Thermo scissors have been on the market for over a decade, but Canadian salons and clients are just catching onto the popular European trend now. Created by German engineers in the late 90s, the thermo scissor system was initially a daunting expense for stylists and salons. “Over the years, the system has become smaller, more manageable and more reasonably priced,” says Thomas Sessier, managing director of Jaguar, makers of the Jaguar ThermoCut system.

By warming the blades, thermo scissors use heat to seal moisture in the hair ends, creating a healthier, fuller look. According to Sessier, with the tips closed, hair is not susceptible to environmental damage and split ends. The temperature on the blades can be adjusted for hair type, with fine hair needing less heat than normal or thick hair. ThermoCut System, which typically include thinning scissors and razors scissors, are used on towel-dried hair and are ergonomically designed like regular shears.

One of the first Canadian proponents of thermocuts, Marina Boukin, creative director and co-owner of multi-location Caprice Salon in Toronto, saw an opportunity with heated blades. “I have a large European clientele who knew the advantages of thermo cutting … We have a number of clients who are not willing to return to traditional scissors because they see better results and the benefits of this service,” says Marina.

For her salon, thermo scissors have been a great investment. Boukin says, “We do not strive to replace regular haircuts. For us, the thermo cut is another tool to deliver the best results that we can achieve for each particular client. It’s a great addition to our treatment menu.”