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To ensure optimal performance and longevity of your shears, proper care and maintenance are essential. In this blog post, we will share expert tips on how to clean, oil, and store your shears correctly. We will also discuss the importance of regular sharpening and provide guidance on finding reputable sharpening services. By implementing these maintenance practices, stylists can extend the lifespan of their shears and maintain their cutting precision.

Cleaning: Maintaining clean shears is essential for optimal performance and hygiene. To clean your shears thoroughly, remove any hair, product buildup, or debris that may accumulate between the blades or in the pivot area. Regularly cleaning your shears helps ensure a smooth cutting action and creates a sanitary environment for both you and your clients.

Oiling: Proper lubrication is crucial for the smooth movement of your shears. Apply oil regularly to reduce friction and prevent rust. By lubricating the pivot area and the blades of your shears, you can maintain their cutting efficiency and extend their lifespan. We recommend using high-quality shear oils that are suitable for different types of shears.

Storage: Proper storage of your shears is vital for protecting them from damage and preserving their sharpness, especially the delicate tips. When your shears are not in use, it’s crucial to store them safely and appropriately. We highly recommend using protective cases or sheathes to prevent any accidental harm to the blades or other components of the shears.

It’s important to note that the common practice of using a glass jar with disinfectant should be avoided. Soaking your shears for an extended period can potentially damage them, and the repetitive impact of the tips against the bottom of the jar can cause significant tip damage. If you need to disinfect your shears, we suggest doing so for only a few minutes and then placing them on a soft surface to dry and rest.

By following these storage recommendations, you can ensure that your shears remain in optimal condition, allowing you to deliver precise and professional results with every cut.

Regular Sharpening: Regular sharpening is crucial to maintain the cutting edge of your shears. Look out for signs that indicate it’s time for sharpening, such as decreased cutting performance or increased hair-pulling. We recommend seeking professional sharpening services or using techniques suitable for your shears if you prefer to sharpen them yourself. Our Above Edge Sharpening service ensures optimal performance for your shears by following 3 simple steps.

Troubleshooting:

Sometimes, you may encounter issues with your shears, such as misalignment, blade damage, or tension problems. We will provide troubleshooting tips to help you address common issues. However, in cases where the problems persist or require technical expertise, it may be necessary to seek our professional assistance for repairs.

By following these maintenance tips, you can ensure that your shears perform at their best, providing you with precise and effortless cutting experiences. Proper care and maintenance not only protect your investment but also contribute to your overall success as a stylist.

Choosing the right hairstyle that suits your face shape can make a huge difference in your appearance. Whether you have a round, square, oval, heart, or diamond-shaped face, there’s a hairstyle that will enhance your natural features and make you look your best. As a stylist, understanding the best hairstyles for different face shapes is crucial in providing your clients with a personalized and flattering haircut. In this blog post, we will explore the top 5 hairstyles for different face shapes and how stylists can use hair cutting shears to create these styles.

Round face shape
A round face shape is characterized by a wide forehead, full cheeks, and a rounded chin. The goal for a round face shape is to create the illusion of a longer face. Hairstyles that work best for this face shape are those that add height and length to the top of the head. A layered haircut with long, face-framing layers, or a textured bob can elongate the face and add dimension. Stylists can use hair cutting shears to create soft, wispy layers that blend seamlessly with the rest of the hair.

Square face shape
A square face shape is characterized by a strong jawline and forehead, with a width and length that are approximately the same. The goal for a square face shape is to soften the strong angles and create a more rounded appearance. Hairstyles that work best for this face shape are those that add volume to the top and sides of the head. A layered, shoulder-length haircut with soft, face-framing layers can soften the jawline and add texture. Stylists can use hair cutting shears to create soft, choppy layers that blend with the rest of the hair.

Oval face shape
An oval face shape is characterized by a balanced forehead, cheekbones, and jawline, with a slightly narrower chin. The goal for an oval face shape is to maintain the natural balance and proportions. Hairstyles that work best for this face shape are those that enhance the natural symmetry of the face. A long, layered haircut with subtle, face-framing layers can highlight the cheekbones and soften the chin. Stylists can use hair cutting shears to create soft, feathered layers that add movement and texture.

