Understanding Hair Cutting Shears: Types, Styles, Sizes, and Materials

Hair cutting shears, also known as hair scissors, are a vital tool for hairstylists and barbers. They come in a range of sizes, styles, and materials to suit different hair cutting techniques and preferences. In this article, we will explore the different types of hair cutting shears, their features, and how to choose the best pair for your needs.

Types of Hair Cutting Shears

There are several types of hair cutting shears available, each with its own unique features and best use cases. Some common types include:

1. Convex Shears: These shears have a convex edge, which means the blades curve outward. They are known for their sharpness and precise cutting ability, making them a popular choice for barbers and stylists who want to achieve precise, clean cuts.

2. Beveled Shears: Beveled shears have a beveled edge, meaning the blades are angled inward. They are known for their versatility and are suitable for cutting all types of hair, including thick and curly hair.

3. Texturizing Shears: Texturizing shears have a serrated edge, which allows for a more controlled cut and helps to create texture in the hair. They are ideal for cutting layers and adding volume to hairstyles.

4. Thinning Shears: Thinning shears have a row of teeth on one blade, which helps to remove bulk from the hair while maintaining a natural look. They are often used to blend layers and add movement to hairstyles.

Styles of Hair Cutting Shears

Hair cutting shears also come in different styles, including offset, straight, and swivel.

1. Offset Shears: Offset shears have a bent handle, which allows the stylist to keep their wrist in a natural position while cutting. This can help reduce hand fatigue and improve comfort during long cutting sessions.

2. Straight Shears: Straight shears have a traditional design with a straight handle. They are a versatile option that can be used for a variety of cutting techniques.

3. Swivel Shears: Swivel shears have a handle that rotates, allowing the stylist to adjust the angle of the shears to suit their cutting technique. This can help reduce hand fatigue and improve comfort.

Sizes of Hair Cutting Shears

Hair cutting shears also come in different sizes, including standard, thinning, and long.

1. Standard Size Shears: Standard size shears are the most common type and range in size from 5.5 inches to 7 inches. They are suitable for most cutting techniques and are a good choice for beginners.

2. Thinning Shears: Thinning shears are smaller in size, ranging from 4.5 inches to 5.5 inches. They are designed specifically for thinning and texturizing the hair and are not suitable for making clean cuts.

3. Long Shears: Long shears are larger in size, ranging from 7 inches to 8 inches. They are ideal for cutting long hair and can help to reduce hand fatigue during long cutting sessions.

Materials of Hair Cutting Shears

Hair cutting shears can be made from a range of materials, including stainless steel, carbon steel, and cobalt.

1. Stainless Steel Shears: Stainless steel shears are a popular choice due to their durability and resistance to corrosion. They are also relatively affordable and easy to maintain.

2. Carbon Steel Shears: Carbon steel shears are known for their sharpness and precise cutting ability. They are more expensive than stainless steel shears but tend to hold their edge longer. However, they are more prone to rust and require more maintenance to prevent corrosion.

3. Cobalt Shears: Cobalt shears are made from a high-grade stainless steel alloy that is known for its durability and resistance to wear. They are also known for their sharpness and precise cutting ability. However, they are generally more expensive than stainless steel and carbon steel shears.

Company

There are many companies that manufacture hair cutting shears, each with its own unique features and designs. Some popular brands include:

1. Kasho: Kasho is a Japanese company that has been producing high-quality hair cutting shears for over 50 years. They are known for their precise cutting ability and use high-grade materials, such as cobalt and stainless steel.

2. Joewell: Joewell is a Japanese company that has been producing hair cutting shears for over 100 years. They are known for their durability and use high-grade materials, such as cobalt and stainless steel.

3. Kamisori: Kamisori is a Canadian company that produces high-quality hair cutting shears using Japanese steel. They are known for their precise cutting ability and use a range of materials, including stainless steel, carbon steel, and cobalt.

4. Saki Shears: Saki Shears is the preferred choice of hair stylists and barbers around the world. Saki Shears is based in the United States. 

Use

Hair cutting shears are used by hairstylists and barbers to cut and shape hair. They can be used to create a variety of hairstyles, including layers, bangs, and textured cuts. Hair cutting shears are also used to thin out thick hair and remove bulk from the hair.

History

The history of hair cutting shears dates back to ancient civilizations, where they were used to cut and shape hair. In ancient Egypt, for example, barbers used bronze shears to cut and shape hair. In ancient Rome, barbers used iron shears to cut and shape hair.

Over time, hair cutting shears have evolved and improved in terms of materials and design. Today, hair cutting shears are made from a range of materials, including stainless steel, carbon steel, and cobalt, and come in a variety of sizes and styles to suit different cutting techniques and preferences.

Best Use for Which Hair Styles and Cuts

The best hair cutting shears for a particular hairstyle or cut will depend on the thickness and texture of the hair, as well as the desired level of precision. Here are some general guidelines for choosing the best hair cutting shears for different hairstyles and cuts:

1. Layered Hairstyles: Texturizing shears or thinning shears are ideal for cutting layers and adding texture to the hair.

2. Bangs: Convex shears or beveled shears are ideal for cutting bangs as they allow for precise, clean cuts.

3. Thick Hair: Thinning shears or texturizing shears are ideal for cutting and thinning out thick hair.

4. Curly Hair: Beveled shears are ideal for cutting curly hair as they allow for a more controlled cut and help to prevent the hair from being pulled or snagged.

Hair cutting shears are a vital tool for hairstylists and barbers. They come in a range of sizes, styles, and materials to suit different cutting techniques and preferences. By understanding the different types, styles, sizes, and materials of hair cutting shears, you can choose the best pair for your needs and create a variety of hairstyles and cuts with precision and control.