How to choose an electric razor
Long beards and stubble-covered cheeks are a thing of the past. A smooth chin not only attracts the attention of women, but is also one of the criteria for social status. “A man should be well-groomed, neat and clean-shaven!” - the motto of modern times.
Unfortunately, shaving every day is a bit of a hassle. It is necessary to have free time, water, a mirror, and also regular use of foam, gel, balm and other cosmetics. The use of new technologies has made it possible to find a worthy replacement for the classic method - an electric razor, which can be used anytime and anywhere without additional equipment.
The content of the article
Advantages and disadvantages of electric shavers
Why do more and more men prefer electrical appliances? Unlike a simple machine, its advantages are obvious.
- Save time.
- Long period of operation.
- Easy to use, suitable for beginners.
- An indispensable tool for business trips and long trips.
- There is no need to frequently replace the machine and parts.
- The use of cosmetics can be kept to a minimum.
- Injuries and accidental cuts are completely excluded.
- The result is a flawlessly smooth chin.
When choosing an electric razor, you need to consider the negative aspects.
- High cost of the product.
- Requires regular cleaning.
- Without proper care, it breaks quickly.
- Knives become dull over time, replacing them is not economically viable; it is easier to buy a new tool.
- Cannot be used to form a neat beard.
Selection by system type
There are two types of electric shaving systems: rotary and foil. To make a purchase choice, you need to understand the operating principle, study the advantages, and find out the main disadvantages.
The rotary system is recommended for removing small stubble. Consists of rotating heads with sharp knives. The blades cut off any trapped hairs using circular movements, so it is recommended to press the razor firmly against the surface during the process. The number of heads and blades is directly related to quality. The rotary system guarantees a close shave in one pass. The presence of different attachments allows you to accurately follow the contours of the chin and cheeks, providing maximum contact area. A significant drawback of the system is the dullness of the external fixed knives, which can turn the procedure into a painful process, as the hairs are pulled out by the roots. Buying new knives costs a pretty penny.
The mesh system is an excellent option for removing long stubble. Working knives, hidden by a thin metal mesh, perform reciprocating movements. The mesh provides protection, completely eliminating damage. The presence of the mesh prevents the blades from being in close contact with the surface of the skin, so shaving does not guarantee a perfect result. Defects have to be corrected using a classic machine. The size of the foil razor is compact, shaped like a pack of cigarettes.The mesh is significantly thinner than in the rotary model, so the device should be protected from impacts and damage; a minor dent can negatively affect the final result.
Important! When choosing a model of any type, pay attention to the material of the knives. Ordinary steel often causes skin irritation and allergies. Titanium and ceramics do not cause side effects.
Which type of system is best? It is impossible to answer this question unequivocally. Rotary models make less noise and shave cleaner, but can “chew” too long a hair and tear it out. Suitable for daily use at home, most models can be washed under running water. Mesh models are useful when traveling, they eliminate cuts and irritation, but the shaved hairs are crushed into dust, which settles on all surfaces.
Attention! The choice of system type depends on the skin condition. For normal skin, the ideal option is a rotary razor; for sensitive skin, a foil razor.
Dry and wet shaving
There are electric shavers designed for dry or wet shaving; more expensive models combine both options. What to choose?
Dry shaving – for men who do not want to use water and cosmetics. This is an ideal option for travelers. It should be noted that the feeling on the skin after the procedure is different, at first it can cause discomfort and rejection, but over time it goes away and becomes familiar. Dry shaving can be used anywhere: on a train, at the airport, in a hotel, and even in a traffic jam.
Wet shaving – the most popular, as the blades glide smoothly without irritating the skin.In order to accustom your skin to dry shaving, it is recommended to start with the wet method, gradually diluting it. It will take about one month for a painless transition.
Some models are equipped with an automatic moisturizing function and have a small reservoir from which lotion or gel is dispensed in small doses. There are models that allow you to wash the blades under running water, but this advantage has several disadvantages. When constantly stored in the bathroom, the surface of the device does not have time to dry out, and the humid environment creates favorable conditions for the growth of bacteria. Water does not remove all dirt from the surface of the blades; grease and small particles of hair remain. Over time, a clogged razor loses its effectiveness, causes irritation and inflammation, and may fail. The solution is to use special disinfectants.
Attention! Rotary electric shavers are recommended to be used only for dry shaving; in this case, accumulated hair can simply be shaken out and the surface of the knives can be cleaned with a special brush, which is included in the kit.
Which is better: dry or wet shaving? On the one hand, saving money and time, on the other, the priority of habits and skin care. Or give preference to a more expensive option - a combined one? The decision is yours!
Choosing an electric razor for sensitive skin
Those with sensitive skin have seen from their own experience the need for a gentle regime. When removing hair, the consequences are sometimes unpredictable: burning, redness, inflammation, allergies. What to do? Apply the “old-fashioned” method? The manufacturer of electrical appliances took care to eliminate the problem as much as possible. The foil type and dry shaving method are the best options for daily shaving. The fine mesh prevents the blades from coming into close contact with the surface, resulting in no cuts. Minor defects in the form of missing hairs can be eliminated using a classic machine.
Important! Sensitive skin after shaving requires careful care. Don't neglect restorative balms!
Mains or battery
An electrical device requires an AC power source to operate. Therefore, the movement area is limited and depends on the location of the outlet and the length of the cord.
At home, mains power is a good option, but power outages are possible, so you should consider including a battery in the kit.
Attention! Don't forget that the battery requires regular recharging.
The continuous operation of an electric razor without recharging ranges from 20 minutes to 10 hours, depending on the model. Full charge: 6–8 hours. Some models have additional features that ensure long battery life and ease of use:
- charge level indication;
- full charge signal;
- automatic shutdown after recharging;
- Works from a car cigarette lighter and a computer USB connector.
There are three types of batteries:
- Li—ion (lithium ion);
- NiMH (nickel metal hydride);
- NiCD (nickel - cadmium).
The cheapest nickel-cadmium batteries require complete discharge before charging. It is not recommended to keep it in the charger all the time due to rapid wear.
Nickel-metal hydride batteries take about an hour to charge and last for 40–60 minutes.
Lithium-ion batteries are currently popular.They do not have a “memory effect”, which allows for increased battery life.
An electric razor means safety, comfort and trust. It effectively copes with stubble of different lengths and provides reliable results.
When purchasing a product, first of all, be guided by:
- where, when and how often the device will be used;
- the type of skin the razor will come into contact with;
- personal financial capabilities;
- reviews about the product manufacturer.