Tool Maintenance

Properly maintained tools are as important to a healthy Stylist body as incorporating proper posture and alignment practices. The reason is that poorly maintained tools requires you to use more effort and work inefficiently and less productively.

A few suggestion about stylist tool and equipment maintenance from the Pilates For Stylists perspective are:

• Acquire the best quality tools that you can afford. Upgrade as your income allows.
  
• Routinely and regularly clean, maintain and repair all tools and equipment.
  
• Scissors should be sharp and well oiled. Sharp scissors work with minimal pressure in the hand to cut clean lines or textures. The same is true for razors and other haircutting implements. Clippers and trimmers should be oiled after each use and greased often based on their usage.
  
• Have a variety of combs and brushes. Select the best tool for the style or design rather than forcing just a few to do the work of many. Donate or throw out those that exhibit any damage or breakage or are simple worn out.
  
• Keep the dust vents in hand held dryers open so they perform optimally.
  
• Keep nozzles, sprayers and pumps clog free.
  
• Work with salon managers and owners on maintenance of equipment such as hydraulic chairs, sinks and dryers to reduce wear and tear on the operator, meaning you.
  
• Consider the weight of all your tools - in terms of your body, the lighter the better.