For many of us, our time in the shower is filled with various products and tools — shampoos and conditioners, body wash, scrubs and, of course, razors. While an empty bottle can indicate that it’s time to purchase a new product, the same scale can't really be used for razors.
Since razors are something people may use only a few times a week or every once in a while, it can be easy to forget to change the blade out or switch to a completely new one, which may have adverse repercussions for your skin. “Using an old or dull blade can lead to ingrown hairs, razor burn and bacterial infection,” says double board-certified dermatologist Dr. Kristina Collins.
Not sure when you last changed your razor? No judgment here! Collins and board-certified dermatologist Dr. Teresa Song laid out everything you need to know about when to replace them, how to care for them and even shared a few that have their expert seal of approval.
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Best for sensitive skin
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Athena Club The Razor Kit
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A disposable razor blade should be replaced every week, according to Collins. However, it can be more often depending on factors like how frequently you shave and the quality of your hair (longer, shorter, more coarse, etc.).
If you're using metal safety razors, she recommends replacing the blade every 5-7 shaves.
Collins says if you start to notice dullness, tugging on the skin, irritation or visible rusting, it’s definitely time for a new razor.
What to look for when shopping for a new razorIf you’re in the market for a new razor, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind for longevity and the health of your skin.
If you're looking for something with longevity in mind, Collins calls out safety razors and straight razors because they use replaceable single blades that you can swap out as needed.
Many razors will promote the number of blades it’s made with, but that doesn’t always mean it provides a better shave. In fact, it can potentially lead to irritation. “Three to five blades typically is a sweet spot,” Song says.
She adds that razors with moisturizing bars built in are "great for sensitive skin, however, [the moisturizing bar] wears down quickly and probably would only last 1-2 uses. It is better to consistently use a topical shaving cream or gel."
Other features Song recommends taking into account include a non-slip grip and pivoting heads "that adapt to curvatures of the skin to reduce potential cuts."
What are the different types of razors?While shopping for a razor, you’ve probably noticed how many different types are available. Luckily, Song gave us a quick rundown on the difference between the ones you'll most commonly find on the market:
- Straight razors: Single-blade razors with a long handle and replaceable blades. These provide the closest shave but require some experience for efficient use.
- Safety razors: Replaceable blades with a protective guard. They are more eco-friendly and cost-effective.
- Disposable razors: Blades are built in to the handle. They are meant for short-term use and are convenient, but not the most precise or durable.
- Cartridge razors: Replaceable multi-blade cartridges that you swap out on one handle. Each cartridge is meant for short-term use.
- Electric razors: Battery powered or rechargeable and great for quick, dry shaves. However, they do not reach as close to the skin as manual razors.
- Hybrid razors: Combine manual blades with a battery-powered vibration feature to reduce friction and irritation.
- Dermaplaning razors: Single-blade razor that is used for facial hair removal and exfoliation.
Best for sensitive skin: Gillette Venus Extra Smooth Sensitive Women's Disposable Razors
What we like
- Easy and comfortable grip
- Lightweight
Something to note
- For short-term use
Type: Disposable | Number of blades: 5 | Quantity: 2
Collins recommends this five-blade razor if you have sensitive skin. According to the brand, it’s made with skin protection in mind and has a water-activated ribbon of moisture that will lubricate your skin, guarding it against any cuts and irritation.
Best for a close shave: Schick Hydro Silk Sensitive Women's Razor
What we like
- Moisturizing bar is effective
- Smooth shave
Something to note
- Some say it traps water
Type: Cartridge | Number of blades: 5 | Quantity: 1 handle, 2 refill cartridges
If you're looking for a close shave, even in hard-to-reach areas, Collins like the Schick Hydro Silk 5. It has a hypoallergenic serum with skin-loving ingredients like aloe and chamomile, as well as a skin-protection coating and skin guards to prevent irritation.
Best disposable razor: Bic Soleil 3 Colors
What we like
- Smooth shave
- Comfortable grip
Something to note
- May not be for sensitive skin
Type: Disposable | Number of blades: 3 | Quantity: 8
Song likes these disposal razors from Bic. They have three blades, a moisture strip and an anti-slip handle. They can easily become your go-to razor at home and can also fit in your cosmetic bag for quick touch-ups when traveling.
These are also a favorite of Shop TODAY associate editor Allie Wise. “I am always on the go/traveling so I prefer to use disposable razors so I can get rid of them easily. These colorful razors offer a nice splash of color and also are very smooth on my skin. Never any bumps!”
Best electric face razor: Philips Norelco OneBlade 360
What we like
- Gentle on skin
- Good battery life
Something to note
- May need to swap blades often
Type: Hybrid | Number of blades: N/A | Quantity: 1
Both experts recommend Philips for an electric razor. The Norelco OneBlade 360 is made with technology designed for facial grooming and can tackle hair of any length, according to the brand. It also features a fast-moving cutter that’s meant to help make the saving process easy, efficient and comfortable.
