Make Your Shears Last: Pro Care Tips to Extend Hairdressing Scissor Life
A high-quality pair of hairdressing scissors is a professional’s most important tool—and one of the most expensive. But even the best shears won’t last if they’re neglected. Regular care and proper handling can significantly extend the lifespan of your scissors, protect your investment, and improve your cutting performance.
In this guide, we’ll cover daily, weekly, and long-term maintenance strategies to keep your scissors sharp, smooth, and salon-ready for years to come.
Why Scissor Maintenance Matters
Failing to care for your scissors can result in:
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Dull or chipped blades
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Poor cutting performance
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Increased hand fatigue
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Permanent damage to the edge
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More frequent sharpening (and higher costs)
Proper care ensures you get consistent results with less effort—and keeps your clients happy.
Daily Maintenance Tips
1. Clean Your Scissors After Every Use
Wipe down blades with a soft cloth and 70% isopropyl alcohol. Hair, moisture, and product residue can cause corrosion or dull the edge over time.
2. Check for Loose Hair in the Pivot Area
Trapped hair and debris can affect the tension and cause uneven cutting. A quick inspection between clients can prevent build-up.
3. Store Safely
Always keep your scissors in a padded case or dedicated holster. Avoid tossing them on hard surfaces where the blades can get nicked or misaligned.
Weekly & Routine Care
1. Oil the Pivot Point
Add a drop of scissor oil at the pivot to maintain smooth movement and reduce friction. Do this 1–2 times per week.
2. Check and Adjust Tension
Too loose? The hair folds. Too tight? The blades wear down faster. Use the adjustment screw to ensure proper tension—your scissors should close smoothly without forcing.
3. Avoid Cutting Anything But Hair
Never use professional shears on foil, combs, or other materials. One accidental cut on the wrong surface can permanently damage the blades.
Long-Term Maintenance
1. Sharpen Professionally
Have your shears sharpened by a certified scissor sharpener every 500–800 haircuts, or when you notice tugging or resistance. Avoid DIY sharpening—it often does more harm than good.
2. Use a Backup Pair
Rotate between two pairs to reduce wear and tear. This also gives you a spare while one is out for sharpening.
3. Handle With Intention
Avoid dropping, tossing, or lending your scissors. Each pair is a precision instrument designed for your hand and cutting style.
Signs Your Scissors Need Service
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Tugging or folding hair
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Audible clicking or grinding
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Increased effort while cutting
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Visible nicks or chips on the edge
If you notice any of these, stop using the scissors until they’re cleaned, adjusted, or sharpened.
Final Thoughts
Your scissors are an extension of your hands—treat them that way. With regular cleaning, oiling, proper storage, and professional sharpening, your favorite shears can last five years or more, delivering the smooth performance you need for every cut.
