Barbasol Original review: A good shave for less
A thick lather without the brushwork, at a price that makes sense for everyday shaving. The tradeoff comes after rinsing.
Read the guideShaving & Razors
Complete guide to shaving techniques, razor types, and shaving products. From safety razors to electric shavers, find everything you need for the perfect shave.
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Best Razors for Men
A quality razor should not only provide a close shave, but it should deliver reliable and comfortable performance. But selecting the right razor for your grooming regimen isn't easy. In this guide,...
Read the guide
Best Merkur Razors
Merkur razors are widely accessible and offer several different shaving experiences unmatched by virtually any other safety razor brand(https://www.toolsofmen.com/safety-razors/best-safety-razor/)...
Read the guideHands-on product reviews
Original tests with photographs and notes from use.
Safety razors
Merkur 38C review: my shave test with the Barber Pole
A hands-on Merkur 38C review with original photos, a video shave test, and notes on weight, grip, blade choice, and comfort.
Merkur 34C review: a small razor put to the test
My original Merkur 34C shave test, including preparation, blade choice, close-up photos, and how its short handle compares with the 38C.
Merkur 37C review: testing the slant bar
A hands-on Merkur 37C review with the original shave conditions, packaging and design photos, and post-shave observations.
Merkur 23C Review
A hands-on Merkur 23C review with original packaging and handle photos, the shave conditions, and close-up results.
Merkur Futur Review
The original Merkur Futur adjustable-razor test, with design photos, shave settings, and close-up post-shave observations.
Edwin Jagger DE89 Review
A hands-on Edwin Jagger DE89 review with original packaging photos, razor details, documented shave preparation, and the finished results.
Bevel Razor Review
An original Bevel safety razor test with packaging and design close-ups, shave preparation, and photographs of the results.
OneBlade Razor Review
An original OneBlade Core shave test with packaging photos, three passes, and a close look at the results and razor design.
Maggard Razors Review
The original Maggard wet-shaving starter-kit test: MR18 razor, shaving brush, Ghost Town Barber soap, and shave-result photographs.
Dorco Prime Review
The original Dorco Prime safety-razor starter-set review, with unboxing, razor construction photos, and observations from the first shave.
Cartridge & head razors
Harry’s Razors Review
An original Harry’s razor and shave gel test, with unboxing photos, razor comparisons, and close-up shaving results.
Dollar Shave Club Review
The original Dollar Shave Club starter-set review, including the razor, Dr. Carver’s Shave Butter, and photographs of the shave results.
Gillette Mach3 Review
The original Gillette Mach3 shave test, with cartridge and handle comparisons, preparation notes, and post-shave photos.
Gillette SkinGuard Review
The original Gillette SkinGuard test, with close-up razor comparisons, documented shave conditions, and photographs of the results.
Schick Hydro Stubble Eraser Review
An original Schick Hydro Stubble Eraser shave test with design and result photos. The review discloses that Schick supplied the razor.
MicroTouch Tough Blade Review
An original MicroTouch Tough Blade review with packaging and razor close-ups, shave conditions, and photographs of the results.
HeadBlade Moto Review
The original HeadBlade Moto head-shaving test, including its rolling design, grip, and close-up before-and-after photos.
Electric trimmers
OneBlade Trimmer Review
Original Philips Norelco OneBlade review with close-up photos, a beard-trimming test, and observations on the shave, grip, and battery.
MicroTouch Solo Review
The original MicroTouch Solo trimming test, with attachment-comb comparisons, design close-ups, and photographs of the finished result.
Shaving creams & soaps
Barbasol Original review: A good shave for less
A thick lather without the brushwork, at a price that makes sense for everyday shaving. The tradeoff comes after rinsing.
Taylor of Old Bond Street Review
A hands-on test of Taylor of Old Bond Street Sandalwood shaving cream, with the original lather photos, shave results, and Tools of Men video.
C.O. Bigelow Premium Shave Cream Review
The original C.O. Bigelow Premium Shave Cream test, including hand and brush lathers, shave photos, and the accompanying review video.
Proraso Shaving Cream Review
The original Proraso green-label shaving cream review, with lather and shave photos, test conditions, and the accompanying Tools of Men video.
Chiseled Face Shave Soap Review
A hands-on review of Chiseled Face Ghost Town Barber shave soap, with lather photos, original shave observations, and the review video.
Cella Shaving Cream Review
A hands-on Cella shaving cream review with the original brush-lather demonstration, shave photos, and review video.
Body Shop Shaving Cream Review
The original Body Shop Maca Root & Aloe shaving cream test, with lather photos, shaving results, and the accompanying review video.
Before & after the shave
Proraso Pre-Shave Cream Review
An original Proraso pre-shave cream test with application photos, a safety-razor shave, and the Tools of Men video demonstration.
Taconic Shave Pre-Shave Oil Review
A hands-on Taconic Shave unscented pre-shave oil review, with application photos and notes on consistency, scent, and the shave.
Nivea Post Shave Balm Review
An original Nivea Sensitive Post Shave Balm review with packaging, consistency, and application photos from the test.
