Simple Tips for Better Hair-Cutting Ergonomics

What hand and body positions create the least amount of tension in the repetitive motions that hair stylists and barbers return to throughout the day? According to Adrian Sandoval, a Sam Villa ArTeam Member (@adriansandovalcutz) there are some simple steps to keep the pain away. 

Tip 1: Stretch First 

Before getting started with your day, Sandoval suggests stretching. 

• Loosen your shoulders, elbows, and wrists by shaking your arms up and down a few times, making sure that all joints are moving in various directions to soften even the small tendons. 

• Pull your hand forward to eye level and open and close thumb to the fingers multiple times to prime muscles for the thumb action. 

 

Tip 2: Finger Position When Cutting 

Your thumb should line up with the pointer finger.

Incorrect: Inserting fingers too far forward in your shear’s finger/thumb rings bends the wrist up, creating restrictions on movement and more tension at the wrist.  

Correct: Insert fingers just to the first knuckle and the thumb just to the tip. It keeps the wrist level when cutting a horizontal line. 

 

Tip 3: Body Posture When Cutting  

Incorrect: Bending down with bent knees and a curved back creates pressure on the lower back, shoulders, and neck.   

Correct: Using a cutting stool allows the back to remain in a naturally straight position and the neck does not need to bend to see the cutting line at eye level.  

 

About Sam Villa

Sam Villa is co-founder and chief creative officer of the Sam Villa Company (Allvus, LLC), a leading education and styling tool company. He is also Global Artistic Ambassador for Redken 5th Avenue, a L’Oréal brand. Villa is the recipient of the AHP Icon Stylist Influencer of the Year. Learn more at samvilla.com.