Properties and features of a rotary electric razor

1. How do rotary and foil shavers work?
2. Main Differences
3. Advantages and disadvantages of a rotary razor
4. Pros and cons of grid devices
5. How to choose a rotary razor?
6. Features of choosing a foil razor
7. How to avoid irritation
8. Rotary or mesh?

A clean-shaven man looks attractive and elegant. But in order for shaving to turn into an unpleasant necessity and give a decent result, you need to choose the right device. Electric razors are superior to machines in terms of safety, lack of risk of cuts and time savings, which is why many representatives of the stronger sex choose these devices.

But every man needs to decide for himself which electric razor is better, rotary or foil, and here it’s more difficult to make a choice. First, it’s worth understanding the features and advantages of both options.

How do rotary and foil shavers work?

The design of a rotary razor includes blades that rotate around their axis and remove hairs. There can be 2 or 3 heads, the latter option is preferable in terms of shaving speed. Another part of the device is a static grid.

When you turn on such a razor, the blades begin to rotate, due to which the hairs caught between the foil and the blade are shaved. During shaving, the heads press down on the skin and cut the hair clean.

In a foil razor, hair removal occurs through contact with vibrating blades, which are separated from the skin by a special mesh. Accordingly, there is no contact between the knives and the skin. The blades move back and forth, but do not cut hairs at the very base, but a little higher, so they can leave slightly noticeable stubble.

Men's electric foil razor

We continue to further understand the question of which razor is better - rotary or mesh. Next on the agenda is a foil type electric razor. This is a mechanism in which the main role is played by vibrating compact blades hidden by a special thin mesh.

While the blades carefully but seamlessly cut off regrown hairs, the mesh reliably protects your skin from unwanted damage. What is the difference between a rotary razor and a foil razor? With the last option you will never cut yourself!

Main Differences

In addition to differences in design, rotary and foil shavers differ in some other parameters:

• When using a foil razor, the movements should be longitudinal, against the growth of the bristles, as is the case with a machine. A rotary razor requires circular movements, taking into account the direction of hair growth;
• Rotary devices are equipped with floating heads that precisely follow the contours of the face, improving the quality of shaving;
• In a foil razor, the service life of the shaving head is slightly shorter;
• The foil device has a more compact head, so it is convenient for those with a mustache or beard who require the most precise shaving;
• A razor with a rotor covers larger areas and is therefore considered more effective;
• The mesh provides better grip on long hairs, while the rotary mesh copes better with coarse and thick hair.

Another difference between a rotary razor and a foil razor is that the former is more productive and allows you to reduce shaving time. But it has one peculiarity: when treating a large area of ​​the face, the blades pass over some areas several times, and this can cause irritation on sensitive skin. On the other hand, the mesh element can also injure the upper layer of the epidermis if you press the razor too hard.

In terms of reliability, it is difficult to say which razor is better, rotary or foil. In all modern models, the shaving unit can be easily removed and replaced if necessary. The only caveat is that the mesh is a little easier to damage than the round heads of a rotary razor. The need to replace the nozzle is indicated by the appearance of pain when shaving. This happens because the hair is not cut, but is pulled in and pulled out. Sometimes cleaning the device can solve this problem.

Rotary shavers

The operating principle of rotary razors, as the name suggests, is rotation. One, two or (usually) three rotating heads consist of a stationary screen and a rotating knife. Actually, from the moment Nadya gave Hippolyte a razor with floating blades, little has changed in the design of this type of razor. But what has improved has made shaving quite comfortable.

The heads are now made movable so that they better follow the contour of the face. In addition, rotary devices are almost always equipped with a trimmer, which significantly expands its capabilities, for example, making it possible to shape a beard and mustache. The serious disadvantages of this type of razor include the high cost of replacement blades, which can cost up to 80% of the cost of the machine itself.

Another disadvantage of these devices is the lack of versatility: for a hairdresser, such a razor can do too little. The scope of its use is exclusively at home.

Advantages

The attachments follow the contours of the face Reliability of attachments that are almost impossible to spoil High shaving speed It is almost impossible to cut yourself with a razor

Flaws

The attachments interact harshly with the skin, which may become irritated after shaving. Lack of versatility. Expensiveness of replacement attachments.
A symptom that it is time to replace the attachment of a rotary razor is poor shaving quality and painful sensations - when the hair is not cut, but is pulled inside and torn out. Sometimes a clogged razor can give the same result. In this case, it must be cleaned. To do this, brush the outside of the nozzle with a special brush (usually included). Then you should remove the attachments and shake out the cut hairs from the razor. Next, you can disassemble the case to clean it too. Sometimes the purchase even includes a special liquid or aerosol for cleaning razor knives.

