There is something special and even elegant when men shave with a safety razor. Whether it is at home or at a barber shop, it seems that nothing can leave skin feeling so smooth and invigorated. To get the close shave that men long to have, you need the best safety razor available. Not only will it leave your face and neck stubble free, the right safety razor also won’t leave embarrassing nicks and cuts. Below you will find an interactive comparison table of the top safety razors available in the market.
Ultimate Comparison Guide of Safety Razors
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How to Choose the Best Safety Razor
When you are choosing a safety razor there are two factors to take into consideration, the weight of the razor and the size of the handle. The right safety razor for you will fit comfortably in your hand, while also being perfectly balanced. It is important to make sure that you can maneuver the razor easily around the contours of your face, while holding the razor at the right angle for cutting facial hair.
A Heavy or Light Safety Razor
A razor that is too light can cause you to use too much pressure which often results in nicks and cuts. If it is too heavy, the same problem can also occur. Also make sure that the blade is exposed evenly on both sides of the razor. Uneven blades can leave coarse stubble behind and nick your sensitive skin. It is also a good idea to compare different manufacturers, and read safety razor reviews. All this can help you to choose the best safety razor for your shaving needs.
Recommended Safety Razor Reviews
Edwin Jagger DE89Lbl Lined Detail Chrome Plated Double Edge Safety Razor
This chrome plated safety razor shaves as beautifully as it looks. It is able to give you the same close shave as a straight razor, without nicking or irritating your delicate skin. A well balanced handle makes it easy to control, and its durable design lets you have thousands of luxurious shaves.
Merkur Heavy Duty DE Razor #34C
Imported from Germany, this is easily one of the most popular styles of safety razor. It can give you a close, smooth shave, even if you have thick facial hair. The stainless steel handle is heavier than other models, and its vintage design never goes out of style.
Parker 26C – Black Handle Three Piece OPEN COMB Double Edge Safety Razor & 5 Shark Super Chrome Blades
The head of the safety razor is an open comb design, to make it even easier to catch all of your facial hair. The heavy handle is ideal for thick or coarse hair, and the cutting head’s design makes it perfect for thinning overly thick beards and mustaches. The brass frame is durable, and the black handle gives it a stunning retro appearance.
Parker 96R – Long Handle Butterfly Open Double Edge Safety Razor & 5 SHARK blades
Perfect for beginners, this safety razor features a twist handle and butterfly doors for quick and simple blade replacement. The razor also has a textured handle, to prevent it from slipping even with wet hands. Like all Parker safety razors, it also features a durable brass construction.
Merkur Long Handled Safety Razor
The vintage chrome finish is elegant and stylish, while the safety razor gives you a smooth, close shave. The long handle not only makes it easier to shave your neck with fewer skin irritating passes, it is also ideal for anyone with larger hands. Made in Germany, it is durable, long lasting and will easily become your favorite razor.
Advantages of Using a Safety Razor
There are several advantages to using a safety razor that include receiving a close, smooth shave every time. These razors are easy to handle and care for, and are less expensive in the long run than disposable razors. Men often see their skin improve with the frequent use of shaving creams, and the routine effect of the razor can also improve the skin’s overall appearance. Not to mention that using a safety razor, lets you join a unique club of men who truly appreciate the art of shaving.
Types of Safety Razors
For over one hundred years men have been depending on safety razors to give them a smooth, close shave. Since its introduction to the public in 1904, the simple design of the safety razor has remained basically the same. While intricate engravings can adorn the handles and different materials can be used, there are still only a few types of safety razors for men to choose from.
One Piece Safety Razors
There are few different names for a one piece safety razor which include, TTO or twist to open, silo, and butterfly. This basic design has no removable parts, and was first introduced to the public in the early 1900’s. One piece razors are characterized by the two plates which open to reveal the cutting head. When the handle of the razor is twisted, the hinged plates open so the razor blade can be easily replaced. One of the drawbacks to this type of safety razor is the hinges and other moving parts can wear out with continual use. It is also important to clean and dry a silo razor especially after a wet shave.
Two Piece Safety Razors
This type of shaving razor is one of the most popular among both wet and dry shavers since they do not have to worry about lining the blade up. Since the blade will automatically lock into place, shaving time can be dramatically reduced. Some men also receive a closer and smoother shave with a two piece safety razor. To change the blade, there is a release button at the bottom or side of the razor. With the razor upside down, let the old blade fall out and drop the new one in place. When the two parts are reconnected the razor blade will automatically align and secure itself in place.
