the staff firmly during the entire operation. Originally, when not in use, the pole with bandage pre-wound (so it might be ready when needed) was hung at the door as a sign. Later an imitation was painted and given a permanent place on the sidewalk outside.” So states the Barber’s Manual.
Some historians credit the blue stripe on the American poles as having been transported from blue and white bands on English poles of the 1700’s. Other authorities say that American barbers added the blue stripe to their red and white poles as a patriotic gesture.
The majority of early American barber poles were freestanding sidewalk pillars ranging from six to twelve feet in height. During the late 1890’s municipal authorities began to outlaw barber poles and cigar store Indians as public safety hazards. The wooden Indians were taken inside for a while, but eventually
more than 100,000 of thee obsolete figures were thrown in rivers, buried in garbage dumps or fed to fireplaces. Only about 3,000 authentic cigar store Indians exist today in museums and private collections.
Most wooden barber poles simply did not survive the outdoor elements
of wind, rain, and hungry termites. Although not as rare as tobacco figures, early poles with original paint intact are quite scarce. Recent auction prices have ranged from $1,000 to $12,000 each. Among the most valuable today are the flat sided stained glass poles that often hung in hotel lobbies.
Koch’s offered a 12-inch diameter leaded glass globe in their 1926 catalog. Few of these have survived
Modern barber poles, with revolving
interior cylinders, cost from $300 to $750 each and are still available from the last remaining factory outlet, the William Marvy company of 1538 St,. Clair Avenue,
St. Paul Minnesota. The Marvy factory has produced more than 75,000 poles over the last half century. Today much of their activity
centers around replacement parts and restoration work; but they still offer a selection of nine barber
poles ranging from eighteen to forty- seven inches tall.
Topics: HISTORY | No Comments »