Gliding a sharp blade across the skin is a timeless grooming practice. However, even the most pristine razor can fall from grace and impact the quality of your shave as it gradually dulls. We’ll decode the telltale signs your wet shaving razor is becoming dull, along with some tips on how to fix it.
Signs of a Dull Razor
You might not realize your razor has lost its edge until it’s too late and you have an uneven shave or post-shave irritation. Paying attention to your razor is the key to determining it’s no longer up to snuff.
Tugging or Pulling Sensation
Your razor is dull when it starts pulling at your hair rather than cutting it. Dull blades can no longer slice the hair cleanly, often resulting in an uncomfortable tug.
Uneven or Patchy Shave
A sharp razor should give you a consistent and clean line with each stroke. If you’re missing patches of hair while shaving, it’s a red flag for blade dullness.
More Passes Required for a Clean Shave
One pass should be all it takes to get a clean shave. As your razor dulls, you may find yourself going over the same spots multiple times to remove hair. Only dull blades cause this issue.
Increased Razor Burn or Irritation
Even if your blade slices through your hair, nicks, cuts, and redness might become more common and pronounced as your razor dulls. This is due to the rough edges of the blade dragging across your skin and causing more friction.
Prevention and Maintenance Tips
Once you’ve identified some of the telltale signs that your wet shaving razor is dull, you can work on caring for your razor. Here are some strategies to maintain your razor’s sharpness.
Regular Cleaning and Blade Replacement
After each use, gently rinse your razor under running water to remove hairs or debris, as they can dull the blade over time. Additionally, make it a habit to replace the blade once you notice it becoming dull, typically after five to seven shaves.
Proper Storage and Drying Techniques
Keep your razor blades dry. Moisture is the enemy of sharp blades, so store your razor in a ventilated area and ensure it’s completely dry before the next use. A razor stand can keep it upright, allowing water to drip off and air to circulate, preventing rust from forming.
Stropping and Honing for Blade Longevity
You can’t replace straight razor blades, but stropping can extend its life by realigning the edge. Regular stropping, about 15–25 times before each use, sharpens the blade. You should perform honing every three to six months to maintain the blade’s edge.
Restoring Your Razor
If your razor is past the point of saving, not all hope is lost! The team at Razor Emporium offers a razor restoration service. All you have to do is send us your razor, and we’ll get it back to you looking brand-new in no time!