Three Piece Safety Razors
Dating back to the original Gillette safety razors, the design of the three piece shaver has remained basically the same. It is favored by shaving aficionados, and men who simply love the elegance and art of using these razors. There are three parts to this safety razor which include, the cutting head and its base, along with the handle that can be easily released. The only downside to using this type of safety razor is that you do have to handle sharp razor blades more frequently than with other models. The bottom plate of the cutting head is removable, and the blade is then carefully dropped into place. One advantage to the three piece safety razor is that it is extremely easier to clean and dry.
While the three different types of safety razors may be designed differently, the basic purpose is the same. These personal shavers can give you a smooth, close shave while also giving you a luxurious experience. Discovering the best safety razor for you, often comes down to a matter of personal preference. One and two piece safety razors are designed to make shaving experience including using the more difficult three piece razor.
Choosing the Cutting Head Design
Along with choosing the type of safety razor it is also important to consider the design of the cutting head, which is referred to as safety razor aggressiveness. It is used to describe the way a safety feels and performs when it is sliding across your face. The cutting angle, how much of the blade is exposed, and the size of the gap between the head and blade all determine the aggressiveness ratings of the safety razors.
Mild Aggressive Safety Razors
A safety razor that is considered mild aggressive is designed to barely touch the skin’s surface. It is characterized by only a small amount of the double razor blade being exposed, and a safety bar being included so there is a wider angle. This razor is ideal for men with sensitive skin, or whose facial hair growth is thinner and finer in texture. If you have thick or coarse stubble, this safety razor might not be designed for you.
Medium Aggressive Safety Razors
These safety razors are identified by an average gap between the blade and head, which also exposes a normal amount of the razor blade. It is an ideal mix between the light and heavy aggressive safety shaver, which lets it, cut beard growth without irritating the face and neck. It also includes a safety bar to help prevent nicks and cuts, and is the best safety razor for beginning shavers.
Heavy Aggressive Safety Razors
Ideal for men with heavy or coarse facial hair, an aggressive safety razor has a larger blade gap that leaves it significantly more exposed. This means that more facial hair can be cut at a time, with fewer passes of the razor. Since more of the edge of the razor blade is exposed, it can irritate sensitive neck and face skin. On the other hand, some men prefer using this type of safety razor since it requires less passes over the sensitive skin. It should be noted that since more of the blade is exposed, it is easier to accidently nick or cut yourself while shaving.
Tips for Shaving with a Safety Razor
Now that you know what to look for in a safety razor, you are ready to join the thousands of men who love the luxurious feeling they get from this relaxing routine. Unlike other types of shavers, a safety razor requires some finesse and guidance to accomplish the job perfectly. Here are some tips you can use to have smooth skin without nicks, cuts, and irritation.
The optimum shaving angle is 30 degrees, and follows the direction of the hair growth. Using slow passes, with light, short strokes will help ensure that you get all of the hairs without causing razor burn, or leaving small cuts.
- It is always important to thoroughly wash your skin before applying the shaving foam. This will help to soften the facial hair and remove dull, dead skin cells.
- There are several different types of shaving creams, lotions and foams to choose from, and it is simply a matter of skin type and personal preference. Many men often switch between two or three different products for complete skin care throughout the different seasons.
- Remember not to apply pressure, the handle should fit comfortably in your hand so the razor blade glides easily across your face. If too much pressure is applied, it often results in embarrassing nicks and cuts.
- Using your free hand to stretch the skin tight can help prevent the double edge razor blades from accidentally cutting it. This will also help the safety razor catch all of the hairs on the first pass, which will cut down on facial irritation.
- After each long pass, it is important to rinse the safety razor clean. This helps to keep the blade sharp and the shave even for a close, clean shave. Make sure to rinse both sides of the razor for optimum results.
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Cleaning and Care
Safety razors require very little care and maintenance, and are extremely easy to clean. All three types can be rinsed under water and carefully towel dried. Since most double edge razor blades can last for up to a week, it is also important to rinse underneath and around them to remove facial dirt and debris. Most men simply leave the safety razors left open to air dry, to avoid getting cut on the sharp edges of the blade.
Conclusion
Safety razors can give men the close shave that they love along with a unique experience that has been enjoyed for over one hundred years. While there are different types of safety razors, choosing the best one does not have to be difficult. Simply find the right safety razor that fits your skin and hair type, then get ready to experience one of the closest shaves you’ve ever had.
