What is a straight razor typically used for in barbering?

A straight razor is traditionally utilized in barbering primarily for close shaving and detailing. This tool features a long, sharp blade that can be finely honed to achieve a very close shave, making it ideal for creating clean lines around facial hair, necklines, and hairlines. Barbers often use it to provide precision work and to ensure smooth skin after shaving.

While trimming mustaches can be done with a straight razor, it is not the main function associated with this tool. Similarly, cutting long hair is typically performed with scissors or clippers, as these implements are more efficient and safer for managing longer strands. Straight razors are not primarily designed for styling purposes but rather for their capacity to deliver a close and detailed shave. This focus on precision and smoothness is what defines the use of a straight razor in the barbering profession.