The three colors of this pole (red, blue, and white) have historical significance. In the past, European barbers also served as surgeons, so red symbolized arteries, blue symbolized veins, and white symbolized bandages.

Nowadays, with the rise of men's salons and the classic 'barbershop' culture, this emoji is seen more often. Its meaning has expanded beyond just getting a haircut to also signify 'grooming'—the act of taking care of one's appearance to look neat and stylish.