Safety Razor Vs. Cartridge: Which is Better?

When weighing out the benefits of safety razor vs. cartridge razor shaving, the differences may initially seem futile. However, beyond aesthetics, each razor is unique, especially in blade count, moving parts, and shaving technique.

It can be hard to give up familiar disposable cartridge razors, but you will eventually want to upgrade to a better shaving experience. Before diving straight into an expert-level straight razor, which can be difficult to maintain, buying your first safety razor is an easier way to transition.

But are safety razors better than cartridge razors? If yes, why? And if not, what makes a cartridge better than a safety razor?

• Safety Razors and Cartridge Razors: A Shared History
• The Differences Between Safety and Cartridge Razors
  • What is a Safety Razor?
  • What is a Cartridge Razor?
• Safety Razor Vs Cartridge: Which is the Best Razor?
• Shaving with Safety Razors: The Basics
• What Makes the Best Safety Razor?

Safety Razors and Cartridge Razors: A Shared History

Gillette Razor Patent by K. C. Gillette, Public domain
Source: Wikimedia Commons

The first kind of safety razor was a blade guard that Jean-Jacques Perret made in 1762¹. It is a simple wooden sleeve you slide over the blade, protecting the skin and reducing shaving injuries.

After Perret's safety razor, many people quickly developed new, safer alternatives to the cutthroat shaving tool. There was William Samuel Henson's hoe-shaped design with a detachable comb tooth guard and the Kampfe brothers’ infamous 1880 Star blade, the first safety razors manufactured in the United States.

The Star's success propelled the search for the perfect modern safety razor design. However, it has one quirk: its razor blades require regular stropping and occasional honing.

King Camp Gillette finally diminished the need for blade maintenance. Gillette introduced the world to the first system safety razor in 1903². This two-piece double-edged safety razor had a thin, strong, reusable handle and a breakthrough disposable double-edged blade.

Meanwhile, disposable cartridge razors did not enter the market in the 1970s. The French company Bic introduced a one-piece shaving system with cheap disposable razors with a single blade and plastic grip³. It proved popular with men who wanted a quick shave without risking their skin with a traditional double-edge safety razor.

Despite the ongoing debate between safety razors and cartridge razors, safety razors helped lead to the creation of cartridge razors. This generation is lucky because we enjoy the best of both worlds.

The Differences Between Safety and Cartridge Razors

As an adult, you must choose between safety and cartridge razors. Like when Morpheus offers Neo the blue or red pill in The Matrix. If you take the blue pill, you will only know what a cartridge razor is. If you take the red pill, you will find out how far shaving goes down the rabbit hole. Pop movie references aside, many people often need help choosing between a safety razor and a cartridge razor.

Ultimately, only you can decide which is better: a safety razor or a cartridge razor. But first, let's cover the basics and what you need to consider when choosing between disposable cartridge razors and safety razors.

What is a Safety Razor?

A safety razor is a shaving tool with a protective element, called a safety bar, positioned between the blade's edge and the skin to reduce the expertise needed for injury-free shaving.

Safety razors come in single-blade, double-edged, two-piece, and three-piece designs. Aggressiveness varies by comb type, which determines how much of the blade's edge is exposed.

What is a Cartridge Razor?

A cartridge razor is a disposable razor whose head, or cartridge, can be removed from the handle. The cartridge design keeps the razor blades at a set angle, making shaving easy and convenient. When the blades get dull, you can remove the cartridge head and replace it.

Now, let us take a deep dive into their differences:

• Shave Quality
  Keep in mind that just because it is quick and safe does not mean it will give you the soft, baby-bottom smoothness you are looking for.
  
  The number of blades in disposable cartridge razors can cause skin irritation. Using a five-blade razor is like using a single-blade razor five times, which can cause five times the skin irritation of a single pass. Dermatologist Dr. Terrence Keanney agrees that multiple razor blades increase the likelihood of nicks: "with multiple blades so close to the skin, there are more tiny nicks thus more prone to being cut or injured."⁴
  
  Shaving with a safety razor vs. a cartridge razor is better for your skin because it only has one blade and is less likely to cut you. Safety razors provide a superior shave and more control than cartridge razors, with options for going up, down, beveled, or aggressive.
  
  Safety razors also work best for wet shaving. Unlike a cartridge, shaving with a safety razor involves a barber-like lather from shaving soap or shaving cream. Wet shaving with safety razors is a shaving routine that provides a better shave with moisturized skin instead of relying on lubricating strips.
  
  
• Razor Quality
  There is also something to be said about differences in the quality of the material used for safety razors and cartridge razors.
  
  Because they are single-use, disposable razor blades are cheap and dull quickly. Because cheap steel blades don't stay sharp for long, their edges are more likely to chip than safety razor blades.
  
  Cartridge razors are also notable for being primarily composed of plastic. I hate to be a snob, but it is plastic, man. This behavior betrays a lack of appreciation for the sartorial craft of shaving.
  
