How to choose the best razor for teenage guys

As a teenage boy, the arrival of facial hair marks an exciting milestone in your journey towards adulthood. It’s a visible sign that you’re growing up and taking on new responsibilities, and with it comes the natural contemplation of your very first razor.

The thought of choosing that first razor may initially seem like a daunting task. The world of shaving is vast and diverse, offering an abundance of options ranging from the timeless elegance of old-school straight edge razors to the convenience of disposable razors and the high-tech innovation of electric shavers. 

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about finding the best razor for teenage guys. Before we dive into razor choices and shaving tips, let’s address a question that has likely been on your mind: when should you start shaving?

When is the Right Time to Start Shaving?

Indeed, the journey through puberty is a highly individual experience, and there’s no universal timeline for when to start shaving. It’s a decision that depends on a combination of physical changes, self-confidence, external influences, and personal comfort. Here, we delve deeper into the factors that can guide you in making the choice to pick up that razor:

Facial Hair Emergence

One of the most unmistakable signs that you’re ready to start shaving is the emergence of facial hair. As you navigate through puberty, you’ll notice subtle changes in your facial appearance. Those initially wispy and barely noticeable hairs will gradually become more prominent and coarser. This transformation signifies your entry into the world of shaving, as these new hairs become a regular part of your grooming routine.

Self-Confidence and Peer Influence

Adolescence can be a time of both self-discovery and self-consciousness. If you’re starting to feel self-conscious about the appearance of your facial hair or if comments from friends and peers are making you uncomfortable, it might be an appropriate time to consider shaving. Your self-confidence and sense of identity are vital, and shaving can be a tool to help you feel more at ease with these physical changes.

Parental or Trusted Adult Guidance

Often, our parents or trusted adults play a significant role in guiding us through these new experiences. If your dad or another trusted adult in your life has begun dropping subtle (or perhaps not-so-subtle) hints about shaving, take it as a positive indication that you’re ready to embark on this aspect of your grooming journey. Their experience and guidance can be invaluable as you learn the ropes.

Skin Sensitivity and Irritation

Sometimes, the emergence of facial hair can lead to skin irritation, including issues like ingrown hairs. If you’re experiencing skin sensitivity or noticing discomfort due to the growing hairs, it could be a signal that it’s time to start shaving. Shaving can help maintain skin health by ensuring that hair growth doesn’t lead to skin problems.

Personal Choice and Comfort

Ultimately, the decision to start shaving is yours and should be based on your personal comfort level. Some teenagers eagerly anticipate the opportunity to start shaving, while others may feel less rushed. It’s essential to remember that there’s no right or wrong time to begin this grooming routine. Your choice should be driven by what makes you feel most comfortable and confident in your own skin.

The path to shaving is a unique journey for each teenager, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. As you navigate the physical and emotional changes of puberty, pay attention to the signs, seek guidance from trusted individuals, and, most importantly, make the decision that feels right for you. Whether you choose to start shaving early or prefer to wait, remember that it’s a personal choice that should enhance your sense of self and well-being.

Understanding Different Types of Razors

Before you start shaving you will need to understand the different types of razors available to help you make an informed choice as to which is the best first razor for your teenage years.

There are basically 5 main types of razors:

1. Straight Edge Razors
2. Safety Razors
3. Disposable Razors
4. Manual Razors
5. Electric Razors

Straight Edge Razors

Straight edge razors, also known as cut-throat razors or open razors, are a classic and traditional tool for shaving. These razors consist of a sharp, straight-edged blade that folds into a handle. 

Pros:

• Provides closest shave possible
• Ideal for those who enjoy the old fashioned shaving experience.
•  Economical and environmentally friendly 

Cons:

• Steep learning curve to master the technique and avoid cuts and nicks
• Time consuming to use and maintain

While we’ve included the straight edge razor here in our discussion for the sake of completeness, it’s important to emphasize that it’s not the recommended choice for beginner shavers. Straight edge razors, also known as cut-throat razors, have a steep learning curve and demand a high level of skill and precision.

If you’re curious about experiencing a straight edge shave, it’s advisable to take a cautious approach. Rather than attempting it solo, consider two viable alternatives:

1. Visit a Barber

A trip to a professional barber who specializes in straight edge razor shaves can provide you with an authentic and pampering experience. Barbers are trained to handle these razors safely, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable shave.

