How to Clean Hair Scissors
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To maintain the high performance of your scissors, it’s crucial to follow proper care and maintenance steps. Here’s a simple guide to help you keep your scissors sharp and in optimal condition for longer.
Step 1: Clean with Alcohol-Based Cleaning Liquid
- Why it’s important: Hair products often leave invisible residues, like silicone, on the blades, which can reduce cutting performance and dull the blades faster.
- Benefits: Alcohol-based cleaners effectively remove this residue, cleaning and sanitising the blades.
- How to use: Spray the cleaner onto the blades and carefully wipe with a cloth or paper towel. Avoid using Barbicide, as it may cause corrosion.
Step 2: Use a Leather Chamois
- Why: After cleaning, using a leather chamois helps polish and sharpen the cutting edge.
- How to use: Open the scissors to 9 o'clock (right-handed) or 3 o'clock (left-handed). Carefully strop the inside and outside of the blades against the chamois 5-6 times.
Step 3: Oil Your Scissors Weekly
- Why: Oiling helps maintain a clean tension system, removes build-up, and keeps the blades smoothly lubricated.
- How to apply: Open the scissors fully and apply a small amount of oil between the blades near the screw area.
Step 4: Set the Correct Tension
- Why it’s critical: Proper tension ensures smooth cutting and prevents hand strain, which could lead to injuries like RSI or tendonitis.
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How to check and adjust:
- Hold the scissors vertically by the thumb ring.
- Open the blades about 35-45 degrees, then release.
- If the blades close completely, the tension is too loose. Tighten it slightly. If they barely move, loosen the tension.
Effects of Incorrect Tension
- Too tight: Blades grind against each other, dulling them faster and causing hand strain.
- Too loose: The scissors may fold hair instead of cutting, leading to inefficient performance and added hand pressure.
By following these steps, your scissors will stay sharp, smooth, and ready for action.