Heart face shape
A heart face shape is characterized by a wide forehead and cheekbones, with a narrow chin. The goal for a heart face shape is to create the illusion of a wider chin and balance out the proportions. Hairstyles that work best for this face shape are those that add volume to the bottom of the hair. A layered, chin-length haircut with soft, rounded edges can create the illusion of a wider chin and balance out the proportions. Stylists can use hair cutting shears to create soft, rounded edges that blend with the rest of the hair.

Diamond face shape
A diamond face shape is characterized by a narrow forehead and chin, with wide cheekbones. The goal for a diamond face shape is to soften the cheekbones and create a more balanced appearance. Hairstyles that work best for this face shape are those that add volume to the top and bottom of the hair. A long, layered haircut with soft, face-framing layers can balance out the cheekbones and soften the chin. Stylists can use hair cutting shears to create soft, layered bangs that add dimension and texture.

Understanding the best hairstyles for different face shapes is crucial in providing your clients with a personalized and flattering haircut. As a stylist, using hair cutting shears to create soft, textured layers and edges can enhance the natural features of your client’s face and create a more balanced and symmetrical appearance. Whether your client has a round, square, oval, heart, or diamond-shaped face, there’s a hairstyle that will suit them best

As a dedicated hair stylist, your journey towards becoming a true professional never ends. Continuous learning and development are essential to staying ahead in the dynamic beauty industry. In this blog post, we provide valuable professional development tips that will elevate your skills and set you apart as a cut above the rest.

Invest in Education: Embrace the mindset of a lifelong learner by seeking out educational opportunities that expand your knowledge and keep you updated on the latest trends, techniques, and products in the industry. Attend workshops, seminars, and conferences to enhance your skills and gain fresh perspectives.

Build a Strong Foundation: Ensure that you have a solid foundation of fundamental cutting techniques. Master the art of proper sectioning, elevation, and cutting angles. Strengthening your basics will provide you with a solid framework to build upon and allow for greater creativity in your work.

Embrace Specialty Training: Consider pursuing specialized training in areas such as precision cutting, razor cutting, or advanced color techniques. Developing expertise in a particular niche can open new doors and attract clients seeking specific services.

Enhance Your Communication Skills: Effective communication is crucial in understanding and meeting your clients’ expectations. Invest time in developing active listening skills and effective consultation techniques. Learn to ask the right questions to gather relevant information and provide personalized recommendations.

Stay Inspired: Surround yourself with sources of inspiration that ignite your creativity. Follow industry leaders, explore fashion and beauty trends, and draw inspiration from art, nature, and everyday life. Regularly seek out new ideas and incorporate them into your work.

Foster a Positive Work Environment: Create a supportive and collaborative work environment by fostering positive relationships with your colleagues. Share knowledge, exchange ideas, and support one another’s growth. Collaboration can lead to innovative approaches and a strong professional network.

Seek Mentorship: Find experienced stylists who can guide and mentor you on your journey. Learning from seasoned professionals can provide valuable insights, feedback, and guidance. Consider shadowing or assisting established stylists to gain hands-on experience and accelerate your learning.

Develop Business Skills: Being a successful stylist involves more than just technical expertise. Invest in developing your business skills, such as marketing, client management, and financial management. Understanding the business side of the industry will help you build a thriving and sustainable career.

Embrace Continued Self-Reflection: Regularly evaluate your work and seek feedback from clients and peers. Embrace constructive criticism as an opportunity for growth and improvement. Set goals for yourself and track your progress to ensure that you’re consistently evolving as a stylist.

Stay Passionate: Lastly, never lose sight of your passion for hairstyling. Let your love for the craft shine through in every client interaction and every haircut you create. Passion is contagious and will attract clients who appreciate your dedication and artistry.

Remember, becoming a cut above the rest is a continuous journey. Embrace the process, stay curious, and never stop striving for excellence in your craft.

Haircuts have been an essential part of human grooming for centuries. From ancient times to modern-day, hairstyles have been a reflection of culture, fashion, and social norms. The evolution of haircuts has been fascinating, and we will take a closer look at how haircuts have changed over time.

The Ancient Era (Pre-500 BC)

In ancient times, haircuts were a symbol of power, status, and religious beliefs. Men wore their hair long, and it was a symbol of their strength and power. Women’s hair was often styled in elaborate braids and updos with adornments such as shells, feathers, and jewelry. In some cultures, hair was considered sacred and was not cut at all.

