Best Cartridge Razors

Your first razor was probably a cartridge razor.

There’s a reason your parents purchased it for you when it was time for your very first shave.

The alternatives to best cartridge razors (such as straight razors or safety razors) are a great way to end up with a nicked-up face if it’s your first time shaving.

Shaving purists and facial hair gurus will argue in favor of fancier, more difficult shaving accessories, but there’s something to be said for the best cartridge razor.

It may not be the classiest, most luxurious way to shave, but it’s straightforward and simple.

No razor is quite as foolproof as the best cartridge razor.

Cartridge Razors

Image Product Details  
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Smoothest ShaveDorco Pace 6 Plus
  • Doesn’t cause irritation
  • No cuts, nicks and scratches
  • Moisturizes skin
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Sharpest BladesGillette Mach3 Turbo
  • Lubrastrip enables a smooth shave
  • Micro fins help stretch the skin for shaving
  • Easy-glide
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Most FlexibleBIC Flex 4 Sensitive Hybrid
  • Pivot head helps with balance and control
  • Delivers extremely close shave
  • Very affordable price
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Shave It Pro
  • Delivers extremely close and precise shave
  • Flexible head follows your face contours
  • Advanced blade fitting and ejection button
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Schick Hydro 5
  • 5 ultra glide blades for comfortable shave
  • Prevents irritation
  • Easy to control when trimming hard-to-reach areas
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For more detailed and complete product reviews on benefits and features, keep reading.

 

It might not deliver the baby-soft shave of more difficult razors, but it’s hard to muck up and can be used pretty much anywhere on your body.

It’s no shock then that you can find cartridge razors just about everywhere.

They’re pushed in supermarkets, endorsed by your favorite athletes and plastered all over billboards and television.

In fact, there’s a pretty good chance you’ve already used the best cartridge razor.

17 Best Cartridge Razors Evaluated by Experts

1. Dorco Pace 6 Plus

Relatively new and advanced Dorco Pace 6 Plus Razor System guarantees users a close, smooth shave without leaving any marks, redness, razor burns or soreness on the skin.

Dorco Pace 6 Plus features a 6-blade razor system, a feature that enables just a single stroke to shave to reduce any chances of irritation. Though this is the first-ever six razor blade system in the world, it works with amazing efficiency.

The efficiency is further increased by the tilting head action aimed at increasing shaving precision along various body contours. Large and comfortable soft rubber fins help to prepare and protect your skin against any cuts, nicks or scratches.

The product comes with 10 cartridges and rejuvenating strip enriched with lavender oil, aloe and vitamin E to help nourish and moisturize your skin as well as to eliminate wrinkles.

Dorco

Pros

  • Close, smooth shave without redness and razor burns
  • Doesn’t cause irritation at all
  • No cuts, nicks and scratches
  • Moisturizes skin and eliminates wrinkles
Cons

  • Blades won’t last long if you don’t rinse them well
  • Doesn’t come with a handle

2. Gillette Fusion5 ProGlide

Gillette Fusion5 ProGlide Razor features the thinnest and finest blades from Gillette for a soreless shave. This is coupled with a precision trimmer that follows facial contours and reaches to areas that are hard to access with ordinary blades like sideburns and nose.

The precision trimmer is situated in the back for maximum convenience. According to the manufacturer, a single blade will last you for at least one month saving you the hassle and expenses of buying new blades often.

Another thing that you’ll like about the blades of this item is the fact that they’re compatible with any Fusion5 power razors.

The razor also comes with an enhanced lubrastrip to help moisturize and relieve your skin. However, it’s advisable that you also purchase the ProGlide 2 in 1 shave gel to enhance your shaving performance.

Gillette Fusion5 ProGlide

Pros

  • Thinner blades guarantee smoother and less irritating shaves
  • Lubrastrip for moisturizing and relieving skin
  • Blades are long-lasting
Cons

  • Price is a bit higher

3. Micro Touch

With Micro Touch Cartridge Razor you can get a clean, comfortable shave without having to spend all your savings. The razor is an amazing blend of price, design and functionality.

