As a hairdresser, your cutting shears are the backbone of your business. Without top-quality shears, you cannot work. It only makes sense, then, that investing in this crucial tool is a top priority for professionals in the field.
Here are a few tips for finding cutting shears worth investing in – as well as some more information about the importance of doing exactly that.
Get the Length Right
There is a common misconception in the hair-cutting industry that shears should be chosen based on their measurements in comparison to the hairdresser’s hand. However, this is incorrect.
A hairdresser should have at least two pairs of quality hair cutting shears. The first should be a shorter, more delicate pair for cutting hair that is held in the hand or against the palm. Another, larger pair with long, thin blades should be used for trimming hair that is not held in the hand.
Blade Choice is a Big Deal
The type of blade used in your shears is perhaps even more important than the size of the overall scissors. The blades of your shears are where all of the actual work gets done, so it only makes sense to pay plenty of attention to their sharpness, design, and strength.
Clamshell or convex edges deliver the smoothest possible cuts and the softest, most natural-looking results. They can also go much longer between sharpenings.
Sword blades – where the blade is reinforced by a ridge in the middle – are popular choices too, especially when the stylist using them often cuts dry hair or cuts hair in large sections. These blades can be trickier to work with, but they are excellent for those with experience.
How Does It Handle?
There are three types of handle designs for shears currently available on the market. The most common is the opposing grip shear, in which thumb and finger holes are approximately the same size and are situated directly opposite of one another. The problem with this style is that while typically the most affordable option, it can put undue stress on your arms and hands.
A potentially better solution is offset handles. In this style, the thumb side handle is shorter, putting less strain on the thumb and hand. This can also help the stylist cut faster and in smaller, more intricate increments.
The best design for ergonomic cutting is the crane handle. This style isn’t just offset – it often also features a rotating thumb hole. This puts far less stress on the hands, the arm, and even the neck and the shoulder of the cutting arm. This allows stylists to perform better and work longer without resting, making for more consistent results.
Buying from a Reputable Source is the Key to Smart Shear Shopping
Where can you find shears that meet all of these qualifications? The best hair cutting shears are available through dedicated beauty suppliers. These retailers offer numerous styles, sizes, and types of shears. No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find it when you shop with a reputable beauty supplier.
