If Shaving is one of your daily or weekly activities, you've probably noticed how many different types of Razor Blades there are to choose from. Especially when you are starting with Shaving or have been using the same type of blades for years, the selection can be overwhelming. There is quite a bit of difference in Razor Blades, and on top of that, there really isn't one best option. Every man has different skin and hair growth, and of course, a different preference. Still, there is a razor blade for every man that can be the best choice for him.
The best Double Edge Blades
I must first say that we will only be discussing Double Edge Blades. The replaceable blades used in a Safety Razor. If you don't yet shave with a Safety Razor, we really recommend you try it. To name a few advantages:
- More precise result and finer experience
- You need to Shaving less often because the result is smoother
- Less chance of irritated skin
- Lots of variation in Double Edge Blades
- Razor Blades are cheaper
For us men, Shaving with a Safety Razor is becoming more and more common. It is becoming increasingly popular. Also read Perfect Shaving: Using a Safety Razor to learn more about Safety Razors and to try it out.
What makes a razor blade good?
What is a good razor blade for you might be a terrible blade for someone else. That's why there is so much variation in Double Edge Blades. Every man has a different type of Beard Growth and skin. Someone with sensitive skin needs a different razor blade than someone with normal or rough skin. The following factors should be considered when looking for the suitable razor blade.
Sharpness of the razor blade
Most men think that the sharpest blade is automatically the best. Although that seems very plausible, it is not entirely true. I say entirely because it does apply to some men. The sharper the razor blade, the smoother the shaving result will be. But there is also a greater risk of cutting yourself. Beginners will especially experience this because they do not yet have such a good technique.
However, a better result can be achieved with a sharper blade in one shave. Provided you master the technique well and do not cut yourself, a sharp blade is ideal for men with sensitive skin and thicker hair. The skin will be less stressed because the blade only needs to go over the skin once and cuts the hairs well. If you have less thick hair, it is better to use a less sharp blade.
To compare the Sharpness of blades with each other, we have created a table below with the Sharpness of the five best-rated Razor Blades. The lower the number, the sharper the blade is.
Razor Blade |
Sharpness |
Astra |
49 |
Derby Premium |
51 |
Feather |
32 |
Gillette 7 O'clock |
46 |
Wilkinson Sword |
46 |
Smoothness of the Razor Blade
The smoothness of the razor blade, also known as smoothness, indicates how forgiving the razor blade is. The smoothness is determined by the cutting angle of the blade. A very sharp razor blade has an unfriendly cutting angle, which means you can easily cut yourself if you don't have a good shaving technique. With a very smooth razor blade, you are less likely to cut yourself. Handy if you have rough skin or, for example, suffer from acne. If you have sensitive skin but thicker beard hairs, this is a less good option. You will then need to apply more pressure to your skin or go over the same skin surface multiple times Shaving. That increases the chance of irritation.
Lifespan of the Razor Blade
All those smooth and sharp blades are nice, but what good are they if your blade is worthless after one shave? Razor Blades differ in durability. This is related to the quality of the Material used. Razor Blades last for several shaves. After each shave, the Sharpness changes. It becomes less after a few times.
Some Razor Blades last longer than others. Of course, this affects our wallet and should therefore be considered when looking for a good razor blade.
The best Razor Blades
Feather Double Edge Blades
According to shaving enthusiasts, the best razor blade available. It is also the sharpest razor blade available and may be less suitable for beginners. Feather is a Japanese company that makes professional Shaving Products and is also one of the market leaders in that field. If you have sensitive skin with thicker hairs, this is the best choice. If you are looking for a smoother razor blade, then you might want to pass on this one.
+ Unmatched Sharpness
+ The coating makes this blade last long
+ Perfect for thicker Hair
Astra Superior Platinum Double Edge Blades
Astra is a manufacturer that is part of Gillette and produces the blades in Russia. These Razor Blades are among the most beloved thanks to a great price-quality ratio. The blades are sharp but also smooth enough to shave comfortably without cutting yourself. The lifespan of these Astra Razor Blades is among the longest. These Razor Blades last incredibly long. Every man should be able to get at least five shaves out of one blade.
+ Cheap
+ Lasts long
+ Smooth and irritation-free shave
Gillette 87 O'Clock Super Stainless
A list of the best Razor Blades without the name Gillette does not exist, of course. This Brand needs no introduction. These Razor Blades are exactly between mild and sharp. It still gives a smooth shaving result without the risks of the sharper variants. Perfect for beginners, therefore. The Razor Blades are average in lifespan and are not expensive.
+ Sharp enough but not aggressive
+ Affordable
+ Blades from a manufacturer with a good reputation
Derby Double Edge Blades
The perfect razor for beginners. These Razor Blades are as smooth as possible so you won't cut yourself easily. That also means that the Sharpness is minimal, which will not produce the smoothest result. The lifespan of the Derby Blades are very good. Some men can get up to 10 shaves with them. If you have thin beard hairs and sensitive skin, this blade is a good choice.
+ Very cheap
+ Very mild
+ Razor blade lasts very long
Wilkinson Sword Double Edge Blades
Another razor blade that is good for beginners. The lifespan of Wilkinson Razor Blades is among the best, and the blade is very friendly to the skin. The blade is sharper than the Derby Double Edge Blades and therefore gives a slightly smoother result. For thicker beard hairs, this blade is less suitable.
+ Fairly mild
+ Suitable for beginners
+ Good lifespan
Vary with different types of Razor Blades
The best tip is to vary a lot in the use of Razor Blades. Eventually, you will find the blade that gives you the most desired results. It is also conceivable that over time your technique improves so much that you feel the need for a different blade. Fortunately, you can get all Double Edge Blades in small packages, so you spend little money and can try another razor blade shortly after.
If you are just starting to Shaving with a Safety Razor, it is best to start with a mild razor blade and then gradually go sharper until you have found the ideal razor blade.