The razor is really one of those tools whose ideal usage time is not known. At the same time, the latter depends on many factors that may differ for each of us. It depends first of all on the type of razor used, the density of hair of each person but also on the frequency with which we force ourselves (or not) to eliminate them from our lives. In short, it is a vast subject. But what are we ultimately risking when we don't change them often? Let’s make a first point first…
The risks of not changing your razor often enough
A blade that has been used a lot cuts with less precision and can even snag the skin. If you notice that your razor is starting to make its strong head, do not force it, simply change the blade, or the complete razor if it is disposable and take another one that will be able to do its job properly. You will save time, energy and avoid ending up with bloody legs, armpits or worse, your bikini line.
Remember: the effectiveness of a razor depends in part on its blade(s), which can, over time, oxidize, rust or become colonized by bacteria. Rusty blades should be discarded right away even if your tetanus shot is up to date. According to dermatologist Purvisha Patel interviewed by Byrdie:
“If you use a dull razor, the skin will be traumatized during the shave. This can increase the risk of infection, scarring, and can break down collagen in the affected area. »
If your blade is clean but has been lying on the edge of the sink or shower for a while, be aware that it may contaminate your skin with bacteria which can cause pimples and the most extreme cases, a staphylococcus. Pleasures that we would do without...
After how long should it be changed?
Very easy to use and quite effective in removing hair from all areas of the body, conventional razors last an average of 7 days if you use them to remove hair from your armpits, bikini area or your legs and 5 if you pass them over your face. Because it is very precise, it is possible to use it on the most intimate areas of your body (always being very careful). At the end of this period, the advantage is that you simply have to throw the blade away to change it, keeping its original handle.
But why is its lifespan reduced by two days when the blade is used on the face? Well because the skin in this area tends to make more pimples than in other places and the micro-cuts caused by shaving can contaminate the blade with bacteria very quickly.
If disposable razors are allies that can save us in the summer or just before a party, it is not advisable to make them your companion for all occasions. Because even if its price seems cheap at first glance, the fact that you have to change it every 5 uses makes its cost much less advantageous if you make it your reference razor. But why do we have to change it so often? Well because their pads and blades tend to deteriorate very easily in contact with the skin but also with water. Result ? The skin is irritated and badly shaved after 5 uses: the ultimate sign that you have to say goodbye to them.
If you take care at the end of each use, to properly remove the hairs from your electric razor, rinse the removable head and disinfect everything, in this case your tool will serve you for up to two long years without having to to change anything. On the other hand, as always, if you notice that the grid or the blade is rusty or damaged, go change them to take no risk.
How to extend the life of your razor?
If shaving can damage the blade over time, this is not what dulls it the most if we believe the words of Benny Perez, Barber expert at Pacific Shaving for Byrdie :
“Razor blades don’t dull so easily. What really causes nicks and cuts is the oxidation of the razor blade. That's what's ruining it. In other words, the 24 hours between shaves cause more damage to the razor than the act of shaving itself. »
Ok but what to do? According to him, it is recommended to dry your razor well after each use and to avoid keeping it in a humid environment (like the shower for example, his favorite place)…
Last but not least: don't use the same razor on different parts of your body
It can add an extra level of strain to your lives, but it's important to note that hair located on the face are not the same (in terms of density or thickness) as those that take it easy on your legs, for example. Using the same razor for these two parts could therefore be very aggressive for the skin on your face, or even totally ineffective for the skin on your legs, which tends to be thicker.
You know everything!
Also read: Solid cosmetics are cool for the planet, but are they effective and good for your health?
Image credits of one: @Helen Barth.
