4 Oct 2024
As professionals our scissors are one of our most important tools. We all know that scissors need to be sharpened regularly but how often, by who and what happens if our scissors are not sharp enough ? In this article we look at all the important things to know regarding the upkeep of hairdressing scissors.
Professional hairdressing scissors are a hairdresser’s most essential tool, and maintaining their sharpness is vital for delivering precise, high-quality cuts. When a pair of scissors becomes dull, it compromises the hairdresser’s ability to perform, negatively affecting both the client’s experience and the stylist’s professional reputation. This article explores the significance of keeping hairdressing scissors sharp, who should sharpen them, and how often it should be done.
Why Sharp Hairdressing Scissors Matter
1. Precision and Quality of Cut
Sharp scissors are critical for achieving clean, even cuts. Dull scissors tend to bend or pull at the hair rather than slicing through it cleanly. This can lead to split ends, ragged edges, and uneven styles, all of which can be noticeable to clients. A hairdresser’s artistry is directly tied to the sharpness of their tools.
2. Client Comfort and Satisfaction
Dull blades can cause discomfort, especially when hair gets tugged during the cutting process. Sharp scissors glide smoothly through the hair, providing a more comfortable experience for clients. Hair that is cut cleanly also looks healthier and styles more easily, ensuring clients leave the salon satisfied with the service.
3. Tool Longevity
Regular maintenance, including sharpening, extends the life of professional scissors. Investing in high-quality scissors is costly, and by keeping them well-maintained, hairdressers avoid the need for frequent replacements. Sharp blades also reduce wear on the joints and pivots of the scissors, maintaining overall function for longer periods.
4. Hairdresser Health
Using dull scissors can lead to increased strain on a hairdresser’s hand and wrist as they need to apply more pressure to complete cuts. Over time, this can lead to repetitive strain injuries, including carpal tunnel syndrome. Sharp tools make the job easier and help maintain the hairdresser’s physical well-being.
Who Should Sharpen Hairdressing Scissors?
Sharpening professional hairdressing scissors is a task that requires expertise. Hairdressing scissors are finely tuned instruments, often made from high-quality materials like Japanese steel. Therefore, not just anyone should handle the sharpening process. A trained professional, typically a scissor sharpener with experience in hairdressing tools, should be entrusted with this task.
The reasons for relying on a professional include:
• Specialized Equipment: Professional sharpeners use specific tools designed to sharpen hairdressing scissors. These tools ensure that the correct angle is maintained on the blade, which is essential for performance.
• Preserving the Scissor’s Edge: Improper sharpening can damage the edge of the scissors, making them less effective and potentially ruining them beyond repair. A professional sharpener understands how to maintain the blade’s integrity and precision.
• Balancing and Tension Adjustment: A good sharpener will not only sharpen the blades but also check and adjust the tension between the scissor’s blades. Proper tension ensures smooth movement and prevents excess strain on the hand.
How Often Should Hairdressing Scissors Be Sharpened?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to how often hairdressing scissors should be sharpened, as it depends on several factors, including:
1. Frequency of Use
Hairdressers who cut hair for several hours a day will naturally need to sharpen their scissors more frequently than those who use them only occasionally. A busy stylist may need their scissors sharpened every three months, whereas a less active stylist might only need sharpening once or twice a year.
2. Type of Scissors
Some high-end scissors, especially those made from durable materials like cobalt or titanium, hold their edge longer and may not require sharpening as frequently as standard steel scissors.
3. Cutting Techniques
Techniques like point cutting or texturizing can cause scissors to dull faster because of the repetitive and precise nature of these methods. Stylists who frequently use such techniques should pay close attention to their scissors’ performance and have them sharpened as soon as they notice a decrease in sharpness.
4. Maintenance Habits
Regular cleaning, proper storage, and the use of blade oil can extend the time between sharpenings. Hairdressers who are diligent about maintaining their scissors may be able to go longer between professional sharpenings.
Signs That Scissors Need Sharpening
Even with regular maintenance, scissors will eventually show signs of dullness. Hairdressers should be on the lookout for these common indicators:
• Pushing or folding hair: Instead of cutting cleanly, dull scissors push the hair, leading to uneven or bent cuts.
• Excessive force required: If more pressure is needed to cut than usual, it’s a sign the blades are losing their sharpness.
• Rough or jagged cut edges: A clean, sharp scissor should leave a smooth finish. If the ends of the hair appear split or jagged, it’s time to sharpen.
• Scissor noise: Dull blades may make more noise when cutting, indicating misalignment or bluntness.
Conclusion
Maintaining the sharpness of professional hairdressing scissors is crucial for ensuring quality cuts, client satisfaction, and the longevity of the tool itself. Scissors should only be sharpened by a trained professional using specialized equipment to preserve their quality. While the frequency of sharpening will depend on how often the scissors are used, regular care and attention to the signs of dullness will help hairdressers know when it’s time to refresh their blades. By keeping their scissors in optimal condition, hairdressers can perform at their best and continue to deliver the results their clients expect.