The choice between hair clippers and scissors is one of the most crucial decisions a barber or hairdresser must make. Both tools are essential for achieving successful haircuts, and each has its own advantages. Therefore, it is essential to understand the differences between them and how to decide which one to use in each situation.
Hair Clippers: Efficiency and precision in the trade
Hair clippers have become an essential tool in our salons, and for good reason. Here are some key advantages of choosing clippers for your daily work:
Speed
Hair clippers are known for their speed. We know that you often face tight schedules and impatient clients, and clippers can be your best ally for achieving quick and efficient cuts without sacrificing quality.
Consistency
For many haircut styles that require uniform length, such as military cuts or fades, hair clippers provide consistency that is hard to achieve with other tools. Your clients will notice the precision in every cut.
Customized Texture
If you want to add texture to the hair or create gradient effects, clippers are your ideal tool. With the right blades, you can achieve those modern styles that clients demand.
Curly hairstyle with mid-skin fade and line
OBJECTIVES
- Analyse natural hair movement and behaviour.
- Combine various male hairdressing and barbering techniques.
- Use a variety of hairdressing tools.
- Work with texturising techniques.
TARGET AUDIENCE
- Intermediate to advanced.
TECHNICAL SKILLS
- Hairline shaping.
- Clipper work – High Fade.
- Detailing line work with small clipper & cut throat.
- Styling tips.
Scissors: The Elegance of Precision
Scissors are a timeless classic in our trade that never goes out of style. Here are some advantages of choosing scissors:
Precision and Artistry
Scissors allow for precise and artistic control over the hair. They are ideal for detailed cuts, well-defined layers, and customized styles that showcase your skill and creativity.
Versatility
Unlike hair clippers, scissors adapt to a variety of cutting techniques, making them versatile for a wide range of hair styles and textures. Your skill in handling scissors is a hallmark of your expertise.
Mid Length multi layered haircut
OBJECTIVES
- Successfully map out and section the haircut.
- Create shape and structure in the haircut.
- Analyse natural hair movement and behaviour.
- Combine various male hairdressing and barbering techniques.
TARGET AUDIENCE
- Starter to intermediate.
TECHNICAL SKILLS
- Layering & graduation techniques.
- Creative thinking.
- Hairline shaping.
- Styling tips.
Which One to Choose?
The choice between scissors and hair clippers will depend on both the technique and skill as well as the personal preferences of the hairdresser or the client. Nowadays, it’s common to combine both methods, using hair clippers for larger sections and scissors for detailing and fine finishing. This technique can be the best option for many styles as it combines the speed of clippers with the precision of scissors. It also allows the hairdresser to choose the best technique based on the client’s hair type and desired outcome.
The choice largely depends on what you want to achieve. If you’re looking for speed and ease of use, hair clippers may be the best choice for you. If you want the precision and flexibility that only scissors can provide, then it’s worth the investment. Whatever your choice, make sure to master the art of using each tool so you can create effective and attractive styles for your clients.
At Hair in Motion, we are committed to providing you with valuable information and practical tips to help you perfect your skills as a hairdresser. If you want to learn more about modern men’s cuts or other styles, continue exploring our tutorials. We are here to support you in your quest for excellence in the world of hairdressing and barbering.