How do you know when your hairdressing scissors need sharpening? 

For most hairdressers and barbers, your scissors are your most important piece of kit. But even the best sidekicks need a little TLC from time to time. When they’re sharp, cutting feels smooth and controlled. When they’re not, your work can suffer.

If your trusty scissors have been feeling a little… off lately, they might be trying to tell you something. At Mr Knife Guy, we know what a sharp pair of scissors should feel like, and more importantly, what they shouldn’t feel like. So here are a few telltale signs that your scissors are due for a professional sharpening—because dull scissors and great hair don’t mix.

  1. You’re Finding Cutting Tricky

This is an obvious one; if your scissors are no longer gliding through hair like butter and instead feel more like they’re chewing through it, it’s a red flag. Tugging, pulling, folding, snagging, or needing to go over the same section twice? That’s not your technique – it’s your scissors begging for a sharpen.

Not only does a dull blade slow you down, but it’s also not great for the hair. Blunt scissors can cause split ends and uneven textures, and of course this reflects back onto you as a stylist. Keep your scissors sharp is the key to providing the best experience for your clients.

  1. They’re Looking a Little Rough Around the Edges

Grab your scissors and give them a little once-over. Do you see any nicks, dents, or dull edges? If you can spot wear and tear with the naked eye, chances are your scissors are well past their sharpening date.

A bit of visible damage might not seem like a big deal, but it messes with your precision and could end up damaging the hair. It sounds a bit dramatic, but it’s true. Regular check-ins with your blades is essential, and getting your scissors sharpened regularly allows them – and you – to continue performing at your best.

  1. Your Hands Are Tired… Like, All the Time

If you’re finding yourself finishing the day with sore fingers or aching wrists, your scissors may well be the culprit. Dull blades require more effort as more force is required to cut through the hair, and this can put unnecessary strain on your hands and wrists.

Using sharp scissors makes cutting feel effortless. When your scissors aren’t sharp, not only does it affect your work, but it can also lead to long-term discomfort and injury.

  1. There’s a Change in Sound or Feel

Have you noticed a subtle grinding sound while you’re cutting? Or are your blades resisting or feeling a bit ‘heavy’? That’s your scissors sending out a wee SOS, begging for a tune-up. The change might be minor, but any deviation from the norm is a sign that they might need some love and attention.

You know how your tools are supposed to feel. When they start acting up, don’t ignore it.

  1. You Can’t Remember When Your Scissors Were Last Sharpened

If you’re racking your brain and still drawing a blank on the last time your scissors got a proper sharpen, that’s probably your answer right there.

How often your particular pair of scissors will need sharpening really depends – on how many cuts you’re doing, what kind of hair you’re working with, and how well you’re looking after them day to day. (Are they being cleaned, oiled, and stored properly, or are they rolling around loose in a drawer with some bobby pins and a rogue hair clip?)

The thing is, scissors usually go dull gradually. Unless you’ve dropped them, you probably won’t notice a sudden change in your scissors’ performance. Lots of the signs that your scissors need sharpening happen gradually and before you know it, you’ve adjusted your technique to compensate without even realising it.

So, if your blades feel fine but not fabulous, and it’s been a while since their last sharpening – then yep, it’s probably time to book us in for a sharpen.

Give us a ring and we’ll come out to you. No faffing with postage or having to wait – just the very best version of your scissors straight back into your hands. If you’d like to learn more about our sharpening process, you’ll find that on our Scissor Sharpening page, here. And if you’re read to book your appointment, please give us a quick ring on 01706 489481.