In an age where there are countless ways to get rid of unwanted hair, we remain loyal to good, old-fashioned shaving. Can you blame us? Shaving is more comfortable than waxing and less costly than laser hair removal, not to mention it’s quick, easy, and beginner-friendly.
But, with all there is to know and love about this trusted maintenance practice, things can get a little hairy (no pun intended) if your skin leans sensitive. You’ll have to pay extra attention to avoid nicks, cuts, bumps, irritation, and ingrown hairs, which according to California-based board-certified dermatologist Azadeh Shirazi, MD, can all be caused by things like dry shaving (a.k.a. get your hands on a dependable shaving cream), shaving too fast, failure to moisturize, and shaving against the direction of your hair growth.
You’ll also want to be mindful of swapping out your razor often — old, dull razors are less likely to cause irritation than a new, sharp blade (since you won’t need to drag the razor over the skin with much force), says San Francisco-based board-certified dermatologist and Medical Director of Pacific Skin and Cosmetic Dermatology, Tracy Evans, MD.
Aside from following the basic rules of proper shaving, the type of razor you use matters. There are several key features to consider when it comes to finding a sensitive skin-friendly razor, including the number of blades, blade spacing, and special features like a skin guard, lubricating strips, and finger grooves to help minimize the risk of cuts, says Dr. Shirazi. Below, we’ve rounded up nine of the best razors for sensitive skin that’ll provide a smooth shave — minus the irritation.
What’s good about a weighted razor, you ask? Hanni’s The Weighted Razor, one of the best safety razors on the market and the winner of a 2022 Allure Best of Beauty Award, makes it all make sense. Made out of 100 percent metal, this single-blade razor doesn’t require harsh pressure or tugging, meaning you’ll get a close shave with every single use. The extra-long handle makes body shaving a breeze, plus, it features finger grooves, which “can make holding the razor more comfortable and allow for better control when maneuvering over the skin,” says Dr. Shirazi.
While single-blade Billie razors are ideal for those with sensitive skin, a multiple-blade razor — like the one in Billie’s The Razor Starter Kit — means you’ll get a clean shave with fewer passes needed. That, in turn, results in fewer chances of nicking yourself. Additionally, Dr. Evans says that a razor with multiple blades can help compensate for the fact that hairs grow in an irregular pattern. To keep razor burns at bay and cuts to a minimum, this razor features a soothing aloe moisturizer. This kit also comes with a nifty magnetic holder and two blade refills, so you’re basically set.
It’s impossible to choose just one thing to gush over when it comes to Flamingo’s 5-blade Razor, which happens to be an Allure 2022 Best of Beauty winner. The non-slip grip of the razor handle helps you maintain better control, which reduces the likelihood of accidentally nicking yourself, Dr. Shirazi attests. The five sharp blades offer a smooth, gentle shave as it lubricates with aloe and shea butter. And finally, the brand’s 360° Comfort System consists of a pivoting head that goes in whatever direction you want it to.