There was a time when people used blades and blade holders to shave. Gone are the days of doing things manually. Everything including shaving has been automated to meet the accelerated pace of life that we lead today.
An electric shaver allows you to have a smooth and clean shaven look without devoting much time. Moreover, it does not come too close to the skin, thereby preventing cuts and bruises. However, not every electric shaver available on the market can meet your needs. So, it is important to understand your key requirements first before making a purchase. Here are some tips on choosing the best electric shaver to meet your needs.
Brand
There are several big players in the electric shaving market; Philips, Braun, Panasonic and Remington to name the most well-known. When it comes to shaving something as valuable as your face we always recommend choosing a trusted and reputable brand and we are proud to stock the biggest selection of branded shavers available online.
Men generally favour one brand over the other and this mainly comes down to personal preference. But as a general rule, when it comes to rotary shavers Philips is the market leader whereas Braun is the key player for foil shavers.
The Big Choice: Foil vs. Rotary
Before you pick a specific electric razor, you need to decide which of the two types is better for you.
Foil shavers tend to get you a closer shave and are better for people who shave every day. The thin layer of foil on the shaver works to both catch facial hair so it can be cut and ensure the blades don’t come in direct contact with your skin. You use them kind of like you would regular razors, moving up and down in basically straight lines. The design of a foil shaver also means you can be more precise when shaving around a beard or sideburns, and most will give you a quicker shave than the average rotary shaver.
If you shave only a couple of times a week, or if you have coarser hair, a rotary shaver is probably better for you. Unlike a foil shaver, the cutting heads on a rotary shaver catch the hairs and cut them, which can pick up coarser hairs that the tiny holes on a foil shaver would pass over. Unlike foil shavers, rotary shavers are used in a circular motion and their highly-flexible cutting heads mean they can more easily handle the contours of your face.
Power Consumption and Supply – Plug-in vs Corded
Electric shavers are divided into three major types when it comes to power: battery powered (think AA batteries etc.), those with a plug-in charging unit (most modern shavers), and corded razors. With plug-in mode types, make sure that the shaver is fully charged before using it. This way, you will not have to worry about it running out of power while in use – although most modern shavers will go for up to one hour on a charge. Battery powered razors are not ideal for daily use because of their low efficiency with regards to power consumption. They do however have the upper hand for those who travel frequently. Corded shavers are uncommon these days as they are quite impractical, due to the fact that the cord gets in the way of shaving.
Wet Vs Dry
Another key decision is wet shaving versus dry shaving. Dry shaving is super-fast and clean so is the ultimate in easy shaving and many men prefer the speed and convenience of a dry electric shaver. As well as dry use, some electric shavers can also be used wet, with a shaving gel or foam giving you the best of both worlds. Some can even be taken into the shower, though we wouldn’t recommend submerging them completely. Panasonic in particular offer fantastic wet and dry technology.
Electric Shaver Replacement Blades
Like traditional straight razors, electric shavers also need blade replacement. Over time, the foil and blades in the electric shaver will wear out and so should be replaced at least once a year. When choosing razors, inquire whether the model you want to buy has a second set of foils and blades or rotary heads. Also inquire how to find and buy replacement parts. Expensive electric razors have expensive replacement parts so consider this when comparing shavers to buy.
An electric shaver is an excellent option for people who want a faster shave. Moreover, it is less messy, easier to use and can be used on dry facial hair.
Accessories
What accessories are included in the package? It is important to consider accessories that come with the shavers you buy. Some razors will come with a travel case and lubricant; some do not come with the lubricant, in which case you would have no choice but to buy your own.
It is also a good idea to choose electric shavers that come with a cleaning brush. The brush can help you keep the electric shavers clean and well maintained.
Travelling
If you travel a lot, you need to consider the size and weight of the shaver, as well as how it will be powered. Many shavers include travelling pouches to store the shaver when travelling and many have automatic dual voltage, but do check this out. Where you are opting for a shaver with a cleaning station, there should also be the possibility of charging the shaver with a cord for convenience when travelling. The addition of a travel lock to ensure that your batteries are not drained by accidentally switching on whilst travelling is a handy feature.
Cleaning
It’s important to keep the shaver and blades clean but it’s not easy to remember to do that all the time. So, it’s better to choose an electric shaver that’s completely waterproof and can be rinsed quickly and easily.
Warranty
Finally, it is essential to consider the coverage included with the electric razor. A warranty might be the last of your concerns, but it may later prove to be of assistance. If your razor unexpectedly develops fault, you may have to get it fixed or replaced. This is where a warranty will come in handy; a warranty could potentially provide you with a brand new razor, without the additional cost. Be sure to get the longest warranty you possibly can.
What it really comes down to is personal preference. As with everything in life, the best way to ensure a close and comfortable shave, and a razor that you can enjoy for many years, is to choose quality products, use them appropriately, and look after them.
