Which shaving device should I use?

There are a number of factors that should be considered when selecting the correct shaving device. For example, the weight of the razor and the pressure it applies determines the quality of the shave to a large extent. There are many types of razors which people use depending upon their individual preferences and also the thickness of the hair, whether it is coarse or soft. Razors are basically divided into 2 broad categories: blade razors and electric razors.

Blade razors could be either traditional or disposable razors. If you are shaving for the first time, a disposable razor which is light is the best option. This will help avoid nicking lesions, getting cuts etc. Besides, a disposable razor is cheap and one doesn't have to bother changing the head every time.

Disposable razors can have a single blade, or multiple blades. The multiple blades give a very close shave but at the same time pull out the hair from the follicle, sometimes causing skin inflammation. The single blade causes lesser irritation but doesn't give a close shave. Disposable razors are the ideal option if one is travelling and doesn't really have to carry the shaving kit. It can be used and thrown away.

Some of these shavers also come with a lubricating strip to soften the hair before the blade pulls it. This however is not good enough to replace an actual shaving gel or soap. Some people also use reusable razor blades, where the razor strip is refilled rather than changing the entire head. Some of them have an indicator strip to indicate when the razor blade should be replaced.

Traditional razors are slightly heavier and more expensive than the disposable razors. These razors are usually preferred by those who prefer heavier shavers that apply more pressure and hence one doesn't have to press a lot while shaving. These razors give a much closer shave than the disposable razor. However, the blade of this razor needs to be changed almost every shave. Some of them use safety blades, which give a clean shave but could sometimes give nasty cuts if one is not careful. Some of these shavers are double-edged, meaning the blade protrudes out on both sides. They can also have a single blade or twin blade cartridge for a closer shave.

Electric razors are the other type of shavers. These are very safe and good for avoiding cuts or nicking lesions. These razors use electricity to make the blades rotate at very high speed. However, these razors do not give a close shave as they cut the hair, instead of first pulling and then cutting as with blade razors. As a result, these razors are more hygienic as they do not open up follicles, thus avoiding spreading infection through bacteria which usually enters these follicles. These razors are usually operated by battery which can be recharged. Some of them come with pivoting heads and special blades and don't really need a shaving cream or gel.

Shavers: Now you've got the lowdown, the choice, as they say, is yours.