Taking Care of Hair-Cutting Scissors
Investing in a good pair of hair-cutting scissors can make a huge difference in the quality of haircuts, but to ensure that they are performing their best, it is important to take care of them properly. Neglecting these tools, such as not cleaning or sharpening them, can lead to damaged hair or even injury to clients. Here are some tips for maintaining your hair-cutting scissors.
Cleanliness is Key
The first and most important step in maintaining hair-cutting scissors is making sure they are clean. After each use, wipe the blades down with a soft cloth or disinfectant wipe to remove any hair or product buildup. It is also recommended to use a tiny brush to clean around the screw and the blades. This will help to prevent any bacteria or germs from passing between clients. Never allow your scissors to stand in any liquid, especially disinfectant. It can cause damage to the blades and screw alignment.
Sharpening Your Scissors
Over time, hair-cutting scissors will begin to dull, making it harder to create clean and precise cuts. This can also cause damage to the hair by leaving it frayed or split. To keep scissors functioning their best, they should be sharpened regularly. It is a professional hair salon standard to sharpen scissors every six months, but depending on your usage you can sharpen them yearly as well. For a quality sharpening service, it is best to send your scissors to a professional who specializes in this service.
Oil Your Scissors Regularly
To keep your hair-cutting scissors functioning with smooth precision, it is important to keep them lubricated to minimize friction between the blades. Oiling the scissors regularly will also help to prevent rusting, which can cause damage over time. Use a mineral oil or lubricating oil specially made for scissors. Apply only few amount of oil on the blade then wipe off any excess oil, and voila! You have scissors that work effortlessly.
Store your Scissors Properly
Another essential aspect of maintaining hair-cutting scissors is proper storage. After each use, it is recommended to store your scissors securely in a case or cover, typically called a scissor pouch. This helps to protect the blades from damage and contamination when not in use, ensuring they are ready to use for the next client. It also prolongs the lifespan of the scissors.
Handle Your Scissors with Care
Lastly, handling your scissors carefully during use is a key factor in maintaining their longevity. Do not drop, throw or use them for other purposes. This can break or damage the blades, and cause nicking or other problems. Always use scissors only for the intended use (i.e. don’t use them to cut paper or other materials), and never let clients handle your scissors.
