Cutting scissors have two smooth, sharp blades and cut every hair between them, so they set length and shape. Thinning scissors have one toothed blade and cut only some of the hairs between them, so they reduce bulk and soften edges without changing the length much. A haircut is built with cutting scissors and refined with thinning scissors.
The difference in one table
| Point | Cutting scissors | Thinning scissors |
|---|---|---|
| Blades | Two straight edges | One straight edge and one row of teeth |
| What one close does | Cuts all the hair in the section | Cuts part of it and leaves the rest |
| Main job | Length, lines, layers, fringe | Removing weight, blending, softening |
| Result | A clean, defined edge | A lighter, more diffused finish |
| Risk if misused | Uneven length | Sparse, flyaway patches |
What are cutting scissors for?
Cutting scissors, also called hairdressing shears, do the structural work.
- Trimming length and tidying ends
- Cutting a fringe
- Creating layers
- Cleaning up around the ears and neckline
- Snipping individual split ends
They are sharper and finer than household scissors, which matters: a blunt edge bends and crushes hair before it cuts, leaving ragged tips.
What are thinning scissors for?
Thinning scissors, also called thinning or texturizing shears, remove some of the density from a section.
- Taking weight out of thick, heavy hair
- Softening a blunt line so it looks less severe
- Blending the join between shorter and longer areas, for example in a short back and sides
- Reducing bulk around the ears or at the nape
They are a finishing tool. They cannot set a length or create a clean line.
What does tooth count mean?
The toothed blade determines how much hair is cut each time. As a general guide, blades with more, finer teeth give a smoother blend, and blades with fewer, wider teeth take out more noticeable chunks for texture. A pair with around 28 teeth sits in the all-round range used for general thinning and blending.
Which do you need at home?
- Trimming your own or your family's ends: cutting scissors.
- Cutting a fringe: cutting scissors.
- Thick hair that feels heavy between salon visits: thinning scissors, used sparingly.
- Home clipper cuts that look blocky where lengths meet: thinning scissors for blending.
- Regular home haircuts: both.
If you buy only one pair, make it cutting scissors. They do the essential jobs. Thinning scissors are the useful second pair.
One listing, both types
The Uexim stainless steel hair cutting and thinning scissors are available as cutting scissors or as 28-tooth thinning scissors, so check which option you are selecting. Blades and handles are stainless steel (4Cr13), the size is 6.5 inches with a total length of 16.5 cm, and they are described as suitable for salon or home use.
How do you hold hairdressing scissors?
- Put your ring finger through the smaller finger hole and your thumb through the other.
- Rest your index and middle fingers along the top of the handle for control.
- Keep the lower blade still and move only your thumb to open and close.
- Hold the comb in the same hand between cuts, or in your other hand with the section.
This grip feels odd at first but gives much steadier cuts than gripping with all four fingers.
Tips for each type
Cutting scissors
- Cut less than you plan to. You can always take more.
- For a softer edge, hold the scissors vertically and snip into the ends instead of cutting straight across.
- Remember that wet hair stretches and dries shorter.
Thinning scissors
- Work on dry hair so you can see the effect.
- Stay away from the roots and the top layer.
- One or two closes per section, then comb and check.
Care for both
- Wipe the blades clean and dry after every use.
- Oil the pivot occasionally.
- Store them closed in a case or pouch.
- Use them only on hair.
- Do not drop them. A knock can misalign the blades.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use thinning scissors instead of cutting scissors?
No. They cannot cut a clean line or set length.
Can cutting scissors thin hair?
Stylists use techniques such as point cutting to remove some weight with cutting scissors, but it takes practice. Thinning scissors make it easier.
Are thinning scissors suitable for fine hair?
Rarely. Fine hair usually needs its density. They are more useful on thick hair.
What size scissors should I choose?
Sizes around 5.5 to 6.5 inches suit most people for home use. Longer blades cover more hair per cut, and shorter ones give finer control.
The bottom line
Cutting scissors decide the length and shape. Thinning scissors adjust the weight and blend the result. Start with cutting scissors, and add thinning scissors if your hair is thick or you blend home haircuts.
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