Gillette Shaving ReviewGillette Shaving Review

Since its founding in 1901, Gillette Shaving has shook up the grooming industry with innovation that has made shaving at home as comfortable as going to the barber. The company patented the first safety razor, which eliminated the need for sharpening blades and made it possible to shave with a straight razor without the risk of cutting or nicking your face.

In the years that followed, the company continued to improve its products. In our latest tests, we found the Gillette Mach3 to be one of the best choices for a smooth, close shave with minimal irritation. The handle is simple to grip and maneuver, and the blades stayed sharp for up to two months—as long as you change them regularly. The blades also cost less than those of competitors like Dollar Shave Club, so you can save money over the long run.

We also tested a few new models of Gillette’s razors, including the Gillette Series and the Heated Razor. The Gillette Series with Exfoliating Bar helps reduce cuts, nicks and tugs by exfoliating your skin before you shave. The Heated Razor heats up to warm the blades for a more comfortable and efficient shave.

The most important factor in our test is whether a razor feels comfortable during and after use. Our testers wanted a razor that glided easily over the face, cut with few tugs or pulls and produced very few ingrown hairs or red spots. Modern multi-blade razors rarely nick or cut, and any that consistently did were removed from the test. Our testers also liked a razor that did not produce a lot of moisture, so it didn’t leave their faces feeling oily or sticky.

We were pleased to find that both the Series with Exfoliating Bar and the Heated Razor had good comfort and did not irritate the skin. We also loved that the Heated Razor heated the blades, making them feel hot and lubricating during the shave. We’re looking forward to testing more products from Gillette Labs, a line that includes Quick Rinse Shave Foam and Rapid Foaming Shave Gel. These skincare products help prepare the skin for a premium shave and are used alongside Gillette’s shaving technology to deliver a smooth, comfortable shave.

How to Find the Best RazorsHow to Find the Best Razors

Whether you’re looking for a razor that gives you a close, smooth shave or one that helps prevent shaving bumps, ingrown hairs and other skin irritations, it’s important to find the best blade for your specific needs. Fortunately, there are plenty of options on the market. From affordable drugstore cartridge razors to pricey subscription services, there’s something for every budget and lifestyle. But with so many options available, finding the right razor for your face can be a daunting task.

To make the task easier, we’ve reviewed dozens of the most popular razors and hand-picked our top choices for each type of blade. We evaluated each razor on its ability to cut well without irritating your skin, as well as how comfortable it feels to use during and after a shave. We also considered the blades’ durability, rust resistance and how easily they can be replaced. Finally, we looked at the ergonomics of each handle, as a razor’s comfort and confidence-inspiring grip can make or break your shave.

Our top pick for a cartridge razor is the Gillette Fusion 5, which features five durable, stainless steel blades that help reduce irritation and provide a close shave. The blades are also easy to replace, so you can continue getting a great shave for as long as you need. The Gillette Fusion 5 is available at most drugstores and grocery stores for a reasonable price, and you can even purchase a package of replacement blades through the brand’s subscription service for less than you would spend on a single pack from a discount store.

We’ve also rounded up several other great options, including the Bevel Safety Razor and the Vikings Blade. The Bevel is the most comfortable of the two to use because it’s lightweight and has a perfect blade angle that allows you to get a close, smooth shave without causing any cuts or nicks. The Vikings Blade is a bit heavier and more sturdy, but it still offers a comfortable grippy surface with a nice curve and textured grooves.

If you want a more luxe morning shave, check out Gilette Lab’s Heated Razor, which heats up to a comfortable 120 degrees Fahrenheit with just the press of a button. It’s more expensive than the disposables we tested, but it can save you money in the long run by preventing ingrown hairs and other skin problems.

Lastly, we’ve included the millennial-favorite Harry’s The Truman in our list of best razors for men. This cartridge razor features a convenient, portable design, five durable blades and a precision trimmer for hard-to-reach areas like sideburns and the upper lip. It also comes with four refills, so you can stock up and avoid running out before your next shave. This razor is available at most drugstores and grocery store chains, as well as online. And while it does generate more plastic waste than the disposables we tested, its affordability, high-quality construction and bold color selection make it a good choice for anyone on a tight budget.