Beveled, convex or semi-convex blade: which edge to choose for hairdressing scissors
Hairdressing scissors have three main edge types: beveled, convex and semi-convex. A beveled edge is sturdy and grips the hair, but needs more force and does not allow slide cutting. A convex edge, typical of Japanese scissors, is razor-sharp and glides through the hair. Semi-convex is a compromise between the two. The right choice depends on your cutting technique.
Why the shape of the edge matters
Two scissors of the same length and the same steel can cut in completely different ways. What makes the difference is the geometry of the blade where it meets the hair: the edge angle and the profile behind it. This determines how the cut feels, how much thumb pressure you need, which techniques are possible and what kind of sharpening is required.
Beveled blade: sturdy and “grippy”
The beveled edge is the oldest design, from the German tradition. The blade has a sharp bevel and a wider angle. It often comes with micro-serration that holds the hair and stops it from slipping.
- Pros: the edge is thicker and better supported, so it handles cutting large sections well; it does not push the hair; it is less likely to chip or go out of alignment if knocked.
- Limits: each closing takes more force, the cut feels “rougher” and it is not suitable for sliding techniques such as slide cutting.
- Ideal for: full-closure cutting, very thick hair, and anyone who prefers an edge that does not slip.
Convex blade: razor-sharp
The convex edge is typical of Japanese scissors. The blade profile is curved and tapers to a very fine point, creating an extremely sharp, smooth-gliding edge. It is usually sharpened at around 33 to 38 degrees, depending on the steel and the balance sought between sharpness and durability.
- Pros: soft, clean cut, less thumb pressure and therefore less fatigue, and you can do slide cutting, slicing and dry cutting.
- Limits: it is a more delicate edge: it must be protected from knocks and sharpened by someone who knows this geometry.
- Ideal for: sliding techniques, dry cutting, cuts with movement, and anyone who works long hours every day.
When the body of the blade is convex too, not just the edge, it is called Full Convex: the blade follows the hair across its whole section and the cut feels even softer. TOUCH X SERIES and TSS68 scissors have a Full Convex sword blade; the ELLE PRO Cut has a convex blade. Learn more in the guide to convex blades, Teflon Tech and ball bearings.
Semi-convex blade: the compromise
The semi-convex edge was created to combine the best of both worlds: it starts from convex geometry but with a slightly wider angle. The result is a soft, precise cut with a slightly tougher edge. It is a versatile choice for anyone who switches between techniques and wants an everyday pair of scissors.
The three blades compared
| Beveled | Convex | Semi-convex | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sharpness | Good | Maximum, like a razor | Very high |
| Cutting feel | Rougher, needs more force | Soft, little thumb pressure | Soft |
| Slide cutting | No | Yes | Yes |
| Impact resistance | High | More delicate | Medium |
| Ideal for | Large sections, full-closure cutting | Sliding, dry, movement | Versatile everyday use |
How to choose the right edge
- Do you do a lot of slide cutting, slicing or dry cutting? You need a convex blade, ideally Full Convex.
- Do you mostly cut with full closure on thick hair? A beveled or semi-convex edge handles large sections better.
- Do you switch between different techniques every day? Semi-convex is a good compromise, or you can combine different scissors for different jobs.
Rather than looking for one pair of scissors that does everything, it pays to choose the right tool for each stage of the cut: that is the idea behind the TOUCH Cutting system, explained in the guide to choosing hairdressing scissors.
The edge lasts with the right sharpening
Every geometry must be respected when sharpening: a convex edge sharpened like a beveled one loses its smooth glide and never returns to how it was. That is why it is important to rely on a specialist service. The TOUCH sharpening service works to the blade’s original geometry: convex, flat or toothed. To know when it is time, read how often to sharpen hairdressing scissors.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a convex and a beveled blade?
A convex blade has a curved profile ending in a very fine, razor-sharp edge suited to slide cutting. A beveled blade has a sharp bevel and a thicker edge, often micro-serrated: it is sturdier but needs more force and does not allow sliding techniques.
Which blade do you need for slide cutting?
A convex blade, ideally Full Convex: the edge glides along the section without pushing or pulling the hair.
Is a convex blade more delicate?
Yes, the edge is thinner: it must be protected from knocks, kept in a case and sharpened by a professional who knows convex geometry.
What is a semi-convex blade?
It is a compromise between convex and beveled: it keeps a soft, precise cut with a slightly tougher edge, suited to versatile everyday use.
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TOUCH was founded in 2012 by a group of professional hairdressers. Discover all our scissors or contact us for personal advice.
