For centuries, the pursuit of the perfect shave has led to an array of razor designs and methods. Safety razors, in particular, have gained popularity for providing a closer and more comfortable shaving experience.
However, when compared to modern multi-blade cartridge razors, safety razors won’t achieve nearly as close of a shave in a single pass.
We’ll explain why this is the case along with some additional techniques you can employ to achieve a closer shave with a safety razor.
Key Takeaways
- Safety razors, such as double-edge safety razors, provide a comfortable shaving experience with less irritation, but they may not achieve as close of a shave in a single pass compared to multi-blade cartridge razors.
- These razors consist of a single, double-edged blade and do not experience the hysteresis phenomenon (lift-and-cut) that cartridge razors do.
- Achieving a close shave with a safety razor (DE razor) requires multiple passes (with, across, and against the grain) and proper technique.
- Using quality shaving cream or shaving soap and maintaining the correct blade angle can improve the shaving experience and results.
How Safety Razors Work
Safety razors, as the name suggests, were designed to provide a safer alternative to straight razors used by barbers.
Unlike cartridge razors, which comprise multiple blades attached to a disposable head, safety razors consist of a single, double-edged blade held between a handle and a protective cap, sometimes with a closed comb design. The comb on the safety razor presses against the skin, ensuring a consistent and safe shaving angle. As the blade is exposed only slightly, it provides a level of protection and reduces the risk of cuts and nicks compared to a straight razor.
The single-blade design allows the razor to cut the hair rather low, but some level of grit or stubble will remain.
Did you know: Safety razors were first introduced in the late 19th century and were popularized by King Camp Gillette’s invention of the disposable double-edge blade in 1903.
Do Safety Razors Experience the Hysteresis Phenomenon?
To understand why safety razors can’t cut as close as cartridge razors in a single pass, it’s essential to grasp the concept of the hysteresis phenomenon.
Hysteresis refers to the time it takes for the skin to return to its original position after being stretched or displaced. Modern multi-blade cartridge razors take advantage of this phenomenon by lifting the hair with the first blade and cutting it with the following blades, providing a close shave as the skin relaxes and the hair retracts below the skin’s surface. This article by the New York Times explains the phenomenon in more detail.
This phenomenon is commonly referred to as “lift-and-cut.”
For better or worse, cartridge razors can work either exceptionally well or cause some irritation, depending on the individual’s skin sensitivity and hair growth patterns.
Safety razors, on the other hand, do not experience hysteresis due to their single-blade design. Instead, they glide smoothly along the skin, maintaining the skin’s natural position throughout the shaving process.
Since this shaving tool doesn’t utilize hysteresis as effectively, it may take multiple passes to achieve similar closeness to that of cartridge razors.
Fun fact: Safety razors are also more environmentally friendly compared to cartridge razors, as their blades are typically recyclable and produce less plastic waste, making them a popular choice for eco-conscious individuals.
How to Get a Close Shave with a Safety Razor
Achieving the closest and most comfortable shave with a safety razor may require a learning curve for beginners. Many wet shavers recommend making multiple passes, usually two to three, to progressively reduce facial hair.
This involves shaving in the direction of hair growth (with the grain) in the first pass, followed by passes across and against the grain.
The across and against-the-grain passes do take some practice and caution, as well as short strokes, as the improper technique may lead to nicks or irritation. However, with time, patience, and consistent practice, most users can master the technique and enjoy a close, comfortable shave with minimal irritation. Additionally, using quality shaving cream or soap and maintaining a proper blade angle (generally 30-45 degrees) can significantly improve the shaving experience and results. Wet shaving can also benefit from prep, such as using hot water to open pores before the shave and cold water to close them afterward.
Blade replacement and honing for double-edge razor blades are essential for maintaining a sharp and efficient shaving tool. The butterfly design in some safety razors allows for easier blade swapping, which should be done every 3-7 shaves, depending on the individual’s needs.
Want to learn more? We have several tips and tricks that can help you master your safety razor technique and enhance your overall shaving experience in this guide.