  Safety razors have medical-grade stainless steel razor blades⁵. The edges of its sharp double-edge blade are extremely fine and do not wear quickly. Meanwhile, the wooden or heavy-duty steel razor handle helps balance the blade's weight for a closer shave.
  
  The metal construction of a safety razor lends an air of masculine strength and durability. Its durable build and quality steel mean it will serve you well for years, unlike cartridges. It is no surprise that there is a thriving subculture of men who collect vintage safety razors among those who worship shaving, and that is the definition of respect right there.
  
  
• Number of Shaves
  As you shave, the pressure on the steel will quickly damage the small, soft spots on the cartridge razor blades, which are their weak spots. Multiple blades limit your shaving angle, and recent research found that gliding the razor perpendicular to the hair reduces steel damage⁶. Manufacturers recommend throwing away cartridge razor blades after three weeks, or after only five uses.
  
  On average, double-edge razor users report their blades dull after three to four uses⁷. If you use a high-quality DE razor blade and do not shave daily, you can get up to 50 shaves from one blade⁸. Stropping and sharpening safety razor blades may help prolong their lifespan, but it is optional for beginners.
  
  
• Price
  To save money, you should opt for a disposable option or cartridge razors. But if you want a razor that lasts a long time with minimal maintenance, shell out the cash for a safety razor. A cartridge razor will always be cheaper, but investing in your safety matters.
  
  Let us do a simple calculation to compare the cost of buying safety razors vs. cartridge razors.
  
  Replacing blade cartridges is more costly than throwing the whole razor away. Shaving with a cartridge razor costs $12 for three blades, or $4 per blade. If you use a safety razor instead of a cartridge razor, replacement blades cost only $0.80 each.
  
  Buying disposables, like a cartridge razor, is more expensive in the long run than investing in a quality safety razor once. But that is only if you do not become a fanatic. Collecting safety razors and double-edged razors is a worthwhile hobby. You can even sell your safety razor later.
  
  
• Recyclability
  When it comes to recycling and environmental friendliness, disposable and cartridge razors rank near the bottom⁹. Because of their composite construction—plastic frames, rubber grips, and metal blades—most of these tools end up in landfills or pollute our water supplies. The hybrid setup of a disposable razor makes it very hard to separate different materials for recycling.
  
  Compared with disposable cartridge razors, safety razors use thin stainless steel blades that are easy to recycle. Store dull safety razor blades in a tin or metal container for safety, seal them, and contact your local council about a recycling facility. You can reuse dull safety razor blades to scrape food off dishes or open mail. That's why using a safety razor is one of the better options for the environment.

Safety Razor Vs. Cartridge: Which is the Best Razor?

A single high-quality safety razor, like the Henson AL13, cuts hair directly at skin level, delivering a smoother, irritation-free shave compared to multi-blade cartridges.
Photo courtesy of Henson

Now that we have gone over what you need to think about when choosing between a safety razor and a disposable razor, let us get back to the original question: safety razor vs. cartridge razor, which offers a better shave?

Although a cartridge razor has an easier learning curve, a double-edge safety razor is better because it uses better materials, delivers a closer shave, costs less, and is better for the environment. Remember, one high-quality safety razor blade is much better than a bunch of low-quality disposable blades.

Not to mention, the long-term benefits of safety razors surpass the initial cost. Safety razors may seem like a splurge at first compared to cartridge razors, but with good care, a safety razor can become a priceless heirloom.

You can get a close shave with hardly a nick or cut, and no razor burn, by shaving with a safety razor. Now, is a clean shave not an achievement you can be proud of?

Shaving with a safety razor vs a cartridge razor can give you a close shave, like at the barbers, where your facial hairs are cut at skin level. Meanwhile, cartridge razors don't always deliver a smooth shave and can make ingrown hairs more likely. The more you use disposable razors, the more lousy your shave will be.

And what comes after a lousy shave? Nicks, cuts, razor bumps, and razor burn! All of which you want to avoid. Not to mention, if you already have sensitive skin, using a cartridge razor vs. a safety razor can cause more irritation and lead to higher costs. You'll also have to buy ointments and other products to treat the cuts.

You may even need to visit your dermatologist if you can no longer treat the irritation at home. So, save yourself the trouble and invest in a quality safety razor instead of settling for something cheap like a cartridge razor.

Shaving with Safety Razors: The Basics

Shaving with a safety razor vs. a cartridge razor requires a step-by-step wet shaving routine, unlike the cartridge shave-and-go alternative. To use a safety razor for shaving, you should follow a wet shaving routine:

• Use a fresh blade
  Because replacement blades are inexpensive, there is no reason to reuse them. When finished, wrap the head in paper to safely remove the blade by unscrewing the head.
  
  
• Pre-shave skin prep
  The pre-shave routine for a safety razor shave is the same as for a cartridge razor shave. Use warm water to soften the skin and facial hair, and then apply pre-shave oil to nourish and condition both before the shave.
  
