How can you tell if your scissors need sharpening?

A pair of scissors that pulls or does not cut evenly is a clear indicator that they need sharpening. When scissors are sharp, they should cut through hair smoothly and effortlessly. If you experience resistance or feel that the scissors are dragging through the hair, it often suggests that the blades have dulled, leading to an uneven cut. Cutting hair with dull scissors can not only result in a subpar haircut but can also cause damage to the hair, as the blades may not be capable of making a clean cut.

The other indicators mentioned, such as making a loud noise or feeling heavier, may not directly relate to the sharpness of the scissors. For instance, noise can arise from numerous factors other than dull blades, such as improper alignment. Similarly, the weight of the scissors might not change and could be influenced by the user's perception or handling. Leaving a jagged edge can be a sign of dull scissors, but more typically indicates that the cutting action is erratic, which aligns closely with the phenomenon of pulling or uneven cutting. Thus, the most reliable sign of needing sharpening is the performance of the scissors in cutting hair smoothly and evenly.