But regardless of what you choose, she says one of the most important ways to keep them from dulling too fast is to clean your razors between uses, and keep it somewhere where it can completely dry (so, you know, no laying on a damp sponge in the moldiest corner of your shower, k?). Patel says to go for a razor that has multiple blades, because they won’t dull as fast as a single- or double-blade razor.
But if you prefer safety razors that don’t have a pad, dermatologist Dendy Engelman, MD, says to make sure you’re skin is significantly wet beforehand (like, don't just sprinkle on a little water and go to town), and lather up with a shaving cream for an extra smooth surface that will help prevent razor bumps, razor burn, and cuts. Patel suggests looking for razors that have a moisturizing pad next to the blades to make sure your skin is super-lubricated as you shave. Having a flexible razor will help prevent any nicks and cuts in the ~dicier~ spots (IYKYK). “You need something that can move with the different angles.” Think: your ankles, knees, and anywhere else where your razor needs to bend over curves and angles. “You want a razor that can pivot, especially if you're shaving your body,” says dermatologist Purvisha Patel, MD.
How to choose the best razor Look for a flexible razor head Patel is also the founder of Visha Skincare, a skincare line that specializes in brightening and fading UV damage. Purvisha Patel, MD, is board-certified dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon, and the founder of Advanced Dermatology and Skin Cancer Associates in multiple locations across Tennessee and Mississippi.
Because for those of us who are into the hairless life (which is by no means the ~requirement~ you do you), finding the right razor actually makes a big difference in shave quality. Raise your hand if you’ve spent basically your whole shaving life searching for the best razor for smoother, softer skin.