Thinning scissors, texturizing scissors, regular hair cutting scissors….the list goes on. Just like every other product, there is more than one type of hair scissors so if you're a stylist then you'll need to know what they are and which is best for you before purchasing a pair. The types that no hair stylist should live without getting to know are the following:

• Basic cutting scissors: This is the basic pair with straight edges for general hair cutting. 

• Thinning scissors: These differ from basic ones due to their teethed blades which resemble a comb. With them you can remove bulk with a single "snip" and make hair layers blend better without that "choppy" appearance. Plus, by using them you'll actually be making your client's hair much more manageable. 

• Texturizing scissors: This model helps add texture to hair and create new styles while removing bulk. Some texturizing scissors can remove up to 50% bulk to decrease volume. If used correctly, texturizing scissors can produce creative styles and add a unique finishing touch to a style created with basic cutting scissors. 

• Left-handed scissors: These are specially designed scissors for left handed stylists and if you're a leftie then you should use these from the start and not later on after you've already adjusted yourself to using right handed scissors. The difference in results will be noticeable as nothing matches the natural movement of your left hand.

• Ambidextrous scissors: These are scissors that can be used by both right handed and left handed stylists, although for many pro's there is no such thing as ambidextrous models and you should just stick to the ones made for either right or left handed stylists. 

Now, knowing the different types of hair scissors doesn't mean that you're all set to purchase one, before that you'll need to decide on the steel, design, screw system and maybe even the brand so you won't feel overwhelmed with all the different choices on the market. To give you a heads up, here's a brief description of what to look for. 

The best quality steel you can get is Japanese steel due to its strength, durability and prolonged sharpness. As for the design, most pros prefer the crane handle and a convex edge which is especially good for smooth cutting and swift use. The most convenient screw system is the ball bearing type which lets you adjust the tension for fluid opening and closing that won't slow you down. Now the brand may take a bit more of thought, but so far the most recommended is the Saki Katana line which boasts triple honed Japanese blades, a convex edge and an extra-long crane handle for the smoothest and swiftest cutting. You might even like the set that comes with a regular scissor and a texturizing scissor to get your creative styling going!