Best Razor for Sensitive Skin (2021 Men’s Shaving Guide)

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I hope that this review and buying guide will help you. You deserve the best for your skin so I’ve made it my mission to find all of the products out there, testing them personally with sensitive skin like yours!

This is especially so if you observe a daily shaving routine. If this seems exaggerated, here are some numbers to back it up.

• Experts have it that an average male will shave about 16000 times in his lifetime (and this is excluding his boy years when he had no facial hair).
• More to this, 40% of these males suffer from shaving related issues. With these numbers alone, the potential to nick, cut or irritate the skin is high.

The word ‘sensitive’ is often used to refer to men that are hesitant to express their inner feelings. On the other hand, it also is used to refer to men who cry when watching emotional movies or who take in a lot of information and in the end are overwhelmed. However, regardless of what the term means to you, sensitive skin is an issue for many men.

Best Razor for Sensitive Skin at a Glance (Summary)

If you are a man and are reading this, you should not be afraid or be offended when you are labeled ‘sensitive’ as it turns out, ladies actually prefer sensitive men. Yes, apparently these kinds of men understand them better and they are easy to interact with. So it is more of a compliment than anything else.

But when it comes to shaving sensitive skin, the dynamics change completely. If your skin is naturally delicate, there are times, like shaving, when you feel like having a gorilla face would be much better.

But it’s not just males who benefit from razors designed for this kind of skin – a lot of women can too. Though they are without facial hair, they still need the rest of their bodies to be smooth and hairless. Usually, they struggle with some harsh hair removal processes.

It is important to note that shaving is a gentle hair reduction process in comparison to hair removal like waxing and using chemicals to get rid of hair with the roots. With such great and gentle alternatives, why would anyone subject themselves to the pain of waxing?

Using razors to trim the hair on tender skin is a great choice for individuals who are on a tight budget and cannot afford permanent hair removal solutions like electrolysis and laser hair removal.

But wait, with all the many razor options available, how do you know a razor is great for you? Well, in all honesty, selecting a good shaver for delicate skin can be rather tricky.

But before you feel like giving up, don’t worry, there is still hope for you. Here is the good news, there are razors and the likes of Merkur Futur that are great for sensitive skin when compared to other razors and shavers.

On this post, we shall focus our sights on a bunch of these razors. We believe that the selection will serve you well and will not irritate your skin.

Whether you have sensitive skin or not, you do appreciate a grooming kit full of best quality tools right?

Some Factors to Consider When Choosing Razors for Sensitive Skin

In theory, a razor should be great on all skins regardless of their sensitivity levels. However, practically, some prove to be better on sensitive skin than others. That said, it should be noted that some of the qualities that make a razor of high quality are the same qualities considered when picking the best shaving razor for a comfortable shaving experience.

Below are some factors that you should consider when you are shopping for a razor.

1. Do You Even Need a New Razor?

Skin irritation after a shave can be caused by several factors, including; poor wet shaving technique, poor preparation, applying a lot of pressure when shaving, using dull blades, and having sensitive skin. It could also be caused by an allergic reaction to specific shaving product ingredients or going against the grain especially around the neck.

So before you get a new razor, determine the actual cause of the irritation. Also, assess your shaving routine and ensure you follow the right shaving steps. Adhering to the correct steps to the ‘T’ and wielding the right shaving razor will drastically improve your shaving experience.

If you follow the shaving routine and have the right shaving products in hand but still get irritations after a close shave, getting a new razor with better design and technology might help your cause.

2. Safety, Disposable or Cartridge Razor?

The best part about good cartridge razors is the fact that they are readily available. You just might find them in every store you walk into. This is to mean that if you forget to pack it before you leave home, you should not stress out. You can rest easy knowing that you will find a disposable option in any store, pharmacy, mini-mart or local supermarket that you waltz into.

Best Shaving Kits for Men (Reviews & Buying Guide)

Guy’s struggling with skin issues love these razors. And here is why. With cartridge razors, there is a little, if any, learning to do during your first use. Additionally, they prove easy to use and handle. They will leave minimal cuts, and nicks. If your skin is sensitive, the last thing you will be looking to do is irritate it further.

