What's the best style shear for me?

When I talk about shears with stylists, I often hear them say that they purchase shears based on how they feel in their hands. And that's the extent of their knowledge of the shear. But there's so much more that should go into your purchasing decision to ensure the best results for you! Your shears are the lifeblood of your business and the single most important tool you own as a professional stylist. After all, you need the best tools to create the best product. Read on for some tips to keep in mind next time you're shopping for shears!

THE HANDLE. There are three styles of handle. The traditional opposing grip is where the finger and thumb-hole are lined up. This is ergonomically the worse design because it forces you to raise your elbow when working. This can cause all kinds of physical problems, including carpal tunnel, rotator cuff trouble, and shoulder and neck pain because it forces you to work in an unnatural position. The offset handle is a better option because it allows the elbow to fall closer to a natural state, however it still does not promote a 100% natural position and therefore can still lead to physical strain. The newest handle design is called the crane, which is basically offset and slightly twisted. This is ergonomically the best design and will help prevent physical injury. It is fast becoming the most popular style for obvious reasons.

THE BLADE. There are two kinds of blades - beveled and convex. Beveled is more traditional. The convex blade has a curved outer face that creates a sharper angle for smoother, longer lasting cuts. If you are into slide cutting, convex blades are the way to go.

THE STEEL. There are many different types of stainless steel use to make shears, the biggest difference being the hardness. 420 Steel is the lowest end steel used in making shears. 440C Steel is the industry standard for mid to higher end shears. It is just hard enough to be strong and last a long time, while being soft enough to allow dry and slide cutting (which would not work well if the steel was too hard). Many brand name shears are made from 440C Steel. 440C Steel with cobalt is a step up from 440C. The cobalt added to the steel makes it slightly harder, giving it additional durability and a longer edge life. Titanium can also be an additive in the steel for strength, but it can also be used as a coating over the top of the shears strictly for appearance.

THE LENGTH. Most stylists know what length they prefer, but there is something of a science to it. Shorter shears are better for detail work, cutting between fingers, and precision cuts. Longer shears let you cut more, faster, so are better for long hair cutting, but they will also give great results when using scissor over comb techniques or cutting on skin.

Blue Sky Beauty carries an array of shears to meet everyones specific needs. Visit our interactive stylist lab at 275 Marcus Blvd in Hauppauge to try a few out! Bring a friend who needs a trim! If you have no friends don't worry, we have a mannequin so you can try them out before buying. If you aren't close by, you can explore some of our shears on our website at www.blueskybeauty.com. Keep an eye out for our next blog, which will be about maintaining shears.

Stay beautiful,

Larry Drew

Blue Sky Beauty