When you first start your journey in hairstyling, one of the most important tools you will invest in is a good pair of professional hair cutting scissors. For beginners, however, the sheer variety of scissors available in the market can be overwhelming. How do you know which ones to choose? What makes a pair of scissors "professional"? How can you ensure that you are purchasing the best option for your needs, both in terms of quality and comfort?
In this article, we’ll break down everything a beginner needs to know about professional hair cutting scissors. We will explain why they matter, what features to look for, and how the right pair of scissors can help you develop your skills and deliver high-quality haircuts right from the start.
Why Professional Hair Cutting Scissors Matter
Before diving into the specifics of choosing the right scissors, it’s important to understand why professional hair cutting scissors are essential for hairstyling. Unlike regular household scissors, which are designed for general cutting tasks, hair cutting scissors are specialized tools designed specifically to cut hair. Their design, sharpness, and ergonomics all contribute to achieving clean, precise cuts.
Using professional hair cutting scissors is important for several reasons:
Precision: Professional scissors are designed for the precision required in hairstyling. Whether you are cutting, layering, or trimming, these scissors help create sharp lines and seamless blends, ensuring a polished, high-quality finish.
Comfort: Hairstyling requires repeated hand movements over long periods. Professional hair cutting scissors are ergonomically designed to reduce hand strain and discomfort, which is especially important for beginners who may still be mastering the art of cutting.
Quality of the Cut: Regular scissors can tug or pull at the hair, leading to split ends, uneven cuts, or fraying. Professional hair cutting scissors are sharp enough to cut cleanly through the hair without damaging it, making them essential for quality results.
Durability: Professional scissors are built to last. They are made from high-quality materials that resist rusting, dulling, and wear over time. This ensures that you get the most out of your investment.
What to Look for When Buying Professional Hair Cutting Scissors
Choosing the right pair of scissors is crucial for your success as a beginner stylist. There are several factors to consider, from the materials to the design of the scissors. Here’s a breakdown of the key features to look for:
1. Material and Construction
The material of the scissors plays a significant role in determining their performance, durability, and price. High-quality professional hair cutting scissors are made from stainless steel or alloys such as cobalt, VG10, or Damascus steel. These materials offer strength, sharpness, and resistance to rust, making them ideal for hairstyling.
- Stainless Steel: This is the most common material used for hair cutting scissors. It is durable, resistant to corrosion, and can maintain sharpness for extended periods.
- Cobalt or VG10 Steel: These are premium materials that provide exceptional sharpness and durability. They are often used in high-end scissors, but they come with a higher price tag.
- Damascus Steel: Known for its distinctive patterns, Damascus steel is often used for both aesthetics and performance. It’s durable and retains its sharpness well but can be more expensive.
2. Blade Design
The design of the blade is another important feature to consider when choosing hair cutting scissors. There are two main types of blades used in professional scissors: convex blades and beveled blades.
Convex Blades: These blades are curved and polished to create a razor-sharp edge. Convex blades are typically preferred by professionals because they provide a smooth cutting action and allow for precision, especially for detailed cuts such as layering or point cutting.
Beveled Blades: Beveled blades have a flat edge that’s ideal for blunt cuts. They are durable and tend to be more affordable than convex blades, making them a good option for beginners who are just getting started. However, they may not offer the same level of precision as convex blades.
3. Handle Design
The design of the handles on hair cutting scissors is crucial for comfort, especially for beginners. Since hairstylists often spend hours cutting hair, the ergonomic design of the handles helps reduce hand fatigue and provides better control.
Offset Handles: Many professional hair cutting scissors feature offset handles, which position the fingers at a more natural angle. This design is particularly helpful for reducing wrist strain, especially for beginners still adjusting to the motions involved in cutting hair.
Ergonomic Handles: These handles are designed to fit comfortably in the hand, ensuring that the scissors don’t cause discomfort during extended use. Look for scissors with handles that feel natural and secure in your hand.
Finger Rest: Some scissors come with a finger rest for your pinky. This can help balance the scissors and provide additional support during cutting, reducing hand strain.
4. Size and Weight
The size and weight of the scissors are essential considerations, particularly for beginners who may not yet have developed the muscle memory required for precise cutting. The size of the scissors usually refers to the length of the blades, which can range from 4.5 inches to 7.5 inches.
Shorter Scissors (4.5-5.5 inches): These are great for beginners and are especially useful for detailed work, such as trimming around the ears or cutting bangs. Their smaller size allows for greater control and accuracy, which can be helpful as you refine your skills.
Longer Scissors (6-7.5 inches): Longer scissors are typically used for cutting larger sections of hair or for cutting through thick or coarse hair. While they can be useful once you gain more experience, they can be harder to handle as a beginner.
Weight: A lighter pair of scissors can reduce hand strain, especially when you are cutting for long periods. However, some stylists prefer a heavier pair of scissors for better control. It’s essential to choose scissors that feel comfortable in your hand.
5. Tension Screw
The tension screw controls how tightly the blades of the scissors come together. Adjusting the tension screw allows you to customize the scissors to your personal preferences and cutting style. For beginners, it’s essential to understand how to adjust the tension screw properly to maintain smooth, effortless cutting.
Too Tight: If the tension screw is too tight, the scissors will be difficult to open and close. This can make the cutting process uncomfortable and less precise.
Too Loose: If the tension screw is too loose, the blades may feel wobbly, making it harder to maintain control during cutting.
Learning how to adjust the tension screw is crucial as you begin to develop your cutting techniques. Make sure to regularly check the tension to ensure the scissors are working at their best.
Caring for Your Professional Hair Cutting Scissors
Proper maintenance is key to ensuring that your scissors last for many years. As a beginner, you should develop a routine to care for your professional hair cutting scissors to keep them sharp and functional.
Cleaning: After each use, clean your scissors with a damp cloth to remove hair and product buildup. This prevents rust and corrosion, ensuring your scissors stay in good condition.
Lubrication: Apply a few drops of oil to the pivot point (where the two blades meet) every couple of weeks. This will help the blades move smoothly and prevent any friction.
Sharpening: Professional scissors need to be sharpened regularly to maintain their cutting edge. How often you need to sharpen them will depend on how frequently you use them, but as a beginner, it’s essential to get your scissors professionally sharpened to avoid damaging them.
Storage: Store your scissors in a protective case or pouch when not in use. This helps prevent the blades from being damaged or becoming dull from contact with other tools.
Conclusion: Finding the Right Scissors for Your Needs
As a beginner hairstylist, choosing the right professional hair cutting scissors is crucial for developing your skills and achieving high-quality results. Pay close attention to the material, blade design, handle comfort, and size to ensure you are selecting scissors that feel comfortable and help you work efficiently.
Investing in a good pair of professional hair cutting scissors will make a huge difference in your cutting precision and overall comfort as you start your hairstyling journey. By understanding the key features of hair cutting scissors and taking the time to choose the best pair for your needs, you will be well on your way to mastering the art of hair cutting.
