The Best Electric Razors of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Electric razors FAQs

We talked with professional barber Sydney Shlakman of Hairrari Hair Salon in Brooklyn, New York, about some care and maintenance tips for your grooming tools. Electric razors are not as simple to clean as the best safety razors, but with these tips, they last a very long time.

We’ve also answered other frequently asked questions about grooming tools.

What is the difference between foil and rotary razors?

• Foil: The foil electric shaver contains oscillating blades that move back and forth at high speeds. These blades are covered with guards that lift hair for cutting and protect the skin. A foil razor will often have a few separate cutting blades that flex independently to match the contours of your face. However, because a foil head has a rectangular shape, it might not match your face as well as a rotary razor.
• Rotary: The rotary razor has round blades that spin. You’ll receive protection from the spinning rotary blades with a slotted guard that sits atop the blades and helps to lift the hairs so they’re easier to cut. The heads flex in multiple directions, giving you a close shave by hugging the contours of your face. However, rotary heads are more difficult to clean after shaving than foil shavers.

How often should I clean my razor or trimmer?

“You should clean your tools after every use,” Shlakman told Insider. “It’s important to maintain clean grooming tools to make sure your tools are working properly and do not build up bacteria or rust.”

What is the best way to clean grooming tools?

“The best way to clean your grooming tools is by using a barber bristle brush to brush the hair off of your tools and also using a blade cleaning spray,” said Shlakman. “I like using Andis Cool Care Plus to clean and lubricate my blades. You want to brush the hair off first and then spray the cleaning spray.”

Some shavers, like the Braun Series 7 and Series 9, have a clean and charged base that will clean it automatically. If your device doesn’t have a cleaning system, you should remove the blade, brush or rinse out excess hair, sanitize it, and re-oil your blade before the next use.

Why do I need to oil my blade?

Without oil, razors — whether foil, rotary or a combination of both — can generate a lot of friction and heat. When a blade gets hot without proper lubrication, it will underperform and will eventually rust and warp. You won’t get as close a shave, you’ll be more prone to nicks and cuts, and you’ll have to replace your blades more often.

What kind of oil can I use on my blades?

Most electric razors and trimmers come with oil, but should you run out, you can use various oils to keep your blades lubricated. A few drops of olive, coconut, baby, or even your favorite beard oil can get the job done. You’ll want to avoid products that definitely don’t belong on your face, like motor oil or WD-4o.

Can I use the same electric razor for my face and my body?

While some electric trimmers can adequately be used anywhere, it’s recommended that you use separate blades for your face and body. The bacteria on your face thrive in dry areas with oxygen, and bacteria on your groin area thrive in moist environments. Mixing the two using the same blade everywhere may cause irritations and breakouts.

If you already have a grooming tool you like for your face, it’s a good idea to buy a separate tool dedicated to body grooming.