Q&A Guide to Buying Hair Shears

What is the difference between hair shears and regular scissors? Hair shears and regular scissors may appear similar, but they are designed for very different purposes. Hair shears are specialized tools used for cutting and shaping hair. They are typically made from high-quality materials like stainless steel or titanium and have a sharp, convex blade that allows for precision cutting. The handles are also designed to provide a comfortable grip for prolonged use. Regular scissors, on the other hand, are more general-purpose tools and have straight, beveled blades that are suitable for cutting a variety of materials but lack the precision needed for cutting hair.

Why are hair shears so expensive? Hair shears are often more expensive than regular scissors due to the materials used, the craftsmanship involved, and the specialized design. High-quality shears are typically made from premium materials like Japanese or German stainless steel, which provide durability and a sharp, long-lasting edge. They are often hand-crafted by skilled artisans, which adds to the cost. Furthermore, the design of hair shears is specialized to provide the utmost precision and comfort, with features like an ergonomic handle, a tension screw for easy adjustment, and sometimes a swivel thumb ring for added flexibility.

What should I look for when buying hair shears? When buying hair shears, consider the following factors: material, blade type, size, handle design, and weight. The material should be high-quality stainless steel or a similar durable material. The blade type can be either convex (for smooth, precise cuts) or beveled (more durable but less sharp). The size of the shears depends on your hand size and the type of cutting you do; 5.5" to 6.5" is common for general cutting. The handle design should be ergonomic to prevent hand fatigue, and the weight should be comfortable for you. Also, consider the brand reputation and reviews from other hairstylists.

What materials are best for hair shears? The best hair shears are typically made from high-quality stainless steel, particularly Japanese or German stainless steel. These types of steel are known for their hardness, durability, and ability to retain a sharp edge for a long time. Some high-end shears may also be made from cobalt alloys, which offer even greater hardness and durability. In terms of coatings, titanium is often used for its hardness and corrosion resistance, and it also adds a colorful aesthetic appeal.

What size of hair shears should I buy? The size of the hair shears you should buy depends on your hand size and the type of hair cutting you do. As a general guide, 5" to 5.5" shears are suitable for detailed work and precision cutting, 5.5" to 6.5" shears are good for general haircutting, and 6.5" to 7" shears are typically used for over-comb techniques and cutting larger sections of hair. However, the most important thing is that the shears feel comfortable in your hand.

What is the difference between convex and beveled blades? Convex and beveled blades are the two main types of blades found in hair shears. Convex blades are razor-sharp and provide a smooth, precise cut, making them ideal for slide cutting and other advanced techniques. However, they are delicate and require careful handling and maintenance. Beveled blades, on the other hand, have a steeper edge and are more durable but provide a less smooth cut. They are easier to maintain and are generally found in more affordable shears.

What is the importance of the handle design in hair shears? The handle design in hair shears is crucial for both comfort and control during cutting. Ergonomic handle designs reduce hand and wrist fatigue, especially during long hair cutting sessions. They can also minimize the risk of developing repetitive strain injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome. There are various handle designs available, including level, offset, and crane, each offering a different hand and finger positioning to suit individual preferences and cutting styles.

What is the difference between offset and level handles? Level handles are traditional and have the same length of handle and finger hole alignment, which requires the stylist to raise their elbow during cutting. On the other hand, offset handles have a shorter thumb handle, which allows for a more relaxed, natural hand position with a lower elbow level. The offset handle design is considered more ergonomic and can reduce the risk of repetitive strain injuries.

How often do I need to sharpen my hair shears? The frequency of sharpening hair shears depends on various factors, including the quality of the shears, how often they are used, and the type of haircuts performed. A general guideline is to sharpen hair shears every 500-700 haircuts. However, if you notice any changes in performance, such as bending or pulling hair, it's time to sharpen your shears.