Today, Philips is developing good rotary electric shavers. For example, the Philips S9151 Series 9000 model offers both dry and wet shaving, long battery life (up to 50 minutes), and a docking station for cleaning and charging.

Advantages and disadvantages of a rotary razor

The main advantages of rotary-type razors are:

• Quiet operation;
• High shaving quality;
• Long head life;
• Reliability of nozzles;
• Floating head design that follows the contour of the face;
• Quick shave;
• No discomfort due to the uniform distribution of pressure from the razor heads over the surface of the skin.

Most rotary shavers support wet shaving and shave cleaner using special products. Among the disadvantages of such devices are a rather harsh interaction with the skin, which can cause irritation, and the high price of replaceable attachments.

Advantages and disadvantages of foil and rotary razors

In order to determine which type of razor is better, it is necessary to compare their characteristics. It will be more convenient to enter all the data into a table.

Pros and cons of grid devices

Foil shaving devices have their advantages:

• Compact and ergonomic;
• Gentle on the skin to protect it from irritation;
• Simplicity and low cost of replacing the mesh;
• A close shave, even if the hair is quite long;
• Possibility of safe shaving in the presence of scars and moles on the face;
• High precision shaving.

But during shaving, the mesh in some models heats up, which does not contribute to comfort. In addition, it is easy to wrinkle if you press the razor a little harder. If the mesh is deformed, the knife block must be replaced. True, some models feature recessed grids that are reliably protected from damage and make shaving more enjoyable.

Features of rotary electric shavers

A rotary electric razor is equipped with 1-3 shaving heads (discs) with holes under which the knives are located. The principle of operation of the device involves cutting off hairs penetrating through the holes of the disks with rotating knives. Rotary razors are usually equipped with a special trimmer that provides trimming of mustaches or beards. The rotary unit copes better with uneven stubble and provides a closer shave than a foil unit.

Note! It is advisable to give preference to devices equipped with several shaving units. According to experts, they provide greater shaving efficiency than single-block units.

Design of a rotary electric razor:

• plastic case;
• rotary knives;
• mesh disk;
• battery;
• electric motor

Which razor is better: rotary or foil? Rotary electric shavers have the following advantages:

• repetition of facial contours;
• high shaving speed;
• ensuring a clean shave;
• self-sharpening function for knives;
• Effective removal of even hard stubble;
• Possibility of battery operation;
• presence of a self-cleaning system;
• knife cooling function.

But certain disadvantages of rotary devices should be noted:

• harsh interaction with the skin;
• rotary models are not suitable for hairdressing operations;
• high price.

How to choose a rotary razor?

When choosing a rotary shaving device, you should pay attention to its functionality. For example, the Beurer HR 8000 model is not only a razor, but also a beard and sideburns styler, as well as a contour trimmer. This design will allow you to maintain the shape of your sideburns, trim your beard yourself, and the rising trimmer makes it possible to trim your mustache.

This model has other features:

• High precision shaving thanks to three spring-loaded cutting heads with double ring;
• LED indicator showing the battery charge level, charging while charging, locking on;
• Removable cutting head unit, which is easy to clean under running water;
• Waterproof;
• Powerful lithium battery for 60 minutes of shaving and fast charging;
• Possibility of connecting to the network.

For convenience, a protective cap and a special brush are provided, which can be used to quickly clean the device, as well as a storage bag.

Comparison of parameters of rotary and foil electric shavers

Which razors are better: rotary or foil? Let's look at the main parameters of each razor:

Purpose. When choosing an electric razor model, consider your skin type:

• Rough skin. It is recommended to give preference to rotary units that effectively eliminate thick stubble. They are able to completely shave off stubble due to the presence of round and oblong holes.
• Sensitive skin. It is advisable to select mesh models that eliminate stubble without causing pain. The fine-mesh structure allows not only to remove stubble, but also to protect the skin from direct contact with the blade.

Size and comfort . What is the difference between a foil razor and a rotary razor? Razors can vary in size and ease of use:

• Size . Foil models of electric shavers are valued by many due to the fact that they are smaller in size and weight compared to rotary devices.
• Ease of use. Rotary models are more profitable because they make it much easier to shave a mustache and beard. Their advantages also include low noise. Mesh devices are quite easy to maintain, since replacing the mesh does not take much time.

Note! When using razors, certain features should be taken into account:

• Mesh. Before using a foil shaver, it is recommended to check the condition of the foils, since the presence of cracks can have a very negative impact on the quality of shaving.
• Rotary. When shaving, do not press the razor on the skin. This can cause pain and even skin breakdown.

