How Often Should I Change My Razor Blade?

The short answer: every 5–7 shaves for most people. How long a blade actually lasts depends on how you shave, what you shave, and how you store it.

For the full shaving method, see how to use a safety razor.

Why blades dull

A double-edged blade is made of thin hardened steel. Each pass over skin and hair creates micro-abrasions on the edge. Over time, that edge drags rather than cuts, causing irritation, nicks, and ingrown hairs.

The solution is simple: change the blade before it becomes a problem.

How long does a blade last?

A useful working range:

• 5–7 shaves for most shavers
• 3–5 shaves if you have coarser hair or a heavier beard
• Up to 10 shaves if you have finer hair and a careful, light technique

Platinum-coated blades hold their edge longer than uncoated alternatives. Short strokes, light pressure, rinsing after each pass: all extend blade life considerably.

Signs it is time to change

Trust the feeling over the number:

• Tugging or pulling instead of a clean glide
• Nicks or cuts where there were none before
• More irritation or redness after shaving than usual
• A blade that feels like it is working harder

If any of these appear, change the blade. Pushing a dull blade further is the single most common cause of razor burn.

How many blades per month?

A rough guide by shaving frequency:

• Daily: 4–5 blades per month
• 4–5 times a week: 2–3 blades per month
• Twice a week: 1–2 blades per month

A 20-blade pack covers a daily shaver for around four months. At 10–16p per shave, the economics hold up well over time. Stock up on safety razor blades in packs of 5 to 50.

Getting more from each blade

• Rinse and dry the blade after each shave; moisture causes rust
• Store it away from the shower if you can
• Use short, light strokes; let the weight of the razor do the work