Carlos Gamal on why barbershops are becoming the front line of men’s mental health

This Movember, one space continues to show its impact on men’s mental health: the barbershop. For many men, the barber’s chair is one of the few places that they feel comfortable opening up, and not because they’re prompted to, but because the environment feels familiar, safe, and free of judgment. A routine haircut often becomes a quiet moment of honesty, and barbers around the world are seeing just how much their appointment ends up meaning to them.

To understand why these conversations happen so naturally, we spoke with Carlos Gamal, founder of CG Barbershop in Dubai and Fresha partner, about the role barbers play in supporting men’s wellbeing, and more often than not, without realising it. 

What does Movember mean to you personally?

Movember is a reminder that men’s mental health deserves space and visibility. It’s not just about growing a moustache; it’s about starting conversations that are often avoided. In the barbershop, you see how many men carry their stress and personal struggles quietly while feeling pressure to appear strong. For me, Movember is about changing that mindset. Being open and vulnerable doesn’t make you weaker; it makes you more human. In this region, there is still a stigma around men talking openly about their mental health, which can make the experience even more isolating.

Why do you think barbershops play such an important role in men’s mental health?

Barbershops are one of the few places where men can completely relax. It’s a familiar environment where they drop their guard. A simple haircut can turn into a conversation about life, family, or work without it feeling heavy or uncomfortable. The relationship between a man and his barber is unique. There’s trust, routine, and even a sense of anonymity, which allows men to share things they might not tell close friends or family. That genuine connection can be surprisingly powerful.

Have you noticed a change in how men talk about mental health, especially in the Middle East?

Yes, but it’s still evolving. There’s progress, but cultural expectations still make it hard for many men to open up. From a young age, they’re taught that strength means silence and that showing emotion is a sign of weakness. That’s slowly changing, but there’s a long way to go. Barbershops can help shift that by being places where those walls come down naturally. It’s a space that feels safe, familiar, and judgment-free.
 

How do you and your team at CG Barbershop create an environment that supports that openness?

It starts with empathy and respect. We’re not just focused on the haircut; we’re focused on the person in the chair. Every client walks in with their own story, and we want them to feel seen, valued, and comfortable. The atmosphere at CG is calm and welcoming, and whether a client wants to talk or stay quiet, both are equally respected. Over the years, we’ve also taken this conversation outside the shop. I’ve spoken on Dubai radio about men’s mental health alongside our friend and client Essa Al Ansari, who is a strong advocate for the cause. We’ve also partnered with the Al Jalila Foundation, donating proceeds to support men’s mental and physical well-being and to fund preventative health screening for prostate cancer.

What advice would you give to other barbers or business owners who want to support men’s mental health?

Be genuine and take the time to listen. You don’t need to have all the answers. Sometimes, listening without judgment is enough. Create a positive environment in your business where your team feels valued, because that same energy extends to your clients. Encourage small gestures of care, like remembering a client’s story or simply asking how they’ve been. It’s those human moments that make the biggest difference.

What do you want people to take away from the Movember message this year?

Men don’t have to carry everything on their own. Checking in on a friend, a colleague, or a client can have a 
real impact. Talking about how you feel doesn’t make you less of a man; it shows courage. Movember is a reminder that taking care of your mental and physical health is part of being strong. It’s about looking out for yourself and for each other. Even if you can’t go to a therapist or you don’t feel comfortable opening up to friends or family, go to your barber. Sit down, relax, have a chat. There’s zero judgment in that space. Sometimes just saying things out loud can make you feel lighter and help you realise you’re not as alone as you think.

Carlos’ perspective is a reminder that small conversations can make big differences. This Movember, barbers everywhere are helping people feel heard, supported, and less alone, one appointment at a time.