The Best Safety Razors for a Smooth Shave

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Is anyone else tired of new razors that just don't work as well? I know I am. With the old-school safety razor, you only have one blade against your skin at any time. This can reduce skin irritation, bumps, and ingrown hairs.

Below are some of my favorite safety razors of 2024 for both men and women that can help perfect any bad shaving technique. These razors work for every skin and hair type, and they give me the smoothest shave ever. You have to try it!

The following products are all made with durable materials and have varying handle sizes for comfort, grip, and maneuverability. Additionally, the handles on these razors are smart and sleek, giving you the best shaving experience possible.

Comparing the Best Safety Razors of 2024

Edwin Jagger Double Edge Safety Razor  —  Best Overall

This double-edged safety razor offers a very close, comfortable shave and has a blade angle perfectly suited for both new and experienced wet shavers. The highly polished, chrome-plated, and solid brass tubular handle is well-balanced and has a sturdy weight and feel for a satisfying close shave. I chose this as the best overall because of its affordability without sacrificing quality.

Pros

  • Includes a five-pack of replacement blades

Cons

  • Doesn't come with a case

VIKINGS BLADE Safety Razor  —  Quickest Blade Change

This safety razor is made of heavy-duty materials and is coated with shiny chrome that really puts it in a class of its own. I like that this razor is 20% heavier and more balanced than many conventional safety razors. It also has a unique weight distribution that makes short strokes effortless. It also has a quick and convenient five-second blade change.

Pros

  • Includes a case with accessories

Cons

  • May be shorter than other options

Weishi Safety Razor  —  Best Hand-Crafted

This long-handled safety razor has a smooth butterfly open for a simple, quick, and safe blade replacement. What stood out to me about this safety razor is that it's hand-crafted. Seriously, how cool! This razor has a strong grip that feels good in the hand and its durable weight makes for the ideal shave every single time.

Pros

  • Comes with 5 blade replacements

Cons

  • Slight learning curve

Merkur Double Edge Razor  —  Best Grip

This safety razor features a short, extra-thick, and built-for-comfort handle with a non-slip grip. It is mainly known for its heavy head which uses its weight to deliver a close and comfortable shave. The razor itself is durable and precise. With this blade, you'll see one of the closest shaves without any irritation.

Pros

  • Double edge blades

Cons

  • No instructions included

Zomchi Double Edge Safety Razor  —  Most Precision

Specially designed for women, I love that this safety razor is as stylish as it is effective. This double edge razor is nicely balanced with a simple mechanical design that makes loading and unloading the razor fast and easy. Designed to achieve the closest and cleanest shave possible, this razor also has a textured and comfortable grip for excellent control and precision.

Pros

  • Includes five extra blades

Cons

  • Case not included

Shaving Revolution Safety Razor  —  Editor's Pick

Made with the highest quality materials, this double edge razor provides a smooth and close shave, leaving the skin smooth and irritation-free. I like that it has a long handle for a better grip.

Pros

  • Longer handle than others

Cons

  • Have to change the blade daily

Bambaw Bamboo Safety Razor  —  Best Eco-Friendly

For a more eco-friendly shaving experience, this safety razor has a 100% bamboo handle, and its stainless steel parts make it strong and durable. This razor has a heftier, ideal weight, and ergonomic shape with a longer handle for a smooth, clean shave that prevents irritation or razor burn.

Pros

  • In-depth user manual

Cons

  • Heavier weight than others

Buyers Guide: Choosing a Premium Safety Razor

What to Keep In Mind When Buying a Safety Razor

No one wants a bad safety razor that'll leave them with nicks all over. I sure don't! Here are some factors you should consider when buying a safety razor for shaving.

Weight

You may think that a lightweight razor will give you a better shave, but that couldn't be farther from the truth. Sure, a lighter safety razor is easier to carry around while traveling. But when it comes to shaving, a heavier razor will give you a more steady hand. Plus, I like that you don’t have to apply as much pressure when it comes to a heavier razor.

Blade type

There's a wide variety of razors available on the market. The standard safety razor usually has 3 to 4 mild blades and is easy to use, even on a daily basis. But if you’re someone with a thick beard, you can always choose a safety razor with a much more aggressive blade.

The type of safety razor you choose could also depend on the type of skin you have. If you have sensitive skin like me, opt for a mild blade. Mild blades also work well for people with thinner hair or slower growth. In general, I suggest that you make sure you’re careful with the type of blade you choose. Choosing an aggressive blade when you’re a beginner is never a good idea.

Head type

Safety razors for shaving also have different types of shaving heads. Some razors have removable heads so that you can change your blades. Standard disposable safety razors usually have a straight bar-shaped head.

These types of razors have mild blades and usually have a soap strip attached as well. This type of safety razor works well for people with thinner hair or for a fast and easy shave. Another type of safety razor head that you can pick is the scalloped head.

This safety razor head has a little bit more blade exposed than a straight bar-shaped head. But if you want a much more precise shape, you can also pick a safety razor with a slanted head since they cut your hair at an angle.

Handle

The handle of your safety razor is as important as the blades. The length of the handle doesn’t really affect a safety razor’s ability to shave. However, your comfort matters, and some people feel more comfortable using a safety razor with a longer handle. Another important factor is the texture of the handle. Textured handles can keep your hands from slipping when you’re shaving.

Tips on Getting the Perfect Shave

Let’s be honest: shaving can often be a challenging task. The amount of times I've nicked myself is just embarrassing. I've also come out of the shower after what felt like forever shaving just to find I missed a spot. Or the shave just isn't smooth. We've all been there, haven't we?

If you’re looking for the perfect shave, the first thing to remember is that you should never shave dry. Shaving dry can lead to razor bumps and can even give you cuts. For a smoother shave, it’s always best to exfoliate beforehand since this softens the hair.

Try to use shaving cream and always shave in the direction your hair grows in. Once you’re done shaving, make sure to close your pores with cold water, and you’ll be guaranteed a smooth, satisfying shave.

Looking to shave your legs with a safety razor? Check out this YouTube video for a tutorial: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S4SDNKYkTJo

Cleaning the Safety Razor After Shaving – All You Need to Know

After you're done shaving, you may notice hair trapped underneath your safety razor blades. Don't pick the hair out. There's an easier way, I promise! Rinse your razor blades with water and then use a towel to wipe away any excess hair. Another way to remove hair from your razor is by dipping it in coconut oil. This loosens and removes any stray hair that may be caught in the blades.