What's The Deal With Weighted Razors? We've Got You Covered

Even if you don't consider yourself to be the type of person who needs to shave daily, anyone who has to reach for a razor on a regular basis knows how time-consuming shaving can be. While it's satisfying to be able to run your hands across silky smooth skin, it's a chore to get rid of the hair. Alternatives like laser hair removal and waxing can buy you more time before stubble arises, but they are more costly than using a razor. Now, weighted razors are rising in popularity as more people look for a closer shave and effective hair removal without the higher cost.

If you're tired of shaving daily, only to have stubble reappear seemingly by sunset, you might want to reconsider the razor you're using. While disposable razors now offer several blades and promise a close shave, they still need to be replaced regularly in order to be effective — especially if you shave frequently. Over time, this can be costly, which is another reason people are turning to weighted razors.

Not only can a weighted razor give you a close shave, but it can also cut down on the amount of money you spend on this form of hair removal. You can often buy replacement blades for this type of razor in bulk, saving you money in the long run. These are just some of the benefits associated with this type of razor.

If you're new to the world of weighted razors, you might hear them sometimes referred to as safety razors. The name alone might make you think that they're dangerously sharp, but there's a reason for it — originally, it was created to distinguish it from a straight razor, which looks like a sharp folding blade.

One of the most obvious differences you'll notice if you make the switch is the weight of the razor. Unlike disposable razors, these products are heavier, which is why they're able to give you a closer shave — these razors eliminate the need to apply a lot of pressure to remove hair. The end result is a closer shave with fewer blades, and there are benefits for your skin. "A weighted razor helps prevent ingrown hairs and cuts, while also providing gentle exfoliation for rough skin," board-certified dermatologist Dr. Andrea Hui Austin explained to Well+Good. "Most weighted razors are single-blade, which prevents pulling of the skin and provides a smoother finish, making them particularly effective in preventing ingrown hairs, especially for individuals with sensitive skin."

Using shaving cream during the hair removal process can help as well. Although some people skip this step, using cream can limit ingrown hairs and post-shaving irritation.

If you're already sold on the idea of changing over to a weighted razor, there are a few things you need to know to make a seamless transition. First, keep in mind that the razor is weighted because it's meant to do the work for you — applying added pressure can result in painful nicks, so glide slowly over your skin, and let the razor do its job. Next, make sure you take the time to care for your razor — change your blades every few shaves (how often you do it will vary depending on how often you shave), and be sure to clean the weighted razor thoroughly to prevent the growth of bacteria. Doing so can also limit corrosion and extend the lifespan of your razor.

As you're shopping for your first weighted razor, don't forget to consider the differences between single-edge and double-edge options. Single-edge weighted razors may be harder to find, but they were originally created to give a closer, more aggressive shave. Double-edge weighted razors have two sides with blades, giving you double the number of options to work with while shaving. Regardless, the replaceable blades you'll need for your new razor will likely be less pricey, resulting in ample savings over time. Once you get the hang of using a weighted razor, you'll be on your way to a closer shave and softer skin.