Choosing razor blades and replacement shaving heads without making the wrong purchase

A blunt razor blade, an ill-fitting shaving head or a refill pack that doesn’t fit your handle: these are common reasons why consumers in the Netherlands spend money unnecessarily. When choosing razor blades and replacement shaving heads, it’s not just the number of blades or a well-known brand that matters. Compatibility, signs that a replacement is due and how often you shave are just as important.

In this buying guide from the Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, you’ll find out what to look for, which marketing claims to treat with caution and which products suit different needs.

Three common pitfalls when choosing razor blades and shaving heads

1. Confusing a model name with compatibility

A Philips shaving head won’t automatically fit every Philips device. The Philips SH50/50 is designed for certain round-shaped models in the 5000 Series. According to the product specifications, the Philips SH71/50 fits the Philips 7000 Series and certain angular-shaped models in the 5000 Series. The Philips SH91/50 is designed for the 9000 Series and S9000 Prestige.

So always check:

• the model number on your shaver;
• the series, such as S5xxx, S7xxx or S9xxx;
• the shape of the shaving head;
• whether you need a complete shaving head or replacement blades.

The same applies to manual shaving systems. Gillette Mach3 blades are not the same as Gillette Fusion5 blades or Gillette Labs blades. A Mach3 refill fits a Mach3 handle; a Fusion5 refill fits a Fusion5 system.

2. Looking only at the pack size

A large pack may seem like good value, but only if you use the system regularly and store the blades correctly. A pack of 28 Gillette Fusion5 blades can be practical for daily use. If you only shave occasionally, a smaller pack may be a better choice.

Compare the price per blade, not just the total price. Also check the recommended period of use. According to the product descriptions, Gillette states that some Mach3 refills provide up to 15 shaves and Fusion5 refills up to 20, based on three shaves a week. This is the manufacturer’s estimate, not a guarantee for every user.

3. Treating comfort claims as a guarantee

Words such as ‘sensitive’, ‘comfortable’ or ‘less irritation’ describe a design or a brand’s claim, but they don’t guarantee the same results for everyone. Your skin type, shaving pressure, preparation and maintenance all have an impact too.

When choosing razor blades for sensitive skin, it’s worth looking for:

• a lubrication or gel strip;
• the number of blades and the spacing between them;
• a flexible shaving head;
• a trimmer for tricky areas;
• the ability to rinse the blade thoroughly.

For example, according to the product description, Wilkinson Quattro Titanium Sensitive has a lubrication strip with aloe vera, vitamin E and ProB-5. This tells you something about the product’s ingredients, but it doesn’t mean every user will find it equally comfortable.

Important specifications to check

Compatibility and fitting

For electric shavers, the model number is key. Also check how the replacement part is fitted. The Philips SH71/50 and SH91/50 use a click-and-turn system, so the notches must line up correctly. After replacing the head, you may also need to reset the replacement indicator on some devices.

For a body groomer, check the series as well as the brand. According to the product information, the Philips Bodygroom replacement foil BG2010/43 is suitable for Bodygroom Series 3000, 5000 and 7000. A replacement foil is not a universal shaving head for every type of trimmer.

Replacement intervals and wear

A set replacement interval is only a guide. Replace a blade or shaving head sooner if:

• the blade pulls or glides less smoothly over your skin;
• you need to apply more pressure;
• the lubrication strip is fading;
• the foil is damaged or loose;
• your shave is noticeably less even.

Philips recommends replacing the SH71/50 and SH91/50 every two years. The supplied product information gives an approximate 12-month replacement interval for the SH50/50 and BG2010/43. Actual lifespan depends on how often you shave, your beard growth, cleaning and storage.

Maintenance and hygiene

Rinse manual blades regularly while shaving, then let them dry thoroughly. Don’t leave them in a wet shower for long periods. Clean electric shaving heads according to the instructions. If you use a Braun SmartCare system, you can look for Braun cleaning cartridges, such as the CCR 6. According to Braun, this cartridge is designed for compatible SmartCare Centres and cleaning stations. Before buying, check that it matches your Braun series and station.

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners

Gillette Mach3 Base Cartridges for Men - 25pcs

Why it suits this profile: A large pack for anyone with an existing Mach3 handle who wants to compare the cost per refill blade.

How this product helps avoid the pitfall

The pack clearly identifies the Mach3 system and contains 25 blades. Just make sure your handle is actually a Mach3 handle.

Key benefits and features

25 refill blades, a lubrication strip and Comfort Guard with microfins, according to the product description.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for premium quality

SH91 Replacement Shaving Heads SH91/50

Why it suits this profile: A good fit for users of a Philips 9000 Series or S9000 Prestige looking for a compatible genuine shaving head.

How this product helps avoid the pitfall

The model number and compatible Philips series are clearly listed. This makes it easier to compare than searching for ‘Philips shaving heads’ alone.

Key benefits and features

Set of three shaving heads, each featuring 72 self-sharpening NanoTech Dual Precision blades, according to Philips.

Suitable for: Specific needs and frequent users

Philips Bodygroom replacement foil BG2010/43

Why it suits this profile: For anyone who uses a Philips Bodygroom to remove body hair and needs a specific replacement foil.

How this product helps avoid the pitfall

The product information lists Bodygroom Series 3000, 5000 and 7000. Even so, check the model number BG2010/43 before buying.

Key benefits and features

Replacement foil with rounded tips; rinseable and suitable for the Bodygroom series listed, according to the product description.

Suitable for: Shavers who use a flexible manual system

Gillette Fusion5 Razor Blades for Men 28 Pieces

Why it suits this profile: For men who use a Fusion5 handle and want to stock up on men’s razor blades.

How this product helps avoid the pitfall

Compatibility with Fusion5 systems and the pack size of 28 are clearly specified. Mach3 handles are a different system.

Key benefits and features

Five blades, a lubrication strip, microcomb and precision trimmer, according to the product description.

Frequently asked questions about razor blades and replacement shaving heads

How do I know which shaving head fits my electric shaver?

Look for the model number on the body of the device, its packaging or the instruction manual. Compare it with the replacement part’s compatibility list. For Philips, pay particular attention to the difference between round and angular shaving heads. Don’t buy based solely on ‘Philips 5000’ or ‘Philips shaving heads’.

How often should I replace a refill blade?

Replace a refill blade if it starts pulling, doesn’t glide as smoothly or its lubrication strip is fading. Manufacturers sometimes state how many shaves a blade is designed to provide, but this still depends on beard thickness, how often you shave and how well you maintain it. For electric shaving heads, the stated intervals of 12 months or two years are practical guidelines, not fixed requirements.

Are razor blades for sensitive skin always gentler?

No. A product may have a lubrication strip, rounded tips or a design for sensitive skin according to the brand’s description, but results vary from person to person. Use light pressure, rinse the blade thoroughly and stop using it if it’s damaged or feels uncomfortable.