2. Seek Guidance from an Experienced Adult

If you’re keen on exploring the art of straight edge shaving, it’s best to learn from someone experienced. Approach a trusted adult, such as your father, an older sibling, or a family friend who is skilled in using straight edge razors. They can teach you the techniques and safety measures required for a successful straight edge shave.

By opting for one of these alternative approaches, you’ll gain valuable insights into straight edge shaving without the risks and challenges associated with attempting it as a beginner on your own. Remember, safety should always be a top priority when it comes to grooming practices.

Safety Razors

Safety razors are classic, traditional razors that have been around for generations. These razors are characterized by their straightforward yet effective design, comprising two main components: a handle and a removable, double-edged razor blade.

Pros:

• Provides a close and clean shave.
• Ideal for those who enjoy the traditional shaving experience.
• Reduces the risk of irritation due to fewer blades.

Cons:

• Requires some skill and practice to use effectively.
• High potential for nicks and cuts, especially for beginners.
• In some countries, there are age restrictions on buying razor blades

Safety razors can be a rewarding experience for teenagers who are interested in a traditional shaving experience and are willing to invest time in mastering the technique. This is probably not the easiest choice for a beginner shaver as it takes patience and a commitment to learning the proper technique.

Disposable Razors

Disposable razors are simple, one-piece razors with a built-in blade. They are typically discarded after a few uses.

Pros:

• Convenient and portable.
• No need for blade replacement or maintenance.
• Affordable and widely available.

Cons:

• Generally not as well made and durable as other razor types.
• May be of poor quality and not provide a close and comfortable shave.
• Continuous cost over time as you need to replace them.
• Continuous disposal of razors made of non-biodegradable materials like plastics is bad for the environment 

Disposable razors are a great first razor for teenagers looking for a hassle-free and budget-friendly shaving option. However, it is important to note that their convenience comes at the expense of sustainability. Certain companies have started to address this. One such example is Bulldog. They have introduced a disposable razor featuring a bamboo handle.

Manual Razors

Manual razors are often referred to as cartridge razors are among the most popular and widely used shaving tools today. These razors are recognized for their user-friendly design, combining a handle with a replaceable cartridge that houses multiple blades.

Pros:

• Offers a balance between quality and convenience.
• Suitable for both beginners and experienced shavers.
• Cartridges are easy to replace.

Cons:

• Cartridges can be relatively expensive to replace compared to disposable razors.

Manual razors are an excellent option if you’re looking for a balance between the ease of use and convenience of disposable razors and the performance of safety razors. One of the drawbacks to consider with this choice is that frequently, replacement cartridges tend to come at a higher cost compared to purchasing disposable razors.

Electric Razors

Electric razors or electric shavers are powered devices that use rotating or oscillating blades to cut hair. Most electric shavers these days are battery-operated and rechargeable, offering the convenience of cordless use. Most are versatile, offering both wet and dry shaving, and some are even 100% waterproof. Electric shavers come in two main types: rotary and foil razors.

Rotary Electric Shavers

Rotary shavers have circular cutting heads that pivot and adapt to facial contours which is perfect for manoeuvring around the neck or chin. These shavers are often preferred by men with thicker or longer facial hair, for those with hair growing in different directions.  

Foil Electric Shavers

Foil shavers feature a thin, protective foil covering the blades. Foil shavers are better suited to thin hair, and typically offer a closer shave than rotary razors. Because of their straight heads, they are ideal for precision shaving and edging.

Pros (Electric Razors in General):

• Quick and efficient shaving process.
• Reduced risk of nicks and cuts.
• Can be used dry or with shaving cream/gel.
• Some models are suitable for wet shaving.

Cons (Electric Razors in General):

• May not provide as close a shave as manual or safety razors.
• Initial cost can be relatively high.

If you’re looking for a fast and convenient shaving solution with reduced risks of nicks and cuts, an electric razor would be the best first razor for teenage boys.

How to Choose the Best Razor for Teenage Guys

Choosing the ideal first razor for your grooming needs is a pivotal step in your journey to achieving a smooth and comfortable shave. To assist you in this endeavor, here’s an expanded guide that breaks down the process into manageable steps:

Step 1: Understand Your Skin Type

Understanding your skin type is crucial when selecting the right razor. Here’s how different skin types should influence your choice:

• Oily Skin: If you find that your skin tends to be on the oilier side, it’s important to choose razors that provide a close shave without causing additional irritation. Multi-blade razors, with their ability to cut hair very closely, can be a good choice to leave your skin feeling fresh and oil-free.
• Sensitive Skin: For those with sensitive skin, the goal is to minimize irritation. Consider razors with fewer blades, such as safety razors or electric razors with adjustable settings. These options are gentler on the skin, helping to prevent redness and discomfort.
• Normal Skin: If your skin falls into the category of normal, you have the flexibility to explore a wide range of razor choices. Multi-blade cartridge razors or electric razors can work well to provide you with a comfortable and effective shave.

