Dry shaving - the quick alternative

Around half of all men in Germany swear by dry shaving. Some of Eric:Barbier’s customers also keep their look fresh between appointments using an electric razor. But what are the pros and cons of electric shaving? We asked beard expert Behar at the salon in HafenCity and reveal what you should look out for when it comes to the procedure and buying a razor.

The advantages of dry shaving

The debate over the best way to shave has been going on for almost a century, and most men are likely familiar with the biggest argument in favour of electric razors: “The time saved compared to wet shaving is enormous,” explains Behar. There’s no need for extensive preparation, whipping up shaving foam or sharpening a razor blade. But the electric razor is not only quick, it is also safe – the second major advantage. Cuts, such as those that can occur with a safety razor, are practically impossible. This means you can move the razor freely in all directions, which is particularly beneficial for beginners.

The disadvantages of an electric razor

Particularly for men with thick beards, the electric razor’s biggest weakness becomes apparent just a few hours after shaving: as the machines only trim the hair superficially, stubble quickly becomes visible. The electric razor is relatively harsh in its approach: whether using oscillating or rotating blades, “dry shaving damages the hydrolipidic film,” says Behar. “Without this protective layer on the skin and thorough aftercare, external factors can quickly lead to rashes and spots.” Another factor that doesn’t come into play with wet shaving: whilst a cartridge razor is always ready for use, a flat electric razor battery leads to frustration in the morning.

Whether you’re a die-hard electric razor fan or want to try dry shaving – follow these steps and your beard will be gone in no time:

1. A thorough wash removes residues such as dead skin cells. Then pat the beard dry until it is completely dry
2. Now shave with the electric razor, holding the device at a 90-degree angle
3. After shaving, remove any remaining hairs with cold water
4. Apply a nourishing and moisturising aftershave to soothe irritated skin
5. Clean waterproof razors under running water; otherwise, use a damp cloth. The razor should be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected at least once a week

How much does an electric shaver cost?

Anyone looking to buy an electric shaver is spoilt for choice: specialist shops stock countless models ranging in price from €25 to over €500. The expert’s tip: “I always recommend taking your time to examine the devices before buying. That way, you can tell straight away whether the shaver sits comfortably in your hand and gives an impression of quality,” reveals Behar. As a general rule, the higher the price, the more extensive the features – from automatic detection of beard density to laser technology for precise contours, there are virtually no limits to development.

The history of dry shaving

In 1931, Jacob Schick sold the first electric razor in New York – a revolution in the market. And for many men, it was a relief, as shaving with a blade or a cartridge razor was nowhere near as safe or hygienic as it is today. The inventor offered his ‘safety razor’ for a then-exorbitant 25 dollars, and sold 3,000 units in the very first year. In Europe, too, the innovative tool soon began its triumphant advance with the ‘Philishave’ from Philips and models from the German manufacturer Braun, before a return to traditional shaving followed in recent years.

The bottom line

An electric razor can also be a good addition for wet shaving enthusiasts – especially when there isn’t much time on business trips or a last-minute meeting at the office calls for a clean-shaven face. “However, the traditional and stylish shave is always more thorough and gentler on the skin, provided you take care to prepare properly with shaving oil and shaving foam,” explains Behar.

Would you like to discover more secrets from our beard experts? Here, master barber Anthony reveals the five common shaving mistakes you’d be better off avoiding.