There are a lot of ways to tackle body hair if you choose to, but razors remain the most familiar option. The best razors for women make it easy to get a clean, close shave every time—no more nicking yourself before heading out the door or struggling with dull blades that barely get the job done.
Our Top Picks:
Unlike the days when you had to grab the first pink disposable razor on the shelf, a wave of new brands and refreshed classics has made the shopping experience feel more thoughtful and tailored to your specific needs. Still, there are a few factors worth considering: skin sensitivity, hair type, the area you’re shaving, your goals, skill level (weighted razors and at-home laser removal devices aren’t for everyone), cost, and even environmental impact.
So whether you’re tackling your bikini line, doing a full-body routine, or simply trying to avoid razor burn once and for all, we asked the experts and rounded up the best razors worth adding to your rotation.
Athena Club Women’s Razor Shave Kit
- Why We Love It: DTC darling Athena Club not only looks good in your shower but also features a well-designed handle with solid grip control, helping to prevent slips and accidental nicks. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Pooja Rambhia explains that the five-blade system, paired with a moisturizing serum, can be effective for achieving smooth results, though she primarily recommends it for patients without sensitive skin conditions. Each kit also includes a sticky razor holder for your shower, so you’ll never have to wonder where you misplaced your razor.
- Razor Type: Handheld razor
- Blades: 5
- Refills: 6
- Additional Features: Hyaluronic acid, avocado oil, and shea butter infused blades, shower holder
Gillette Venus ComfortGlide
- Why We Love It: If you’re looking for something simple, this refillable razor comes with four refills for under $20, making it quite the deal. Each head features three blades for a clean shave every time, plus flexible soap bars that are white tea scented, so you don’t even need shaving cream. The rounded, pivoting head makes it easy to maneuver, especially when you’re trying to reach those tricky spots with one leg propped on the edge of the bathtub.
- Razor Type: Handheld razor
- Blades: 3
- Refills: 4
- Additional Features: Gel bars, pivoting head
Leaf Shave Razor
- Why We Love It: If sustainability is one of your core values, this eco-friendly razor pairs the benefits of a safety razor with the flexibility of a cartridge. While it’s on the pricier side, esthetician Evelyn Ramírez says, “The adjustable blades give you control over your shave, and it’s ideal for those wanting to ditch plastic without compromising performance.”
- Razor Type: Stainless steel handheld razor
- Blades: Can load 1-3
- Refills: 10 blades
- Additional Features: Customizable, pivoting razor head
Gillette Venus Intimate Grooming Razors
- Why We Love It: Gillette might have been a staple in your youth, but the brand has continued to innovate and improve its razors over the years. This particular model is designed with delicate areas in mind, especially the bikini line. It features a precision trimmer head and an anti-slip grip that make it easy to maneuver, while the gentle blades help minimize nicks and irritation in sensitive zones. Built-in shave gel bars add a layer of convenience and provide solid lubrication to reduce friction-related irritation. Dr. Rambhia gives it her approval, noting, “The multiple blade design works well for most skin types.” However, she advises that those with very sensitive skin should monitor for any signs of increased irritation.
- Razor Type: Handheld bikini razor
- Blades: 2
- Refills: 2
- Additional Features: Detachable head, smaller precise blades
Schick Hydro Silk Ultra Sensitive Razor
- Why We Love It: If you find traditional razors incredibly irritating, this ultra-sensitive option was specifically designed for sensitive skin. It features hypoallergenic moisturizers and fewer potentially irritating ingredients. “The blade design aims to reduce tugging, making it a good option for patients prone to razor burn or those with conditions like rosacea affecting the shaving area,” explains Dr. Rambhia.
- Razor Type: Handheld razor
- Blades: 5
- Refills: 5
- Additional Features: Curve sensing blades, hydra-boost serum infused blades
Billie Malibu Razor Starter Kit
- Why We Love It: According to Dr. Rambhia, the Billie razor offers great value with its sturdy handle design and effective blade cartridges. There’s also a subscription option that helps ensure regular blade replacement, which is important for maintaining skin health, as she explains that dull blades are one of the leading causes of shaving-related skin issues. The razor comes in a variety of colorways and even features limited-edition launches like the glow-in-the-dark razor or the astrology kit.
