The beginning of the safety razor vs. cartridge razor rivalry is uncertain, but the debate has been going on a long time. In fact, it has long been one of the hottest topics in the world of shaving. Both of the two types have their own advantages and disadvantages.
While it is easy to dismiss the debate and just settle for choosing what’s available and affordable, it is better to understand the differences between the two. This way, you will become a wiser consumer.
Many manufacturers like Gillette have dominated the world of shaving by packing an ever-greater numbers of blades into their razors. The result of this is a multi-billion dollar industry that has consistently grown year on year. This might be the trend, but there are still people who prefer using a single-blade razor or a safety razor because of their many benefits.
Aside from the number of blades used in the razors, how different are safety razors from cartridge razors? Why should you choose one over the other?
What should you use? Safety Razor Vs. Cartridge Razor
A safety razor is made of different types of metal such as stainless steel and brass. Before cartridge razors entered the market, safety razors were popular. They are also called double-edge razors because they have a single double-edged blade.
Gillette was actually the first to introduce this idea in 1901 before they shifted their focus to making cartridge razors. The idea sprung from the demand among men who were looking for a safer way to shave.
Safety razors are designed to make it easy to replace the blade once it dulls. To use the razor, you have to move it across the skin at a gentle angle. This technique will allow you to cut clean through the beard without pulling any hair. There is less irritation experienced and the chance of ingrown hairs is also reduced by using a safety razor.
If you want a razor that will help you achieve a clean-shaven look, then the safety razor is for you. This is because the single blade is sure to cut through the hair or shave close to the skin. Thus, it leaves the hair much shorter than before.
Using a safety razor can be difficult for beginners, but once you have mastered the right technique, you will soon appreciate the beauty of this type of razor. Also, you will find that safety razors are more effective at reducing razor bumps and irritation.
Another thing that makes safety razors a better choice is the quality of steel. Safety razors’ blades are said to be sharper and longer lasting than those of cartridge razors no matter how many are there are.
Should you use a cartridge razor over a safety razor?
Most commercials or advertisements for cartridge razors say the same thing: More blades means faster shaving, resulting in smooth skin. However, that is just marketing. Believe it or not, there is no basis for this claim.
According to scientific research more blades actually means more irritation. When there are too many blades exposed to your skin, this results in more irritation.
Aside from this, more blades means close shaving, which is a good thing. But that is only if those blades don’t cut your skin. With so many blades passing over your skin several times, there is a higher risk of having ingrown hairs. This is especially true for men with curly hair.
When using a cartridge razor, instead of a single blade there are five sharp blades passing over your skin. That alone will tell you that a cartridge razor makes you more prone to irritation. And when follicles are irritated, there will be bumps in the affected area.
Nevertheless, one argument for cartridge razors in the safety razors vs. cartridge razors debate is the price. Cartridge razors are so cheap that you can buy more than ten razors for the price of one safety razor. Those who are looking for a quick shaving tool to bring on a trip or who need to smarten up quickly will prefer cartridge razors.