A tough blade system is deployed in a certain way that makes it last longer without compromising the quality of shaves. The technological breakthrough includes a very thin, nonstick coating that limits the buildup of debris.

The item features a high-quality, sleek, ergonomic design with a non-slip handle. Despite the affordable price, the razor features a surprisingly luxurious stainless steel blades design.

That’s not all about this product, as it features a three razor system for a smooth, clean shave. It’s designed and structured to shave at any angle, so no hair will be left behind. Finally, it comes with 12 refill cartridges.

micro

Pros

  • Sleek, ergonomic, non-slip handle
  • Shaves at all angles hence which makes ideal for hard-to-access areas
  • Affordable price
Cons

  • Handle may loosen after several months of use

4. Schick Hydro 5 Sensitive Skin

Highly effective and uniquely designed Schick Hydro 5 Sensitive Skin Razor is just the kind of razor you need for an irritation-free, close shave.

It’s tested and certified by dermatologists around the world for men with sensitive skin. It provides a close, clean shave without any irritation. That means that your skin remains intact.

Another thing worth noting is that instead of the ordinary lube stick, this item uses a unique hydrating gel reservoir. The hydration reservoir provides amazing lubricating protection, which is confirmed to be better than an ordinary lube stick by up to 40% in terms of friction reduction.

This best cartridge razor has 5 high-quality blades for a perfect shave without having to make several strokes that can irritate your skin. As a bonus, the guard bar is large to help stretch the skin effectively.

hydro

Pros

  • Gives close shave with no irritation
  • Hydrating gel reservoir provides great lubricating protection
  • Ergonomically designed for perfect grip
Cons

  • Design isn’t very appealing to some men

5. Personna 5

Perfectly designed with 5 coated blades, a great pivoting head and a soap bar, Personna 5 Razor is able to reduce friction and provide you with the most comfortable shave ever.

All the replaceable cartridges are made in the USA using high-quality imported stainless steel blades. The lubrication strip is made bearing in mind the very sensitive skin contours of a man’s face and neck.

The manufacturer assures that you’ll have a safe shaving experience, given that the blades glide smoothly across the skin without causing any irritation.

You can easily use this item for wet shaving because it’s made with a fast rinse technology that keeps the blades very clean. The ergonomic handle is simple to hold and the lubrication strip is coated with aloe and vitamin E for perfect glide.

Personna

Pros

  • Lubrication strip for friction reduction and a smooth glide
  • Ergonomic handle for easy holding and control while shaving
  • Easy to clean
Cons

  • Can be a bit rough if you have very thick hairs

6. Gillette Mach3 Turbo

Gillette Mach3 Turbo Razor has the blades that are sharper than ordinary blades and will stay so for an incredibly long time.

They’re progressively positioned to cut your hair gradually and the geometry of three blades and their positioning is a key feature that ensures increased comfort. One stroke means you have three blades progressively running across your face to reduce friction.

A close, clean shave is further enhanced by the incorporation of micro fins. They help to stretch the skin and prepare the hair to be cut by the first blade.

The lubrastrip is strategically positioned on top of the razor to effectively release lubrication and enable easier glide.

mach 3

Pros

  • Sharp and long-lasting blades
  • Micro fins help stretch the skin for shaving
  • Lubrastrip enables a smooth shave with easier blades glide
Cons

  • Comes with just a single blade refill

7. BIC Flex 4 Sensitive Hybrid

At an almost bargain deal price, BIC Flex 4 Razor offers amazing performance. It’s practical and designed to deliver a clean, ultra-close shave.

This model features five blades that are incredibly flexible and will follow the contours of your face, reaching even to the hard-to-access areas.

The razor comes with four additional replaceable cartridges. The handle is ergonomically designed to provide grip and control.

