How to Choose the Right Hairdressing Scissors: A Guide for Stylists
Whether you’re just starting your career as a hairstylist or you’ve been cutting professionally for years, choosing the right pair of hairdressing scissors is one of the most important decisions you’ll make.
Your scissors are more than what you think, they are your everyday tool. They are with you from your first client to your last. This blog involves everything you need to know about how to create precision cuts, maintain control, and reduce hand fatigue during long sessions. With so many types, lengths, and blade options available, it can feel overwhelming to find the perfect fit.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about finding the perfect hairdressing scissors for you.
WHY THE RIGHT SCISSORS MATTER?
Be sure the scissors you choose feel comfortable and balanced in your hand. The wrong scissors can lead to uneven cuts, hand fatigue and repetitive strain injuries.
Properly chosen scissors reduce strain on your wrist, fingers, elbow and shoulder.
There’s a few things to consider when looking for a pair of hairdressing scissors such as handle design, scissor size, blade shape, blade type and material.
In this article we’re going to guide you through everything you could possibly need to know about finding the right hairdressing scissors to suit you.
TYPES OF HAIRDRESSING SCISSORS
When it comes to hairdressers and cutting their clients' hair, your scissor is a vital addition to your kit. You use it for almost every treatment, which means the right pair should feel like a natural fit, offering comfort, balance, and control with every cut.
The scissor world is confusing, but it’s essential to understand the differences between scissor types and how to know which ones are right for you.
Whether you're focused on precision lines, soft texture, or ergonomic support, here's a breakdown of the most common scissor designs and who they're best suited for.
1.Straight Scissors
Straight hairdressing scissors (also known as classic scissors) feature symmetrical handles, meaning both the thumb and finger rings are aligned at the same level. This classic design is one of the most traditional styles used in the industry.
Ideal for: Standard hair cutting
Best suited to: Blunt cuts, precision lines, scissor over comb techniques.
Shop our 2 bestselling offset scissors
2.Offset Scissors
Offset scissors feature a handle design where the thumb handle is shorter and set at an angle lower than the finger handle. This design creates a more natural hand position when cutting, reducing strain on the hand, wrist, and shoulder.
- Ideal for: Ergonomic cutting with reduced wrist strain
- Best suited to: Stylists with wrist issues or those doing long sessions
Shop our 2 bestselling offset scissors
3.Crane Offset Scissors
Crane scissors have an offset design, but a straighter shank (the part of the scissors that connects the blades to the handles) than standard Offset scissors, allowing the thumb handle to be significantly lower than the finger handle. This design encourages a more natural hand position, reducing wrist and shoulder tension to help prevent fatigue and repetitive strain injuries (RSI) over time.
- Ideal for: Consistent control, elevation, and long cutting sessions.
- Best suited to: Stylist who are cutting hair full-time or doing lots of layered styles and detailed shaping.
Shop our 2 bestselling Swivel thumb scissors
4.Swivel Thumb Scissors
Swivel thumb scissors feature a thumb ring that rotates independently from the rest of the handle. This allows your thumb to move freely in multiple directions, offering greater range of motion and flexibility during cutting. Their ergonomic design reduces strain and pressure over long sessions.
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- Ideal for: Experienced, health-conscious stylists who want to cut with precision and reduce physical strain.
- Best suited to: stylists with carpal tunnel syndrome, repetitive strain injuries (RSI), tendonitis or joint stiffness.
Shop our 2 bestselling Swivel thumb scissors
5.Thinning Scissors
Thinning scissors (also known as texturising scissors) have one or both blades notched like a comb, allowing you to cut only a portion of the hair with each snip.
- Ideal for: Remove bulk, soften lines and blend layers.
- Best suited to: Softening edges and creating movement
Shop our 2 bestselling Thinning scissors
6.Left-handed Scissors
- Specifically engineered for left-handed stylists for ultimate comfort and control.
Shop our 2 bestselling left-handed scissors
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT SCISSOR LENGTH
With so many lengths available, how do you know which scissor is right for you? The length of your scissors affects everything from control and precision to speed and technique. Whether you're detailing around the fringe or executing a flawless scissor-over-comb blend, choosing the right size is key to both comfort and performance.
