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Chung Stevenson posted an update 5 days, 11 hours ago
Professional hair shears are some of the most critical tools in different stylist’s arsenal. Designed especially for cutting hair with precision, these shears go beyond the capabilities of household scissors. A good couple of hair shears can significantly impact the standard of a haircut, making the main difference between a flawless finish and uneven results. Here’s an in-depth consider the different types of professional hair shears, strategies for choosing the best ones, and guidance on their proper use and maintenance.
Understanding Professional Hair Shears
Professional hair shears are specially crafted to handle the unique needs of hair cutting. Made from high-quality stainless steel or cobalt alloys, they give blades which can be sharper, stronger, and created for precision. Here’s a fast breakdown of some common types of professional shears:
Straight Shears: The most common type, straight shears have two smooth blades, providing clean, sharp cuts. They’re versatile which enable it to be used for some hair-cutting techniques, from simple trims to complex styles.
Thinning Shears: These have one or both blades with teeth, letting them cut merely a portion from the hair with each snip. Ideal for reducing volume, blending layers, and adding texture.
Texturizing Shears: Similar to thinning shears but fewer teeth, texturizing shears are utilized to add dimension and volume, developing a softer, more natural look in hairstyles.
Curved Shears: With slightly curved blades, these shears follow the shape of the pinnacle and are often utilized in techniques requiring precision round the hairline or perhaps in intricate layering.
Swivel Shears: Featuring a rotating thumb ring, swivel shears lessen hand and wrist strain, giving stylists more control and flexibility, especially during long cutting sessions.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Professional Hair Shears
When selecting a pair of professional shears, several factors come into play. Here’s what things to keep in mind to be sure the right choice:
Blade Material: High-quality shears are generally made from Japanese stainless or cobalt alloys, both known for sharpness and durability. Japanese steel is noted for a finer cut, while cobalt blends offer increased strength and longevity.
Handle Style:
Opposing Grip: Traditional style with handles which can be parallel. It works well for a lot of stylists but could strain the wrist as time passes.
Offset Grip: One handle is over the other, making it possible for a more natural hand position, reducing hand and wrist fatigue.
Crane Grip: An extreme version in the offset grip, this handle positions the hand naturally, reducing force on both the wrist and shoulder.
Blade Type:
Convex Blades: Sharp and smooth, these blades give a precise, clean cut and therefore are popular for slide cutting.
Beveled Blades: These have a slightly serrated edge, suitable for beginners or those cutting thicker, coarser hair. They’re less sharp but more forgiving.
Size: Hair shears are generally available in sizes which range from 4.5 to 7 inches. Smaller shears (4.5-5.5 inches) are perfect for detailed work, while larger shears (6-7 inches) are suitable for techniques like over-the-comb cutting. Many stylists have multiple sizes to allow for different cutting needs.
Weight and Balance: The weight and balance of the shear affect comfort and control. Lighter shears are easier on the hands, while balanced shears provide consistent results and much better ergonomics.
Techniques for Using Professional Hair Shears
Holding the Shears: The proper grip is essential for control and precision. Place your thumb in the lower ring plus your ring finger within the top ring, letting your pinky rest around the tang for stability.
Point Cutting: This technique involves cutting into the ends from the hair in an angle to make texture and soften lines. Point cutting is done with straight shears so helping reduce bulk and add movement on the hair.
Slide Cutting: Best performed with convex-bladed shears, slide cutting involves gliding the scissors on the hair to create a soft, tapered effect. It’s excellent for layering and texturizing without harsh lines.
Blunt Cutting: Achieving a clean, straight edge by cutting horizontally across the hair. This technique utilizes smaller shears and is also perfect for creating solid, defined lines, specially in bob cuts.
Scissor Over Comb: A classic barbering technique, the location where the stylist holds hair in position with a comb and cuts over the length with the hair for uniform layering and tapering.
Tips for Maintaining Professional Hair Shears
Professional hair shears are an investment and require proper maintenance to make certain they stay sharp and effective. Here are a few maintenance tips:
Clean After Each Use: Wipe shears using a soft, dry cloth after every cut to get rid of hair and then any product residue that could dull the blades.
Oil Regularly: A drop of oil involving the blades reduces friction, prevents rust, and keeps the shears operating smoothly.
Store Properly: Always keep shears in the protective case when not in use. Avoid leaving them in humid environments, as moisture can result in rust.
Sharpen as Needed: Most professional shears need sharpening every couple of months, depending on frequency useful. It’s far better to have shears sharpened by way of a professional to make certain they maintain their edge.
Check the Tension: Proper tension helps to ensure even cuts. To adjust tension, utilize the screw relating to the blades. If the shears feel too loose or too tight, tweak the screw before the shears move smoothly without requiring excessive force.
Benefits of Using High-Quality Professional Hair Shears
Precision Cuts: With sharper, specialized blades, professional shears enable accurate, clean cuts which might be hard to achieve with standard scissors.
Reduced Hand Strain: Ergonomically designed handles make it easier for stylists to work for extended periods with less hand fatigue.
Enhanced Hair Health: Quality shears cause less split ends or hair damage, because they cut cleanly without tugging or pulling.
Time Efficiency: Professionals perform more efficiently with quality shears, reducing the time needed for adjustments and corrections.
Investing in what size hair shears is vital for any stylist aiming to deliver high-quality results. From comprehending the different types to choosing the right material and looking after the tools, every factor of handling hair shears requires attention to detail. With proper care and the proper techniques, these shears will continue to offer precision, control, and long-lasting performance in most cut. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned stylist, the right set of hair shears can truly elevate the grade of your work.