The lubricating strip has a lubricant that’s rich in both vitamin E and aloe vera, therefore, it improves glide and helps nourish and protect your sensitive skin.

Bic flex 4

Pros

  • Pivot head and balancing sphere help with balance and control
  • Delivers extremely close shave
  • Very affordable price
Cons

  • Handle is made from plastic, but still relatively good

8. Personna M5 Magnum

Personna M5 Magnum Cartridge Razor is great for shaving the back of your neck, sideburns, hairs under your nose and goatee.

On the front of the razor are five ultra-sharp blades for general shaving, while the back has a single sharp and strong blade to take care of your sideburns. The push-button release system makes changing the cartridge and lubricating strip a breeze.

You should simply push to release then fit in a new cartridge. The spacing between the blades is adequate for easy cleaning.

When it comes to precision, this item is unmatched. More importantly, it does this without causing any irritation.

Personna M5 Magnum

Pros

  • Easy cartridge and lubricating strip changing
  • Lubricating strip hydrates and nourishes your skin
  • Amazing shaving precision
Cons

  • Difficult to use against the grain

9. BIC Flex5 Hybrid

Although it doesn’t have a fledging blade like its previous version, BIC Flex5 Hybrid has all the other qualities which make it an exceptional razor for styling and trimming.

It will, therefore, do an incredible job at shaving your facial hair, the back of your head, hair under the nose and sideburns.

It has a lubricating strip that will moisten the hair before cutting and will leave your sensitive skin sufficiently nourished. Moreover, the ergonomic handle improves grip and control.

Finally, it’s worth mentioning that the razor comes with four cartridges and you can simply change a cartridge when needed.

BIC Flex 5 Hybrid

Pros

  • Fledging blade makes trimming and styling easy
  • Ergonomic handle for improved control and grip
  • Four extra cartridges
Cons

  • Made of material that easily breaks

10. Solimo

Every man who cares about the quality of his shave needs to consider Solimo Cartridge Razor. Without spending a large amount of money, it’ll give you a comfortable and close shave.

The product comes with a functional trimmer, a stable handle and a pack of 16 cartridges each with a set of five razors.

With five double coated blades, you will undoubtedly have a close and clean shave every time. The multi-axis pivot automatically turns sideways and has the ability to move front and back to shave along the complicated contours of your face.

The dual lubrication mechanism helps to reduce irritation leaving your skin intact after a close shave. Finally, the hypoallergenic lubrication helps to moisturize your skin.

solimo

Pros

  • Gives irritation-free and close shave
  • Anti-clog blade design makes it easy to clean and rinse
  • Dual lubrication mechanism to minimize irritation
Cons

  • Replacement heads are only compatible with this manufacturer razor handles

11. Shave It Pro

Uniquely designed high performance, Shave It Pro Razor delivers more than it promises. It’s equipped with an ultra-thin trimmer that gives a very close and precise shave.

It also features five razor-sharp blades and a non-slip handle. It can’t go without mention that the razor also features a technologically advanced bent or curved blade system. This blade system allows for easy removal of gel residue and easier facial hair cutting.

On top of this, the manufacturer takes great pride in its unique micro span system. In this system, the gaps between the blades are minimized hence reducing any chances of skin irritation or skin getting in between.

The handle is designed with two metallic strips on the sides, while the safe trimmer inclusion is something you will find useful when trimming or styling your beard.

Shave It Pro

Pros

  • Delivers extremely close and precise shave
  • Flexible, pivoting head that follows your face contours
  • Advanced blade fitting and ejection button
Cons

  • Handle design isn’t that good

12. SWIPE

SWIPE is a performance guaranteed razor that’s designed to blend both performance and great looking design. It comes with six razor blade cartridges and a handle that’s ergonomically made.

The open flow design blade technology is a unique engineering technique used to improve the movement of hair between the blades as a way of avoiding unnecessary clogging. These comparatively widely spaced blades help to ease the work when you embark on rinsing the blade after use.

