HOW OFTEN DO I CHANGE RAZOR BLADES?
Gents focuses
Yes, it is a question we often get and it is of course both relevant and important. The problem with giving a correct answer is that like so much else it is individual but there are some basic rules to stick to.
With multi-blade systems like Gillette, there is unfortunately a tendency to change blades too rarely due to the high cost: you simply withdraw to buy new ones and the risk then becomes that you use a blade that already after a few times is not usable anymore. The result often shows irritation and poor shave quality.
With the safety razor, there is no need to destroy the skin by waiting until a blade is broken, as the so-called double blades are so extremely cheap. However, this does not mean that you have to go overboard and change every time. In fact, the general perception is that you can easily use the same blade 5-8 times depending on how thick your beard is and how often you shave. Some blades are also considered better the second or third time as blades such as Feather can easily create cuts on first use, as if they first need to be "ground down" a bit before their effect is optimal.
However, since the need for razor blade replacement depends on individual factors, the most important rule is to go by feeling. The whole point of the safety razor and its close-fitting shave is that you should avoid pressing and creating friction at all costs.
When you feel that the blade is starting to pull at the straws and that you have to start "working" - in the worst case, start pressing - to get that perfect result, then it is definitely time: CHANGE the blade!
You know that a good way to extend the life of the blade is to work on a warm, moist surface with a good lather type shaving cream or shaving soap, possibly also pre-shave, so that the friction is reduced and thus also the wear - not just on your skin but also the blade!
