When choosing clipper blades for grooming, understanding the difference between Finish Cut (FC) and Skip Tooth (ST) blades is essential for achieving safe, smooth results—especially if you're not a professional groomer.
Let’s break it down:
What Is an FC Blade?
Also referred to as an “F” or “FC” blade, a Finish Cut blade has teeth that are all the same length. This uniform structure allows the blade to deliver a smooth, polished finish on the coat. FC blades are ideal for final touches or working on sensitive areas like the face, paws, or sanitary zones.
Some common FC blade sizes include #10, #15, #30, #40, and #50—all designed with fine cutting in mind. These shorter blades are typically used for close trims and are always made in FC style for safety.
💡 Tip: FC blades are safer for general home use and reduce the risk of skin irritation, nicks, or uneven results.
What Is a Skip Tooth Blade?
Skip Tooth (ST) blades are designed with alternating long and short teeth. This pattern helps guide thicker or matted fur into the blade more efficiently, making them useful for rough cutting, pre-bath trims, or prepping double-coated breeds.
However, ST blades require a steady hand and experience, as their tooth pattern offers less protection to the skin. Misuse can lead to uneven cuts or, worse, accidental scratches—especially if the pet moves suddenly.
So, Which One Should You Use?
For smooth finishing and safe trimming – go with FC blades.
For thick, tangled coats that need to be thinned out before bathing – ST blades can help, but should only be used by trained hands.
Unless you're a professional groomer or have experience handling ST blades, stick with FC blades. They provide better safety for both pets and beginners, and are more forgiving when working around folds of skin or delicate areas.
Final Grooming Safety Tips
Always keep the skin taut while trimming—this prevents the blade from catching on skin folds.
Clean and oil your blades regularly to maintain performance and reduce friction.
Choose the right blade size and type (FC or ST) based on the grooming task—not all blades serve the same purpose.
Whether you're grooming a Shih Tzu at home or prepping a Golden Retriever for a summer cut, the blade you choose plays a big role in the safety and quality of your grooming results. When in doubt—choose Finish Cut.
👉 Looking for professional-grade blades you can trust?
Check out LILIPROPET’s A5 Detachable Clipper Blades — available in FC sizes like #5/8N, #10, #40, #3F, #4F, #5F, and #7F — designed for smooth, safe, and efficient grooming across pets and livestock.
