Using razors are time-consuming, annoying, painful, irritating, and boring.
The above are the most popular words men use to describe their shaving routine with razor.
Can you avoid it?
Not always.
Can you make it better? Yes, The reason lies in using the right shaving methods. Since razors are the most common hair care tools used by men, knowing them inside and out can make shaving easier and less frustrating.
Find out about the pros and cons of razors, pick from the best aftershaves, and look at shaving from another angle. By the end of this article, shaving will turn from a bothersome experience into a fairly tolerable process or disappear from your life completely.
Razor Types and Their Pros and Cons
In order to minimize the frustration factor, you need to choose the right razor. Did you know there are four razor types?
1. Lazy Guy’s Choice: The Disposable Razor
Just like one-day contact lenses, these razors are amazingly convenient. You use one and throw it out. You don’t have to bother with cleaning the razor, making sure it doesn’t rust or inspecting the blades for dullness.
If you are an “on the go” guy, you’ll love this easy game.
Pros:
- Perfect for travel
- Fairly cheap
- Lightweight
- Great in an emergency
Cons:
- Expensive (in the long run)
- Low-quality materials
- Inflexible head
2. Traveler’s Dream: Electric Razors
Another convenient option for those, who often use razors on the go. Electric razor provides a quick shave without worrying about shaving creams and water.
If you are an avid camper, you can’t imagine your day without one of these buzzing guys.
Pros:
- Easy to use on the go
- No shaving cream needed
- Can’t be used without water
- Come in small sizes for easy transportation
Cons:
- Don’t provide a close shave like other razors do
- Require batteries or charging stations
- May cause more skin irritations than their counterparts
3. Expert’s Option: Cartridge Razors
These razors are the most popular option for men, who really need a close shave. They come in a huge variety so even the pickiest guy can fund the perfect option for himself.
Depending on the build and the price of the unit, you can purchase an efficient shaving tool.
Pros:
- Replaceable cartridge (most companies have a variety of cartridges that fit one handle)
- Easy-grip handles
- High safety
- Quick shaving
Cons:
- High price
- The replacement cartridge may not be available at the nearby store
- Not environmentally friendly (neither are disposable razors, actually)
4. Old Schooler’s Heaven: Safety Razors
When it came to choosing razors, your grandfather had a few advantages. He never had to shuffle through thousands of choices. His safety razor was the best and sometimes the only option.
The metal tool with a permanent handle offers a slot for a replaceable double-sided blade. You can check out the history of razors here.
Pros:
- Infrequent blade replacement
- Low maintenance cost
- Longevity
- Highly efficient
Cons:
- High learning curve
- High initial cost
5. Macho’s Best Pick: Straight Razor
This razor may scare the heck out of the horror movie fan but it’s actually one of the most effective tools in a macho’s arsenal.
Yes, it comes with a pretty high learning curve and a few side effects but there is a reason why our great grandfathers were always clean shaven and happy.
Pros:
- No bothering with replacement cartridges/blades
- Highly environmentally friendly
- Feeling of satisfaction
- Extra clean shave
Cons:
- High initial cost
- Dangers of nicks and scrapes
Did You Know? Razor Alternatives
Can you live without a razor? It’s possible and even if you don’t like the alternatives, some of them are very convenient.
1. Shaving Powder
Did you find a hair removal cream in your girlfriend’s drawer?
Don’t use it on your face. The alternative for men is shaving powder. These powders usually work quickly and can make you forget about shaving for at least three days.
If you use them right, you won’t feel any pain. These products are fairly priced and maybe a cheaper choice than the majority of razors.
2. Laser Hair Removal
Just a few sessions and you may forget about shaving for a long time. You may want to consider this method for partial hair removal or even shaping your beard. The procedure is not painless but rather quick.
3. Waxing
I’m not a girl! Who cares? Waxing is an effective hair removal procedure for both men and women. You can remove the annoying mustache and beard and forget about them for several weeks.
Even though waxing is painful, it eventually leads to hair thinning. After a while, you may not need it anymore.
Don’t Skip This Section
Ok, we are fairly sure you didn’t run to set up a waxing appointment right now. So check out a few razor-using tips to make your life a little easier.
- Never use a dull razor even if you don’t have another one with you. It’s better to skip shaving than to damage your skin. Go to the nearest store or a barbershop (yes, they still shave people there!)
- Always clean your razors. Otherwise, your skin irritation may turn into unpleasant infected acne.
- Don’t forget to use high-quality shaving cream and aftershave.
- Work out a shaving routine, which involves using the razor as rarely as possible.
- Run the razor with AND against the grain. Your hair grows in all direction. There is no “right” way.
Did the shaving process get a little better? Or perhaps it’s gone from your life for good? Remember, shaving is the side effect of living in a civilized world.
Nature meant for you to wear a thick and wild beard like Tom Hanks in Cast Away. Want to try?
