Hair Scissors Aftercare: Post-Sharpening Checklist
Freshly sharpened hair scissors deliver flawless, smooth cuts. But to maintain that sharp edge and protect your investment, you need proper aftercare. A post-sharpening routine ensures your blades stay aligned, lubricated, and damage-free for as long as possible.
Why Aftercare Is Important
Sharpening restores precision, but the process also resets your scissors’ edge. Without correct aftercare, you risk dulling blades prematurely, loosening tension, or damaging the new edge. Proper aftercare maximizes sharpness and extends intervals between sharpening sessions.
Post-Sharpening Checklist
1. Clean Residual Metal Dust
Sharpening can leave behind fine metal shavings. Use a microfiber cloth to wipe blades thoroughly before cutting hair again.
2. Oil the Pivot Point
Apply a drop of scissor oil at the screw area. This reduces friction and protects the newly sharpened edge from unnecessary strain.
3. Check Tension Settings
Sharpening may slightly alter blade alignment. Perform a tension test to ensure your hair scissors open and close smoothly without folding hair.
4. Perform a Test Cut
Use a strand of clean hair or a testing strip to confirm smoothness. Any snagging may indicate further adjustment is needed.
5. Store Safely
Place scissors in a padded case or holster immediately after sharpening. Avoid tossing them into a drawer where they could knock against other tools.
Extra Care Tips After Sharpening
- Wipe blades after every client to prevent buildup.
- Keep scissors dry to protect the refined edge from rust.
- Avoid cutting extensions, wigs, or synthetic fibers with newly sharpened scissors.
Signs of Improper Aftercare
If you notice quick dulling, squeaking, or uneven cuts shortly after sharpening, it may mean your aftercare routine needs improvement. Addressing issues early prevents costly repairs.
Final Thoughts
A sharpening service gives your hair scissors a new lease on life, but the responsibility of aftercare falls to you. By following this post-sharpening checklist, you’ll protect the blade’s edge, extend tool longevity, and maintain professional cutting performance.