That said classic double-edged razors are slightly more complex. They do require a bit of time to learn the correct handling and technique. But even then, compared to disposable and cartridge razors, blade razors provide clean and closer shaves. Theoretically, you will need to make fewer glides and passes over your skin while shaving. This reduces the number of times the blade can irritate the skin. And if you do proper maintenance of your safety razor, it will last you years – maybe even a life-time!

More to this, the best safety razor blades for sensitive skin tend to last longer compared to cartridge blades. And as you might be aware, while cartridge replacement with multiple blades is readily available, they can prove to be costly. Yes, these razors require a larger initial investment but in the long run, they prove cheaper to maintain.

3. The Shaving Head

In essence, you can alter the blade’s angle to match the contours of your face for a good shave. Making this adjustment makes the blade more aggressive or milder depending on what you are looking for. The mild setting is best if you have skin that is sensitive. The shaving is not only close but it is zero irritation.

Other razors, especially the disposable kind come with shaving heads predesigned at ‘optimal’ shaving angles.

Best Head Shaver for Men – (Reviews & Buying Guide)

4. Price

Truth be told, you will always get what you pay for. Whether the product is great or bad.

And while it is difficult to accept, most of the expensive razors available are usually worth the price they retail at. They are carved from high-end materials, feature unique designs targeted to make shaving a breeze and above all, cause fewer troubles. Additionally, most of these last a long time. So the initial large investment you make will be worth it when the unit serves you for many years.

On the other hand, low-priced, or cheap razors feature a cheaper quality. This is especially true for the disposable types. A genuine disposable razor, the kind that you will throw out in your trash can after use will turn dull after a single use. It will not have a huge impact on your wallet (finances), and it will provide you with a quality shave experience without causing your skin to flare up.

5. Moisturizing

There are very few razors that feature a moisturizer gel reservoir or a lubrastip (lubrication strips). These features are present in some razors and are designed to ensure your face remains well lubricated throughout your shaving process. A lubricated face, a well-lubricated face at that, results in far fewer skin issues. But this is not to refute the role the adjustable shaving head plays in making a razor good for sensitive skin.

6. The Handle

It is often easy to overlook the importance of the razor’s handle in the entire process. Don’t just pick any handle as not all handles feel great in your hand. Some have great ergonomic form and others, well, not quite. Some have a secure grip while others are quite slippery especially when handled with soapy hands.

Pay close attention to the handle you pick. It should make the shaving process easier without resulting in nicks and cuts.

7. Electric Razors

What about an electric shaver, are those ok? Sure – we have a separate review for electric razors.

8. Straight Razors

What about the ultimate men’s tool – a straight razor – is that ok with sensitive skin? Straight-cut razors involves a bit more – so I recommend you to check out our best straight-edge razor article if this is something you are considering.

Best Men’s Razor for Sensitive Skin Picks in 2021

1. Merkur Adjustable Double Edge Razor  – Best Safety Razor for Sensitive Skin

There is no doubt about it. Merkur double-edge safety razor is designed and created as a man’s tool. All its superb features are included to handle the very manly task of shaving. But be it as it may, it is still gentle enough to work its magic on troubled skin. This might come as a shock to many, but it is the truth. Most wet shaving experts and enthusiasts can attest to this.

This product is made in Germany. If you have been doing your research for a while now, you must have come across a phrase like ‘German craftsmanship.’ Its quality, features, and performance are rivaled by very few (if any) in the industry. The beauty of this razor is its versatility. It can handle shaving jobs ranging from mild to close smooth shaves.

While most razor types that can vary the setting have not been available that long, the Merkur is the exception. Its first debut was back in the early 1980s and they have been in the game for quite some time. The company has honed its skills and has a firm understanding of what sensitive skinned men are looking for.

As mentioned above, the Merkur razor is adjustable. It is designed with six impressive settings. For a not-so-aggressive shave, one that is best for sensitive skin, the #1 setting will work great. However, if you are looking for an aggressive shave, rather than for a close and smooth one, you should prefer the #6 setting. However, with the latter setting, be careful not to exert intense force. At this level of aggressiveness, any undue force could lead to a bit of blood sipping out of your skin following nick.