Each cartridge comes with a lubricating strip and a rubber fin. While the lubricating strip helps in providing a closer and cleaner shave, the rubber fin helps to prepare your skin and hairs for the shave.

It has six precision, stainless steel blades that are from high-quality. They are further coated to lengthen their lifespan and sharpness.

swipe

Pros

  • Pivoting head revolves to many angles for a more precise shave
  • Ergonomic and comfortable handle
  • Long-lasting and sharp blades
Cons

  • Can tug and pull hairs if you have a thick beard

13. BIC Hybrid 3

With a perfect design that features three blades, BIC Hybrid 3 is the best product you need to achieve the most comfortable and closest shave ever.

It’s made to allow you better control through the ergonomic handle and the pivoting head.

If you have experienced irritation or cuts and nicks after using other razors, this one will not do the same due to its lubricating strip that is thoughtfully fitted for extra glide.

The good thing that you will also love about this razor are the refills that come with it, 12 cartridges and a new handle in each package that offers added convenience.

BIC Comfort 3 Hybrid

Pros

  • Three sharp blades for a comfortable and close shave
  • Lubricating strip for a perfect glide
  • Allows easy control while shaving
Cons

  • May not trim thicker beards well

14. Schick Hydro 5

Schick Hydro 5 Razor provides an extremely comfortable shave with since it features 5 ultra glide blades and skin guards to make your skin smooth and prevent irritation.

It’s able to cut very close to the skin and not cause cuts and nicks. You’ll find this razor very easy to use because you simply need to engage it with your thumb to access the hard-to-reach areas and achieve a precise trimming.

Unlike most other competing brands in the market, this razor looks great with a premium finish that includes high-gloss colored chrome.

It’s also designed with a soft rubber that feels good to touch and enhances grip. Furthermore, it’s made with the best cartridge loading system.

Schick Hydro 5

Pros

  • 5 ultra glide blades for a smooth and comfortable shave
  • Easy to control when trimming hard-to-reach areas
  • Prevents irritation
Cons

  • Blades can be too sharp and cause nicks and cuts

15. The Ultimate Shave

The Ultimate Shave comes as a pack of three dispensers that have four cartridges each, giving you a long-lasting supply.

It comes with a contoured stainless steel handle that fits nicely in your hands and doesn’t slip even when wet. There’s also a quick-release button for easy cartridge changing, great for people who live on the go.

The razor features a lubricating strip infused with aloe vera extract and vitamin E which gives you a nice, smooth glide with every stroke, leaving your skin protected against irritation.

The up-and-down swiveling handle also offers you extra comfort when shaving as well as a clean, even shave. There’s also a precision trimmer blade on the cartridge’s back for tackling sideburns and mustache areas.

Ultimate Shave

Pros

  • Blade positioning gives a smooth shave without nicks
  • Handle has a non-slip grip and has an easy release button
  • Comes with a bulk pack of 12 ceramic-coated cartridges
Cons

  • Spacing between the razor blades requires more frequent rinsing during shaving

16. Dorco Pace 7

Innovatively designed as the world’s first 7-blade razor, Dorco Pace 7 offers you a long-lasting, smooth shave. It gives a one-stroke solution that will leave you feeling rejuvenated and fresh throughout the day.

For those who are always on the rush, the wet-shave technology incorporated in the razor’s design allows you to use it even during or after your shower. It features a honeycomb guard bar made of soft rubber which allows it to glide effortlessly over your skin.

Coupled with the easy movement is an ergonomic handle that fits in hand just right, offering good control. This product’s head tilts as it moves to fit every contour and increase accuracy when shaving, giving you a precise, close shave.

After the blades pass over your skin, a lubricating strip with argan oil and calendula extract give an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant covering leaving the skin moisturized and soothed.

