Razor is a cutting instrument used to remove hair from the skin. There are three chief kinds of razors: (1) safety razors, (2) straight-edged razors, and (3) electric razors.
Safety razors
have blades that are shielded by metal or plastic holders. The holders make it difficult for a person to be cut deeply while shaving. The blade may have a cutting edge on one side or on both. It may be made of stainless steel and have chromium or platinum edges to prolong sharpness. After the blade becomes dull, it is replaced by a new one. Some razors use several replaceable blades, positioned one on top of the other. Others have a replaceable metal band that can be unwound to expose a fresh cutting edge. Disposable safety razors do not have replaceable blades. These inexpensive razors are thrown away after the blade becomes dull.
Straight-edged razors
have specially tempered steel blades about 3 or 4 inches (8 to 10 centimeters) long. The blade has a rounded back and slopes to a fine edge. It is usually fastened by a rivet to a handle. The blade rests in the handle when not in use. It closes like a springless knife. Some of the best blades were formerly made in Sheffield, England, but a number of factories make similarly fine razors.
A good straight razor will last a long time if given good care. The razor wears well if the shaver soaks his face with lather before shaving. When a person shaves, the edge of the blade actually bends, causing it to become dull. The cutting edge should be smoothed with a leather strop before it is used. The blade must be honed (sharpened) regularly.
Electric razors
are widely used. These little machines are powered by small electric motors. The cutting head passes over the skin and clips the hair. The head may become dull after continued use and may need either sharpening or replacing. The heads of many electric shavers can be adjusted for trimming beards. Some shavers have built-in auxiliary clippers that can trim long hairs and sideburns. Most cutting heads must be cleaned from time to time.
