Ritz Bautista, a professional barber known online as Beasty Cutz, is drawing clients from across the globe to San Mateo, California, by popularizing a distinct haircut trend dubbed the “TikTok special.” According to reporting by ABC7, the style—characterized as a blowout taper with a messy texture fringe on top—has turned Bautista’s chair at Full Circle barbershop into a viral hub for back-to-school transformations.
The Rise of the TikTok Special
The viral phenomenon began when Bautista adopted a new marketing strategy during a mentorship program, using short-form video platforms to showcase his craft. In his videos, which frequently feature clients revealing their new looks, young customers often respond that they found him on TikTok or Instagram and specifically requested the signature cut. According to ABC7, the trend features a blowout taper combined with a textured, messy fringe on top, making it a primary choice for students preparing for the academic year.
Global Reach From San Mateo
The digital reach of Bautista’s content has translated into significant physical travel from clients seeking his services. While many patrons arrive from local Bay Area communities such as San Jose, Oakland, Sacramento, and San Diego, Bautista told ABC7 that his clientele has expanded internationally. Notably, two young clients traveled 14 hours from Slovakia just to sit in his chair for the viral haircut.
Roots and Community Impact
Bautista’s journey with clippers started during his high school years in the Bay Area, where he first practiced by cutting his father’s hair using equipment that once belonged to his grandfather, a Navy barber. Today, maintaining a booking schedule three weeks in advance, Bautista aims to provide more than just a style. According to ABC7, he views the process as a direct confidence booster for students walking back into the classroom, noting the immediate physical change in posture and excitement when clients see their transformations in the shop mirror.
Keep reading