Dorco Pace 7

Pros

  • Ergonomic handle that’s compatible with other cartridges of this manufacturer
  • Tilting head with large soft rubber fins decreases bumps, nicks and cuts
  • Handle gives a comfortable grip
Cons

  • Some men may not like that many blades

17. Barbasol Ultra 6 Plus

Barbasol Ultra 6 Razor features ultra-trimmer as a 7th blade at the top of the razor. This enables it to get to those hard-to-reach areas like the sideburns and under the nose.

Another great feature is the swiveling head which adjusts to your face’s contours to allow a close, even finish.

The 6 ultra-thin blades enable a good shave with a minimum amount of strokes, reducing skin irritation so you can say goodbye to bumps and nicks.

Additionally, it has an open-flow blade design that allows for easy cleaning, at the same time extending the blade’s life and keeping your pockets happy.

Barbasol Ultra 6 Plus

Pros

  • Gives a close, even shave with no nicks and cuts
  • Open-flow blades ensure no clogging occurs
  • Metal handle with comfortable rubber grip gives easy control
Cons

  • Not very comfortable if you have a thick beard

What is a Cartridge Razor

What is a Cartridge Razor

When asked to picture a razor, it’s probably a cartridge razor that comes to mind. This is since cartridge razors are so widely used and marketed.

In case you’ve never heard of the best cartridge razor (or you’re not sure if what you’re picturing is indeed a cartridge razor), we’ll do a bit of explaining.

The cartridge razor was first developed in the early 20th century by King C. Gillette. If that name rings a bell, you’re on the right track.

Today, cartridge razors are mostly produced by shaving giants like Gillette, Schick and Dorco. They consist of a body and a cartridge-like head that normally has between two and five blades.

Usually made of plastic, they have a joint attaching the cartridge and handle allowing the razor to swivel slightly. They’re simple, easy to use and present everywhere.

Benefits of Using a Cartridge Razor

These days, pious shaving purists go out of their way to scorn the cartridge razor.

However, they’re not the world’s most popular method of shaving for no reason. Among their benefits are safety, availability, variety and ease of use.

Safety

There’s a reason many fledgling shavers receive the best cartridge razor for their eighteenth birthday. It’s arguably harder to cut yourself with a cartridge razor than with any other shaving device on the market.

This makes it one of the safest, nick-free options for shaving. Especially if your hands are shaky or you’re new to shaving, a cartridge razor will likely be your safest bet.

Availability

As one of the most popular men’s grooming tools, it’s also readily available in pretty much any store. This makes it an accessible, easy option.

Cartridge razors can be purchased anywhere you find men’s shaving products, but can even sometimes be found in the essentials sections of gas stations, truck stops, dollar stores and any other standard, general store.

Variety

Again, because the best cartridge razor is so plentiful and popular, you also have more options when it comes to selecting one. If you’re particularly picky about your shaving products, this can be a bit of a plus.

With so many brands and variations available, you can choose exactly the model that suits you.

Ease of Use

Ease of Use of Cartridge Razors

You can learn to use a cartridge razor immediately. Unlike alternatives such as straight razors, electric razors and safety razors, there’s no talent required.

Without much practice, even a newbie shaver can achieve a clean, decent shave. Meanwhile, other shaving alternatives can take months (and many small injuries) to perfect – this takes patience and time that many men simply don’t have.

Cartridge Razor Alternatives

If you’re a shaving purist who’s against cartridge razors, the good news is that you do have several other options.

Three of the most popular alternatives include electric trimmers, double edge safety razors and straight edge razors.

Here’s what each one is, how they stand up next to the best cartridge razor and a few of their pros and cons:

Electric Trimmer vs Cartridge Razor

Electric trimmers get a bad reputation. Sure, they can’t get a shave quite as close as a traditional razor, but they’re designed for convenience and efficiency.

The strength of electric trimmers is that they’re incredibly portable. They’re perfect for travel (especially if boarding a plane with a traditional razor is in question) and can be used pretty much anywhere.