Short scissors (4.5" – 5") offer greater control for intricate work and are ideal for: Precision cutting, Detailing around the ears, fringe, and neckline.
Medium scissors (5.5" – 6") are the most versatile length, suitable for both precision and blunt cutting, commonly used by most stylists for everyday cuts.
Long scissors (6.5" – 7") are great for scissor-over-comb techniques and cutting large sections cleanly. Barbers often prefer longer scissors for blending and tapering
CHOOSING THE RIGHT BLADE TYPE
There’s so many blade options, here's everything you need to know about choosing the right blade type
Understanding the different blade types and their uses is essential. The right blade can elevate your cuts and make your life so much easier. Here's everything you need to know before you invest in your everyday tool:
SERRATED BLADES
With serrated blades, one or both blades have tiny grooves or teeth along the cutting edge. These teeth grip the hair, preventing it from slipping as you cut.
Pros
- Excellent control, great for new stylists
- Prevents hair from sliding
- Lower risk of pushing or folding hair
Cons
- Not suitable for slicing or slide cutting — the blade will catch or tug
- Serrated edges cannot be re-sharpened in the same way as smooth edges
Common Use
- Barbers and beginners often favour these for their grip and reliability
SLICE CUTTING BLADES
Slice cutting blades are Ultra-sharp, smooth convex blades, like a razor edge. They’re designed for smooth, gliding cuts, ideal for advanced techniques.
Pros
- Super sharp, clean cuts with minimal resistance
- Allows advanced techniques and seamless movement through the hair
- High-end feel and finish
Cons
- Requires more skill and control — easier to make mistakes
- Dulls faster than micro-serrated edges
- Needs professional sharpening to maintain the edge
Common Use
- Preferred by experienced stylists and those doing creative, precision work
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT BLADE SHAPE
There are several types of blades used in professional hairdressing scissors, each designed for specific techniques and levels of control.
Convex Blades
Convex Blades feature a smooth, curved outer edge and an extremely sharp inner edge making them ideal for precision work. Convex blades are more fragile and expensive therefore require regular professional sharpening to maintain edge.
Best For: Experienced stylists. Advanced techniques like slide cutting, point cutting, blunt cutting, and texturising.
Bevelled Edge Blades
Beveled edge blades often referred to as blades, have a slight angle on the blade edge (not rounded like convex). They’re durable, long lasting and usually less expensive. Beveled edge scissors may have a micro-serrated to help grip hair, making them not suitable for slice cutting (as they can tug or pull)
Best For: Stylists/barbers who perform simply and basic cut work or beginners.
Material
- Japanese stainless steel: Lightweight, sharp and holds the edge well (often Convex Blades)
- German Steel: More durable and often comes with a micro-serrated edge (often bevelled edge blades)
Tension Adjustment
A tension screw is the small mechanism at the center of the scissors where the blades are joined, which allows you to adjust the tightness or looseness of the blades as they open and close.
Look for a scissor with a tension screw so you can fine-tune how tightly the blades meet.
Why does tension matter?
Too tight: The blades will wear down faster and tire your hand.
Too loose: The hair bends or pushes instead of cutting cleanly.
Just right: Smooth, controlled motion and clean cuts.
HOW TO TEST FOR THE PERFECT SCISSOR TENSION 'THE DROP TEST'
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:
Even the highest-quality scissors won’t deliver clean, effortless cuts if the tension isn’t set correctly. If it’s too loose, hair can bend or slip, if it’s too tight, it can strain your hands.
That’s why the Drop Test is so useful, it’s a quick and easy way to make sure your scissor tension is just right before you start cutting.
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:
1. Hold the scissors vertically
Hold one handle so the scissors point straight up and down.
One blade should be pointing upward; the other blade should hang freely.
2. Lift the thumb blade to about 90 degrees
(fully open the scissors).
3. Let go of the thumb blade
Allow it to fall naturally, without pushing or forcing it.
4. Watch where it stops
Ideal tension: The blade should close about halfway before stopping (roughly 45 degrees).
