What Is a Lineup Haircut and How to Get One

A lineup is a straight razor technique that creates sharp, defined edges along your hairline, temples, and sideburns. It's the difference between a haircut that looks good and one that looks crisp. Every fade should end with a lineup.

What Happens During a Lineup

Your barber uses a straight edge trimmer (T-liner) to carve clean lines along your natural hairline. They shape the temples into points or squares (your preference), straighten the forehead line, clean the sideburns, and define the neckline. The whole process takes 5-10 minutes and uses a razor for the closest possible edge.

Lineup vs Full Haircut

A lineup doesn't change the length of your hair. It only cleans the edges. Think of it as maintenance between full haircuts. If your fade is growing out but your edges are fuzzy, a lineup refreshes the look without redoing the full cut.

How Long Does a Lineup Last

A lineup holds 5-7 days on most hair types. After that, stubble grows past the razor line and the edges soften. Some men get a lineup every week and a full haircut every 2-3 weeks. That's the ideal schedule for always looking sharp.

How to Ask for One

Say "lineup" or "edge up." Both mean the same thing. If you want specific temple shapes (pointed vs. squared), tell your barber. Show a photo if you're not sure of the terms. Your barber does this 50 times a day.

At Hollywood Cutters, a line-up with beard is $20. A men's haircut (which includes a lineup) is $35. Walk-ins welcome 7 days a week. 123 Broad Street, Elizabeth, NJ 07201.