Razors are a multi-billion-dollar industry. Some 70per cent of men and 90 per cent of women who shave
typically use a razor; the rest use electric shavers. That's
big business, and likely the reason there's always a new razor
in shops, promising a super-close shave.
The latest products from the top two manufacturers are
battery-operated vibrating razors: the Schick Quattro Power,
which has four blades in the cartridge head, and Gillete's
Venus Vibrance for women and five-bladed Fusion Power
for men. These razor lift hairs, making them easier to cut, says Eric Kraus of the Gillette Company.
Down the road, look for diversified products, such as electrics that allow for precision shaping, following the rise in popularity of goatees, says Kristin Branch of Remington electric shavers. Companies are always looking to make razors more comfortable, while developing new mechanisms that allow maximum contact. "Each product we introduce is a step up in performance. And when we release that product, there's another in development," says Kraus.
A Guy's Guide to the Perfect Shave
For the closest shave,nothing beats a straight-edge
razor. But if you don't know how to use
one, you could get hurt.
For the next best thing, try
these tips from Javier
Jaime of Paul Labrecque
Gentleman's Salon and
Barber Shop in New York:
1. Wash your face with an
alcohol-free cleanser.
2. Open pores by applying
a hot towel to the face, or
shave after a hot shower.
3. Rub shaving cream in a
circular, upward motion to
lift hairs, so they're easier
to cut.
4. Go with the grain,
moving from the side towards
the nose, then to
the chin. Next, go against
the grain. Don't shave one
area more than three
times - it irritates the skin.
5. Finish with splash
of cold water, then
alcohol-free aftershave.
Replace a razor after
three shaves. Rinse it in
hot water after use and
store upright, never face-down
- that helps bacteria grow.
