Hair-cutting scissors versus regular scissors: what’s the difference?
If you’ve ever wondered whether using regular scissors to cut your hair is okay, the short answer is no. Hair-cutting scissors and regular scissors differ in a number of ways, including their purpose, design, and materials. Here’s everything you need to know about the difference between hair-cutting scissors and regular scissors.
The purpose of hair-cutting scissors
Hair-cutting scissors, also known as barber scissors or hairdressing shears, are specialized tools used to cut hair. They are designed to produce clean, precise cuts and ensure control and accuracy while cutting. Most hair-cutting scissors are made of a high-quality steel alloy that can withstand frequent use and sharpening. They feature two sets of blades that are sharpened to a fine point to ensure they can easily slide through hair without tugging or pulling.
The design of hair-cutting scissors
The design of hair-cutting scissors is distinct from that of regular scissors. Hair-cutting scissors usually have longer, thinner blades that taper toward the tip to make it easier to work with small sections of hair. They also have a longer handle that allows hairdressers to control the scissors with their whole hand instead of just their fingertips. The longer handle also facilitates a comfortable grip that reduces hand fatigue and prevents cramps or injury. Hair-cutting scissors may also have various serrated edges or teeth, which work best for specific hair types.
The difference in materials
As mentioned earlier, hair-cutting scissors are typically made of high-quality steel alloys, with the most popular options being 440C, ATS-314, and VG-10. These alloys offer a balance between hardness and durability, making them resistant to chipping and wear over time. They can also be sharpened repeatedly without losing their cutting power or becoming damaged. Regular scissors, on the other hand, are typically made of stainless steel or other low-grade materials that aren’t suitable for cutting hair.
Why you shouldn’t use regular scissors to cut your hair
Using regular scissors to cut hair isn’t recommended, as it can cause uneven, jagged haircuts and damage to the hair. Regular scissors aren’t designed to cut through hair, so using them can cause the hair to become frayed or split, leading to unnecessary hair loss or damaged ends. Moreover, regular scissors can quickly become dull after only a few uses or become damaged when used to cut hair, which can make them useless for other tasks. By investing in high-quality hair-cutting scissors, you can ensure a precise, beautiful haircut every time.
