Recent searches
No recent searches yet
Popular Categories
Something went wrong. Please try again.
Right, you've invested in proper Japanese scissors. Now let's make sure they last. A few minutes of care each day saves hundreds in repairs and keeps your scissors cutting like butter for years.
That's it! Do this daily and your scissors will thank you.
Product buildup is the silent killer of scissors. Here's how to clean them properly:
Never soak scissors in water or cleaning solution!
Think of oil as vitamins for your scissors. Here's the proper technique:
How often? Daily for busy stylists, weekly for light use. More in winter when heating dries the air.
Proper tension is crucial. Too loose and hair folds. Too tight and you'll get RSI. Here's how to check:
If it drops all the way = too loose. If it barely moves = too tight.
Adjusting: Use the tension key or coin. Quarter turns only - small adjustments make big differences.
Once a month, give your scissors a proper MOT:
Spot a problem? Don't wait - get them serviced before it gets worse.
Pro tip: Label your scissors if working in a busy salon. Good scissors have a habit of walking off!
Mobile stylist? Here's how to protect your scissors on the go:
Even the best scissors need sharpening eventually. Watch for these signs:
Frequency: Every 500-700 haircuts for quality scissors. That's 3-12 months depending on your workload.
Not all sharpeners are created equal. Japanese scissors need special care:
UK sharpening costs: £25-40 for quality service. Cheap sharpening ruins expensive scissors!
Causes: Dull edge, loose tension, blade misalignment
Fix: Check tension first, clean thoroughly, then test. If still not cutting, needs professional sharpening.
Causes: Moisture exposure, insufficient oiling, chemical damage
Fix: Light surface rust - gentle polish with fine steel wool and oil. Deep rust - professional restoration needed.
Causes: Debris in pivot, needs oil, tension too tight
Fix: Deep clean pivot area, oil thoroughly, adjust tension. Still stiff? May need professional service.
Causes: Metal-on-metal contact, damaged ride line, debris
Fix: Stop using immediately! This causes permanent damage. Get professional service ASAP.
Japanese scissors aren't just sharp - they're precision instruments. Here's what makes their care different:
Japanese scissors use a convex (curved) edge that's incredibly sharp but more delicate than German beveled edges:
Japanese steel (VG10, ATS314, etc.) holds an edge longer but needs specific care:
Keep these items in your station or kit bag:
No! WD-40 is a degreaser, not a lubricant. It'll strip protective oils and attract dirt. Use proper scissor oil, clipper oil, or light machine oil only.
Quick wipe after each client, thorough clean daily. Deep clean weekly. Think of it like washing your hands - the more you do it, the healthier your scissors stay.
Not necessarily, but check immediately for: bent tips, blade alignment, smooth operation. Even if they seem fine, get them checked professionally. Internal damage isn't always visible.
Please don't try! Japanese convex edges require specialized equipment and years of training. DIY sharpening turns £500 scissors into expensive paperweights. Leave it to the pros.
Remember: 2 minutes of daily care saves hundreds in repairs and replacements. Your scissors are your livelihood - treat them with respect and they'll serve you for years.
Want this guide handy? Download our PDF care guide to keep at your station.