In the battle of single-blade razors vs. multi-blade razors, let’s have a look at the pros and cons of each type. And then, feel free to decide which one is better!
When going shopping for grooming tools for the first time, you can easily be overwhelmed with the variety of choices available on the market.
It is difficult trying to determine which kind of razors would go well for your needs, especially when you are confronted with two hugely popular options: single- blade razors vs multi-blade razors.
As each of them has its own pros and cons, the article below is for those of you who still struggle to pick out the most suitable gear. So keep reading and find out where your preferences lie!
Overview Of Single-Blade & Multi-Blade Razors
Single and multiple blade razors are both typical products in the grooming industry. Although they share the same purpose, which is to handle body hair, the working mechanisms and designs vary from each other.
Single-blade Razors
As the name already indicates, single-blade razors consist of one blade placed on a head connected to the handle. They can either come in a straight razor or slant razor form.
Single blade razors are more than 5000 years old and are hailed as one of the most beloved tools for professional shaving.
Single-blade razor only has one blade to do the shaving
Multi-blade Razors
In recent years, multi-blade razors – also known as cartridge razors – pride themselves on having more blades than their single counterpart.
Available in multiple price ranges and easy to use for beginners, multi-blade marks an attempt to popularize otherwise niche grooming items, making the product more accessible for the public.
Multi-blade razors can have anywhere from 2 to 7 blades
Single-Blade Razors Vs. Multi-Blade Razors: Detailed Comparison
Working mechanism
A single blade razor uses the blade to cut through the hair at the surface without any tugging. Hence, the hair will grow back from the skin level and leave no room for ingrown hair.
Vice versa, multi-blade razors devote each of the blades to a different purpose.
The first blade will hook the follicle up and pull it all the way from deeper skin tissues. The second blade handles the exposed hair that grows above the surface, while other blades give a final touch that smoothes the skin.
This procedure can remove more hair in one go, but the hair ends up getting cut beneath the skin. If you do not have post-shaving care like exfoliating and moisturizing, ingrown hair is more likely to occur.
Effort required
As single-blade razors rely on one blade only, you have to repeat the grooming multiple times instead of removing all the hair in one go. It is the only way to ensure that the hair is cut properly.
On the other hand, using a multi-blade razor will help reduce the amount of shaving on the face.The process is much simpler since the blades will cut more stubble in one pass, resulting in less time spent on shaving.
Shaving comfort
Shaving with a single-blade razor might be difficult at first since the necessary skills are a bit more complicated. But once you master its usage, the experience is far more pleasant.
In addition, as the single-blade does not exert more friction than needed, the skin stands less likely to get razor bumps and rash afterward.
If used correctly, multi-blade razors offer a clean shave. However, the more the blades are, the higher the friction is. This is because the blades remove not only the hair but also the skin tissues at the top.
Thus, having many blades cutting through the hair simultaneously can abrade the skin for many times, essentially exposing the skin to rashes and irritations, especially if the user has super sensitive skin.
Furthermore, users tend to be overconfident upon witnessing the smoothness of the blades. Consequently, they are more likely to increase their shaving speed.
The effortlessness while using multi-blade razors urges people to shave longer strokes than recommended. As a result, nicks are also prone to happen, as the sharpness of the blades can be too aggressive sometimes.
Last but not least, people using multi-blade razors are more inclined to develop ingrown hair. This is due to the way blades are supposed to handle the follicles, which has already been explained earlier in this guideline.
Maneuverability
The flexibility of single-blade razors and multi-blade razors are widely different
The design of single-blade razors allows users to deal with their hair from multiple angles. Feel free to cut it through the left, right, or from top to bottom. There is no limit as to how you can cut with your blade.
Multi-blade razors do not offer the same level of flexibility. Some older models use a fixed head that can only work from a specific angle. Other modern versions incorporate a pivoting head hoping to solve the problem, but the results are far from satisfying.
Cost
A single-blade razor tends to be more expensive upfront. This is because it lasts for a longer time. With proper maintenance, the initial investment will eventually balance itself out.
You should also take into account the fact that blades compatible with single-blade razors are dirt cheap. So whenever you need a replacement, you will only have to spend a few dollars maximum.
Multi-blade razors are way more economical if you have a tight budget. However, you will notice a reduction in the blade sharpness after a short time, resulting in poor shaving quality. Thus, using multi-blade razors means you have to change the blades frequently.
Unfortunately, the blades themselves are not as affordable as the tool, which means the expense might end up exorbitant in the long run.
Environmental friendliness
Most upscale single-blade razors use stainless steel as the main material. Therefore, the products are sustainable as steel is recyclable.
Moreover, single-blade razors are more durable than their multi-blade counterparts, which calls for fewer replacements. This way, you can minimize the purchases and keep the material consumption at the lowest amount.
But the same thing cannot be said for multi-blade razors. Since they are supposed to be disposable, manufacturers mostly use plastic to build up the handle and the head.
So once you get rid of a razor, you are directly adding more waste to an already polluted environment.
Target customers
These two types of razors have a distinctive set of customers
Single-blade razors are designed for a safe, effortless yet close pass like that of straight razors. Therefore, many barbershops take advantage of its performance to offer the smoothest shave for customers.
They can also come in handy at home for those interested in grooming and are willing to spend more time, money, and effort in the process.
Multi-blade razors are more or less targeted at shavers who would not take any special interest in grooming. Or those who don’t have much experience.
These items would suffice for people needing a quick, low-effort shave due to lack of time, or those who do not have to get rid of body hair regularly.
Furthermore, many lines of products in multi-blade razors are reasonably priced, making it an ideal choice for those hesitant to invest too much in a grooming toolkit.
Single-Blade Razors Vs. Multi-Blade Razors: Which Should You Go For?
Deciding which razor works better on the skin is no easy task, as it depends on users’ skills, budget, and skin type. Typically, if you have no previous experience in shaving, it is more advisable to pick up a multi-blade razor. But once you have familiarized yourself with more advanced techniques and start taking shaving seriously, go for a single blade razor.
Single-Blade Razors or Multi-Blade Razors are designed for a different group of users
As far as skin type is concerned, multi-blade razors are usually the culprit behind razor bumps and rash. For those having sensitive skin, struggling with multi-blade razors is probably the least recommended option.
Choose a high-quality single-blade razor that handles the shave with care, so you can significantly reduce the risk of irritations.
FAQs
Is a single-blade razor better?
When used correctly, a single-blade razor is indeed more effective. The razor applies just enough pressure to remove the stubble and does not create harsher, aggressive cuts that can nick the skin.
Do multiple blades make a difference?
Multiple blades are superior if you want to save time in the bathroom, as they can handle more hair in one pass than a single-blade. However, debates are still all over the place on whether more blades equals a closer shave.
Many men state that using a multi-blade razor gives them a flawless pass. Others shut down the idea by saying having more than two blades scratching the skin is the recipe for razor burns and ingrown hair.
How long does a single-blade razor last?
On average, it takes around 8 to 10 shaves for a blade to complete its working cycle. If the blade is mainly used for removing facial fuzz, it can last up to 20 shaves.
Conclusions
When it comes to single-blade razors vs multi-blade razors, the best choice can vary based on each user’s preferences. Thus, it is essential to know the ins and outs of each model. From there, you can evaluate the situation and select an item that fits your grooming toolkit.
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