The Renaissance Era (1400-1600)

During the Renaissance period, hairstyles were characterized by elaborate updos for women and short haircuts for men. Women’s hairstyles were often adorned with pearls, ribbons, and jewels, while men’s haircuts were more structured and refined. Men also began to wear wigs, which were often long and curled. Men also began to wear wigs, which were often long and curled. Hair color was often achieved with natural ingredients such as henna.

The Victorian Era (1837-1901)

The Victorian era was a time of great change in the world of haircuts. Women’s hairstyles became more elaborate, and men’s hairstyles were more varied. Women’s hair was styled in elaborate updos with ringlets and curls, while men’s hair was styled in a more natural way, with shorter hair on the sides and longer on top. Hair accessories such as combs, hats, and bonnets were popular among both men and women. Some heairstyles were outrageous with big and tall structures, queen Marie Antoinette is the perfect example fo this.

The Roaring Twenties (1920s)

The 1920s saw a dramatic shift in hairstyles. Women began to wear their hair short, in a style known as the “bob.” This style was characterized by straight hair that was cut to chin length or shorter. Men’s haircuts were also shorter, with a side part and slicked-back hair. This era also saw the rise of finger waves and Marcel waves. Hair styling products such as pomade and hair gel became popular.

The Swinging Sixties (1960s)

The 1960s was a time of experimentation in fashion and hairstyles. Women’s haircuts became more varied, with styles like the beehive and the pixie cut. Men’s haircuts also became longer, with styles like the mod cut and the shag. Both men and women’s hair became more natural, and hair accessories such as headbands and flower crowns became popular.

The Modern Era (2000s-Present)

The modern era has seen a return to classic styles with a modern twist, focusing on hair color like balayage, ash blondes, giving also special importance to leg with the use of hair extensions. Women’s hairstyles have become more natural, with a focus on texture and movement. Men’s hairstyles have also become more varied, with styles like the undercut and the fade. Professional hair cutting shears have become essential tools for stylists to create these modern and trendy hairstyles. Hair coloring has also become more popular, with bold and vibrant colors such as pink and blue becoming mainstream.

Haircuts have evolved dramatically over time, reflecting cultural, social, and fashion trends. From the elaborate updos of the Renaissance to the short haircuts of the modern era, hairstyles have come a long way. Whether you prefer classic styles or modern trends, professional hair cutting shears are an essential tool to create the perfect look. Stay up-to-date with the latest trends and don’t be afraid to experiment with your hair!

As a hairstylist, your clients trust you to deliver a flawless, precise cut every time. And to achieve that level of perfection, you need the right tools and techniques. That’s why we’ve put together some expert techniques for achieving precision cutting that will take your skills to the next level.

Proper body position is essential to achieving a precise cut. Start by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart and your weight evenly distributed. This will give you better control and stability, making it easier to manage the hair and create precise lines.

Another key technique for achieving precision is sectioning. Divide the hair into sections using clips or hair ties. This will make it easier to manage and ensure a consistent cut. Start by sectioning the hair into four quadrants – two in the front and two in the back. This will give you better control and make it easier to create a balanced, symmetrical cut.

The over-comb technique is a popular technique for achieving precision cutting. This involves combing the hair up and away from the head and using scissors to cut the hair above the comb. This creates a precise, layered look that is perfect for creating texture and movement in the hair.

Point cutting is another technique that can be used to create texture and movement in the hair. This involves using the tip of the shears to create small, subtle cuts. Point cutting is perfect for achieving a natural, effortless look that is perfect for clients who want a more relaxed style.

As a stylist, you know that the right tools are essential to achieving the perfect cut. That’s why we recommend using high-quality shears that are designed with precision in mind our Ergo Signature Shear will become your best frient for this purpose, it is pur best seller for a good reason. The right pair of shears will allow you to create clean, precise lines and ensure that every cut is flawless.

So, whether you’re a seasoned stylist or just starting out, mastering the art of precision cutting is essential to your success. With the right techniques and tools, you can achieve a level of precision cutting that will leave your clients amazed and coming back for more.

And for our bonus pro tip – always make sure your shears are sharp! Dull shears can cause split ends and create an uneven, jagged look. Make sure to sharpen your shears regularly to ensure that you’re getting the best results every time.

Join us in Vegas for 3 days factory sharpening demonstrations, hand-on practices, and professional selling skills.
Continental breakfast and buffet lunch included. Las Vegas, Tuscany Suite & Casino 255 EAST FLAMINGO RD.

BOOK YOUR TICKETS

Design: Incorporate your comments and ideas in drawing, molding, and adjusting shears.

