This is a very common question when it comes to shaving and it’s such an important question too! This is because the condition of your razor blade makes all the difference to your shaving experience and the smoothness of your skin. Lots of women are probably leaving it too long between blade changes but other women may be changing them more often than is necessary.
Millions of bacteria can form on razor blades, especially when left damp in the bathroom. So, when coming to shave with the same blade, this bacteria gets transferred straight onto the skin, sometimes onto sensitive areas like the bikini line. The result can often mean razor rash and ingrown hairs and even the risk of infection if nicking the skin while shaving.
So even if you’ve only used a blade a couple of times, if it’s been left damp for weeks on end, it's best to change it out for a new one to avoid irritation or risk infection.
Dull blades are a huge no no. Not only can they snag and pull at hairs (causing irritation), they can also cause us to apply more pressure to the skin, leading to nicks and cuts more often. Always remember that you shouldn’t need to apply much pressure to the blade at all when shaving – the blade should do the work for you.
If you’re not sure how often you should be changing your razor blades, fear not because we are going to provide you with all the information you need when it comes to getting the perfect shave!
How long do razor blades last and how often should I change them?
The length of time one razor blade will last usually depends on the number of shaves rather than the number of weeks. In most cases, you probably want to change your razor blade after 5 to 10 shaves. There is lots of variation to this number depending on where you look with some brands recommending a razor blade change after 5 to 7 shaves.
These numbers are just a general rule of thumb but can vary from person to person due to differing thickness and density of hair. If your hair is thick and dense, then you may need to change your razor blade more often.
The main thing to take into consideration here is whether you're having to tug the razor across your skin, as this is a sure sign that you need to replace your razor blade. Your razor should glide across your skin with ease to provide you with a smooth shave!
Here is a rough guide on how often you should change your razor blade depending on how often you shave:
Shaving Daily - Replace every 1 to 2 weeks
Shaving Every Other Day - Replace every 2 to 3 weeks
Shaving Twice a Week - Replace every 4-5 weeks
Of course, this is just a guide and it may vary depending on the thickness of your hair as explained above.
How can I make my razor blades last longer?
There are a range of factors that impact how long your razor blades will last. The good news is that there are a number of ways you can extend the longevity of your razor blades.
Always ensure your skin is well hydrated during your shave. It’s much easier for your razor blade to cut through wet hair due to there being less friction and as a result, less strain is placed on the blade. If you are dry shaving, there will be more friction and this is what dulls the blade a lot quicker.
During your shave and after you’ve finished shaving, always rinse your razor blade with hot water. This will reduce the amount of hair, dead skin or shaving cream left on the blade or in between multiple blades. Any build up of debris on the razor blade can speed up the time it takes for bluntness to kick in. It’s also important to ensure your razor has dried off fully before placing it back into your bathroom cabinet.
Another element that’s well within your control is the quality of the razor blade you are using. Always avoid buying cheap razors! It may seem like a good money saving option in the short term but more often than not, cheaper blades won’t last very long and you end up having to replace them more frequently. Cheap blades don’t even compare to our Premium SmoothGlide Razor Blades which use diamond-coated titanium to enable an extra close shave and lasting sharpness.