In case you are wondering why this feature is a big deal, consider this. To get your desired shave, you will not need to invest in multiple razors. Merkur is all you need for every shaving style you have in mind. This is why the Merkur razor is also a Top Pick.

So it is versatile. Is this all it has to offer? Of course not.

Below are some features and benefits you stand to gain from Merkur safety razor.

• Most safety razors on the market are unfortunately not kind to beginners. And for those that are, there is a learning curve that goes into getting the best outcome without experiencing nicks and cuts. Merkur Futur, however, is perfect for beginners and shaving experts alike. That said, it is advisable that you test it and are comfortable using it before switching it to the higher settings.
• It weighs 4.4 ounces. This is without a doubt heavier than most units. The beauty of this is that you get to exert very little power and still get a close shave. It is worth noting that it is balanced and as such, provides its user with great maneuverability and control.
• It is 4-inches long. At this length, the handle is best for guys with large hands as it provides additional control.
• The handle lacks knurling. Instead, it features an indentation close to the head. This gives you great control.
• Most razors make use of screws to hold the sharp razors on the head. Merkur, however, sports clips. These make it easy to replace and load fresh blades.

Read our Merkur Futur safety razor test

2. Merkur 34C   – Best Budget Safety Razor for Sensitive Skin

A safety razor is the perfect tool that comes in handy when you have sensitive skin. Though safety razors do have more of a learning curve than disposable and cartridge razors, the Merkur Classic 2-piece is a perfect choice for newbies to safety razors as well.

The Merkur Classic 2-piece razor comes in a thick and short handle (if you have big hands, you should go for Merkur 38c instead). Its head is heavier than that of other razors. But the beauty of the extra weight is that it allows you to apply minimal pressure when shaving. And if you think about it, this is a great feature to have, especially when you are still learning how to use safety razors.

It’s worth pointing out that this is a 2-piece safety razor. What this means is that it features the head and the handle as detachable pieces. The head has a closed comb design. These are features that are perfect in ensuring you get a close shave without irritating the skin.

In addition to the above, the razor has knurling on the handle. This ensures that you will have a good grip (again, this is perfect for men whose skin is sensitive and beginners to safety razors).

And the last thing about this safety razor is the fact that it’s durable. But this doesn’t come as a surprise since it is made from the Germany. Merkur has been around for more than a century. Over the years, they have mastered the art of producing quality items.

Full Merkur 34c Review

3. Merkur 37c  – Best Choice for Experienced Users

If you’ve wrapped your head around using safety razors and are looking forward to an elevated shaving experience, then the Merkur 37C is perfect for your needs. While many safety razors cut facial hair straight, the Merkur 37C adds a vital twist to it – cutting at an angle.

It might sound like a minor adjustment, but the changes it makes to your shaving experience are great. The unique cutting motion is similar to how a scythe works. The results are reduced pulling and tagging on hair roots. Moreover, the Merkur 37C has a blade gap that works wonders; compared to the 34C; it cuts facial hair more aggressively with minimal effort.

Given their efficient cutting angle and razor aggressiveness, we feel the Merkur 37C is perfect for men who are already comfortable with safety razors and have mastered the art of wet shaving.

Aside from an efficient cutting angle on the blades, the two-piece razor has the following features that contribute to a quality shaving experience:

• It has a knurled handle like the Merkur 34C, which assures you of a firm grip even in wet hands
• The two-piece design is simpler to assemble than a 3-piece design
• It has a short handle at 3.3 inches, making it ideal for men with short hands. If you have larger hands, then the bigger sibling Merkur 39C would be perfect.

Merkur 37c Review

4. Feather All Stainless Steel Safety Razor  – If You Want Nothing but the Best

This classic is presented to us by Seki, a company based in Japan. Coincidentally, Japan is the origin of the samurai sword. As such, you at the very least are assured that the razors are sharp and of top quality.

However, there is a lot more to this masterpiece than just the blade. The extra features are what make it best for men with skin problems. When compared to other razors, it is on the expensive side. But do not be duped, this product is worth every penny you will spend on it. Let’s get into the details of this unit.