- Razor Type: Handheld razor
- Blades: 5
- Refills: 5
- Additional Features: Magnetic holder, aloe-soap infused blades
Hanni The Weighted Razor Kit
- Why We Love It: Whether you’re new to weighted razors or a longtime fan, Dr. Rambhia explains that the weight distribution can provide better control and reduce the need for pressure, which helps prevent irritation. “However, the learning curve might be steeper for some patients, and I’d recommend starting with lighter pressure until comfortable with the weighted design,” she says. That said, if you’re up for the task, this one from Hanni is super durable with a chic design that’s long-lasting, under $50, and pairs well with the brand’s other products. It took me a few tries—and quite a few nicks—to get the hang of it, but once I figured it out (seriously, don’t apply any pressure), I really saw the appeal.
- Razor Type: Weighted metal razor
- Blades: 1
- Refills: 5
- Additional Features: Won’t rust, extra-long handle
Flamingo Razor
- Why We Love It: Flamingo has quickly earned a reputation as a solid razor, now considered on par with legacy brands and easy to find at most drugstores. Dr. Rambhia explains that its ergonomic handle offers good control, and the blade quality is generally reliable for routine use. It also features moisturizing strips with skin-conditioning ingredients that help maintain the skin barrier during shaving. As a bonus, it comes with an easy-to-attach shower holder.
- Razor Type: Handheld razor
- Blades: 5
- Refills: 4
- Additional Features: Comes with a shower holder, aloe and shea butter glide strips
Philips Beauty Lady Electric Shaver
Philips
Beauty Lady Electric Shaver
- Why We Love It: Sometimes you just need to bring out the big guns (a.k.a. electricity) when shaving larger areas or dealing with thicker, coarser hair. This electric shaver is perfect for quick, pain-free grooming and can be used both wet and dry. “It’s gentle on reactive skin and doesn’t cause the microtears or razor bumps that manual blades sometimes do,” says Ramírez. It’s also ideal for touch-ups or daily maintenance, especially for those prone to redness or ingrowns. The device comes with a few interchangeable heads, so there’s a bit of a learning curve, but once you figure out what works for you, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. Just don’t forget to charge it before hopping in the shower ahead of your big event.
- Razor Type: Electric razor
- Blades: 2 trimming cones, 1 trimmer head
- Refills: N/A
- Additional Features: For wet and dry use, anti slip grip, suitable for quick dry shaving
Oui The People Razor Sensitive Skin Razor
Oui The People
Razor Sensitive Skin Razor
- Why We Love It: If every step in your body care routine feels spa-worthy, you’ll likely want a razor that’s a bit more elevated than your average drugstore find. Ramírez recommends this rose gold option from Oui The People, calling it a “game changer for sensitive skin.” The reason? It’s a single-blade safety razor that delivers a close shave without triggering inflammation. “I love that it prioritizes skin health over gimmicky features,” she adds. One word of caution though—speaking from personal experience—weighted razors are already heavy, so there’s no need to apply pressure. Instead, hold the blade at a 30-degree angle and use short, quick strokes. Trust me, pressing down is a surefire way to make your bathroom look like a crime scene.
- Razor Type: Weighted handheld razor
- Blades: Single edge
- Refills: 10
- Additional Features: Cold-forged blades, made from stainless steel
Meridian The Trimmer Premium
- Why We Love It: Another easy-to-use body trimmer, Ramírez says, “I love this for body grooming.” She adds that it’s sleek, user-friendly, and safe enough for all zones, including the bikini area. “It trims hair to a clean length without tugging or pulling, reducing irritation and inflammation.” While it’s heavily marketed as a product for men, that’s purely a branding choice—it works just as well for women, especially on sensitive areas like the bikini line.
- Razor Type: Electric body hair trimmer
- Blades: 5 guards (0, 3, 6, 9, 12 mm)
- Refills: N/A
- Additional Features: Waterproof
Tweezerman Rose Gold Facial Razor
- Why We Love It: Dermaplaning at home can be tricky, but if you’re looking to remove peach fuzz or surface debris quickly, Ramírez says, “This is a go-to for dermaplaning at home.” While there are plenty of cheap, plastic, disposable options out there, we’re especially partial to this high-quality stainless steel pick from Tweezerman. It comes with three refill blades, and more can be repurchased when needed. They’re also great for travel since they’re lightweight, compact, and easy to pack. If you’re new to dermaplaning, it leaves skin feeling ultra-smooth, helps with product absorption, and can even improve how makeup sits on the skin. “Just be sure to follow with a calming serum to keep the skin barrier happy,” adds Ramírez.
