We all know the speed we use in shaving off that annoying body hair when we have a hot date and are planning to show some legs. Be it the legs, arms, underarms, bikini line, and overall body grooming, hair removal is a delicate process that requires the very best tool you can afford.
Of course, shaving off hair can be done with the utilization of disposable blades or razors, amongst others. However, whatever option you choose, you definitely shouldn’t cheapen out on your choice. With electric razors, you can get a clean, smooth shave without nicks and cuts. However, there are numerous electric razors on the market each claiming to be the best. Without the proper knowledge, you could end up buying a product that is less than high quality. This buying guide is created to make your choice easier.
From Our Celebrity Expert, Olivia Elgart:
"Kim Kardashian is known for having great-looking skin even when she keeps her body free from hair. Shaving is so much more than just the act of removing hair, having a good razor is also key in order to achieve that perfect look. I say everyone should invest in a good electric razor."
Why Should I Buy an Electric Razor Instead of Disposable Blades?
Reusability
One of the biggest pros of choosing an electric razor over a disposable blade is the fact that electric razors can be reused. The usage of a disposable razor is generally limited to maximum utilization of two times.
An electric razor, on the other hand, is basically a mini-clipper that can be used multiple times, ensuring that you get your money’s worth from what you purchased.
Although disposable blades are cheaper, the cost of buying them adds up over time and it pays to splurge and purchase an electric razor that is sure to last you for years.
Lesser risk of cuts
Anyone that frequently uses a disposable blade can recall experiences where they have yelped with pain from cuts or nicks while shaving. Not everyone has a steady hand and the usage of blades with a shaky hand is a recipe for disaster for your skin.
Using an electric razor for shaving will not give a very close shave like using a blade, however, the risk of nicks and cuts on your skin is generally minimized.
Reduced irritation
Many dermatologists agree that opting for an electric razor over disposable blades is the best choice for avoiding irritation. Not only are disposable blades cheaper in price, but they are also cheaper in quality.
Using an electric razor is safer because it glides over the skin and unlike blades, it does not give you a very close shave which leads to increased irritation and itching. It is also made with hypoallergenic stainless blades that will not cause any skin mishap.
To be clear, we are not saying electric razors do not cause any irritation, we are stating that a blade causes way more irritation and inflammation than the former.
What Are the Types of Electric Razors?
Generally, there are two types of electric razors and these are foil shavers and rotary shavers.
Foil shavers
This type came before rotary shavers and they use oscillating blades sheathed in metal foils. The rectangular shape of the shaver enables it to give a precise and closer shave. It is generally perfect for thin, straight hair and sensitive skin.
Rotary blades
This type came after foil shavers and they utilize rotating razors sheathed in metallic circular coverings. It is the perfect razor for thick, long, and coarse hair. Also, it is generally good for people with tougher skin.
If you shave daily or frequently, you should purchase an electric razor with oscillating blades. Conversely, if you shave infrequently, you should go for the rotary blades.
What Do I Need to Look Out for When Buying an Electric Razor for Women?
Corded or cordless
Cordless electric razors are all the rage right now and consequently, the age of razors with cords is rapidly dying out. Many people would prefer to shave their bodies without having a wire dangling from their electric razor. However, being able to easily use your electric razor while it’s connected to an outlet is an important quality for some folks.
It should be noted that cordless razors have higher battery lives and as a result, they are the more expensive option. Although, if you generally shave close to an outlet, you could opt for a corded razor as the battery life will not matter much.
However, you can also find electric razors compatible with both setups.
Water resistance
You can either purchase an electric razor that is waterproof or an electric razor that cannot handle water immersion. If you shave in the shower, we advise that you opt for a razor that can be used while having your bath or one that can be rinsed under running water.
Although generally, all-electric razors can accommodate wet shaving with soap, foam, or lotion. So if you prefer dry shaving (tend to cause irritation) or wet shaving with soap, you can purchase an electric razor that isn't waterproof. Electric razors that cannot be cleaned underwater should be thoroughly cleaned frequently with cleaning sprays and cloth.
Battery life
If you choose to purchase a wired electric razor over a wireless razor, you are going to have to buy one with adequate battery life. Electric razors typically use two types of batteries are nickel-cadmium (Ni-CD) and nickel-metal hydride (Ni-MH) with very few electric razors using lithium-ion (Li-Ion).
NiCD is the weakest battery type with the shortest lifespan while NiMH holds a longer charge and consequently, they last longer. How long does it take to charge fully? How long will it last when it is fully charged? These are things you need to find out about the battery of an electric razor before purchasing. The longer the battery lasts, the better.
Accessories
Obviously, this would cost more but some electric razors come with some accessories. Some examples of these are travel packs (leather pouches, cloth pouches, plastic pouches, etc.), aftershave balm (to reduce irritation and inflammation), shaving gel or cream, cleaning spray (for maintaining the razor and enabling it to perform optimally over frequent usage), etc.
Warranty
With gadgets, you cannot predict when they will unexpectedly develop faults or an accidental fall will their quality. A warranty may seem unimportant in the general scheme of things but we advise that you purchase an electric razor with warranty coverage. You’d easily be able to fix any fault that develops within its time limit without any added charges.