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 razor that’s safe for the face, you may want to opt for something smaller like a single-blade razor or dermaplaning tool. There also might be additional factors to consider to avoid red bumps and in-grown hairs on this sensitive skin, like shaving in the direction of hair growth and using lukewarm water.
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 buzz-worthy brands you’ve probably seen on Instagram.