{"id":617,"date":"2021-04-21T09:19:00","date_gmt":"2021-04-21T13:19:00","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/142.93.176.215\/?p=617"},"modified":"2023-08-17T15:55:27","modified_gmt":"2023-08-17T19:55:27","slug":"electric-shaver-benefits","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.toolsofmen.com\/electric-shaver-benefits\/","title":{"rendered":"The Pros & Cons of Electric Shavers"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

The electric shaver isn’t for everyone.  However, there are some significant advantages that the electric shaver has over other types of razors<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Below, we will provide you with an objective overview of the key benefits and drawbacks of the electric shaver so you can determine if this is the right shaving tool for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let’s begin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Key Benefits<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Electric shavers enjoy several benefits.  Here are the most notable advantages you should know about:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

One of the most significant advantages that electric shavers enjoy over manual razors is speed.  Without the requirement of shaving cream or facial hair preparation, you can get smooth results in only a few minutes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Should you be constantly short on time in the morning or simply don’t seek out a barbershop-like shave experience, you will find the electric shaver a good choice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Learning Curve<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Anyone can pick up an electric shaver and master it in only a few attempts.  For effective use, hold the razor perpendicular to the skin’s surface and shave against the grain<\/a> – simple as that.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As we recently researched, electric shavers are significantly more expensive than manual razors upfront<\/a>.  However<\/strong>, electric shavers do enjoy lower long-term costs, especially when compared to cartridge razors.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here’s a breakdown of our analysis::<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Initial Investment<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

On average, foil electric shavers cost $104, and rotary shavers cost $74:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Despite the higher average cost for the device, you can find quality models for as little as $40.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Long Term Costs<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

You should replace the cutting head on electric shavers once every 12 months.  Replacement heads, on average, cost approximately $40.  When taking this into account, you can expect to pay the following costs over five years:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Note: The cutting head on electric shavers won’t require replacement until year two, hence the $0 costs associated with year one of ownership.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here’s the supporting data:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Razor Type<\/strong><\/th>Initial Cost<\/strong><\/th>Year <\/strong>1<\/th>Year <\/strong>2<\/th>Year <\/strong>3<\/th>Year <\/strong>4<\/th>Year <\/strong>5<\/th>Total<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead>
Safety Razor – Feather Blades<\/td>$74.00<\/td>$27.74<\/td>$27.74<\/td>$27.74<\/td>$27.74<\/td>$27.74<\/td>$212.70<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Safety Razor – Derby Blades<\/td>$74.00<\/td>$8.76<\/td>$8.76<\/td>$8.76<\/td>$8.76<\/td>$8.76<\/td>$117.80<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Cartridge Razor – Fusion5<\/td>$10.00<\/td>$91.25<\/td>$91.25<\/td>$91.25<\/td>$91.25<\/td>$91.25<\/td>$466.25<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Cartridge Razor – Mach3<\/td>$8.50<\/td>$68.44<\/td>$68.44<\/td>$68.44<\/td>$68.44<\/td>$68.44<\/td>$350.69<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Electric Shaver – Foil<\/td>$104.00<\/td>$0.00<\/td>$44.00<\/td>$44.00<\/td>$44.00<\/td>$44.00<\/td>$280.00<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Electric Shaver – Rotary<\/td>$74.00<\/td>$0.00<\/td>$35.00<\/td>$35.00<\/td>$35.00<\/td>$35.00<\/td>$214.00<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

As you learned in the data above, electric shavers are a budget-friendly option when compared to modern cartridge razors.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Wet & Dry Shaving<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Many electric shavers, even baseline models, are capable of wet or dry shaving<\/a>.  Wet shaving simply means that you can use the electric shaver with or without shaving cream.  However, most men prefer dry shaving when it comes to an electric shaver.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wet shaving with an electric shaver may increase comfort as a well-made shaving cream can soften facial hair and help the skin to retain moisture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Additionally, electric shavers capable of wet shaving may be waterproof; this makes it easy to clean the device regularly.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Battery<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Many electric shavers now rely on a modern Lithium-Ion battery.  This extends the battery life with an average running time of 45+ minutes – which should last for several weeks before needing a recharge.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Additionally, many models also offer quick charging.  Should your battery be dead, simply set it on the charger for only five minutes, and there should be more than enough power to get you through a single shave.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Note: Some cheap electric shavers may use NiMH batteries.  These batteries require several hours of charging for only a short run time (ex: 4+ hour charge for 20+ minutes run time).  It’s best to avoid this type of electric shaver.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

6. Travel-Friendly<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Whether traveling via plane or heading to your gym, the electric shaver makes for an excellent travel companion.  There is no reliance on shaving cream, so TSA-enforced container sizes aren’t a problem, and a single charge should be more than enough for your entire trip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Select models come with a travel-lock option to prevent the device from accidentally turning on while in your luggage.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

7. Safer Than a Razor<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

With the cutting blade set behind a mesh grate, electric shavers make it nearly impossible for you to cut yourself accidentally.  Whether you are just learning to shave for the first time in your life or simply don’t like the idea of dragging a razor across your skin, the electric shaver can provide a safer alternative.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

8. Shower Shaving<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Waterproof electric shavers are capable of being used in the shower.  This allows for a more efficient shaving routine. Additionally, your skin will be more pliable, and the facial hair will be softer, which may lead to more comfortable results<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

9. Cleaner Cutting Head<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Cartridge razors are susceptible to holding onto dead skin and debris after you have finished shaving.  The bacterial growth trapped in the crevices of the blades may cause mild skin irritation for some men.  High-end electric shavers have cleaning stations that sanitize the razor head with alcohol after every use.  It is a more sanitary alternative to a used razor blade.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

10. Safe Disposal of Razor Blades<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Cartridge and safety razor blades must be disposed of properly<\/a> for safety and sanitary reasons.  Electric shavers are not as likely to put yourself or others at risk when disposed of or recycled.  Regardless, always follow local regulations when disposing of electric shaver heads.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

11. Razor Bumps (Ingrown Hairs)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Given that electric shavers do not experience the hysteresis (lift-and-cut) phenomenon, razor bumps are less likely to occur.  This is especially welcomed if you have naturally curly facial hair.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Limitations<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Electric shavers do have some notable drawbacks.  Here are a few of the more common ones you should be aware of:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Skin Irritation & Hair Pulling<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

A common complaint about electric shavers is that they may pull hair or cause skin irritation.  Unfortunately, it’s hard to identify the primary reason for this as there are a few variables at play when shaving, such as the following:<\/p>\n\n\n\n