Step 2: Assess Your Hair Type

Understanding your hair type is just as crucial as knowing your skin type. Here’s how to tailor your razor choice based on your hair type:

• Fine Hair: Initially, your facial hair might be fine and somewhat fuzzy. For fine hair, you’ll want a razor that provides a close shave without exerting excessive force. Safety razors or foil electric razors are excellent choices as they can effectively capture and remove fine hair.
• Coarse Hair: Coarse facial hair requires a razor that can cut through it effectively. Multi-blade razors or electric rotary razors with powerful motors are suitable options for tackling thicker, coarser hair with ease.

Step 3: Consider Razor Types

We’ve previously explored the various razor types available, but it’s worth emphasizing that your choice should align with your specific hair and skin type. Take into account your comfort level with each type, as well as your budget and the level of maintenance you’re willing to commit to.

Step 4: Consider Your Personal Preferences

Your shaving experience should cater to your individual preferences. Here are some factors to think about:

• Shaving Frequency: Think about how often you plan to shave. If it’s part of your daily routine, an efficient razor like an electric foil razor could be a smart choice. For occasional shavers, disposable razors or cartridge razors might suffice.
• Experience Level: Consider your level of experience with shaving. If you have a mentor or someone experienced to guide you, you might be inclined to try a traditional wet shave with a safety razor. Alternatively, if you prefer a straightforward shaving process, a cartridge razor might suit you better.
• Additional Features: Some razors come equipped with extra features such as pivoting heads, lubricating strips, or attachments for trimming and detailing. These features can enhance your overall shaving experience, so weigh their importance to you.

Step 5: Seek Recommendations and Reviews

Gathering insights from reviews and seeking recommendations from friends, family members, or trusted online sources can provide valuable guidance in making your razor selection. Real-world experiences can offer valuable insights into the performance and suitability of different razors.

Step 6: Trial and Error

Lastly, remember that finding the perfect razor can sometimes involve a bit of experimentation. Your skin’s response to a particular razor can be a personal matter, so don’t be discouraged if it takes a bit of trial and error to discover the razor that suits you best. Be patient, observe how your skin reacts, and adapt your choice accordingly. With time and experience, you’ll find the perfect razor that complements your unique grooming needs.

Our Picks of the Best Razors for Teenage Guys

Now that you are armed with the information needed to select your first razor, here are our three top picks for you to consider.

Best Disposable Razor – Gillette Mach3 Sensitive

The Gillette Mach3 Sensitive stands out as the best disposable razor for achieving a clean and razor burn-free shave. What makes it particularly suitable for first-time shavers is its thoughtful design aimed at minimizing skin irritation.

The enhanced lubrastrip on the Mach3 Sensitive releases more lubricants compared to the standard Mach3, ensuring a smoother and more comfortable shaving experience. This feature is especially beneficial for beginners who may not have perfected their shaving technique yet.

With the Gillette Mach3 Sensitive, you can confidently embark on your shaving journey knowing that you have a reliable companion by your side. A packet of 3 Gillette Mach3 Sensitive disposable razors retails for around $8.99 USD. 

Best Cartridge Razor – Dollar Shave Club

If you are looking for a cartridge razor, we would recommend trying the Dollar Shave Club Men’s Razor Mixed Starter Shaving Kit. What we like about this kit is it comes with both a 4-Blade Cartridge, and 6-Blade Cartridge so you can test out each and see what suits you best.

The argument for having more blades is that more hair is cut with one pass. However, this also means more sharp blades scraping across your skin, which is not a great idea for sensitive skins.

If it’s your first shave and you only have fine hair, the four blade razor could be a better option for you as it is gentler on the skin, while still providing a close efficient shave.

A pack of 4 cartridges start from $8.50 USD, making it very cost efficient compared to other cartridge razor brands, and even price competitive compared with quality disposable razors. 

