All about shaving with a safety razor or safety razor

• The safety razor prevents ingrown hairs. Why? The modern razor consists of 3 or 5 razor blades (3-blade or 5-blade). These razors first lift the beard hairs and then shave them off. This increases the risk of ingrown hairs.
• While shaving, the dead skin cells are scraped off the skin. The safety razor consists of one razor blade. As a result, only one blade passes over the skin. In modern razors, 3 to 5 blades shave over the skin at the same time. Because of this, skin irritation with the safety razor is less.
• Another advantage is that the loose double edge razor blades for the safety razor are cheaper (on average €0.30 per loose razor) than the modern razor blades from Gillette and Wilkinson.
• There is a lot of choice regarding type of razor holder and quality double edge razor blades. This allows the razor holder and razor blade to be tailored much better to the type of (normal to sensitive) skin and/or (light to coarse beard) beard growth. In short, customization can be provided.

• The prices of the loose double edge razors are many times cheaper than the modern razors.
• With average beard growth, a double edge razor will remain optimally sharp for 3 to 6 shaves. The number of shaves varies by brand.
• There are many choices in classic razors and double edge razors. This allows the shaving system to be tailored much better to the type of (normal to sensitive) skin or (light to heavy) beard growth.
• The safety razor prevents ingrown hairs. Why? The modern razor consists of 3 or 5 razor blades (3-blade or 5-blade). These razor blades first lift the beard hairs and then shave them off. This increases the risk of ingrown hairs.
• While shaving, the dead skin cells are scraped off the skin. The safety razor consists of one razor blade. As a result, only one blade passes over the skin. In modern razors, 3 to 5 blades shave over the skin at the same time. Because of this, the skin irritation with the classic razor is less.
• Loose double edge razor blades are more durable and thus less harmful to the environment than the modern cartridge razors.
• Due to the huge range of razor holders, there is always a razor to suit personal preference.

Modern razors, such as those with 3 or 5 blades, lift the hair before cutting it off, which can increase the chances of ingrown hairs. A safety razor cuts the hair straight without lifting it, reducing the chance of ingrown hairs.

There are different types of safety razor holders. As a novice razor, it is best to start with a simple standard razor

Razor holder with closed comb

• Closed comb razor holders are the most common razors
• Great for the novice shaver (from the classic razor) and for light to normal beard growth
• Also suitable for sensitive skin

Razor holder with adjustable shaving head

• In a razor holder with adjustable shaving head, the cutting angle of the double edge razor blade and the "gap" (= opening of the shaving head) can be adjusted. The razor can be better matched to the personal shaving technique.
• This type of razor is suitable for any type of skin or beard growth.

Open comb razor holder

• Razor holder with open comb are more suitable for experienced shavers and for shaving the heavy (stiff beard hair) beard growth

Razor holder with screw lock

• Most razor holders have a simple screw closure between the handle and the shaving head
• These razors usually have a heavy duty shaving head. A heavy duty shaving head is suitable for shaving normal to heavy beard growth.
• Very common and solid

Razor holder with butterfly lock (twist to open razor)

• Butterfly clasp is useful for easy changing of the loose double edge razor blades
• These razors have a slightly lighter shaving head. This makes this razor suitable for light to normal beard growth
• The moving parts of this razor are more vulnerable than a razor with a screw lock. After shaving, rinse the razor well.

In addition, the weight of the razor also counts: a light razor for light beard growth; a heavy razor for normal to heavy beard growth. 

Yes, single double edge razor blades for a safety razor are on average significantly cheaper than modern razor blades. The price per blade can be as low as €0.30.

• Shaving with the safety razor is no more difficult than shaving with the modern cartridge razor.
• The classic razor only requires some practice in the beginning. After 1 to 2 weeks you will have fully mastered the proper shaving technique.
• Because the safety razor has a fixed shaving head, you have to keep an eye on the optimal angle in relation to the skin while shaving.
• Shaving with the classic razor may take a little longer compared to the modern razor.

It requires some practice at first, but after a few weeks you will have mastered the proper technique. The most important thing is to control the angle and pressure well for a smooth result.

• Cleanse the skin beforehand with soap or a cleansing gel.
• Wet the face with lukewarm water.
• If necessary, use a pre shave oil or gel for extra protection during shaving.
• Lather the face well with a shaving soap or shaving cream.
• Let the shaving cream soak in for a while. This will soften and soften the beard hairs.
• Hold the razor at an angle of about 30 degrees to the skin.
• Press the razor lightly on the skin. Caress your face with the scraper, so to speak.
• Shave with gentle movements.
• Start at the sideburns and cheeks, then the neck and finally the chin and mustache area.
• At the cheeks and neck area, pull the skin taut with the other hand.
• Shave along with the beard hairs as much as possible and then against them if necessary.
• For a really smooth shave: Lather up the face again and then shave against the beard hairs.
• Do not forget to rinse the razor while shaving.
• After shaving, rinse the face with cold water.
• After using, rinse the razor and razor blade well.

• Always use a double edge (DE) razor.
• Double edge razor blades are standard (universal system) and fit any classic safety razor.
• The double edge razor blades from, for example, the following razor brands Derby, Merkur and Feather fit into any safety razor or safety razor.

• Of course, this depends on whether you have light or heavy beard growth and what shaving cream or lotion you use.
• The cheaper blades last about 3 shaves on average. The slightly more expensive blades will last about 6 or more shaves.
• From a hygienic point of view, it is wise to replace the razor blade after every shave.