- Razor Type: Facial razor
- Blades: 1
- Refills: 3
- Additional Features: Made from stainless steel
Everything You Need to Know
Dr. Rambhia explains that razors work by using a sharp blade to cut hair at the surface of the skin. “As the blade glides over the skin, it shears each hair strand cleanly, typically at a shallow angle, minimizing resistance and allowing for a close shave.” However, Ramírez adds that many modern razors use multiple blades to lift the hair before cutting, which can offer a closer shave but also increases the risk of irritation, especially if the skin is sensitive or the blade is dull.
What are the different types of razors?
Cartridge Razors: Cartridge razors are razors with replaceable, disposable blade cartridges attached to a reusable handle. They typically feature multiple blades, usually between three and five, set in a pivoting head with built-in moisture strips. According to Dr. Rambhia, they’re often the safest and most user-friendly option, as the design distributes pressure evenly and adapts to facial contours, reducing the risk of cuts. However, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Morayo Adisa notes that having too many blades can sometimes lead to skin irritation and ingrown hairs, particularly for those with sensitive skin.
Safety Razors: Safety razors use a single, double-edged blade with a protective guard to help reduce cuts. “They provide a close shave, easy maneuverability, and less risk of skin irritation, but they do require some user experience to avoid cuts,” explains Dr. Adisa.
Electric Razors: Dr. Adisa explains that these are battery-operated or plug-in electric devices with rotating or oscillating blades that offer a quick, convenient shave without the need for water or shaving cream. “They provide less of a close shave, which helps minimize the risk of ingrown hairs.” Dr. Rambhia adds that they’re especially ideal for patients with limited dexterity, those on blood thinners, or anyone prone to nicks and razor burn.
Straight Razors: “Straight razors, also known as cut-throat razors, are the traditional long, single-blade razors that fold into their handles,” explains Dr. Adisa. They provide a very close, precise shave but come with a higher risk of cuts. Their use requires significant technique and experience, and the blades need regular maintenance, including stropping and honing. For that reason, Dr. Adisa does not recommend them for most patients.
How to Use a Razor to Avoid Ingrown Hairs
Ramírez says that before bringing out the razor, it’s important to start with exfoliation to remove dead skin and lift trapped hairs. “Always shave on damp skin, ideally after a warm shower when pores are open,” she advises. From there, use a sharp blade, shave in the direction of hair growth, and never dry shave. Post-shave, she recommends applying a soothing, alcohol-free moisturizer or a fragrance-free serum with anti-inflammatory ingredients like TSC or niacinamide to calm the skin and prevent clogged follicles. Dr. Rambhia adds that to avoid irritation, dull blades should be replaced promptly, as they tend to tug and inflame hair follicles.
How many razor blades are best?
More isn’t always better. From a dermatological standpoint, Dr. Rambhia explains that two to three blades typically provide the optimal balance of closeness and skin safety. “More blades can increase irritation risk, especially for those with sensitive skin or conditions like pseudofolliculitis barbae.” However, she notes that patients with coarse, thick hair may benefit from four- or five-blade systems, as they can achieve smoother results with fewer passes. “If you have sensitive skin, a single- or double-blade razor may be gentler and reduce the likelihood of ingrown hairs,” adds Ramírez.
How to Choose the Best Razor for You
Dr. Rambhia says that the best razor really depends on your skin type, hair texture, and shaving habits. If you have sensitive skin or are prone to razor bumps, she recommends a single- or double-blade safety razor to help reduce irritation. For convenience and ease of use, cartridge razors with two to three blades are generally a safe choice. Those with coarse or thick hair may benefit from multi-blade systems for more efficient hair removal, while electric razors are ideal for dry shaving, sensitive skin, or anyone prone to nicks. “Always prioritize sharp blades and proper technique over blade count alone,” she advises, which is another way of saying, you cannot be using the same razor all year. And remember, proper prep and post-care matter just as much as the razor itself, so make sure you’re exfoliating beforehand, using shaving cream or gel during, and moisturizing after.
- Dr. Pooja Rambhia is a board-certified dermatologist in Greenwich, Connecticut and New York City.
- Dr. Morayo Adisa is double board-certified as a dermatologist and dermatopathologist, and serves as the Medical Director of Dermatology Physicians in South Carolina.
- Evelyn Ramirez is the founder and lead aesthetician at Evelyn Aesthetics in NYC.