Manufacturing demonstrations:
Transform metal into shears through hollow-grinding, edging, polishing and
other procedures.

Sharpening workshop:
Sharpen shears with serrated edges, curves, and thinning/texturizing.

Hair-cutting demonstrations:
Platform stylists will give demonstrations and speeches in person.

Pet grooming demonstrations:
Grooming competition winners will give demonstrations and speeches in person.

Professional selling seminar:
Utilize role-playing to enhance effectiveness and professionalism in selling shears.

(Agenda will be updated soon)

Hotel Website: tuscanylv.com – TOLL-FREE: 877-TUSCAN1 – LOCAL: 702-893-8933

Visit this link by 7-30-2023, for a special rate of $89!

Or call The Hotel: 702-893-8933 and mention Above Edge Event.

BOOK HOTEL

Twin beds and king beds available.
Among the largest standard guest rooms in Las Vegas, you’ll enjoy the residential ambiance of our Deluxe Executive Suites. Measuring over 625 square feet, there’s more than enough room for work or relaxation. Relax in the comfort of a pillow-top mattress, sumptuous duvet, and plush pillows. Refresh with a spacious bathroom featuring a relaxing tub, separate shower, and water closet. Unwind in your comfortable living area with a full-size sofa and chair. Recharge at your wet bar, equipped with coffee maker, refrigerator, and dining table & chairs.

Ticket: $560.00 $364.00 Only

Resgister by May 31st, 2023 and get the early bird rate of $364.00. Save 35%!

Ticket will be $560.00 from June 1, 2023

Vendor Booth Available:
Please contact Alex Lee for vendor booth Email:
alex@aboveshears.com Cell: (503) 888-3906
At the event, the vendor show will be open where you can talk, network,
and shop with the best in the industry! Plus Exclusive Deals of Above Shears.

Book your future
in the industry

Buying a pair of shears is like buying a pair of shoes. First you need to know your size. In general, the size of your hand is the size of the shears. To ensure optimal cutting experience, most shears should not extend over your palm.

Little Fingers Matters
In comparison, females tend to have shorter little fingers than males. So shears have to be chosen accordingly, and attention should be paid to shears’ finger rest. Broadly speaking, the shorter the little finger is, the longer and wider the finger rest should be.

PALM AND FIST
Offset is where the thumb is at its most natural position. Palm’s width determines shears’ offset, especially for hairdressers who like to palm the shear with a fist. The right pair of shears should fit the users’ hand ergonomically and the wrong choice of shears can lead to serious long-term damage to the users’ hand like carpal tunnel and tendonitis.

Touching Point

Every single pair of Above shears has 4 main touch-points:
-Point where the thumb touches the static handle.
-Point where the ring finger touches the dynamic handle.
-Point where the little finger touches finger rest.
-Point where the first and middle finger touch the shank of static handle.

There are 5 key elements in choosing a right shear.
-It looks right
-It weighs right
-It fits right
-It cuts right
-It is priced right

Aside from cutting techniques, sometimes customers just want to switch styles. Here you have tips and a step-by-step guide on how to safely straighten curly hair, straight from hair experts.

Start With Clean Hair

One of the many perks of natural texture is the minimized need to wash the hair frequently. But when doing a major transformation to smooth, straight styles, having freshly clean hair is the first step. It is absolutely crucial that you keep the hair clean. A moisturizing shampoo for both curly and coily hair types. Any lingering product build-up can cause the hair or scalp to burn during heat application, so you want to remove those barriers and give yourself a clean slate.

Condition, Detangle, and Section

Before beginning the process of straightening, ysing a deep conditioning mask will provide added hydration and restore the strength of the hair. Allow the conditioning mask to sit for 15-20 minutes before rinsing. Follow up with a leave-in conditioning spray for colored hair. This is beneficial to all curly hair types after proper conditioning so that the hair is detangled and easy to manage. Once you have rinsed, detangle, section the hair, and after applying your leave-in spray, brush through the hair with a Denman or your preferred detangling brush, sectioning the hair into four even quadrants to be the most helpful, this will allow you to have more control when it’s time to blow-dry.

Apply a Heat Protectant

Protection against heat and damage is the number one priority when taking curly or coily hair through a drastic style change, especially on a structural level. Tackling one section at a time, you want to spray a generous amount of heat protectant.

