Best women’s electric shavers

If you want silky, smooth legs and underarms – and you’re tired of the nicks and razor burn often caused by manual razors – it’s time to consider an electric shaver. These handy devices make shaving a breeze, and they’re much easier on your skin than most disposable and reusable razors.

Choosing the right women’s electric shaver can be a bit hairy, however. With so many brands and models to choose from, how do you know which electric shaver is right for you? Luckily, we’re here to help.

Why use an electric razor?

Perhaps you’re debating whether to make the switch from a disposable or reusable shaver to an electric shaver. Below, we outline the pros and cons of each shaving method.

Disposable or reusable razors

These render a close shave, and they’re typically quite inexpensive. There’s no need to charge them before use, and they are convenient for travel or your gym bag.

On the downside, you’ll need to toss your disposable razors (or replace the blades on a reusable shaver) after every few uses. This adds up to considerable expense and waste over a year.

You’ll also need to use shaving foam or gel, and you’re far likelier to get razor burn, bumps, nicks, and cuts from a manual shaver than you are from an electric shaver.

Electric shavers

These don’t render quite as close a shave as manual razors do, but they are far less likely to irritate or damage your skin, and they do provide a fairly close shave.

While the initial purchase price is higher, you save money overall compared to disposable or reusable blades.

You won’t need to bother with shaving cream or gel; you don’t even need to wet your legs or get into the shower to defuzz. And if you shave frequently, you’ll appreciate the quick, easy use of an electric razor. On the downside, you do have to charge the razor or change its batteries as needed.

The two basic types of electric razors

Two basic types of electric razors exist on the market: foil and rotary. This applies to both women’s and men’s electric razors.

Foil shavers

Most women’s electric shavers are foil shavers. These devices have several rotating blades underneath a thin strip of metal mesh. As you glide the razor over your legs or other body parts, hairs poke through the mesh and are snipped away.

Foil-type shavers give a reasonably close shave.
 

Rotary shavers

These are the most common type designed for men, although there are also women’s models. They have three to five round “heads” covering rotating blades. The heads have some flexibility, allowing them to smoothly glide over your body’s contours.

Rotary-style electric razors don’t generally shave quite as closely as foil shavers, however.

Electric shaver features to consider

Some common features you’ll encounter as you shop for an electric shaver include the following.

Low-battery warning

A low-battery warning lets you know when it’s time to recharge your shaver.

Automatic charge shut-off

This feature shuts the charge off once the battery reaches full power, thus preventing damage to the battery.

Pop-up trimmer

This small attachment makes it easy to shave delicate or curved areas such as the bikini line or underarms.

Ergonomic design

Your shaver should be comfortable to hold and easy to use, even when it’s wet. An ergonomic design conforms to both your hand and your body, letting the razor glide easily without tiring your hand or wrist.

Battery life

No one wants to be halfway through a shave when the battery runs out. Razors with longer battery life give you enough time to finish your shaving routine.

Cleaning brush

This handy tool makes it easy to clean the head and blades of your razor.

Case

If you want to travel with your electric shaver, you’ll appreciate a carrying case.