Best Electric Razor – Philips Norelco OneBlade First Shave

Philips Norelco understands the unique needs of teenage shavers, and they’ve crafted the Philips Norelco OneBlade First Shave with your comfort and ease in mind. We consider this the best electric shaver for first time shavers.

It’s a foil shaver that offers a gentle and comfortable shaving experience, helping you navigate your first shaves with confidence. One notable advantage is its simplicity and efficiency, making it an excellent choice for beginners.

Additionally, the compact shaving head, especially compared to other foil shavers, makes it remarkably convenient for tackling areas like the upper lip, ensuring you can groom with precision.

However, it’s worth noting that the battery life could be better; it takes approximately 8 hours to charge fully and provides around 30 minutes of shaving time on a full charge. While this may require a bit of patience, the performance it offers is well worth it, particularly when you’re just starting your shaving journey.

The Gillette Mach3 Sensitive disposable razor,  the Dollar Shave Club Men’s Razor Mixed Starter Shaving Kit (cartridge razor), and the Philips Norelco OneBlade First Shave electric shaver have been carefully selected to cater to your specific needs as a new shaver. Whichever one you choose, rest assured that you’re equipped with the best option to help you achieve an irritation-free, smooth shave.

How to Shave Safely and Effectively

Once you’ve made the decision on your very first razor, it’s essential to follow a step-by-step shaving routine for a safe and effective shave that leaves your skin feeling smooth and irritation-free. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the shaving process:

Step 1: Cleanse Your Skin

Before you even think about shaving, start by cleansing your face with warm water and a mild, soap-free cleanser. This initial step helps remove dirt, excess oils, and any impurities from your skin. Additionally, it helps soften the hairs on your face, making them easier to cut during shaving.

Step 2: Prepare Your Skin

Apply a generous amount of shaving cream or gel to your face, making sure to cover all the areas that will be shaved. Shaving cream or gel serves multiple purposes: it creates a protective barrier between the razor and your skin, reduces friction, and provides lubrication for a smoother shaving experience. If you’re a first-time shaver, consider using shaving gel as it’s translucent, making it easier to see what you’re doing, especially when you’re starting out.

Step 3: Shave With the Grain

To minimize the risk of irritation, razor bumps, and rashes, always shave in the direction of hair growth, commonly referred to as “with the grain.” This approach ensures that the razor glides smoothly along your skin, without tugging or pulling the hairs.

Step 4: Shave Gently

For your first shave, employ a delicate touch. Start with very light pressure to get a feel for how the razor moves across your skin. Avoid applying excessive pressure, as it can lead to cuts and discomfort. Remember, it’s all about finesse, not force.

Step 5: Utilize Multiple Strokes

During your first few shaves, take your time and use slow, gentle strokes. It’s perfectly normal to go over the same area more than once to achieve a smooth, even shave. Don’t rush; patience is key.

Step 6: Rinse the Razor

After each stroke, make it a habit to rinse the razor thoroughly under running water. This helps prevent hair and shaving gel from clogging the blades, ensuring a more effective and comfortable shave. As you gain more experience, you’ll develop a sense of how often your razor needs rinsing between strokes.

Step 7: Rinse Your Face

Once you’ve completed your shaving session, rinse your face with cool water. This serves two purposes: it helps tighten your pores, reducing the risk of infection, and it removes any residual shaving cream or gel from your skin.

Step 8: Apply Moisturizer

Shaving can be somewhat abrasive to the skin, especially for beginners. To soothe and hydrate your skin, apply a moisturizing aftershave lotion or balm. Opt for a product specifically designed for sensitive skin, especially during your initial shaving experiences. These products help alleviate any potential irritation and leave your skin feeling refreshed and comfortable.

The Wrap

With so many options available from safety razors to electric shavers, finding the best first razor can be an overwhelming decision. 

Your entry into the world of shaving requires careful consideration of various factors, from your skin type, hair type, razor type and personal preferences. The goal is to achieve a comfortable and effective shave tailored for you.

For the beginner who just wants to give shaving a try, we would recommend just buying a good quality disposable razor to start with. If you’re comfortable with the idea of shaving, and plan to shave regularly, it would be worth investing in an electric shaver. 

However, if you prefer a very close shave, then a manual or cartridge razor is a better option. Unless of course the nostalgia of an old school shave appeals to you, then give the safety razor a go.

Hopefully you are now well equipped with all the information you need to select your first razor.. So, here’s to your grooming success, and may your shaving journey be a good one!

Last update on 2023-12-28 at 05:00 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API