How should I maintain my hair shears? Regular maintenance of hair shears involves cleaning, oiling, and storing them properly. After each use, remove hair and product residue from the shears. Regularly oil the pivot area of the shears to keep them functioning smoothly and prevent rust. Store your shears in a protective case when not in use to protect them from damage. Lastly, have your shears professionally serviced and sharpened regularly to maintain their performance and extend their lifespan.

What are thinning shears and when should I use them? Thinning shears are a type of hair shear with one or both blades featuring teeth along the edge. They are used to remove bulk from the hair without altering the overall length, creating a more natural, blended look. Thinning shears are ideal for texturizing hair, blending layers, and adding volume. They're also helpful for managing thick, coarse, or curly hair types.

Can I use the same shears for cutting and thinning? While some shears are designed for both cutting and thinning, it's generally recommended to have separate shears for each purpose. This is because the blade design and cutting action are different for each type of shear. Regular cutting shears provide a straight, precise cut, while thinning shears remove less hair with each cut, creating a softer, more blended look.

What are left-handed shears and why might I need them? Left-handed shears are designed specifically for use by left-handed stylists. They have a reversed design compared to right-handed shears, with the left blade on top when you hold them in your left hand. This allows left-handed stylists to see the cutting line clearly and operate the shears comfortably and efficiently. Using right-handed shears in your left hand can lead to awkward hand positions, reduced visibility of the cutting line, and even repetitive strain injuries.

What is a swivel handle and is it beneficial? A swivel handle is a feature found on some hair shears where the thumb ring can rotate. This allows for greater freedom of movement for the thumb and can help to reduce strain on the thumb, hand, and wrist during cutting. It also allows for more cutting positions and angles, which can be beneficial for complex cuts or advanced cutting techniques. However, swivel handles can take some time to get used to and may not be necessary for all stylists.

How do I adjust the tension in my hair shears? The tension in hair shears can be adjusted using the tension screw or knob, which is located in the center of the shears. To adjust the tension, hold the shears vertically and open the blades halfway. If the shears close on their own, the tension is too loose. If the shears stay open, the tension is correct. If the shears close only partway, the tension may be too tight. You can then adjust the tension screw accordingly to achieve the correct tension.

What is a finger rest on hair shears and is it necessary? The finger rest, or tang, on hair shears is a small projection near the ring finger hole. It provides a place for the pinky finger to rest, which can help to stabilize the shears during cutting and reduce hand fatigue. While not all stylists use the finger rest, many find it beneficial, especially during long cutting sessions. Some hair shears have removable or adjustable finger rests for added convenience and customization.

Can I sharpen my hair shears at home? While it's possible to sharpen hair shears at home using a sharpening stone or shear sharpening device, it's generally recommended to have them sharpened by a professional. This is because the process requires a precise angle and pressure to maintain the integrity of the blades. Improper sharpening can damage the blades, affect the performance of the shears, and even void the manufacturer's warranty.

What is a Damascus blade in hair shears? A Damascus blade in hair shears refers to a type of steel used in the blade that is characterized by distinctive patterns of banding and mottling reminiscent of flowing water. This steel is named after the city of Damascus, which was famous for producing swords made with this material. Damascus steel is valued for its strength, durability, and edge-holding ability, as well as its aesthetic appeal.

What are the best brands of hair shears? The best brand of hair shears often depends on your personal preference, budget, and specific needs. However, some reputable brands known for their high-quality shears include Hikari, Kamisori, Saki Shears, Scissors Tech, Joewell, Mizutani, Shihan Shears and Yasaka. These brands are favored by professional hairstylists for their durability, sharpness, and design. Remember, the "best" brand is the one that works best for you and meets your specific needs as a hairstylist.

Is it worth investing in high-end hair shears? Investing in high-end hair shears can be worth it for serious hairstylists. High-end shears are typically made from superior materials, have better craftsmanship, and offer superior performance compared to their cheaper counterparts. They are designed to last longer, hold their edge better, and provide a smoother, more precise cut. While the initial investment may be higher, the longevity and improved performance of high-end shears often make them more cost-effective in the long run.