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Many individuals desire clipper fades; however, we do not provide these services. The reason for this will be elaborated upon in this article. Initially, I will define what the hair cuticle is, followed by an explanation of the effects on the cuticle after a clipper is used on the hair. Next, I will discuss the benefits of consulting a scissor expert. Finally, we will conclude with some illustrative examples.

While anyone can enter a barber shop in Manhattan and have clippers used to trim their hair, few truly understand the implications of this hairstyle.

Hair Cuticle

The hair cuticle serves as the outermost layer of the hair strand. It consists of overlapping layers of dead cells that create a protective barrier, similar to how roofing shingles safeguard a house.

This article provides background information on the hair cuticle, relevant to everyone, regardless of gender.

The cuticle layer is vital for preserving the health and appearance of hair.

"Well, oh great Hair Witch, what does this have to do with clippers versus scissors? I am glad you asked!"

Manual hair clippers were invented by Serbian barber Nikola Bizumić in the early 1850s (widely cited around 1855) to enhance the efficiency of haircutting. By the 1860s, they were commonly used in European barbershops. Subsequently, Leo J. Wahl invented the first electric hair clipper in 1919, which was patented in 1921. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hair_clipper

For most men’s hair cuts with any length, scissor cuts with professional shears are ideal. The reason is this- professionally sharpened, crafted steel shears slice the hair cleanly to create a perfect haircut. On a microscopic level, this makes a clean end. Lending to less splits and shinier hair that lays flat. Clippers, on the other hand, leave a jagged or torn edge, if you were to look under a microscope. Above illustration, These jagged ends create a rougher surface. The hair itself won’t look as shiny, and will lay imperfectly with any length, or grow out, have a shorter grow out time, and cause the hair to look like it has split ends. etc...

example:

In this picture we have a man with a typical skin fade. With a  scissor cut on the top, the person wanted a little length left on top. The haircut looks great now but you know what is about to happen a few days from now. THE GROW OUT! That is what keeps you going to the barber every 1-2 weeks. What also happens with the

grow out? The hair you see right above the skin line on his head will stick straight out. Not laying down for anything, looking sparse and in need of a lot of product to achieve a nice comfortable look. 

This is another example of a high and tight skin fade. Except this person wanted clippers on the top. This person has cowlicks in the front and back of his head, that were cut off and will lead to an extremely awkward grow out stage for the next week or two.

Hear we have a hairstyle that was curated with scissors. There is a definite difference in lengths, you can see where his cowlicks are. but the main difference is that the hair is cut with a scissor long enough to lay down and make the cowlick become the catalyst for the type of style.

Your hair style is subjective to you, and your likes and dislikes. But trying new things like a scissor cut vs. a clipper cut will elevate your style to a new level, and did I mention that with scissors coupled with dry hair cutting is the way you look great leaving the salon and 4-5 weeks later. With the best grow out you can experience. Our clients are still getting compliments about how good their hair looks even growing out. It's all about trying new things and seeing what's works best for your hair. 

Your hair will thank you!!