Best safety razor: Merkur 34C Extra Thick Handle Safety Razor
What we like
- Thick handle for easier grip
- Good for beginners
Something to note
- May not give closest shave
Type: Safety | Number of blades: 1 | Quantity: 1
Mishandling a razor can often lead to cuts and skin irritation, which is why this razor from Merkur is a great choice for those just starting to get the hang of shaving, according to Collins. The thick handle allows for better control of the razor while providing a safe-yet-close shave for both men and women.
Best electric razor: Braun Epilator Silk-épil 9
What we like
- Pivoting head contours to body
- Lasts a long time
Something to note
- Can be uncomfortable at first
Type: Electric | Number of blades: N/A | Quantity: 1
An electric razor can be a quick and efficient way to get rid of hair all over your body because of its wide pivoting head. Collins calls out this device that comes with a trimmer comb and shaver head to help remove even the shortest of hair in hard-to-reach areas. It can also be used on wet or dry skin.
Shop TODAY editor-favorite razorsSchick Hydro Silk Touch-Up Dermaplaning Tool
What we like
- Good for touch-ups
- Travel-friendly size
Something to note
- May irritate skin for some
Type: Dermaplaning | Number of blades: 1 | Quantity: 3
One Shop TODAY writer loved this razor so much, she couldn't help but rave about it. She loves that she can use them on her cheeks, chin, upper lip, forehead, hands and even her bikini area.
Schick Intuition Sensitive Care Women’s Razor
What we like
- Affordable
- Two-in-one product
Something to note
- Lather decreases after a while
Type: Cartridge | Number of blades: 4 | Quantity: 1 handle, 2 refill cartridges
Associate editor Sierra Hoeger was gifted this razor last Christmas as part of a self-care basket and has been hooked ever since. “Shaving used to be a whole ‘everything shower' ordeal, and now it’s incorporated into my daily shower routine. This razor truly takes the work out of shaving and has made it less of a chore!”
Athena Club The Razor Kit
What we like
- Ergonomic
- Easy to install
- Smooth shave
Something to note
- Blades not easiest to restock
Type: Cartridge | Number of blades: 5 | Quantity: 1 handle, 2 refill cartridges
Shop TODAY SEO writer Jannely Espinal has been using this razor for over a year and raves, "This is the best razor I’ve owned for it’s ergonomic design and smooth experience." Aside from the smooth shave it provides, she says it's also easy to install the magnetic storage hook on the wall or tile in your bathroom.
Editor Vivien Moon is also a fan of these razors, calling it "high quality" and adding that she likes that the handle has a bit of weight to it.
Tweezerman Facial Razor
What we like
- Weighty
- Easy to clean
- Easy to change blades
Something to note
- Bit of an investment for razor
Type: Dermaplaning | Number of blades: 1 | Quantity: 1 handle, 3 replacement blades
Associate editor Kamari Stewart has been using this facial razor for years and says it stands out amongst all the others she's tried. "You can immediately tell the difference from the weight it has to it, but I also love that it provides a smooth shave without nicking the skin and that it’s so easy to clean. It’s also very easy to change out the blades and I haven’t felt like I was in danger of cutting myself once in the process!"
Marlowe. No. 145 Body Hair Trimmer
What we like
- Rechargeable
- Close shave
Something to note
- Not ideal for coarse hair
Type: Electric | Number of blades: N/A | Quantity: 1
"When I’m in a rush and don’t have time to jump in the shower to shave my legs, this is a quick fix that I always turn to," says Moon. "I love how closely it buzzes my hair off and that it’s rechargeable, making it a great travel companion as well. It’s also very chic and looks good in my bathroom. I’ve had this one for years and haven’t had any issues with it."
Frequently asked questions
To clean a metal safety razor, Collins says you should rinse it thoroughly after each use to remove any remaining hair and shaving cream.
“For a deeper clean, disassemble the razor and soak the parts in warm, soapy water or a mix of water and white vinegar for about 10-15 minutes. Use a soft brush — like an old toothbrush — to remove any buildup, then dry the razor completely to prevent rust.”
According to experts, the main difference between razors made for men and razors made for women is mostly marketing.
“Women’s razors often have angled heads for shaving body contours, whereas men’s razors are designed for facial hair and tend to be sharper and more compact,” Collins says. “However, both can be used interchangeably. Many women prefer men’s razors for a closer shave.”
There are also differences in small design details. “Women’s razors tend to have brighter colors, softer grips, moisturizing strips and pivoting heads for body curves, while men’s razors focus on face shaving and precision trimming,” adds Song.
Shop TODAY asked dermatologists for everything you need to know about choosing and replacing your razors, and for the products that get their seal of approval. Editors also shared the tried-and-true razors they use and love.
Meet the experts- Dr. Kristina Collins, MD, FAAD, is a double board-certified dermatologist and founder of the brand Love Foy.
- Dr. Teresa Song, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist at Marmur Medical in New York City.
Sydney Wingfield
Sydney Wingfield is a freelance writer for Shop TODAY.