Shaving efficiency . Which razor is better to choose: rotary or foil? Rotary and mesh models remove stubble from the skin in different ways:

• Rotary. Rotary models with several blades allow you to quickly remove hair from the skin. However, this may cause skin irritation.
• Mesh. They are unable to completely remove stubble in one pass, so you have to run the razor over one area several times. And this can also cause redness of the skin.

Rotary electric shavers can remove hair faster

Spent time . In this regard, rotary electric shavers have an obvious advantage. Their heads rotate at high speed and remove stubble very quickly. But mesh models do not remove hairs immediately, which slows down the shaving process.

Note! Modern electric shavers are usually equipped with removable mini-batteries that can be charged in 5-15 minutes. Such batteries are very useful for country trips.

Safety . The safety of the shaving process is one of the important criteria for choosing electric shavers:

• Rotary. Rational selection of nozzles ensures high safety of rotary models. But if the edge of the blade becomes dull, it can cause pain.
• Mesh. During the shaving process, you should optimally select the angle of the electric razor. Otherwise, small cuts to the skin may occur.

Lifetime. Which is better: a foil or rotary electric razor? Electric shavers can have different service life:

• Rotary. The nozzles are highly resistant to mechanical damage. They only need to be replaced if there is significant wear. This is especially true for the most modern models of attachments that have a titanium coating.
• Mesh. Cutting meshes are much less stable. Even with light loads, dents may form, which impairs the quality of the shave.

Availability of additional functions . When choosing a rotary or foil electric razor, it is recommended to pay attention to their functionality:

• Self-cleaning function. Advanced models of razors are equipped with a reservoir filled with a disinfectant solution. Thanks to this function, the electric razor is cleaned, disinfected and dried.
• Wet shaving. Using models that only have a dry shaving function can lead to skin irritation. But wet shaving, which can use various gels and ointments, is very useful for men with sensitive skin. Contamination of the electric razor can be removed by rinsing under running water and drying.
• LCD display. Available in premium models. It not only displays the battery charge, but also reminds you when you need to change the blades or urgently clean them.
• Automatic humidification. Innovative models are equipped with a reservoir with a dispenser. Before use, you need to fill the container with a moisturizing gel applied to the skin during shaving.

Availability of display

Power type

Wet shaving

For information! Some electric shavers may be equipped with USB connectors, color indicators, additional stands for use in the bathroom, a fast charging function, and a compartment for cut hairs.

• Trimmer. Its presence is important for men with thick hair. Trimmers vary in design features. According to one classification, they are either floating or stationary. Floating models are preferable as they allow you to reach hard-to-reach places. Trimmers are also built-in (located between the cutting elements) and retractable (pull out at the right time).
• Number of shaving heads. This indicator determines the effectiveness of shaving. Most electric razor models have multiple shaving attachments. There are also non-standard devices with a large number of heads.
• Type of food. Foil and rotary razors are powered by mains or battery. Most devices are designed to work from the network. Corded electric shavers are inexpensive, but they vary depending on the length of the cord. Recently, battery-powered devices that are characterized by mobility and ease of use have become increasingly in demand.

Features of choosing a foil razor

Some foil shavers also come with a trimmer for precision beard trimming. This feature is available in the Beurer HR 7000 model. Thanks to the high-quality triple cutting system, the device shaves more accurately, becomes comfortable to use, and the LED indication shows when the device needs charging or is in lock mode.

This razor charges quickly, works for a long time thanks to a powerful battery, and if necessary, it can be connected to the mains. It is convenient to store the device or take it with you on trips in a special bag that comes included.

How to choose the right electric razor

Rotary or mesh?

First you need to decide what method of work you need. If you are growing a gorgeous beard or are going to tidy up your mustache by getting a fashionable haircut, then, of course, give your preference to the rotary option.

If you prefer a super-smooth shave, without irritation and cuts, then in this case we choose an electric razor with a foil. A foil electric shaver is perfect for sensitive skin prone to irritation.

Shaving heads and their quantity

As you probably understand, the high quality of shaving will directly depend on the number of shaving heads. Which razor is better - rotary or foil - in this case? You can find the right number of shaving heads from different manufacturers of different types of electric shavers. Experts advise taking a razor that has three heads. Of course, the more there are, the more expensive the razor will cost. But believe me, it’s worth paying extra for a high-quality, easy, comfortable shave with perfect results.

