New Scissors & Run-in Time
A: The run-in time in question is usually less about the scissors themselves needing to be broken in and more about the stylist getting accustomed to the feel and behavior of a new pair of shears. If the shears are of good quality, are properly sharp, and are the right size and weight to fit the stylist's hand appropriately, then they should perform beautifully from day one. A quality pair of professional haircutting scissors should not need to be used for weeks before it begins cutting properly.
The scissors feel tight
The join point, or pivot point, hasn't been worked much, if at all. If the tension in the joint is set high from the factory, it can make them harder to open and close initially. This can make the scissors feel stiff or resistant, particularly when compared with a pair that has been used regularly.However, "tight" does not mean that the scissors are defective. The tension can usually be adjusted to suit the stylist's preference. The important thing is that the blades move smoothly and consistently rather than requiring excessive force. If the movement does not feel right, the tension and pivot should be checked and adjusted.
The blades need time to settle into the stylist's preferred tension
Tension adjustment is particularly important with professional haircutting scissors. Too much tension makes the scissors feel stiff and causes unnecessary hand fatigue and premature blade wear. Too little tension allows the blades to separate improperly, resulting in the hair being pushed or folded rather than cleanly cut.The correct tension is not the same for every stylist. Some prefer a slightly firmer feel, while others prefer the blades to move very freely. The adjustment should be made carefully, following the manufacturer's instructions, because improper handling of the tension screw can affect how the blades meet.
To perform a quick tension test: Hold the shears by the thumb ring with the tips pointing straight up. Lift the finger ring to 90° and let it drop. The blades should stop closing at roughly 20° to 30° before full closure.
The scissors feel different because of blade design
A stylist accustomed to one type of blade may initially find another type unfamiliar. Convex blades, beveled blades, hollow-ground blades, and other blade designs have noticeably different cutting characteristics. Some are particularly suited to slide cutting, while others provide a direct, crisp push-cut action.This is a primary reason why a new pair may seem to need breaking in when, in reality, the stylist is learning how the new blade geometry interacts with hair. The scissors may be performing exactly as designed; they simply require a slightly different technique or hand angle than the previous pair.
The scissors have protective factory oils on them
When scissors are packaged for sale or shipping, manufacturers treat them with protective factory oil or anti-corrosion lubricants to shield the metal from moisture. While beneficial during shipping, this heavy shipping oil can create resistance or catch hair if left on the blades.When you receive new scissors, clean them carefully with a microfiber cloth and sanitize them according to salon standards. After cleaning, apply a single drop of professional haircutting shear oil directly to the pivot area and ride line, then open and close the blades several times to disperse it evenly.
The blades need to be checked for proper alignment
A good pair of haircutting scissors must have blades that meet correctly throughout the entire cutting length. If the blades are misaligned out of the box, the scissors will not cut cleanly even if the edges are sharp. Misalignment cannot be corrected by using the scissors more; it requires evaluation by a qualified professional sharpener or manufacturer service center.A stylist should never attempt to sharpen or touch up a new pair of professional scissors with household sharpening devices. Professional haircutting shears - especially convex edges - require specialized machinery, precise angles, and skilled technicians. Incorrect sharpening will destroy the blade geometry and ruin the shears.
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See also:
What size scissors are best for a beginner?
How to choose haircutting scissors
How to hold your shears