Scissor Cut Vs. Hair Clipper Cut: What’s The Difference?

There are different levels to haircutting. A beginner won’t be able to offer the same level of precision and result as an expert. What separates the pros from the novices is the ability to wield scissors and hair clippers with equal precision. If you are a hairdresser, you must possess the ability to offer top-notch cuts with scissors and clippers. Because why limit your skills when you can do it all? In this article, we list the differences between a scissor cut and a hair clipper cut. By the end of this, you will have a clear idea of which situation calls for which tool.

Scissor Cut

Scissor cuts are known for the exceptional control they offer. There are different types of scissors, each with its own set of features. Generally, though, scissors are better suited to cut long hair compared to clippers.

Experienced hairdressers can wield scissors with precision to offer flawless haircuts, irrespective of the texture. Anyone who has tried cutting curly hair with clippers knows just how difficult it is. This, of course, also depends on the level of the curl.

Blending is another area where scissors are far superior to clippers. One of the reasons for this is that scissors don’t leave behind harsh lines. Blending helps create a well-groomed and professional look that enhances the face profile.

The length of the scissors plays an important role in determining the type of cut.

Short Scissors:

Ideally between 4.5” and 5.5”, short scissors are perfect for detailing around the edges, like the neckline and ears. You can remove bulk hair and give shape using short scissors, making it the go-to tool for texturising.

Medium Scissors:

Ideally between 5.5” and 6.5”, medium scissors are a must-have for every hairdresser. These versatile scissors are best-suited for layering, texturising, and cutting. If you are looking to achieve blunt cuts, medium scissors are the perfect tool for you.

Long Scissors:

Ideally between 6” and 7”, long scissors are preferred by hairdressers to achieve long, face-framing, and graduated layers. Using long scissors for medium to longer hair reduces fatigue and makes haircutting far less difficult.

Hair Clipper Cut

Hair clipper is the go-to tool for achieving quick, short, clean cuts, making them a must-have for all hairstylists. While clippers lack the flexibility of scissors, they more than make up for it in functionality and efficiency.

Here are certain situations where hair clippers are hands-down the better choice.

– If you work in a busy salon with overwhelming footfall. In such cases, every minute matters and using a clipper helps you save time without compromising quality.

-If the client asks for a close shave or buzz cut, clipping is the way to go.. Cutting hair really short is possible with scissors, sure. But it will take you way longer compared to using clippers. If the client is a fan of short, crisp haircuts, you can achieve the desired results with clippers.

-A clipper is the perfect tool to remove bulk from long hair. Once the hair reaches the desired length, you can switch to scissors to achieve finer detailing.

-If you have a customer who visits a few times a month, using a clipper is recommended to remove volume relatively quickly.

Talk To Your Client

As an experienced hairdresser, you would know better than us the difference between a scissor and a clipper cut. It is important to master the art of scissor and clipper cuts to ensure you can cater to different haircut requirements. It would reflect poorly on you and the salon if you can’t follow through on one of the client requests.

It is important to remember that it isn’t about you. As a professional hairdresser, you must always put your clients first. This is where consultations prove to be important. Explain to your client the difference between a scissor and a clipper cut. Ask them whether they prefer a soft, detail-oriented cut or a crisp, short, and quick cut. Give your professional advice while keeping the customer’s preference in mind.

Conclusion
Both scissors and hair clippers have their place in a professional salon setting. Understand the needs of the customers before making any decision. After all, it is all about client satisfaction. You cannot offer top-of-the-line salon service without the best hairdresser supplies. Zen Master Scissors is a trusted supplier of Japanese-engineered hairdresser scissors. We also supply other barber supplies in Australia and New Zealand at fair prices. Click here to explore the full collection or call 0400 077 830 to place an order today.