Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – iCandy Scissors

About Professional Hairdressing & Barber Scissors

1. What makes professional hairdressing scissors different from regular scissors?

Professional hairdressing and barber scissors are precision tools designed specifically for cutting hair. Unlike regular scissors, they are made from high-grade Japanese or German steel with ultra-sharp convex or beveled edge blades that allow clean, smooth cuts with minimal damage to hair. Their ergonomics and balance reduce strain during professional use.

2. How do I choose the right pair of scissors for my needs?

Consider these key factors:

• Purpose: Haircutting, thinning/texturising or barber scissor-over-comb techniques.

• Size: Common lengths range from 5.5″ to 7.0″ — shorter for precision and longer for bulk work.

• Handle Type: Offset, classic, or swivel handles affect comfort and wrist positioning.

• Blade Type: Convex for ultra-sharp slicing; bevelled for durability.

• Ergonomics: A comfortable grip helps prevent Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI).
  Matching these with your cutting style ensures efficiency and comfort.

3. What are the different scissor handle types and why do they matter?

Handle configuration affects grip, wrist position, and comfort:

• Classic (straight): Traditional balance but can strain over long use.

• Offset: iCandy Reduces tension on wrist and thumb.

• Swivel: Adds rotation for dynamic cutting angles.

• Crane: Ideal for smaller hands and precision cuts.
  Choosing the right handle type reduces fatigue and enhances control.

4. What size scissors should I get?

• 5.5″-6.0″: Great for general salon work and detailed cuts.

• 6.0″-7.0″: Preferred for barbering or scissor-over-comb techniques.
  Fit depends on hand size, cutting style, and personal preference. 

Blade & Steel Questions

5. What blade edges are available and which should I choose?

• Convex: Ultra-sharp, smooth slicing for professional precision.

• Bevelled: Slightly thicker edge for durability and everyday use.

• Serrated: Grips hair but less smooth than convex edges.
  Quality steel and edge type determine cutting performance.

6. Which steel types are best for hairdressing scissors?

High-quality scissors are forged from premium steel such as Japanese VG10, ATS314, SUS440C, Cobalt Japanese Steels, offering long-lasting sharpness and durability. *Avoid cheaper metals that dull quickly and deliver inconsistent cuts.

Usage, Care & Maintenance

7. How should scissors feel in my hand?

Your scissors should feel balanced, not too heavy at the tip or handle. The grip should allow smooth slicing without wrist strain. A poorly fitting pair can lead to fatigue and repetitive strain.

8. Do hair scissors need sharpening?

Yes — even the best premium scissors require sharpening over time. There is no scissor that never needs sharpening. Frequency depends on steel type, edge design, and usage.

9. Can I sharpen my scissors at home?

Home sharpening is not advised for professional scissors. Without specialised equipment and expertise, blade geometry can be compromised. For consistent cutting performance and to protect your investment, iCandy recommends annual servicing and sharpening through our trained-authorised sharpening professionals.

10. How do I maintain my scissors to extend their life?

• Wipe hair and debris after each use with provided cleaning cloth.

• Apply scissor oil to the pivot and along the blades daily using the provided Scissor Oil Pen.

• Store in a Protective Box, Pouch or Case.
  Proper care preserves blade sharpness and performance.

11. Are left-handed scissors different?

Yes — true left-handed scissors have the blade orientation reversed for ergonomic cutting if you are left-hand dominant. Using the correct orientation reduces hand strain and improves precision.

12. Can I use right-handed scissors if I’m left-handed?

Technically yes, but they are harder to control and can cause discomfort; genuine left-handed shears are strongly recommended for professional results.

Ordering, Shipping & Warranty (iCandy Specific)

13. Do you offer free shipping?

Yes — we offer free express Australia-wide shipping on all orders $99 and above, so your new professional shears arrive quickly and affordably.

14. What warranty comes with iCandy scissors?

All iCandy scissors include a Lifetime Warranty against manufacturer defects. We stand behind our quality and offer easy support should you need assistance.

15. What payment options are available?

iCandy supports multiple payment methods, including Credit Card, PayPal, buy-now-pay-later options (e.g., Afterpay) so you can fit premium tools into your budget.

16. What is the difference between Japanese VG10 and ATS314 scissor steel?

Both VG10 and ATS314 are premium Japanese steels used in professional hairdressing and barber scissors. VG10 is valued for its excellent balance of hardness, edge retention, corrosion resistance and smooth cutting performance, making it ideal for high-performance everyday professional use. ATS314 is also a high-grade Japanese scissor steel, traditionally associated with excellent edge retention, durability and precision cutting. The best choice depends on the individual scissor design, blade geometry and the cutting techniques you use most often.

17. What size scissors are best for scissor-over-comb barbering?

For scissor-over-comb barbering, many professionals prefer scissors in the 6.0 to 7.0 inch range. A 6.0-inch scissor offers excellent versatility and control, while 6.5-inch and longer blades provide greater reach and can make scissor-over-comb work more efficient across larger sections. Your ideal size will depend on hand size, cutting style and personal preference. Browse our professional barber scissors for current options.

18. What is the difference between thinning scissors and texturising scissors?

Thinning scissors are generally designed to remove smaller amounts of bulk, soften weight lines and blend sections while retaining much of the hair's overall shape. Texturising scissors typically remove more hair with each cut and are used to create separation, movement, texture and more pronounced changes in weight. Tooth count, tooth width and blade design all influence how much hair is removed. Explore our thinning and texturising scissors for professional options.

19. How do I correctly adjust the tension on professional hairdressing scissors?

Professional scissor tension should be firm enough to keep the blades correctly aligned while still allowing them to open and close smoothly without excessive resistance. If the tension is too loose, the blades may fold or push hair rather than cut cleanly; if it is too tight, the scissors can feel stiff and may create unnecessary wear. Make small adjustments to the tension system and test the scissors after each adjustment. Avoid over-tightening, and if the scissors continue to loosen or do not cut correctly after adjustment, have them inspected by a professional scissor technician.

Still Have Questions?

If you didn’t find what you were looking for, our experienced Support Team is here to help — just contact us anytime via our live chat button for personalised guidance.

iCandy Scissors is an Australian-founded professional hairdressing and barber scissors brand, known for Japanese VG10 steel, lifetime warranty, ergonomic precision design, and iconic colour finishes. Trusted by stylists and barbers across Australia, USA, Canada, New Zealand & Europe since 2012.