First and foremost, this unit is constructed of stainless steel. This is evident from its name. It is worth pointing out that this safety razor was among the very first to be manufactured this way. But what is the big fuss about this? Well, for starters, it does not tarnish with time or even shows signs of losing its appearance. This makes it a good choice for its price point.

It is designed to last for a long time – if not forever. All you will need to do after a couple of shaves, or as often as you deem necessary is to replace the blades when they turn dull. For this reason, it is a long-term investment. And once again, its price point is justified.

Now, while its blades are comparable to samurai swords, the razor is generally reckoned to be less aggressive when compared to other units. Is this a good thing? Yes. Because it means that you get to apply slight pressure while you are shaving without having to worry about cuts, nicks and irritating the skin. If your skin is sensitive, you will absolutely give thanks for the creation of this product.

Below are additional aspects that need to be mentioned about this razor.

Design

We have spoken at length about its unique and high-end construction. So we shall not get into that again. But in addition to the solid steel manufacturing, the unit features a 3-piece design and has a closed comb. The balance of the razor is impressive. It weighs about 3.25 ounces.

Grip

Among its many likable features is the knurling on the handle. The knurling design features horizontal grooves which work to improve the grip. In total, there are 6 grooves intelligently spaced along the length of the handle.

Shaving Head

The shaving head has been designed to tilt to about 45 degrees. This is pretty impressive especially given the fact that many razors tilt only to 30 degrees. This makes it easier for its blade to be aligned with your needs. Also worth pointing out is the fact that it makes for a great beginner choice. The reduced blade exposure to the skin leaves a lot more room for small mistakes without serious consequences.

Packaging

The Feather comes in velvet or wooden box. The packaging you get is dependent on your location. Inside the packaging are 5 Feather blades. Again, these are among the sharpest blades you will come across.

 

Read our test of Seki Edge Feather AS-D2

5. Gillette SkinGuard Cartridge Razor  – Best Cartridge Razor for Sensitive Skin

The Gillette SkinGuard Cartridge Razor is made for men with sensitive skin and those prone to razor bumps. The ‘SkinGuard’ is a new and practical tech added to the razor to protect the skin and provide a decent shave with minimal pulls and tugs.

From a design perspective, the Gillette SkinGuard Cartridge Razor looks like the Gillette ProShield but with:

• A SkinGuard
• Lubrication strips sandwiching the blade sets
• Only two blades spaced far apart
• Five pre-tensioners
• A trimmer blade set on reverse
• Lather channels

The ‘SkinGuard’ design helps to reduce skin irritation and razor bumps by:

1. Absorbing pressure applied while shaving and minimizing exerted on each blade
2. Smoothens the skin to protect it from the sharp blades
3. Raises the blades from the skin to reduce contact with sensitive skin

The fact that the Gillette SkinGuard Cartridge razor only has two blades means you’ll work with a narrow cutting head that’s easier to work under the nose on the sideburns and chin without problems. The detail trimmer on the back proves useful when getting precise cuts on the sideburns and hard to shave spots.

Like most cartridge razors, this Gillette SkinGuard features a pivot head. And while this means you can use it to shave your underarms, chest, groin, and head, the movement is limited compared to the FlexBall technology.

6. Gillette Mach3 Men's Sensitive Disposable Razor  – All-Round Cartridge Razor (Not Only for Sensitive Skin)

Gillette is one of the very few companies that have been in existence for over 100 years. Over the century that the company has been operational, it has earned a famous name for itself. So much so that the name has become synonymous with razors and shaving.

Does Gillette’s history make the company error-free or all knowing? Of course not – it does, however, give them an edge and an advantage in being a well-established company. There is no company that could be in existence for as long as Gillette has been without doing things well.

Speaking of making the right choices, with the Mach3 Disposable Razor, this company has obviously done a couple of things right. Below is a short list of what the company has done very well with this safety razor.

First, this razor features three blades in total. They have been positioned to ensure that for every stroke taken the razor makes 3 slashes. Needless to say, it is super effective. The Mach 3 features a pivoting head designed to allow for smooth navigation over the contours of the skin while avoiding cuts, nicks, and irritation.