Razor comparisons
Merkur 34C vs 38C: grip, weight and shave compared
A side-by-side look at the Merkur 34C and 38C, with measurements, close-up photographs and notes on grip and shave feel.
Mühle R41 vs Merkur 34C: open comb or closed comb?
How the Mühle R41 and Merkur 34C differ in head design, handling and shave feel, with side-by-side photographs.
Parker 96R vs Merkur 34C: handle length and control
The Parker 96R and Merkur 34C compared by weight, length, blade loading and performance, with photos and measurement charts.
Henson AL13 vs Merkur 34C: weight and shave feel
A comparison of the lightweight Henson AL13 and the Merkur 34C, covering grip, construction and the feel of the shave.
Parker 99R vs Parker 96R: which handle suits you?
Side-by-side photographs and a comparison of the Parker 99R and 96R, including handle length, weight and butterfly blade loading.
Merkur Futur vs Progress: two adjustable razors compared
The Merkur Futur and Progress compared by adjustment, head size, grip and shave performance, with close-up photographs.
Rockwell 6C vs Merkur 34C: adjustable plates or a fixed head?
How the Rockwell 6C’s interchangeable baseplates compare with the Merkur 34C’s fixed head, including handling and shave performance.
Parker 26C vs Mühle R41: open-comb razors compared
A closer look at the Parker 26C and Mühle R41, with side-by-side photos and differences in grip, construction and shave feel.
Merkur 37C vs 39C: two slant razors compared
The Merkur 37C and 39C share a slant head but differ in size and weight. Compare their handles, grip and shave feel.
Keep exploring
Best open comb safety razors: find the right fit
Compare five open comb safety razors, understand what the comb actually changes, and choose a razor that fits your experience, grip, and shaving routine.
Best Adjustable Safety Razors
Adjustable safety razors are a unique subset of the safety razor. With a few simple adjustments, you can drastically alter the shaving experience. Whether you want a shave that delivers 'baby butt...
Best Cheap Safety Razors
Are you looking for a quality safety razor but don't want to spend a lot of money? In this article we round up the best affordable safety razors (all under $30) on the market. This includes reviews f...
Best Razors For Sensitive Skin
When you have sensitive skin, shaving can be a dreadful experience. Oftentimes, irritation can be the result of poor performance from the razor that you are using. Below we'll share with you a few...
Best safety razors
A practical shortlist of safety razors from our hands-on reviews, with original photos, clear tradeoffs, and a full review of every pick.
Best Butterfly Safety Razors
The butterfly safety razor is a type of double edge razor that gets its name from the mechanism that opens the blades. With a simple twist of the handle, the two halves of the razor cap separate, all...
Best Safety Razor Blades
If you received a shaving kit(https://www.toolsofmen.com/safety-razors/shaving-kits/) over the holidays, or perhaps you just picked up one of the best safety razors on the market(https://www.tool...
8 Shaving Forums That Are Worth Visiting
Whether you're a seasoned wet shaver or new to traditional shaving, online forums can be a great resource for learning, getting feedback on the latest razor, and so much more. Unlike beard forums(...
5 Alternatives to Reddit's /r/MaleGrooming
While Reddit's MaleGrooming subreddit has long been a popular online destination for men seeking advice on personal grooming and self-care, there has been much controversy at Reddit due to some rece...
Should You Go Against the Grain With Your Double Edge Safety Razor?
Some people argue that shaving against the grain with a double edge safety razor provides the ultimate close shave. However, for others, it is a surefire way to get razor burn, ingrown hairs, and ni...
Mastering the Art of Shaving with a Safety Razor: 8 Key Tips and Techniques
Safety razors have been around for over a century, but in recent years, they have experienced a resurgence in popularity. Shaving with a safety razor not only provides a closer shave but also reduces...
10 Facts About Open, Closed, & Slant Razor Heads That You MUST Know Before Buy
More and more men are starting to discover the double edge safety razor. Not only do they offer better cost savings over the long run when compared to a cartridge razor, but they also provide unpara...
Is it Safe to Use Canned Shaving Cream with a Safety or Straight Razor?
Safety razors have been around for over 100 years. However, canned shaving cream is relatively new and was invented in 1949(https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shaving_cream). At the time of its introdu...
How to Clean a Safety Razor
While safety razors, by their very design, are intended to last for years, they must be properly maintained and cleaned. This guide will show you how to clean your safety razor daily, weekly, and...
Does the Safety Razor Handle Make a Difference?
When looking at the vast array of safety razors, you'll see that they come in varying lengths, weights, grips, and blade gaps, all of which have their purpose and can drastically change your shaving...
Why Do Safety Razors Have Two Blades?
Unlike all other types of razors(https://www.toolsofmen.com/types-of-razors/), the safety razor is the only shaving tool with a blade on either side of the head. But why? Was there a reason for...
Are Expensive Razors Worth It?
Whether you are shaving for the first time or looking for a change from your current razor, it is important to choose the right razor for your needs - and, perhaps more importantly, your budget. The...
Do Safety Razors Give a Closer Shave?