Their major downfall is that you’re forced to work with their limited battery life. Traditional razors require no charge and can be used as much as you want at a moment’s notice.

They are, however, ideal for those wishing to skip the clean-shaved look and keep more facial hair.

If this is your case, a professional beard trimmer is a better choice for men with all types of beards as it can leave behind scruff.

All things considered, a solid electric trimmer might be a great, auxiliary addition to your shaving collection, but it can never get the close, clean shave of a more traditional razor.

Double Edge Safety Razor vs Cartridge Razor

There’s a reason your grandad probably loved his double edge safety razor – they’re straightforward, effective and extremely affordable.

Although they have a larger initial investment cost than cartridge razors, they pay themselves off with consistent use. At around 10 cents a blade, there’s no beating them when it comes to price points.

The major downfall of the double edge safety razor is that they’ll never be nearly as safe or convenient as a cartridge razor. It takes a bit of skill and focuses on learning your way around one.

In the beginning stages, you’ll likely nick up your face and get a bit of razor burn. They’re also not ideal for use on any other part of your body.

Meanwhile, cartridge razors are completely versatile and can be used on everything quite literally from your head to your toes, making them ideal for those who are bald and bearded.

Straight Edge Razor vs Cartridge Razor

If the double edge razor takes a few ninja skills to master, then the straight edge razor requires a full black belt.

These ultra-minimalist shaving tools are the original model of the razor. They consist of a single blade and require manual sharpening.

While trying to get the hang of a traditional straight-edge razor, you’ll inevitably slice up your face a bit. So why does anyone bother?

With the proper skill and focus, the sharpest straight razor can last you the entire lifetime. Meanwhile, in the category of longevity, the cartridge razor falls massively short.

If you’ve ever used one, you know they wear out quickly and need to be re-purchased often. This makes them both costly and annoying to some men.

If you want the classic shave of a straight edge razor with less of its danger and difficulty, you can always try to use a shavette. This is probably what your barber used on you last time you were in the barber chair.

They work through the insertion of a disposable blade that can be tossed and replaced.

Do Number of Blades Matter

Do Number of Cartridge Razor Blades Matter

If you’ve ever even walked down the men’s grooming aisle in a supermarket and glanced at the shaving supplies, you’ve noticed that the number of blades is one of the biggest selling factors of some products.

Some razors boast extra blades for closer shaves or added blades for additional precision. But does more metal really equal a better shave?

Blade numbers start at a single blade and can range all the way up to as much as 7 or 8. If you’re thinking that at some point it’s a little bit excessive, you’re probably right.

Normally, after five blades, the implementation of additional blades doesn’t do much to improve the shave. Though some may argue, 7 and 8 blade cartridge razors are more for show and advertising purposes than actual shaving function.

For some, more blades are better. They find it makes for fewer pass-overs and a closer cut.

For most, the sweet spot is right around 4 or 5 blades. Any less and your blades will tire out easily and go dull.

Any more, and you’re probably paying extra money for flashy, useless features.

In some cases, men with especially delicate skin will find that cartridge razors with four blades or more irritate their skin, causing a rash. In these cases, two-blade razors can be a great alternative.

How to Choose the Best Cartridge Razor

There’s not a ton of elements to consider when selecting the best cartridge razor. If you’re having a particularly hard time picking a product, the good news is that many cartridge razors are disposable and therefore if you try one that doesn’t work out, you don’t have to stay committed.

A number of blades, price and overall design, are the three defining factors when it comes to making a selection.

How many blades you select depends entirely on personal preference, although it’s commonly accepted that between 3 and 5 is ideal.

If you have particularly sensitive skin, a razor for sensitive skin is often a cartridge razor with just 2 blades rather than 3, 4 or 5.

When it comes to price, you’ll find that cartridge razors can be as affordable or expensive as you’d like. While affordable options do usually exist, these razors are usually single-blade and extremely poor in quality.

