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Which gives a closer shave, an electric shaver or a regular razor & shaving cream?

I know there are many different types of razors and electric shavers, all with a wide range of prices. I also understand that some may work better than others. However, I would like to know IN GENERAL, whether or not electronic shavers are better than regular razors for a closer, smoother-feeling shave, and what are the advantages and disadvantages of both. Personal experiences would be very helpful. Thanks.

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Sun, May 22 2011 » Electric Razors

Comments
  • Andrew S May 22, 2011 at 9:06 pm

    An electric shaver is much quicker and I usually use it when I am in a hurry. A real razor and shaving cream will give you a much better and closer shave, no doubt about it, but it is a pain to do every day. Every guy should have both so when they have time or it is important to be cleanly shaved they can use a regular razor, but if they are late for work, they can use an electric shaver.

  • James T May 22, 2011 at 9:24 pm

    Electric razors will never shave as close as a blade, period. Even the instructions for electric razors will tell you that. However, modern multi-bladed razors can shave too close. Their blades are designed to lift the hair as they shave, so they actually shave hair below the skin, and they often shave off some skin too.

    Electric Razors
    Advantages:
    No beard prep necessary, just shave (optional Lectric shave pre-shave lotion)
    Waterless
    More portable
    Blades do not need to be replaced often
    Will rarely cause razor bumps, razor burn or irritation

    Disadvantages:
    Will not shave as close
    Razor will heat up, which can cause discomfort
    Routine maintenance required (cleaning, oiling the shave heads, charging the battery)
    Does not exfoliate skin
    Requires high initial investment

    Cartridge Razor (Mach 3, Fusion, Quattro, Twin Bladed, Single Bladed)
    Advantages:
    Shaves close
    Provides smoother shave
    Exfoliates skin, creating clearer skin, and helps with acne, blemishes, due to exfoliation
    Requires no maintenance, dull blade is simply replaced

    Disadvantages:
    Razor blades are expensive
    Causes major irritation (especially the higher 3+ bladed razors)
    Requires water, and lather
    Not as portable
    Beard Prep necessary
    Blade must be rinsed every stroke

    Double Edged Razor
    Advantages:
    All advantages of safety razor
    Cheap blades
    Can take two strokes before blade must be rinsed
    Far less likely to cause shaving irritation

    Disadvantages:
    Requires practice to use properly
    Beard Prep required
    Higher initial cost (cost of razor is higher than cartridge/disposable)
    Not sold in most stores

    Straight Razor
    Advantages:
    One razor will last two generations
    Will provide best possible shave
    Will not cause irritation if used properly
    Can take multiple strokes before rinsing is required
    Cheapest system in long run
    Does not use disposable blades
    Edge is sharper than any disposable blade

    Disadvantages:
    Requires extensive maintenance to maintain keen edge
    Least portable shaving system
    Requires a lot of practice to use properly
    Requires highest initial investment
    Beard Prep required
    Not Sold in Most Stores

    In the end I would choose a blade system. I understand the draw to cartridge razors, and that’s probably where most men should start. But use a single or twin bladed system first. Three or more blades are unnecessary, and cause irritation. The best shaving systems are the DE or Straight System, and are the cheapest in the long run.
    If you experience irritation like razor burn or shaving bumps, or if time is more of an issue than a super close shave, then go with an electric shaver.

  • Sonny from Kids' Craft Blogs May 24, 2011 at 10:23 pm

    I prefer the hand razor. It allows me to shave my face – and my head, for that matter – while in the shower (that way it’s easier to rinse the foam off without splashing water all over the place)…
    Sonny@Kids’ Craft Blogs´s last [type] ..Yo Ho- A Caribbean Pirates Wig for Me

  • SS Future 2011 LLC July 25, 2011 at 7:27 pm

    Check out our grooming kit and shaver at http://www.marvellousskin.com/other_health_products/. Great low prices and much more!

  • neil from Network Disaster Recovery August 10, 2011 at 12:56 pm

    I would go for a strait razor over a electric shaver

  • Sava Georgiev from Gold Watches August 20, 2011 at 5:40 pm

    I’ve always used straight razors but I’m thinking of trying electric. I will give you some feedback once I test both, but I think its different for different types of beard and face skin.

  • ken from six pack abs September 14, 2011 at 7:00 am

    Which one gives a closer shave?
    Traditional two side blade razor, hands down.

    What do I prefer/use?
    Mostly, my ramington electric shaver.

    Why?
    Shave performance is acceptable to me.
    Skin irritation is negligible.
    It doesn’t cut my skin.

    I guess that’s to the point.

    K.

  • Matt from Underwater Photographer November 11, 2011 at 1:22 am

    I uses electric razor. I think it is not hard to choose. It would depend on the texture and thickness of the hair you want to trim.
    Matt@Underwater Photographer´s last [type] ..Stone Money and Palms, Yap Micronesia by Matt Considine

  • mcelectrics November 22, 2011 at 9:58 am

    I always go for the razor, you cant get closer in my opinion and it doesnt effect my skin as badly.

  • Thomas from London bars pubs clubs February 12, 2012 at 4:39 pm

    Electric razors can give a close shave just like an open blade (wet shave) but you have to spend a little bit more. The amount of times I have thrown away an electric shaver weeks after first using it because it just didn’t cut it. I have found Philips seems to be the best, and you only get what you pay for.

    The ladies love a professional trim :}

  • Leon from Learn to dance March 2, 2012 at 9:25 pm

    I think that a razor surely gives a closer shave but its also more hassle and work. I usually use an electric shaver just to speed things up. I also have a little beard going on so I don’t need the close shave. Also, I have to say that the electric shaver irritates the skin more!

    Hope this helps.
    Leon

  • Sava from Beauty Tips April 19, 2012 at 6:29 am

    I believe the key in success is being passionate about what you write.

  • tom May 6, 2012 at 9:49 pm

    I use the beard trimmer on my electric razor and it keeps my face a nice 3 day growth. works very well.
    tom´s last [type] ..Newest Hot Topic Promo Codes And Coupons for 2012!

  • Horse Riding Wear May 7, 2012 at 3:18 am

    When using shaving cream to shave does it release oil onto the skin. And is it okay to shave with soap?
    Horse Riding Wear´s last [type] ..Loveson Starz Girls Jodhpurs Navy / Blue

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