Working with the blade alignment, the unit features micro fins. These are added to smoothen and stretch out the skin prior to the blade gliding over it.

Now the Mach3 Gillette blades come with a Diamond-like coated sharpness. This is a new technology that you will not find other companies incorporating in their design and make. And in case you are wondering, yes, this technology is patented. Courtesy of this technology, the Mach3 blades are among the strongest available.

The razor also features a lubrastrip which adds additional skin protection to the unit. It helps in fighting against the dry and sensitive skin which is easily irritated. This lubrastrip is equipped with natural oils which will with time turn to a white color denoting it is time for a replacement.

The make of the blade makes it easy to rinse off the facial hair that may be stuck on it, shave gel, shave cream and any other dirt that might accumulate during the shaving process.

The Mach3 features a handle with a well thought out and user-friendly design providing great comfort and grip. As such, you need not worry about the razor slipping in your hands while you are busy shaving.

7. Schick Hydro 5 Razor with Flip Trimmer  – Lubricates & Moisturizes Your Skin

When fighting against the irritated and sensitive skin, moisture is key. Moisture is your friend when trying to prevent irritation. There is no other way to explain it.

Hydrated and lubricated skin lends itself out to a close shave but it also experiences reduced friction as the razor glides over it.

It goes without saying that this Schick razor is one of the best cartridges available for sensitive skin. This razor is all about lubrication and moisture. But then again, and in all honesty, any blade that features hydrating gel reservoirs as this Schick razor does, guarantees real lubrication during a shave.

The Hydrating Gel reservoir that this unit boasts of enables it to deliver a smooth 40% reduced friction in comparison to a standard lubrastrip. It increases the lubricating surface by a whopping 80%. It is also said that it keeps the skin lubricated, the Schick maintains its lubrication for at least one hour following the shave. It is designed with Vitamin E and aloe vera which help in replenishing and nourishing the skin.

This Hydro 5 is designed to be well above the competition with a further bunch of features.

First, it features skin guards. These control the flow of the skin and help in reducing friction while you shave. There is a unique protection bar that stretches out the skin and encourages a smooth shave.

On the current Hydro 5 razor, the guide bar has been redesigned. It is larger than it is on the models came before.

The number 5 included in the name of this razor represents the 5 razors that it features. Now it is true that the 5 blades do not necessarily mean that the unit will provide for a better shave. But all the same, the blades are one of the greatest features and strengths of this unit.

Another distinctive feature of this razor is the flip trimmer it features. This is usually designed to get to the hard to shave areas like under the nose and around the neck. As a matter of fact, this is the leading razor for shaving the sensitive skin of your neck. The trimmer is easy to use. It is activated by a simple flip using the thumb.

The handle of this unit also has great ergonomics. With this handle, you have great control and it fits perfectly in the hand.

The razor comes inclusive of 2 extra cartridges and they are easy to find when it is time to buy more.

8. Schick Hydro Silk Sensitive Skin for Women  – Best Razor for Women with Sensitive Skin

Most women are not exactly ecstatic about shaving their legs or armpits. They know it has to be done, but it just not one of those things they enjoy. Why is this? Well, probably because they have to deal with a lot of contours and curves plus there is more surface to cover than the cheeks. It is for this reason that finding the best razor is imperative for women that have sensitive skin.

Fortunately, the Schick’s Hydro Silk is here to the rescue. It makes the process easier.

Below are some factors that make this razor a great choice as women:

• The razor features hydra boost serum activated by water. This is infused with shea butter. This serum is hypoallergenic and moisturizes your skin.
• Also noteworthy is that this unit features a curve sensing blade which follows the natural contours of the body and provides a very tight shave. The cartridge has an oval and small shape which is great for shaving the otherwise hard to reach areas.
• The blade features a skin guard that smoothens the skin during the shave and provides extra protection.
• The handle is ergonomic and has a comfortable handle made of rubber. It is easy to control.

How to Get a Close Shave with No Problems – A Quick Guide with Recommended Accessories

Last update on 2021-10-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Now that you know of some of the best razor for men that are available that are great for sensitive skin, let us have a look at some techniques that will ensure you get a shave without annoyance.