One of the most important design factors in cartridge razors is the joint between the handle and the cartridge.

Pricier products usually include a joint that swivels to allow for more flexibility. Cheaper versions will probably have no joint, making them unforgiving to shave with.

Which Shaving Mixture to Use

There are three major shaving mixtures in today’s market: shaving cream, gel and soap.

Each of these three products has the same, general goals – to lubricate the skin, allowing the blade to glide across it effortlessly, to moisturize and make shaving easier. However, each product goes about it a bit differently.

Shaving Cream

Shaving Cream and Cartridge Razor Mixture

Shaving cream’s major advantage is that it’s quick and easy to use. Often packaged in quick-foaming cans, shaving creams are probably the most common shaving mixture used today.

If you’re shaving with the best cartridge razor, it probably means you value efficiency. If that’s true, shaving cream might be for you.

It’s a no tears, no drama, no stress product. Conversely, some shaving enthusiasts have sworn off cream products, claiming it clogs razors, causes skin dryness and creates a mess.

Shaving Gel

Normally composed of the same ingredients as the average cream product, shaving gel differs mostly in its overall texture. A gel is slicker and smoother than its competing soap and cream products.

This slickness makes it an excellent lubricant, allowing the razor blade to glide across the skin with ease.

It also tends to have more hydrating properties than the average cream, although some men still claim it dries out their skin.

The major complaint with gel, like cream, is that its thick texture clogs the razor and slows the shaving process.

Shaving Soap

For true shaving purists, there’s no other option than a quality puck of shaving soap. These days, it’s used less and less, but it’s still considered the old-school, high-quality go-to option for that classic, barbershop shave.

Unfortunately, shaving soap fell out of vogue for a reason. It takes a dash of skill, patience and effort to prepare and use it.

With the invention of gels and creams, which are immediately ready and entirely user-friendly, shaving soap has become less and less popular.

Shaving Brush – Do You Need it and How to Use It

They’re not a necessity, but for the full shaving experience, a shaving brush is an absolute must. Especially if you’re using high-quality shaving cream or soap, a brush makes the application process easier and more effective.

It might seem like a silly, superfluous addition to your shaving supplies, but brushes actually serve a multitude of functions when used correctly.

They help your razor blade perform better, lift your hairs for a closer cut, and allow shaving products to create a better cushion.

Of course, you’ve got two good hands and you can always use them in place of a shaving brush. However, if you’re invested in quality, purchasing a decent shave brush is a relatively small expense.

Does Pre-Shave Oil Work

There’s no mystery about when pre-shave oil is intended to be applied. Usually, it’s a carrier-based skin product that aims to moisturize your skin before you bust out your razor.

Additionally, its oil properties work as a lubricant against the blade’s edge, allowing it to glide effortlessly across your face without nicking or cutting you. Some products even claim to help prevent ingrown hairs.

You might be wondering if pre-shave oil is worth it, especially when there are so many other men’s products aimed at hydrating the skin for shaving purposes.

The truth is that in some cases, a quality, moisturizing face wash and solid shaving cream, gel or soap can definitely do the trick.

For some men, however, just doing the trick isn’t quite enough and they want a true, premium shave. Pre-shave oil exists for these shave enthusiasts.

How to Shave with Cartridge Razor

Preparation

Every shaving process should start with a warm shower or a splash of hot water to the face. This causes your hair follicles to swell and opens your pores, making for a closer, more comfortable shaving experience.

Showering before your shave also gives you the opportunity to wash and moisturize your face before setting a razor to it, which reduces your chances or irritation, razor burns and ingrown hairs.

You’ll want to first go with your showering routine as per normal, by soaping up your body and applying a top-rated anti-dandruff shampoo for men.

Next, you’ll want to apply pre-shave oil. Ideally, you’ll want your shaving product to be warm, which can be achieved with the aid of a shaving cream warmer.

