Choosing from over two hundred different types of scissors from Germany, Italy, Korea, Japan and Australia is indeed a difficult decision. Many years ago scissors started in length at six inches (15.5cm) and went up to eight and a half inches(21.5cm). Later, scissors as small as three and half inches (9cm) could be obtained.

Haidressers today are actually working up to three times as hard as they were fifteen years ago-in regard to cutting. How frequently do you hear colleagues complaining of repititive strain injury.  Shorter scissors have led to taking a greater number of cuts per head of hair.  Most haidressers blow wave their clients hair which means they are standing with their arms and shoulders raised for long periods of time. In fact, according to research published in Occupational Medicine (2011) hairdressers report significantly higher levels of musculoskeletal problems, including work-related shoulder pain and work-related wrist and hand pain. Simply Organic report similar findings that hair stylists are prone to developing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (a painful ailment of the nerves and muscles in the hand) as they are frequently using their hands.

The point being made is simple, perhaps it is time to seriously consider the length of scissor to use. During the mid nineties the most popular scissor lengths were five(12.6cm) to six inch(15.5cm) scissors. A greater number of offset handles scissors were sold because they allowed the thumb and fingers to sit in a more natural position. One of the major scissor manufacturers released a scissor with a movable or flexible thumb area which greatly reduced stress to the thumb and hand.

Scissors need to feel comfortable in your hand. Sometimes the fitting of thumb and finger inserts as well as a finger rest can customise the scissor to your hand. Make sure that your thumb does not slide through the thumb hole. To find your ideal size, place a pair of scissors on the palm of your hand with the finger hole touching the base of your thumb, the tip of the blade should be in the last section of your middle finger. Many hair stylists have several pairs of scissors for doing different kinds of hair cutting job. If you’re new to hairdressing or barbering, don’t spend lots of money on your first scissors as you’ll want to upgrade them fairly quickly as your style and skill develop.

Another question I am frequently asked is how often will my scissors last before they need sharpening. This depends entirely on how much they are used, what type of cutting you do, how you look after them and what type of blade you are using. Basically all scissors should be serviced at least every year although many people have theirs checked over every 3-6 months.

Rf: Occupational Medicine, Volume 61, Issue 5, 1 August 2011, Pages 328–334