Ion Plating

Ion Plating (イオンプレーティング, ion purētingu)

Quick look

  • What it is: A thin metallic or ceramic film deposited onto the scissor surface through ion bombardment
  • Common colors: Gold, rose gold, blue, black, rainbow
  • Durability: More durable than traditional electroplating; does not flake or peel under normal use
  • Function: Primarily aesthetic, with moderate corrosion resistance benefits

Why it matters

Ion plating (IP) is the most popular color coating method for professional scissors. The process works by vaporizing a coating material (typically titanium, zirconium, or a ceramic compound) in a vacuum chamber, then accelerating the ions onto the scissor surface using an electric field. The ions bond at the atomic level, creating a film that is much harder and more adherent than conventional plating or paint.

The result is a durable color finish that resists everyday wear. Unlike standard PVD (physical vapor deposition), ion plating uses higher energy bombardment during deposition. This produces a denser, harder film with better adhesion. IP coated scissors hold their color through months of daily use, chemical exposure, and repeated disinfection.

Color options

Gold and rose gold are the most common IP colors in the professional market. Blue and black finishes have gained popularity in recent years, especially among barbers. Rainbow (multi-color) IP coatings are produced by varying the coating thickness across the surface, which changes how light refracts through the film. The color is in the coating itself, not painted on, so it cannot be rubbed off with cleaning products.

What IP does not do

IP coating does not improve cutting performance. The cutting edge is ground and sharpened after coating, so the edge geometry is pure steel. IP also does not significently increase surface hardness in a way that prevents scratches from drops or impacts. Think of it as a durable cosmetic layer with some corrosion protection built in.

When scissors are resharpened professionally, the coating near the edge will be removed. This is normal and expected. Most manufacturers apply IP only to the body and handles, leaving the blade edge uncoated.

Urushi Lacquer Mirror Polish Steel Types

Sources

  1. Hair Scissors Complete Guide, Chapter 12: Surface Treatments & Coatings
  2. KAMIU (kamiu.jp) scissor coating documentation

Related Finish types