Many of us have been there: standing in the razor aisle overwhelmed by all the options, wondering why there are so many when, really, they all seem to serve the same purpose. We panic, choose one in our favorite color, and throw it in our cart. Sound familiar?
Although any razor you buy will do its job of removing hair, each one is, in fact, slightly different. Though they all claim to be the best razors on the market, between functionality, design, and scope of use - from shaving your legs to maneuvering along your bikini line - certain razors may be more effective than others.
For one thing, you'll want to consider the number of blades, because higher is only better for certain areas of the body. (A 12-blade razor, for example, might fare better on larger surfaces like your legs, but may be unnecessary for your pubic area, which can be more sensitive to irritation.) Another consideration is the design itself; perhaps you want an ergonomic tool that makes it easier to either grip in the shower or move along certain spots.
If you're looking for a facial razor, there also might be additional factors to consider like the increase in sebum some transgender people may face when starting hormone therapy. According to a study by the National Library of Medicine, starting hormone therapy can cause skin reactions that may complicate shaving, particularly for transmasculine people. While the effects may not be immediate, over time, transmaculine people may start to experience an increase in acne, due to the rise in sebum production from hormone therapy, making things like in-grown hairs and red bumps more probable when shaving. Though it is possible to mitigate these effects by using lukewarm water and shaving in the direction of hair growth, having the right razor is the first step to feeling confident when shaving.
Now, helping you determine which one is best for you is where we come in. From the best razors for sensitive skin to the crème de la crème for shaving the bikini area and everything in between, we've rounded up the editor-approved options on the market to help you find the best razor for your needs and budget. Keep reading to see and shop them all, including top-reviewed favorites, eco-friendly designs, and buzzworthy brands you've probably seen on Instagram.