Too loose: If the blade slams shut, the tension is too loose.
Too tight: If the blade barely moves, it’s too tight.
Check out this video to see for yourselves!...
WHY DOES THE COST OF HAIRDRESSING SCISSORS VARY SO MUCH?
When investing in hairdressing scissors, the price usually shows the difference in quality, comfort, and how well they work.
Different price points mean different levels of materials and design, which affect how long they last and how they feel.
Here’s a quick guide to what you get at each price range:
Budget Range: Under £100
· Entry level; expect a limited lifespan.
Mid Range: £100–£300
· Professional quality; balance of value and durability.
Premium Range: £300+
· A long-term investment, designed for peak performance and reliability.
HOW TO MAINTAIN YOUR SCISSORS?
Well-maintained scissors not only cut better but also last longer and help prevent hand strain. Keeping them sharp and clean means smoother cuts and a longer life for your tools, it’s in your best interest to look after them.
Here’s what we recommend to do to keep your scissors in good shape:
1. Clean After Every Use
- Wipe the blades with a soft, dry cloth or tissue after each haircut.
- For deeper cleaning, use a disinfectant-approved spray or alcohol wipe, and avoid soaking.
- Be sure to dry thoroughly to prevent rust or corrosion.
2. Oil Regularly
- Apply a drop of scissor oil at the tension screw (where the blades meet) every few days or after thorough cleaning.
- Open and close the scissors several times to distribute the oil, and wipe any access with a soft, dry cloth.
- Helps prevent friction, corrosion, and uneven wear.
3. Store Properly
- Always place your scissors in a protective case or holster when not in use.
- Avoid tossing them into drawers or trays with other tools — blades can get damaged or dulled.
4. Sharpen Professionally When Needed
- Don’t wait until your scissors are pulling or folding hair.
Pro Tip: Always use a certified scissor sharpening service, especially for high-end convex or Japanese-style blades, improper sharpening can permanently damage them.
Signs Your Scissors Need Sharpening:
- Hair pushes or bends instead of cutting cleanly
- You feel resistance or pulling
- Scissors start making a scraping or crunching sound
- You need more pressure to make a cut
Bonus Tips:
- Never cut anything other than hair — no foil, plastic, or even paper.
- Perform regular tension checks to maintain blade alignment and smooth motion.
- Have a backup pair so your main scissors aren’t overused or unavailable during sharpening.
HOW TO BREAK IN NEW SCISSORS?
Brand new scissors often feel a bit stiff or tight at first, which is completely normal. This “break-in” period allows the blades to settle and work smoothly together. To break in your scissors properly, start by using them gently on less demanding cuts, and avoid heavy or thick sections initially.
Tips to break them in during the first few weeks:
· Start by using them gently on less demanding cuts, and avoid heavy or thick sections initially.
· Open and close the scissors slowly and fully to help the blades align and ease up.
· Clean and oil your scissors regularly to reduce friction and protect the blades.
After a few weeks of regular, careful use, your scissors will feel much smoother, sharper, and more comfortable to use.
FAQS
1.How often should I sharpen my scissors?
It’s dependent on the quality of the blade. If you notice pulling, bending, or extra pressure is needed, it’s time to sharpen sooner. It’s best to have scissors professionally sharpened to avoid damaging the blades. High-quality quality more expensive scissors, we recommend they should be sent back to the manufacturer for their sharpening service.
2. How to tell if scissors are right for left-handed stylists?
Left handed scissors have reversed blades and handles designed for the left hand, providing better control and cutting performance compared to right-handed scissors.
3. Can I adjust the tension without professional help?
Yes. Most scissors have a tension screw that can be adjusted manually. Use the "Drop Test" regularly to check it’s just right.
4. Is it worth investing in more than one pair?
Yes. Having different scissors for different techniques (e.g., thinning, detailing, bulk removal) extends the life of each pair and improves your results.
5. How often should I sharpen my hairdressing scissors?
On average, every 3–6 months, depending on the frequency of use and hair type. If you notice pulling, bending, or crunching, it's time to sharpen.
