Many barbers doubled as surgeons and performed blood letting. Some prepared the deceased for viewings, as well as the living. Although black and white poles are rumored to be mortician's poles among the collector community, very little information is available to substantiate that claim.

While barbering can be a rewarding career, it can also be physically and mentally demanding. Long hours of standing, high levels of concentration, and dealing with difficult customers can lead to stress and burnout. Some barbers may quit due to these challenges, or because they want to pursue different career paths.

Many modern barber poles have a blue stripe, which some historical sources cite as a tribute to the colours of the America flag. In Europe, the blue stripe was meant to differentiate barbers from doctors, as the two professions gradually began to grow apart.

It represents the colour of blood. During the Middle Ages monks were required to shave the crown of their head, a function commonly performed by itinerant barbers. Also, under ecclesiastic law, monks had to be periodically bled. This was supposedly a symbol of piousness, of devotion to God.