What does it Cost
Let talk prices. For the sake of comparison lets assume average prices...
# Initial investment for a razor:
Safety Razor = R600 / Cartridge Razor = R200
# Disposable Razor blades (max 10 shaves)
Safety Razor blades = R20(pack of 5) / Cartridge Razor blades = R350(pack of 4)
Cost per shave - Safety Razor = R0.40 / Cartridge Razor = R8.75
# Shaving Soap/Foam (based on shaving every day)
Shaving Soap = R150 / Store bought Shaving Foam = R50
Cost per shave - Soap = R0.41 / Cost per shave - Foam = R0.69
# Conclusion:
Per Shave:
Safety Razor + Safety Razor Blade + Shaving Soap = R2.45
Cartridge Razor + Razor Blade + Shaving Foam = R9.98
Per month:
Safety Razor + Safety Razor Blade + Shaving Soap = R68.60
Cartridge Razor + Razor Blade + Shaving Foam = R279.44
Per Year:
Safety Razor + Safety Razor Blade + Shaving Soap = R823.20
Cartridge Razor + Razor Blade + Shaving Foam = R3353.28
These numbers tell their own tale and convey their own message. Need I say more...
Modern vs Classic Razors
# Cartridge Razor - uses
a head cartridge containing multiple blade edges.
# Safety Razor - uses
a single blade. A single sharp edge (SE) or double sharp edge (DE).
Safety razors are a much better option for men with sensitive skin. Cartridge razors have multiple blades, and more blades means more times the blades are dragged over the skin. This can cause irritation and redness, especially for those with
sensitive skin. While they do require a little extra getting used to initially,
they are much less likely to cause irritation and will give a closer shave.
Different Safety Razor Head Styles
# Closed Comb - razors are designed with small grooves and a safety bar
along the bottom of the razor, thus resembling a closed comb.
# Open Comb - open comb razors have individual teeth and a more exposed
razor.
Closed comb razors are some of the most common kinds of safety razors. These razors are less aggressive and provide extra protection for the shaver. Perfect for daily shaving and designed to smooth out any stubble and reduce the possibility of nicks or cuts. Although closed comb razors are less aggressive, they can take a few passes if you have thick hair. My suggestion for men with sensitive
skin, a closed comb razor is probably best because as it's less aggressive.
Open comb razors are a little bit on the aggressive side. Open comb razors have individual teeth and a more exposed razor blade. However, these razors are perfect for individuals who shave occasionally, grow hair quickly or grow extremely thick hair. Even though the razor is aggressive, this razor is direct. The razor allows hair to move freely as you shave and you’ll be able to
get a closer shave.
My biggest tip for Open vs Closed Comb razors is to be extra careful and go slow during your shave. Slow and steady wins the race!
Shaving Soap vs Cream vs Gel vs Foam
# Shaving Soap - usually comes in a solid form, often in a small bowl or dish, and is applied using a shaving brush.
It's the most traditional of shaving products, so it often appeals to those of us with a certain vintage flair! Use a brush to whip the soap up into a lather and apply it to your face in a thick, creamy layer before you shave. A good shaving soap will never be drying, and will leave your skin feeling brightened and refreshed. However, it is usually slightly less moisturising than a shaving cream or gel, so it is usually best suited to oily or normal skin types.
# Shaving Cream - is a cream which tend to have the creamiest and richest texture when compared to other shaving products.
It’s extremely moisturising and leaves your skin feeling soft and hydrated. Shaving creams are generally suitable for any skin type, but are especially beneficial for those of us who experience more sensitivity and dryness. Look out for shaving creams which have quality natural ingredients which benefit dry and delicate skin, these can help to prevent your skin becoming irritated while you shave, and leave it soothed and soft.
# Shaving Gel - is less foamy and produce less of a lather than shaving soap and is slightly slicker
and more lubricating than shaving cream.
Shaving gel will allow your razor to slide and glide beautifully over your skin and avoid any nicks, cuts or irritation. They often also have the advantage of being clear, meaning that you can see exactly what you're doing and allowing you to get those clean, sharp edges.
# Shaving Foam - often come in an aerosol can, and it is going to be much thinner and much airier.
Shaving foams are designed to be quick and convenient. They are not necessarily designed to add tons of moisture to the skin. Shaving foam is meant to be something that is easy to use and that is going to help you shave and get out the door. They often contain ingredients like alcohol that can be drying to the skin, and they do not lather up like a traditional shaving cream or a shaving soap would do.
My take - What works for one, might not for another. Variety is the spice of life, different strokes for different okes. We all have different needs and preferences. Choose the shaving lubricant that works for YOU.
# Razor Blades - These should be replaced ideally every 5 - 10 shaves.
Can’t remember the last time you changed your razor blade? No judgment here.
Most people have probably shaved with a razor that sat unchanged for longer than they care to admit.
The last thing you want to do is drag a dull razor across your face,
especially for men with sensitive skin. The key to getting a close shave lies in a sharp blade. And over time, razor blades can get dull, not to mention a little nasty. An old, dull blade could rob you of a smooth shave and potentially irritate your skin, or worse, cause cuts, nicks, ingrown hairs, razor burn and infections.
A razor that has an accumulation of gunk that can’t be rinsed away should be immediately discarded, to prevent introducing harbored bacteria into your pores.
The main reason men do not change their razor blades as often as they should is the exorbitant costs of replacing them.
Chencha dai deng...Switch to safety razors - Problem solved! A sharp choice for a smooth solution.