Dry The Hair

It’s time to begin the blow-dry. Blow-drying without a nozzle attachment can cause the hair to pouf out, and this transformation is all about smoothing out the hair with control, so be sure to add a nozzle attachment to your dryer to help direct and control your heat flow where needed, medium heat setting to keep the hair protected.

You’ll also want to have a straightening brush on hand. With good tension, a straightening brush will help ensure that heat is being distributed to every strand in your subsections.

Straighten Roots & Finish The Style

Once the hair is dry, turn your flat iron on at a low to medium temperature. Your iron temperature can always be adjusted based on the coarseness of the hair, a lower temperature and thin subsections will give you the best results. If the hair leans more coily than curly, beginwith a pencil flat iron, usually about 1/4-inch in size, near the roots and hairline.

A straightened style should be expected to last three to five days. You can use your flat iron to create big, soft curls and create a slightly different look on the third or fourth day for versatility, but if you do opt for something requiring another dose of heat application, never turn the heat above 350 degrees, be sure to use a protective serum or spray before ironing the hair again. A soft or medium hold hairspray with oil in its formula for shine and protection can help lock in the new look.

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Source Byrdie.

Not everything is about cutting, color techniques are also crucial for a well all rounded successful stylist. Some assert that after completing a blonding treatment, the hair’s brightness vanished from the final appearance. The majority of filed masters concur that overfiling is the problem:

Placement Trick
To create a bright blonde outcome, you don’t need 100 foils; instead, you just need to put them carefully. The key to foiling with the most impact is straightforward: Where it matters, increase brightness! Establish the desired outcome before you even TOUCH a foil, and then make a visual roadmap that will lead you through the service.

Foilayage:

With this method, you can get balayage’s low-maintenance effect with results that are brighter and higher contrast. You can approach this problem more strategically with the aid of Foilyage:

Chunky weaves are used on the first and last set of foils, traditional foils are used in the center, and tip-out foils are used in the middle for bright ends.

a sandwich approach! Chunky-weaved foils (on top and below) serve as the “bread,” and standard foilayage/tip-outs are used in between.

Place Depth To Create A Bright POP!

Bold pops must be made for high-impact blonding. Look at the hair’s natural movement and fall first. Next, add brightness to the areas where it will have the biggest impact, i.e., where the client sees their hair.

Shadow Blonde: Try These Color Formulas

Gloss is never used to repair, only to seal the cuticle and organically accentuate. Making blends with foils is equivalent to painting without glossing.
Continual color toning? With tone softeners, yes. They alter the consistency and turn the colors into a demi-permanent gloss, making it meltable.

You can use these strategies and see how your blondes might make a bigger impression.

If a brand new client is in your chair ready for a haircut and they say “Just clean it up, I want to grow it out more.” How are you supposed to recreate what the previous stylist did? The truth is, you don’t have to , with these pro tips for navigating a retouch haircut with a new client plus cutting tips for a softer grow out and why you should never forget the fundamentals.

1 The Consultation
It doesn’t matter who did the client’s previous cut. What matters is that they are in your chair now. The biggest consideration to take during the consultation is: We are here, how do we get to the end result together.

Manage expectations. Talk to the client about what they want and what is achievable with their current haircut.

Don’t be afraid to create a journey with the client. Depending on your client’s starting canvas, getting to your client’s desired look may take time and that’s ok! “Tell them, we have a goal, but today we need to do x, y and z. I will hold your hand the next three times I cut your hair and we will do this together.”

2 Cuts Are To Fine-Tune & Customize
If the client’s cut already has a shape, don’t become upset. Instead, focus on any areas that might require improvement and consider how you can add your own style to the final product.

3 You Don’t Have To Use The SAME Method
Retouch haircuts are all about figuring out what worked and what didn’t (especially with a new client). Don’t worry about adhering to the prior haircut to the letter, and don’t be hesitant to substitute a technique that better serves the intended outcome.To ensure that the hair is cut uniformly when working around an uneven hairline, it is advised to rotate the cutting comb in different directions. Make sure you are approaching the areas where the hair develops from different angles. A useful method is to rotate your comb and cut the hair in the opposite direction of the growth pattern.

4 Keep Cutting Fundamentals in Mind
It could be time to start again from the beginning if your customer wants to change the style of their grown-out cut. If necessary, refer back to the elevation rules in the textbook. Weight is produced by elevation, while the softness of the cut is caused by the cutting method itself.

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Source: Behind The Chair