Last Updated on September 2, 2020 by
Razor blades are thin and sharp pieces of metal that are used together with razors for removal of hair. Razor blades can be used to cut many things, but they were invented for shaving. There are many designs of razor blades, with the most popular being a double-edged razor with holes at the center.
Why do razor blades have holes?
The original razor blade design had holes to help the blade fit perfectly into a razor. With time, Gillet changed this design and patented it, and the holes were a way to identify with that brand. After the patent expired, other brands copied the design since users already identified with it.
The holes on razor blades also make them fit into any razor. Some studies have shown that the holes on a razor blade make it flexible to avoid breaking when you bend it.
Are razor blades dangerous?
Razor blades are sharp, and if recklessly handled, they can be dangerous. Razor blades pose the risk of cutting ourselves and spreading infections. A blunt razor blade causes irritation and ingrown hair when used to shave. A rusty razor is dangerous and can cause disease and infections. Always change your razor after 5- 8 uses to get the best out of it and to stay safe.
How many times should a razor blade be used?
How many times you use a razor blade will depend on what you are using it for. When using a razor blade for shaving, dermatologists and hair care experts recommend changing your blade after five uses. When using a razor blade for cutting, you can use it for as long as it is sharp and clean.
Why are razor blades so expensive?
Razor blades are quite pricey, and it is not a wonder finding blades that are more expensive than the razor itself. The main reason why blades are expensive is because customers are loyal to their brands. Brand loyalty assures the company that no matter the price, customers will still buy their favorite razor.
Razor blades prices are also influenced by the quality of materials used to make the blade. Raider, who is the founder at Harry’s, says blades are expensive and complicated to make, and the business has high barriers to entry, thus giving the few businesses in this industry power to charge higher prices.
Factors to consider when choosing a razor blade
When buying a razor blade to use in your safety razor, you need to have in mind a few essential things. The type of blade you choose will impact your shaving experience and also your final look after a wet shave. Here are some crucial points to look at when shopping for a razor:
- Your skin type
Before you head out to try out new razors, make sure you know your skin type and what it reacts to. If you have sensitive skin, you need to be extra careful with what goes onto your skin. Stainless steel blades are perfect for sensitive skin and are quite affordable. Men with sensitive skin need very sharp blades for a precise and nick-free shave.
2. Your hair type
ichever blade you end up choosing should be guided by your hair’s thickness. If you have rough or thick hair, you will need a very sharp blade. A sharper blade will make lesser passes on your skin while you shave, and this reduces the chances of irritation. If you have thin hair, you need a blade that isn’t too sharp. This is because extra sharp blades may cause irritation and razor burns on your skin. For thin hair, just go for a razor blade that cuts your hair effortlessly and painlessly.
3. Sharpness of a blade
When buying a razor blade, we tend to assume that a sharper blade is more effective, but it’s not always so. The sharpness you need should be guided by your hair type and your shaving experience. If your skin feels sore and irritated after a few strokes of a gentle shave, then your blade is too sharp. And it would be best if you toned down to a less sharp blade. If you find that your blade keeps tugging your hair or the shave isn’t as uniform as you’d like, you need to upgrade to a sharper blade.
4. Type of coating on a blade
Different blades have different coating materials. The coating material greatly impacts blades longevity and sharpness retention. Coated blades are also less prone to rust. Stainless steel blades are best followed by those made of metal alloys. Different manufacturers use various coating materials, and you should find one that doesn’t irritate your skin and stick to it. Finding the best-coated razor may involve lots of trial and error, but it is worth it.
Conclusion
Whether you are just embracing wet shaving or you’re a veteran, finding the best razor blade to use with your razor is a priority. Knowing how to choose the best razor blade will save you a lot of time and pain. When buying a razor, always go for quality construction. Using your razor safely is key to having a smooth and clean face after a shave. Expert barbers and dermatologists recommend replacing your blade after every five uses. If your blade feels blunt after just a few shaves, replace it immediately.
After using your razor blade, always strive to dispose it safely to avoid causing harm to others. The best way of disposing used razors is to put them in a glass jar, and once the jar is full, pop it in a trash can meant for loose steel. Some razor blade brands have a blade safe that’s purposely meant for disposing of used blades. After the safe is filled up, you return it to the company for recycling. This technique is safe for users and their families and also safe for the environment. Rockwell razors are one such company that has blade safes.
We hope that this post helps you understand what razor blades are and what they are used for. If you are starting on wet shaving, be sure to practice safe shaving for a wonderful experience.
