If you’re a guy with sensitive skin, prone to breakouts, burns, and irritation, shaving might not be your favorite thing in the world. Have you ever considered that your razor could be the culprit?
The best razors for sensitive skin will give you a close shave with little to no irritation. Dermatologists usually recommend a safety razor for best results, but there are certain cartridge razors and electric razors made for men with sensitive skin too.
Let’s take a look at some of the best razors for men with sensitive skin.
Merkur 34C
The Merkur 34C is a classic. It’s been around forever because, well, it’s just a damn good razor. The two-piece design makes it easy to clean and reassemble, and you can quickly switch out the blades whenever you want.
Merkur is known for their precise German engineering. The blade alignment on the Merkur 34C is very consistent, meaning that there’s a much smaller chance of you cutting your face. This no-nonsense razor won’t let you down.
Bevel
Bevel is one of the new kids on the block, but they’ve made a splash pretty quickly. They make an easy-to-use stainless steel safety razor that’s great for newbies. It’s not an aggressive razor by any means, but it provides a close, comfortable shave that any guy will appreciate. It’s easy to handle, relatively inexpensive, and fun to talk about.
I know we’re supposed to just be talking about the razor, but Bevel’s starter kit is impressive. In addition to the razor, they give you a priming oil, restoring balm, a set of blades, a brush, and some good shaving cream. Makes it hard not to give them a try.
Merkur Progress
Another Merkur creation, the ultra-practical Progress razor is a little more advanced but will give you a awesome shave once you get the hang of it.
This razor is adjustable, meaning that when you turn the big knob at the bottom, the blade will become more or less exposed depending on which way you turn. This is most useful when there are certain spots on your face or neck that are more sensitive than others.
There’s definitely a learning curve with the Merkur Progress. The assembly is a bit different with the adjustable knob, and you’ll need to experiment with the different settings for the different areas of your face. But it’s worth it.
One of the most trusted razor experts on the web, Mantic59, said that you’ll have to pry his Merkur Progress “out of my cold, dead hand.” Oddly enough, that’s great news.
Best Cartridge Razor: Gillette MACH3 Turbo
Haven’t jumped on the safety razor train yet? Gillette is still on top when it comes to cartridge razors and their MACH3 Turbo razors are the best of the bunch.
The MACH3 is a great combination of speed, quality, and shave closeness. It also helps prevent a dirty blade (the #1 cause of bacteria) due to the generously spaced between the blades. Much easier to rinse off.
As with most cartridge razors, the MACH3 has some frills to get you excited. This one features two lubricating strip bars — one at the top and one at the bottom — to give you extra lubrication as you shave. Some versions of this razor even have a vibrating feature that many claim helps give a closer shave.
The biggest downer (as with any cartridge razor) is the cost of refills. A 15 pack base MACH3 refill would cost around $33 in Amazon. But if you’re after fast, easy-to-use razor that works nicely with sensitive skin, this is it.
Tips for dealing with skin irritation
Regardless of what kind of razor you use, remember to use the right products before, during, and after your shave.
Always soften your beard hairs before you shave, whether in the shower or with a hot towel right before you shave. Use a shaving cream and moisturizer with skin-soothing vitamins and essential oils. And above all, STAY CONSISTENT. Settle into a shaving routine and you’ll start to see less irritation.
Take your time as you learn, and soon your sensitive skin will be smoother than…well, it’ll be really smooth. That’s all you can really ask for, right? Good luck!