How to Choose a Shaving Razor? Follow These Criteria

So you've decided to say goodbye to classic disposable razors or cartridge razors and switch straight to a straight razor? Congratulations on this decision – a properly sharpened straight razor will take care of your face truly perfectly. But how should you go about choosing this shaving tool?

Consider the width of the razor

Before you start using a straight razor regularly, carefully consider its width. As a beginner, you should take the golden middle path and choose a razor with a blade width of 5/8, which is neither too wide nor too thin. The 5/8 width is among the most popular sizes and is also suitable for complete beginners. Once you gain more experience, you can move on to other widths.

Tip: If you don't have a 5/8 razor on hand, at least go for a 4/8 blade width.

Choose a "shave ready" razor

If you're looking for a new razor to start shaving with, a so-called "shave ready" razor is ideal – that is, a perfectly sharpened razor ready for immediate use. This type is again perfect for beginners, who can find their sharpening specialist over time.

Only choose quality brands

When selecting a new razor, rely only on trusted brands that are a mark of top quality and long life. In particular, the DOVO Solingen brand represents quality, offering razors with both carbon and stainless steel blades.

Other razor features are up to you

Other criteria for choosing a new razor are entirely up to you and your preferences. Decide for yourself whether you choose a razor with a carbon or stainless steel blade. Individual razors may also differ in handle design.

You can choose between plastic handles. Perhaps wooden handles will appeal to you more, for example made of ebony, oak, or olive wood. A great rarity that might catch your eye are handles made of buffalo horn or mammoth tusk.

And don't forget – when shaving with a straight razor, you need a steady and firm hand. Only then will you achieve a perfect result in the form of a smooth face.

What else do you need for perfect straight razor shaving?

If you want to achieve a smoothly shaved face with a straight razor, you'll also need a lot of other quality tools. To start, get:

1. A shaving brush and shaving soap in a bowl – Using them before shaving with a straight razor will better prepare your skin.

2. Aftershave with a higher alcohol content

3. A strop – To keep your new razor in good condition, strop it before every shave. You can use both hanging and paddle strops. But keep in mind that after a certain degree of wear, you should hand the razor over to a professional for re-sharpening. If you have no experience with sharpening razors yourself, definitely avoid doing it.