For years now, we have believed there is a difference between men’s and women’s razors.
The way marketing goes is that there is no unisex razor and you and your wife have to buy separate ones, usually distinguished by the color and the price.
What truly is the difference between men’s vs. women’s razors? Is there actually one that makes shaving for guys and girls different?
The difference is not as massive as when comparing safety vs. cartridge razors.
To put all doubts to rest, we feel that it is essential to compare the two and give you an honest answer.
Table Of Contents
Is There Really a Difference
When comparing men’s and women’s razors head-to-head, one can spot a few differences you can’t with only a glance. The way they differ is by their arc, handle, the angle of the blade, lubrication, and the shape of the head.
The main difference is not the razors’ appearance but how it fits within the skin’s contours. The razors are designed differently to fit the needs of different genders. It is not to say that a guy can’t shave with a girl’s razor and get a close shave.
It is that the specific ones are more suitable for the particular needs of a specific gender. Girls don’t shave their beards; they shave other parts of their bodies, so the razor has to be gentler and adaptable for those particular uses.
On the other hand, beard shaping requires a specific razor that is more suitable for men’s shaving.
Main Differences
Since comparing men’s vs. women’s razors is not as clear-cut as the difference between electric razors and blades, we should point out the two’s main characteristics and pit them against each other.
Color
The color difference is purely aesthetic or for marketing reasons. It also helps us distinguish which ones to get when we are in a hurry and are looking for one in the rack of a convenience store.
Girls are drawn to feminine colors while guys like masculine ones; it is as simple as that and the reason behind the difference in color.
Heads
A man’s razor’s head is smaller than a woman’s. This is because guys must maneuver around their faces to shave their beards. On the other hand, girls need a broader head to cover a bigger area when shaving their arms or other parts of their bodies.
Handle Shape
The handles are going to differ because men and women shave different areas. Women’s razors have rounded handles, making them easier to grip from various angles.
This accounts for them having to switch positions often when reaching different parts of their bodies. On the other hand, when wet shaving, guys don’t need to change their grip so often and will usually start in the same way they ended.
Handle Arc
Besides the handle’s grip, the arc is very different. When women shave different parts of their bodies, they need to be able to see the area they are reaching for.
The arc of the handle accounts for the head not getting in the way. Men’s razors have a flatter shape with a zero arc.
Blades
The blades don’t differ so much. Manufacturers count on a particular discrepancy to account for the difference in usage. The blades vary slightly in shape and angle. Women’s blades have a slightly oval and rounded shape, while men’s have a square head.
Women need their blades to be flexible to reach certain parts of their bodies to remove unwanted hair.
Lubrication
Women’s razors always come with built-in lubrication, while men’s don’t or have much smaller lubrication. Lubrication comes in different forms, but you will most likely see it in strips.
Women’s razors often come with at least two strips, while men’s have one. These features help to prevent cuts, especially in harder-to-reach or sensitive areas.
Price
Unfortunately, the price of women’s razors is higher than men’s. One of the reasons is the specific way the razors are made to accommodate women’s shaving.
Another thing that affects the price is the research that says that women care more about their grooming products and are still willing to pay a higher price. Men don’t care as much and are not looking to spend more money than they need to.
How to Choose
Now that you know the difference, it is time to decide which one to buy for your shaving needs. If you are going for professional beard styles, you will need to buy an appropriate razor.
Comfort
Many women have stated that they find men’s razors as comfortable to use as women’s razors. So, if you want comfort or have sensitive skin, the best way is with a women’s razor.
It is also a good idea if you are shaving other parts of your body other than your face.
Price
On the other hand, if comfort is not a primary choice for you and you are looking for a cheaper option, a men’s razor will work just as well.
FAQ
Can I use a men’s razor as a woman?
Yes, you can. Some women even prefer men’s razors as they don’t mind the difference, while others get them because they are much cheaper.
Which razors are better – men’s or women’s?
It depends on your primary needs. Women’s razors are more flexible and are suitable for hard-to-reach and sensitive areas. On the other hand, men’s razors are cheaper and are specifically helpful in shaving your beard.
Why are women’s razors more expensive than men’s razors?
First, it takes more to create and make a woman’s razor than a man’s. Secondly, women don’t mind spending more on beauty products, which allows companies to slap a higher price on their products.
Conclusion
Next time you buy a razor, don’t just choose one because of the color. Think about the specifics that come with it as well. Choose comfort over the way a razor is marketed. Think about your needs first and be conscientious about your budget.
Jay is one of the members of the Beardoholic writers team and NFL, celebrity barber. As a master barber with years of experience, Jay can make your beard look any way you envision. Jay’s specialty is black men’s hair and beard styles, but he also has deep knowledge on how to create a perfect neck and cheek line, short or long beard and virtually any beard and hair shape and style.