Are you thinking about switching to a safety razor? Good choice. Not only will you get an incredibly close shave, but you'll also save money in the long run. But if you are wondering if they provide...
Different Types of Safety Razors
Invented by King Camp Gillette in 1903, the safety razor is a shaving device designed to reduce the risk of cuts and nicks to the skin. The safety razor gets its name due to the safety bar that exten...
How Long to Rub Shaving Brush in Shaving Soap
If you are starting to discover the lost art of wet shaving, you may be wondering how long to keep stirring your shaving brush in the shaving soap until it forms a nice rich lather. For most, it w...
What is an Adjustable Safety Razor
The adjustable safety razor is a modified version of the standard double edge safety razor(https://www.toolsofmen.com/what-is-a-safety-razor/). With an adjustment mechanism, typically a dial, this...
The Pros & Cons of Electric Shavers
The electric shaver isn't for everyone. However, there are some significant advantages that the electric shaver has over other types of razors(https://www.toolsofmen.com/types-of-razors/). Below,...
How (And Why) to Shave in the Shower
Shower shaving is one of those things that you don't realize just how good it is until you stop doing it. Not only do you make your grooming routine significantly quicker, but you also get to enjoy...
How to Map Your Facial Hair to Determine the Shaving Grain
Understanding how your facial hair grows is the most important part of shaving. Disregarding this can result in irritation and razor bumps. In this guide, we will help you in identifying the shaving...
14 Ways to Prevent Razor Burn on Your Neck (and Elsewhere)
One of the problems that many men have when shaving is razor burn - particularly on their neck. However, finding out what is causing the razor burn can be difficult, especially given that many things...
How to Dispose of Razor Blades Safely
In most instances, it is okay to dispose of razor blades with your household trash. However, you must take special safety measures into account to prevent injury to yourself or others. Always check...
11 Ways To Cut Your Grooming Expenses Quickly
> According to the market research firm Statista, the men's grooming industry is expected to grow to $81.2 billion USD by 2024. > > https://www.statista.com/statistics/287643/global-male-groomin...
Grooming Lounge Review: A Cut Above The Rest?
A hands-on review of Grooming Lounge’s shave cream, aftershave, face scrub, body wash, and deodorant. The original review discloses the supplied samples.
How To Stop A Razor Cut From Bleeding
Whether you are just learning to shave or have been shaving for years, razor cuts are inevitable at some point in your grooming journey. Cuts and nicks are signs that something is wrong with your sh...
Sandalwood: What It Smells Like, Key Benefits, Substitutes, & Where To Buy
If there was one scent that is the cornerstone of the men’s grooming world, it’s undoubtedly going to be sandalwood. Found in countless shave creams, beard oils, shaving oils, and other products...
Here's How Long Your Razor Blade Should Last
There’s a reason why Unilever bought Dollar Shave Club for $1 Billion (yes with a ‘B’) dollars: Razor blades are expensive, and no one likes paying hand-over-fist for cartridge replacements. Now I...
Itching After Shaving? Try This
That familiar itch you get after shaving is when you know that something went wrong. We sometimes to refer to it as razor burn because of the burning feeling the itch causes. But look: There is ab...
Shaving Pimples: Causes and How to Prevent Them
Whether you are 17 or 37, men of all ages are susceptible to getting pimples after shaving. This is commonly known as shaving acne. Pimples are a result of a clogged pore. The pimple is a mixtur...
How To Get Rid Of Razor Bumps On Your Neck – The Detailed Guide
One of the worse parts of shaving daily for some men is the prevalence of razor bumps on their neck. There is no worse feeling in the world than having razor bumps form day after day, no matter how...
How Often Should You Shave Facial Hair?
How often you shave depends on your desired facial hair appearance, genetics, and the comfort of your skin. You should only shave once every few days as it allows your skin to heal fully. Men who pre...
Deciding When to Shave: Before or After the Shower
When it comes to the age-old debate of whether to shave before or after showering, there can be many conflicting opinions on what works best. Ultimately, shaving after showering is the better opti...
What Does Shaving Cream Do When Applied To Your Skin?
Shaving cream is one of those necessary products that go alongside any sort of razor of your choice. But, whether you choose to use a disposable, cartridge, electric, straight edge, or even the best...
15 Tips on How to Get a Close Shave Without Cutting Yourself
When shaving, getting a close, comfortable shave is the desired result for a lot of men. However, achieving such results can be difficult. All too often, when men chase shave perfection, they open...
Is a Double Edge Safety Razor Really Worth It?
Before going all-in and purchasing a safety razor, it's essential to understand the costs associated with one. You don't have to go far in popular forums such as Badger & Blade or Reddit's own /r/wi...
How To Prevent Razor Bumps From Destroying Your Skin
Razor bumps (also known as pseudofolliculitis barbae(https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pseudofolliculitis_barbae)) can quite literally be a pain in the neck. As a result, you might be trying to fi...
11 Facts to Know About Shaving With a Safety Razor
Introduced over 100 years ago, the safety razor continues to be an economical alternative to modern razors. However, when deciding on one, there is a lot to consider. Some of the most common ques...