The perfect scissors for every stylist

As a hairdresser, you'll know that your scissors are likely to be the most important piece of kit you'll invest in. However, when it comes to choosing the right pair, you'll also know that finding the right type for your specific needs isn't always an easy task.

Like any product you use in the salon, tailoring your tools to the hair type in question is the best way to guarantee a perfect finish. Whether you work with men's hair, are particularly passionate about precision cutting, or regularly deal with hard-to-handle curls, finding the right pair of scissors for the job can make life a lot easier.

But whichever pair (or pairs) you choose, don't forget to invest in the best your budget allows.

Precision Cutting

"The scissors used for this shape are conventional straight 5" blades. These are ideal for working with classic techniques on damp hair, and are equally suited to fine detailing and refining on dry hair. To achieve this look, the shape was initially built using classic abc techniques: a line cut through the edge, graduation to build internal volume and layering to provide control of the internal lengths. Once these techniques have been completed, cross checked and dried, each section is then lifted out in the opposite direction to which it was originally cut, and the ends 'pointed' into, using the tips of the scissors. This technique frees the ends of the hair, removing weight from the internal lengths and provides greater styling potential."

Mark Hayes, Sassoon international creative director

 

Scissor suggestions for precision cuts



D MacIntyre & Son, DM/S500, £54.95+VAT

These scissors have 5" hollow ground, razor-edged blades for a precision cut. The offset grip and crane angled finger rings allow for a comfortable, relaxed working stance.

 

GE Betterton & Co, Pro Classic Offset, RRP £200

Made from supreme stainless alloy, this scissor maintains its pointed tips, making it ideal for precision cutting. For those with a nickel allergy, these scissors also contain less than 0.6% nickel.

Men's Hair

"Scissors are available in many sizes, but I find a 6-7" is best for performing a scissor-over-comb technique effectively. This technique featured heavily in this haircut, and is generally used when the hair needs to be cut shorter than can comfortably fit between your fingers. A longer blade will help aid a smoother cut along the comb, and by reducing movement up the comb with the scissor, will remove the tendency of creating steps. A 6" scissor will give versatility to cut conventional sections, making it the most suitable type for cutting men's hair."

Chris Foster, Gentleman's Tonic, London

 

Scissor suggestions for men's hair

RandRocket, Jaguar Silver Ice, £50

A strong blade with micro serrations makes this the ideal option for scissor-over-comb cutting. Around since the 70s, these scissors remain a favourite with barbers today.

Glamtech, Varon, £105+VAT

The 6" Japanese steel Varon has a convex razor edge, which is perfect for slice-cutting and chopping. The model also features larger finger holes, making them

ideal for male stylists.

Afro Hair

"This image was created by using a hair-up technique, but to achieve the look with cutting, I would use 6" offset non-serrated scissors. I use offset scissors purely for my own comfort, as it allows me flexibility and movement. I use non-serrated scissors on all hair types, as I feel I get a clean, precise finish. To get this look, create a horseshoe, then cut a vertical layer throughout the back and sides, with a horizontal layer cut throughout the top. Once the foundation of the haircut is in place, use scissor over comb and a freehand technique to achieve the precision and balance."

Michelle Thompson, Francesco Group Advanced Academy, Stafford, Staffordshire

Scissor suggestions for Afro hair

Excellent Edges, KV155, £235+VAT

One of the most popular scissors for comfort, the sword blade on this model ensures powerful cutting all the way to the blade tips.

Ouch, Big Daddy, £105

With a hardness rating of 59-61 HRC, the Hitachi stainless steel, sword-backed blades on

these ergonomic scissors are ideal for working with thick or coarse hair.

Curly Hair

"This look was achieved by cutting a short baseline in to the nape. I club-cut graduated layers from the base upwards, to create a rounded effect. Taking sections from the top, I cut a convex layer to blend the top and sides. I used a Japanese hand-sharpened 5.5" scissor with a non-serrated edge. Curly hair needs to have a clean cut, otherwise it can go frizzy towards the ends - particularly if it is thinned too much. Personally, I would always recommend a Japanese blade."

Melenie Tudor, En Route Hair & Beauty, Wakefield

 

Scissor suggestions for curly hair

Leader International, Pininfarina 8000-575, £420, +VAT

Beautiful design and precision engineering make these luxury scissors an investment buy.

Asahi, Solo, £199

Perfect for freehand-cutting, the Solo scissors allow curly hair to rest through the holes in the

blade so you can cut and shape easily,

without the need for a comb. 

Thick Hair

"I used conventional scissors to achieve this look, but I used both slicing and point-cutting techniques to achieve the feathered effect. You can get thinning scissors for thick hair, but personally I don't like using them. It's really important to take time to choose the right pair of scissors as they come in so many different designs, and several lengths of blades. As they're used in a wide range of techniques, from club-cutting to slicing and texturising, it's important that they feel comfortable."

Anne Veck

Scissor suggestions for thick hair

Hair Tools, Purple Sparkle Thinner, £29.95

This affordable 5.75" offset thinner has titanium coated blades with 28 teeth, and comes in a stylish purple shade with cool rhinestone inlay.

Scissorlab, Togiya Cuoricini 14, £470+VAT

This high-performance texturising scissor is ideal for thick hair. Made in Japan using the finest materials, it features 14 chunky teeth with an offset camel handle and fixed finger.

Visit the HJi Hair directory for a comprehensive guide to all the scissor suppliers and manufacturers.