Shaving

Whether you’re shaving with the best cartridge razor, safety razor or any other tool, remember to always shave with the grain. It might not be what your dad taught you so many years ago, but it’s an irrefutable truth.

Shaving against the grain can cause severe irritation, rashes and ingrown hairs. The average beard grows in patterns and swirls, making your shaving direction hard to determine.

There’s no shortcut – get to know your facial hair’s bends and curves and shave accordingly.

Aftershave

So you’ve trimmed your fuzz and rinsed your preferred shaving products from your face, but hold your horses because the shaving process isn’t over yet.

What happens during the aftershave is arguably one of the essential steps of a good shave.

After you’ve rinsed off your product, it’s time to apply aftershave or balm. These products help disinfect any potential nicks, soothe skin and lock in moisture.

If you’ve left a few pesky marks in the shaving process, don’t worry. Some men will choose to employ the finest alum blocks to disinfect small cuts. Another option is a styptic pencil.

Replacing a Cartridge Razor

No cartridge razor can live forever. Because they’re designed to be disposable, you’ll find yourself eventually needing to replace yours.

Some products have a reusable handle that can be used with the best cartridge refills. Alternatively, some razors are altogether disposable and will need to be replaced entirely.

When that eventuality becomes a reality, try not to sweat it too much. When your cartridge stops being effective, you’ll just need to buy more cartridges or another razor and you’re good to go again.

How many shaves you get out of each cartridge will depend largely on how thick your facial hair is, how often you shave and the quality of the product you’ve selected.

As a good rule of thumb, you should be able to get between 6 and 10 shaves.

FAQ

FAQ About Cartridge Razors

How often should I change my cartridge razor?

It’s recommended that you change your razor periodically, but how frequently will depend on how often you shave and which razor you’re using.

The short answer is that there’s no hard, fast rule. You simply need to change your razor when it stops being effective.

For some, this is after a week. For others, a single, quality cartridge razor can last upwards of a month.

When the razor blades stop cutting effectively, begin dragging on the skin or start to rust, it’s time for them to go.

Can I bring a cartridge razor on a plane?

Safety razors and other shaving tools with removable blades are generally not permitted on a plane.

If you happen to try and bring a set of the best safety razor blades through to your terminal, they’ll most definitely be taken from you. However, there tends to be more lenient with the best cartridge razors.

One of the major differences between safety razor vs cartridge razor is that a cartridge razor doesn’t have removable blades, making it much less of a potential threat.

At some airports, waxy substances like your favorite pomade for men are considered a liquid with a limit and at others, it will be considered a solid. In short, security practices vary from airport to airport.

While most have no issues taking best cartridge razors on a plane, it’s always ultimately left up to the discretion of the TSA agents at each specific airport.

If you want to be safe, you should check online or give the airport a phone call to make sure your razor meets their travel requirements.

How long do cartridge razors last?

If you’ve purchased the best cartridge with a reusable handle that can be utilized with replacement cartridges, it has a limitless lifespan.

The only thing that will need to be replaced regularly is the cartridges themselves. These will need to be disposed of and replaced as soon as they start to dull.

Conclusion

We’ll admit that best cartridge razors aren’t the epitome of luxury, high-class shave. But there’s something to be said for their straightforward honesty and unrelenting reliability.

These products are the world’s most widely used means of shaving for a good reason – they work.

They might not have the bells and whistles of other shaving methods, but they get the job done. They’re drama-free, easy to handle and hard to screw up.

Especially if you’re new to shaving or struggle to keep a steady hand, the best cartridge has your back.

Vinnie - Barber

About the author: Vinnie – Barber

Vinnie is one of the members of the Beardoholic writers team. He’s also a barber and hairstylist for 15 years now and he has a kick-ass beard of his own, so he surely knows what makes a magnificent beard and hair and how to achieve them. He’s our go-to guy for all the latest beard and hairstyle trends and he always has a tip or two on how to grow and style a thick beard fast.

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