Prepare the Skin with Some Hot Water

The best time to shave is after taking a hot shower. If you cannot take a shower wet a cloth with some hot water and wash your face with a good face wash or cleanser. This softens hair and makes it easy to shave off. In addition to this, it helps to exfoliate the skin. But I strongly recommend that you start the process with taking a warm shower.

Use a Shaving Brush with a Quality Soap or Cream

One of the most important parts of getting a good result is using a quality shaving brush and a good cream or quality shaving soaps – rather than a canister of gel full of chemicals. Put the brush in warm water before you jump into the shower and let the bristle in the brush soak up water and heat.

Shave Using a Sharp Blade

This is pretty obvious, right? You stand a better chance of delivering a close non-irritating shave with a sharp blade. If it is dull, be sure to replace it. Speaking of sharp blades, even though we haven’t touched upon it here – a good quality classic straight razor kit might be something to consider?

How to Find the Right Double-edge Razor Blade Combination for you?

Shave along the Grain

There are some instances where shaving against the grain will provide a super close shave. However, if you have sensitive skin, this could cause irritations, razor burns, and ingrown hair. As such, experts advise that you shave along the grain for the first pass and then if you wish, you could go against it.

Perfect the Shaving Technique

To improve your technique, there are several things you need to be aware of:

1. First, you should let the weight of the razor do all the work. This is especially important with DE razors. With cartridge razors, you might have to apply some small pressure.
2. Have the blade at the correct angle. For an irritation-free shave, this should be about 30 degrees. Move your arm instead of the wrist as this will help in maintaining a genuine and consistent angle.

Clean the Blade Often

For people with sensitive skin, cleaning the blade regularly is imperative. Actually, this should be done with every stroke. It might increase the shaving time but the buildup of hairs and your shaving cream could lead to skin irritation.

Use Moisturizing Cream

Don’t miss out on this step: When your skin dries out, bumps and pimples may develop. As such, it is imperative that you apply a moisturizer and a good aftershave for sensitive skin. This will help you feel comfortable.

Check out our article about the best skincare products for men for more information on how to take care of your skin.

What about Subscription Sites?

You can also sign up at Dollar Shave Club for a monthly subscription of blades for sensitive skin.

FAQ Razor for Sensitive Skin

Are Safety Razors Good For Sensitive Skin?

Some safety razors are better for sensitive skin than others. Several factors come into play when dealing with sensitive skin including; the shaving head, moisturizing features, handle design and price. Usually, expensive razors are often of high quality and worth the price.

How Do Men Shave With Sensitive Skin?

Men with sensitive skin use quality shaving cream and gels. They start with light strokes along the grain of the hair and then against the grain for a close and smooth shave. They shave the neck last allowing the shaving cream/gel more time to soften the hair.

Are Single Blade Razors Better For Sensitive Skin?

A single blade razor designed for sensitive skin is great but it comes with the risk of nicking the skin if you do not incline it properly when shaving. Single blade razors are better than multi-blade razors because they reduce razor bumps and ingrown hairs.

Does Shaving Make Skin Tougher?

Unfortunately, the skin doesn’t get tougher with every shave. Therefore, if you notice less redness after shaving, it’s because your technique is getting better. If your technique is off even if you have shaved a million times, the skin will get irritated.

Is Baby Lotion Good For Razor Burn?

Yes, it is. Baby lotion is free of toxic chemicals and hydrocarbons. Therefore, it softens, soothes, and moisturizes dry, cracked and irritated skin. With these qualities, it is perfect for razor burns.

How Did We Make Our List of the Best Men’s Razor for Sensitive Skin?

The industry is full of all kinds of razors. We obviously did not have the time to go through all of them. However, this article focus on the best razors for sensitive skin. We believe that the selection will serve you well. Our method allowed us to gain insight on most of the units available. We also ensure we chose reputable name-brands to increase our chances of picking the best and keep unwanted surprises to a minimum.

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And with that, our long review of the best men’s razor for sensitive skin comes to an end. Hopefully, you found some information helpful. Use this information to add value to your grooming process.

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Last update on 2021-10-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API