Now about the mobility of the razor heads. There are options with floating and fixed shaving systems. Of course, if you want the razor to reach hard-to-reach places on your face, it is better to choose a floating mechanism. It provides a better shave.

Dry and wet shaving

Initially, it was intended that the electric razor would be used exclusively for shaving without the use of products or water. For example, the dry method is very convenient if you are traveling on a train or are in a hotel where your favorite shaving products are not available.

But many men prefer to use shaving foam or want to shave in the shower. In this case, manufacturers offer models that can shave you in the bath, in the shower, and with the addition of shaving foam. The best electric shavers (expensive ones) are even equipped with special reservoirs from which aftershave lotion appears at the right time.

Power supply

Very often, buyers wonder which razor is better, rotary or mesh, when it comes to power sources. In both cases there is an alternative: using an electrical cord or batteries. The only difference will be how long the mechanisms can operate without additional recharging. The longer the razor's independent operation time, the more expensive it will be.

Trimmer

A very important addition is the trimmer. If, say, you prefer to wear a stylish beard or mustache, then you simply cannot do without such a device. Don't be afraid to shell out money for comfort and stylish results.

The retractable trimmer system in the razor allows you to control the length of the bristles and the quality of the shave. You can shave the length of stubble you need in a matter of minutes. Having paid once for a good electric razor, you will no longer have to spend money on hairdressers and mustache trimmers.

How to avoid irritation

No matter how modern and high-quality the razor is, without following certain rules it will most likely not be possible to avoid irritation. There is nothing complicated about proper shaving:

• It is better to start with shaving, and only then take a shower - after water procedures, the stubble is less susceptible to blades;
• Those with dry skin should not treat it with cologne before shaving;
• The razor should be held perpendicular to the hairs, and with your hand you should slightly pull the skin to lift them;
• The direction of movement should correspond to the type of razor;
• Do not press the device too tightly to your face and treat the same area of ​​skin for a long time;
• It is advisable to clean the shaving head after each use; a special brush will come in handy here.

The ideal end to your morning shaving routine is to treat your skin with a lotion selected according to your type.

What are rotary electric shavers

A rotary electric razor is a device designed for reusable shaving, in which round-shaped blades are used as a working tool, protecting human skin with a metal mesh. The principle of operation of a rotary-type electric razor is to drive an eccentric gear by a motor, which transmits torque to the blades, which, as a result, move relative to the stationary mesh of the head. The hair present on the surface of the skin after contact with the head falls into its openings, where it is cut off.

Recommended reading: choose an electric razor for sensitive skin.

Shaving head foil and knives

In order to achieve a better result, the attachment of rotary electric shavers is equipped with two, three, four or even five heads. The more heads on a rotary razor, the faster your skin becomes smooth when using it. In order for the razor heads to come into contact with the skin more closely, following the contours of the face, they are made floating. Modern devices, unlike outdated models, can eliminate even the toughest stubble in one “pass,” which in turn reduces the risk of irritation. And if previously rotary razors were absolutely not suitable for use by people with very sensitive skin, with the beginning of the use of various new technologies, this device has become more versatile. But just as before, in order for the shaving result to completely satisfy the user, it is necessary not only to constantly monitor its cleanliness, but also to periodically use lubricant.

Head razor: compare the characteristics of different models, read our article.

Floating heads

Foil shaver

A foil electric razor is optimal for men with sensitive skin, since its fine-mesh mesh not only effectively shave off stubble, but also reliably protects the skin from direct contact with the knife.

This electric razor is more popular because it not only provides a great shave, but is also very compact. The principle of its operation is based on cutting the bristles using a moving knife and a special mesh.

The blades are located on a movable base, due to the additional vibration of which the hairs are shaved more thoroughly and efficiently. The number of grids can be up to four, thereby improving the quality of shaving. The design of a foil electric razor includes a body, a steel foil, a movable blade, an electric motor and a battery.

If foil models are more suitable for you, check out our rating of the best foil electric shavers.

Advantages

• Can shave stubble in hard-to-reach places.
• Compact and mobile.
• It has a trimmer, which makes it possible to trim your beard and mustache.
• Has an option for automatic mesh cleaning.
• Does not irritate even particularly sensitive and inflammation-prone skin.
• The built-in battery ensures the operation of the electrical device even in the absence of a power supply.
• Light weight guarantees maximum convenience during transportation.
• Wet shaving is available for the foil shaver.

Flaws

• Cannot follow facial contours.
• A brittle mesh increases the risk of skin damage.
• The working area of ​​such a razor is relatively small, and therefore, to completely remove hair, you will need to pass the razor over the skin multiple times.

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