Maintenance Tips for Your Hair Cutting Scissors
As a hairstylist, your tools are your lifeline, and none are more crucial than your hair cutting scissors. Proper maintenance is essential to ensure they perform at their best and last for years to come. In this blog, we’ll cover essential maintenance tips for your hair cutting scissors, helping you keep them sharp, safe, and in top condition.
1. Regular Cleaning
Why It Matters: Hair product residue, hair clippings, and moisture can build up on your scissors, leading to rust and dullness.
How to Clean:
- Wipe After Use: After each use, wipe the blades with a soft, dry cloth to remove hair and product.
- Use a Soft Brush: For stubborn debris, a soft-bristled brush can help dislodge hair from the pivot and blade areas.
- Alcohol Wipe: Occasionally, use an alcohol wipe or a cloth dampened with isopropyl alcohol to disinfect and clean the blades.
2. Sharpening
Why It Matters: Dull scissors can lead to uneven cuts, increased hand fatigue, and a frustrating experience for both stylist and client.
How to Sharpen:
- Frequency: Depending on usage, scissors should be sharpened every 6 to 12 months. If you notice pulling or snagging while cutting, it’s time for sharpening.
- Professional Service: Always opt for professional sharpening services. They have the right tools and expertise to maintain the integrity of the blades.
- Home Sharpening: If you choose to sharpen at home, use a sharpening stone or specialized sharpening tools, but proceed with caution to avoid damaging the blades.
3. Proper Storage
Why It Matters: Storing scissors incorrectly can lead to damage, dullness, and misalignment.
How to Store:
- Use a Case: Invest in a protective case or pouch designed for scissors. This keeps them safe from damage and dust.
- Avoid Clashing: Never store scissors in a way that they can touch other tools. Clashing can dull the blades and cause misalignment.
- Keep Dry: Ensure your storage area is dry and free from moisture to prevent rust.
4. Check Tension Regularly
Why It Matters: The tension of your scissors affects how they cut and can lead to uneven cuts if not adjusted properly.
How to Adjust Tension:
- Test the Pivot: Open and close the scissors a few times. They should move smoothly without being too loose or too tight.
- Adjustment Screw: Most scissors have a tension adjustment screw near the pivot. Use a screwdriver to make minor adjustments as needed.
- Consult the Manufacturer: Refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for specific tension settings for your model.
5. Handle with Care
Why It Matters: How you treat your scissors significantly affects their lifespan and performance.
How to Handle:
- Avoid Dropping: Be mindful of where you place your scissors. Dropping them can misalign the blades and cause damage.
- Use for Hair Only: Never use your scissors for anything other than cutting hair. Using them for other materials can dull or chip the blades.
- Practice Good Technique: Maintain a proper cutting technique to avoid putting unnecessary strain on the scissors.
6. Keep Away from Moisture
Why It Matters: Moisture can lead to rust and corrosion, significantly shortening the lifespan of your scissors.
How to Protect:
- Dry Hands: Always use dry hands when handling scissors.
- Avoid Humid Areas: Try to keep your scissors away from humid environments, like near sinks or in steamy salons.
- Store Safely: If you work in a humid environment, consider using silica gel packs in your storage case to absorb moisture.
Conclusion
Maintaining your hair cutting scissors is crucial for ensuring they perform optimally and last for many years. By following these maintenance tips—regular cleaning, professional sharpening, proper storage, checking tension, handling with care, and protecting from moisture—you’ll keep your tools in top shape, allowing you to deliver the best results for your clients. Remember, a well-maintained pair of scissors is not just a tool; it’s an investment in your craft! Happy cutting!
