Electric razors are functional and handy, which is why they are fast taking over the hair cutting industry. In addition to being lightweight and travel-friendly, they also provide safer DIY shaves than manual razors.
The chances of getting nicks and cuts are slimmer when using an electric razor. Although generally safe due to their well-covered blades, electric razors can cut you and cause skin irritation if the blades are poorly designed or if you fail to take care of them properly.
The safety and convenience of electric razors have made them more fashionable to own, but just how effective are they?
Electric Razors v. Manual Razors: Differences
Electric razors are distinct from manual razors, from the mode of operation to types and blade motors. Some of the differences between electric razors and manual razors include:
- Safety: Electric razors have the upper hand when it comes to safe shaves. Using the razor correctly means you don’t have to worry about cuts, nicks, and irritations. On the other hand, manual razors have a higher chance of cutting your skin than electric razors. This is because the blade is exposed, and if it is too sharp, it can hurt the skin and lead to bleeding.
- Speed and Functionality: Electric razors get the job done faster than manual razors. Electric razors are also rechargeable, making them suitable for travel and adaptable to any condition.
- Electric Razors are cost-effective: Another difference is that using an electric razor is economical. This advantage might seem unreal as getting an electric razor might be expensive at first, but in the long run, that might be the only major expense you will be doing for a long period.
However, the blade and foils will need replacement from time to time. Replacing it once a year is enough, unlike manual razors, which need replacement cartridges much more often, resulting in accumulated expenses.
- Shaving Results: Manual razors give closer shaves than electric razors. This is due to the exposed blades in manual razors, which let them cut closer to the skin. This means manual razors can get the hair out with fewer strokes than an electric razor. Manual razors naturally also do the work of exfoliation creams while shaving.
- Razor Maintenance: Electric razors are not the easiest to maintain. You must give proper care and attention to its maintenance and cleaning. Ensuring that the batteries are well charged is part of the care necessary. For manual razors, maintenance is an easy one. Still, using an electric razor might require some basic techniques to avoid tugging on the hair, irritations, and cuts.
Lastly, manual razors are great at exfoliating your skin, while some electric razors require exfoliating attachments to perform the same function.
Can Electric Razors Cut You?
Electric razors are sharp and can cut you with the right amount of pressure. However, shaving with an electric razor is generally safe because it doesn’t have exposed blades. Still, it can cut your skin easily if not properly used and maintained.
A low-quality electric razor can harm the skin, increasing the risk of having cuts on the skin. It’s essential to go for a very good quality electric razor to avoid cuts and irritations that may occur on the skin while using a bad razor.
You should avoid using your electric razor if it is damaged or has a low battery. This is to prevent it from tugging or forcefully pulling out your hair.
Read Also: How Long Do Electric Last? Are They Worth It?
How To Prevent Cutting From An Electric Razor?
Several factors are responsible for cuts when shaving with an electric razor. Knowing these factors and how to prevent them will help you avoid hurting yourself and damaging your skin.
1. The quality of the razor
The first step to safer shaves is to use a good electric razor. A poorly designed or low-quality electric razor won’t get the job done. It is advisable to buy razors from trusted brands and stores with a warranty cover. You should also read reviews online to avoid making the same mistakes as unsuspecting buyers when shopping for a new razor.
2. Razor maintenance
Cuts can be prevented when the razors are properly maintained. Proper maintenance of your electric razors includes keeping the razor clean and ensuring that it is well-charged. You should also change the electric razor blades when necessary to ensure they stay sharp and prevent tugging. It is also important to note that only slight pressure is needed when using electric razors—applying too much pressure while shaving might lead to cuts.
3. Clean After Every Use
You should clean your electric razor after every use to remove any hairs or dead skin that may have been stuck in the blades. If left uncleaned, the razor blades may go blunt or become a home for germs, eventually leading to skin irritation.
4. Pre-Shave Treatments
Using pre-shave treatments such as lotions and gels or shaving powders provides lubrication to enable your electric razor to move smoothly. You can also use shaving creams and foams to moisturise your skin and act as a protective layer between your skin and the blades.
Can You Use An Electric Razor Every Day?
It is not advisable to shave every day unless your hair grows quickly and you want to keep a clean shave. If you experience quick hair growths, you may use an electric razor to trim the hair every two days to avoid irritating your skin from frequent shaving.
Using an electric razor frequently should solely depend on the level of your hair growth, your skin sensitivity, and the exact style you want to maintain. Some use electric razors every day for the skin to get accustomed to it. If you have sensitive skin, you might want to take breaks for your skin to recover before shaving again.
This is basically to avoid irritation. Shaving daily is okay if your skin isn’t so sensitive, but you will have to spend money on grooming kits to help reduce irritations.
Read Also: Can I Shave Only With Water? The Truth!
Should You Use Shaving Cream With An Electric Razor?
Most electric shavers are designed for dry shaving. In this case, you should not apply shaving cream. It won’t make things any better.
On the other hand, there are some electric razors that are designed for wet shaving. Those shavers require shaving cream and by doing so you will have a more convenient shaving experience.
To sum things up, most electric razors don’t require shaving cream. However, if you have one that does, follow its instructions to prevent yourself from any unnecessary cuts and redness.
Read Also: How To Remove Rust From A Razor?
To Sum Things Up
Electric razors can cut you. Remember they are still shavers. They have blades.
Obviously, the change of getting cut by an electric razor are far slimmer than by a manual razor.
Buy high-quality electric razors, take care of them often, clean them and follow your razor’s instructions. Everything will be fine.
And that’s it for today! I hope you found this article helpful and interesting.
If you want to share your thoughts with us or you have any questions feel free to post them down below.
Until next time,
Stay safe,
Tasos
Tasos Moulios is the founder of Beardlong. He loves trying different beard and hair styles and blogs about them. The tips he shares come from his own experience and love for what he does.