Famed for sharp haircuts, clean shaves, and next-level facials (plus a cheeky complimentary drink), Richard’s passion goes beyond the chair — he’s all about helping men look and feel their best, starting with healthy skin.
We caught up with him to chat about modern grooming, bust a few skincare myths, and share his fuss-free routines for busy blokes.
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Background of a Pro-Barber
Q1: Tell us a bit about yourself. What inspired you to become a barber?
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Richard: There’s actually a lot that inspired me to be a barber but the main thing is I’ve always had a passion for art in all forms whether it’s cooking, drawing, painting, or tailoring a haircut for each individual. I also love music and connecting with different people that inspire me to reach for higher goals within business or just day to day life so there’s not really a better place to do that than a REAL barbershop/ barber lounge.
Q2: What’s your approach to modern men’s grooming? How has it changed over the years?
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Richard: My approach has always been client experience focused. To me that means having a CLEAN, safe environment that’s relaxing, fun and of course a great haircut that’s tailored to them and matches or exceeds expectations from the consultation. I aim to leave them happy with the experience and excited to come back again.
Coming from the U.S where it’s mandatory to finish 1500-2000 hours and pass state board tests to be licensed as a barber, I used to think a license was unnecessary to be a good barber. But now living where it’s not mandatory I see the importance of it mainly because I see skin infections a lot more often coming from other shops and it seems there’s a lack of passion for the craft because no financial, or time investment is required to cut hair here so the clients are having bad experiences and being charged too much from someone not even qualified.
It’s very unfortunate to see. So now I feel a good barber is someone that’s licensed, clean, professional, a staple in the community, invests in their education and tools to further their skills and to always provide the best service possible.
Q3: What services do you offer beyond the standard cut and shave?
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Richard: At Virtuoso Black Barber Lounge, aside from a tailored haircut and or shave I offer a shampoo and scalp massage, also a relaxing cleansing and hydrating facial with a complimentary drink.
Skincare for men
Q4: You’re a strong advocate for men taking care of their skin. Why is skincare important for men — especially fathers?
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Richard: It’s important for men because a lot of times we don’t take the time to look after ourselves enough and it really improves the way you feel about yourself when you have clean moisturised skin and a nice haircut to match.
Q5: What are the most common skin concerns you see in your male clients?
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Richard: I see a lot of men especially here in Australia not using SPF enough, or at all so I see lots of sun burnt ears, nose and foreheads. I also see very dry cracked skin making guys look older than they really are. So a good moisturiser with SPF is a cheat code for men to look more youthful for longer and lower the risk of skin cancers.
Q6: What are 3 easy skincare steps every man should include in his daily routine
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Richard: Steam on your face or hot shower then a good fave cleanse and moisturiser including SPF. Only takes 5 mins but makes a huge difference.
Q7: Do you have a go-to product or ingredient you recommend to male clients?
Richard: As long as it’s a good clean product with no harmful chemicals I always recommend a face cleanse and moisturiser + SPF.
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Step 1. I start by cleansing my face thoroughly with the SVR-SENSIFINE Double Cleansing Balm — it’s award-winning and takes off SPF, dirt, and grime, while still being gentle enough for hypersensitive and eczema-prone skin.
Step 2. Then I hydrate with the [B3] Hydra Essence — it’s this gel-in-lotion with 2% niacinamide that restores my skin barrier and soothes any tightness.
Step 3. Next, I use the Ampoule [B3] Hydra Serum, which combines niacinamide and hyaluronic acid to keep my skin deeply hydrated, refined, and healthy.
Step 4. For moisturiser, I go for the [HYALU] BIOTIC Regenerating Plumping Gel Moisturiser — it’s lightweight, anti-wrinkle, and gives my skin a real boost.
*Extra step: And if my skin ever needs repairing — say an accidental cut after shaving or post-tattoo care, I apply the CICAVIT+ Skin Fast Repair Cream, which is brilliant for healing.
Barber’s Chair to Bathroom Cabinet
Q8: How do you educate your clients about skincare during a service?
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Richard: The best way is to lead by example so when my clients book a facial or hot towel shave I tell them the process and why each step is important. That way they can continue the routine daily at home.
Q9: Are men open to skincare once they understand the benefits, or is there still stigma?
Richard: I think there is still somewhat of a stigma but more so because men are less likely to go to a facial spa when it’s advertised primarily for women. So the barber lounge is a great chance for men to experience facial service and see the difference it makes when you take care of your skin.
Q10: What’s one myth about men’s skincare you’d love to bust?
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Richard: Taking care of your skin doesn’t make you any less masculine and if anything, your partner will appreciate the effort.
Father’s Day Focus
Q11: For dads short on time, what’s a fuss-free grooming routine you’d recommend?
Richard: Maintaining a nice tapered haircut every 2-3 weeks at Virtuoso Black Barber Lounge, and washing your face daily and using moisturiser. Easy as that.
Q12: What are some thoughtful grooming or skincare gifts for Father’s Day?
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Richard: I have Vouchers available for purchase through my booking system for any service. A good beard oil, or beard butter with a clean scent that’s not too strong always makes a great gift! I also sell skin care packages with everything you’ll need to look after your skin at home.
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Try: Monsieur Barbier: The Super Daddy Box - the ultimate French shaving ritual with all the essentials to keep facial hair in check (and look better than ever).
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Try: Monsieur Barbier: The Beard and Hair Care Box - a complete beard and haircare routine with a French twist in one single box.
Q13: What does Father’s Day mean to you?
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Richard: I’m not one for most holidays but Father’s Day does mean a lot to me. It’s just nice to feel appreciated for the sacrifices and challenges we face as parents.
Quick Fire with Richard
Morning or night routine? Morning
Beard or clean shave? Beard
Skincare must-have? Moisturiser
Signature scent? Cypress wood & bergamot
Advice to your younger self? Make skincare a non-negotiable habit.
At the end of the day, men’s skincare isn’t about vanity — it’s about feeling confident, comfortable, and in control of how you present yourself. Richard’s advice is simple: invest in your skin now, and it will pay you back for years to come.
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💈 Experience the difference at Virtuoso Black Barber Lounge, Beaumaris where a great haircut comes with great skin advice (and maybe a cold drink).
