Manicure scissors are an essential tool that should be in every cosmetic bag. They can be purchased separately or as part of sets that include other useful tools, such as pushers, clippers, and files. To choose the right scissors, it is necessary to understand the differences between them. This will help you select those that are best suited for nail care while maintaining their beauty and health.

The classification of manicure scissors is relatively simple. All manicure tools can be divided into three main categories based on their purpose and design features. Here are the main types of manicure scissors:

Nail scissors are distinguished by their high strength and wide cutting blade, which can be either straight or slightly curved. These tools are specifically designed to withstand significant pressure without deformation, making them ideal for precise and neat trimming of both fingernails and toenails.

Cuticle Scissors

Cuticle scissors are specialized tools designed for the careful removal of excess skin. Their elegant design features a thin, curved blade and sharp, well-polished tips, ensuring a smooth, precise, and painless cutting process. This construction minimizes the risk of cuts, tears, and other damage, guaranteeing gentle and effective care for the skin.

Combined scissors with narrow, straight, or slightly curved blades and sturdy handles are indispensable tools for performing a variety of tasks, from trimming cuticles to correcting the length of the nail plate. Their durability and versatility make them ideal for non-professional use, and their compact size allows for easy inclusion in a travel kit. These scissors provide comfort and efficiency, making them an excellent choice for nail care in any situation.

When choosing manicure scissors, it is important to consider the specific tasks you plan to perform. If you are assembling a mini travel kit, combined scissors will be an ideal option. They are multifunctional and compact, making them a great choice for use on the go. This tool will provide you with convenience and efficiency in nail care without taking up much space in your cosmetics bag.

For cuticle and sidewall care, it is recommended to use manicure scissors with thin blades. They ensure a neat and precise cut, allowing for gentle care of the skin and keeping it in perfect condition.

If you prefer to do your manicure at home and choose cutting instead of filing, pay attention to manicure scissors with a wide and sturdy design. You can find them in specialized stores, but be careful not to confuse them with children's scissors, which may look similar. Adult scissors have sharp and rounded tips, ensuring safe and effective use.

To make the right choice from the extensive range of models offered by modern manufacturers, don't limit yourself to just the price factor.

Important Aspects to Consider When Buying:

1. Material. High-quality manicure tools are made from surgical stainless steel types 20x13, 40x13, or 30x13. These alloys, enriched with chromium, provide exceptional resistance to external influences and durability, making them ideal for professional use. 

2. Grip. The scissors should not only provide effective cutting but also fit comfortably in your hand without squeezing your fingers or irritating your skin. If the handle is uncomfortable, this will become evident during use, causing discomfort, especially with frequent use of the tool. To check the comfort of the scissors, wear a ring on your thumb and another on your middle or ring finger, make a few wide movements, and ensure that the scissors fit perfectly in your hand without applying excess pressure. If you are left-handed, choose models specifically designed for the left hand.

3. Sharpening. Dull scissors are not only ineffective but also pose a health risk. The less sharp the blades, the higher the risk of accidental cuts on the skin and damage to the edges of the nails. This can lead to crusting on the fingers, and healthy, strong nails can start to split. Therefore, it's important to invest in sharp, professional-quality tools and sharpen them regularly to maintain the health of the nails and skin.

4. Work Stage. Quality tools provide smooth and even cutting without sudden jerks or snagging. Thus, precise fitting of the parts becomes critically important. Using poorly adjusted and unbalanced scissors not only creates discomfort but can also be dangerous, increasing the risk of micro-trauma during nail and skin care. As a result, beautiful nails become merely an unattainable dream.

5. Cutting Edges. Pay attention not only to the shape but also to the quality of the blade finishing. They should be perfectly smooth to ensure a clean and even cut.

6. Blade Length. The working part of the tool should occupy no more than one-third of the total length and correspond to its intended purpose. Specifically, for models designed for cuticle removal, the blade length varies from 18 to 23 mm, while for tools meant for working with nails, the blade length ranges from 10 to 25 mm.

7. Hinge Connection. The condition of this component directly affects the quality of the cut. It is important that there is minimal and even spacing between the edges of the scissors along the entire length, except at the tips, where it should completely disappear. If the tips of the blades do not meet properly, or if the closing mechanism is too tight or too loose, using the scissors becomes uncomfortable and can negatively impact the final result.

Even the highest quality scissors become dull over time. The more often the tool is used, the more regular its sharpening should be. It's important not to let the blades reach a state where they can no longer effectively perform their primary function. Sharpening the scissors at the first signs of dullness not only extends their lifespan but also makes the nail care process more comfortable and safe.

To keep the scissors in perfect condition, use special soft covers to protect the blades. Avoid storing metal tools unprotected next to the scissors, as careless handling can negatively affect their condition. The cutting edges can develop fine notches, are susceptible to corrosion, and quickly lose their sharpness.

Ignoring sanitary standards can lead to serious consequences, so it’s essential to thoroughly disinfect manicure tools like scissors. Only use certified disinfectants and strictly follow the recommended exposure times. Avoid aggressive antiseptics and disinfecting solutions that are not intended for manicure tools, as they can damage the metal and reduce the effectiveness of the tool.

It’s important to use scissors strictly for their intended purpose. Models designed for cutting nails are not suitable for trimming delicate and soft cuticles, as this can lead to skin tears and deteriorate the quality of the manicure. Trying to smooth rough edges of the nail plate with nail scissors can quickly damage both the tool and your nails. Proper tool selection and careful usage are the keys to a successful and safe manicure.

By following simple care rules, your manicure scissors will serve you well and reliably for a long time.

Read also: Salon pedicure: what it is, advantages, disadvantages and how to avoid risks