  
• Pull the skin tightly
  While shaving, keep your skin taut. Don't drag, let go, or accidentally press too hard. Maintain a smooth, sturdy surface. Tilt your neck, turn your face, and draw your skin taut.
  
  
• Follow the proper shaving angle
  Keep the angle between 30 and 45 degrees, and don't apply any pressure. The weighted handle should give you the force you need for a steady, clean shave, and you should keep it at a 30° to 45° angle away from your skin.
  
  
• Shave with the grain, not against
  When shaving with a safety razor, follow the way your hair grows. Shave with the grain instead of against it. Examine your growth patterns before you shave and learn how to do face mapping. Pay close attention because your hair grows in different directions.
  
  
• Use short, straight strokes
  Shave in small, consistent strokes, rinsing in between, and with minimal dragging. Do one pass over a small area, lift your safety razor, then move to the next section. Clean the blade, switch sides, and shave each spot only once to avoid irritation.
  
  
• Rinse face and apply aftershave
  After shaving, rinse with cold water to close your pores, then apply aftershave. It cools and soothes the skin and helps prevent irritation or infection, like razor burns and bumps.
  
  
• Dry and store your razor properly
  Make sure the entire razor is completely dry; use a towel to remove excess moisture. This prevents rust, wear, and other deterioration that can compromise your safety razor's quality, even if it's stainless steel or carbon steel.

What Makes the Best Safety Razor?

The Naked Armor Gawain Safety Razor Kit includes everything you need for a premium, close wet shave at home.

When looking for the best double-edge razor or safety razor for beginners, consider the head, the handle, and the blade type. Understanding shaving techniques with double-edge safety razors can greatly enhance your shaving experience. Different techniques can help you achieve a smoother finish and minimize irritation, making it essential to practice proper angles and pressure. As you get more comfortable, experimenting with various blades can further improve your results and personal comfort.

For the safety razor head, remember that, unlike a cartridge razor, the blade inside a safety razor is not fixed at a certain angle; hence, the more ‘open’ your double-edge safety razor is, the more chances of nicking yourself.

Open-comb safety razors are best for coarse and thick beards, while beginners should start with a closed-comb safety razor for a less aggressive shave. According to expert barbers¹⁰, closed-comb safety razors provide a more protected shave because the blade is more exposed than in open-comb safety razors.

If you are ready to explore the wonderful world of safety razors, we make a beautiful wet shave kit featuring our Gaswain Safety Razor with a natural olive wood handle known for its excellent corrosion resistance. The Gaswain Safety Razor and Stand Kit includes an olive wood synthetic shaving brush, organic shave soap, a stainless steel bowl, and a zinc-alloy razor stand. You won’t need anything else to achieve a close shave at home.

We guarantee that once you experience the luxurious shave of a double-edged safety razor, you will stop wondering which is better: safety razors or cartridge razors. There is no doubt that you will ditch your cartridge razor for good! After all, there is nothing better than trying to know.

Also invest in shaving mugs and scuttles, plus aftershave products, to complete your deluxe shaving routine with less risk of skin irritation.

More Naked Armor Reads

Safety Razor Vs. Straight Razor
How Often Should You Change Razor Blades
How to Clean Your Safety Razor

References:

1. Waite, me-g. (n.d.). From Perret to Kampfe: Origins of the safety razor. Shave World. http://www.shaveworld.org/images/PerrettKampfe-rev2.html
2. Gillette. (n.d.). Our story. https://gillette.com/en-us/about/our-story
3. BIC. (1975). 1975: Launch of the first one-piece razor. https://www.bicworld.com/en/1975-launch-first-one-piece-razor
4. Next Steps in Derm. (n.d.). Ask a mentor Q&A recap with Dr. Terrence Keaney. https://nextstepsinderm.com/resident-corner/ask-a-mentor-qa-recap-with-dr-terrence-keaney/
5. Essentra Components. (2022, November 9). What is surgical steel? The role of stainless in healthcare. https://www.essentracomponents.com/en-gb/news/industries/medical-equipment/what-is-surgical-steel-the-role-of-stainless-in-healthcare
6. Chu, J. (2020, August 6). Why shaving dulls even the sharpest of razors. MIT News. https://news.mit.edu/2020/why-shaving-dulls-razors-0806
7. A Superior Shave. (n.d.). How long should your double-edge razor blades last?. https://www.asuperiorshave.com/safety-razors/double-edge-razor-blades/how-long-should-your-double-edge-razor-blades-last
8. Quora. (n.d.). How long is the life of a double edged razor blade?. https://www.quora.com/How-long-is-the-life-of-a-double-edged-razor-blade
9. Biome. (n.d.). How to reduce waste using a safety razor (and avoid nicks!). https://www.biome.com.au/blogs/beauty/safety-razor-how-to-care-zero-waste
10. Corsillo, L. (2022, May 6). The 10 very best safety razors (and blades). The Strategist. https://nymag.com/strategist/article/best-safety-razors.html