How does a rotary electric shaver differ from a foil shaver and which one is better?

When deciding to purchase a new gadget for removing facial hair, many men wonder which electric razor is better - a rotary or a foil. At first glance, it seems that there is not much difference between shaving. But in fact, not only the smoothness of the skin, but also its condition, the absence of irritation and injury, depends on the correct choice of such a device. Therefore, it is important to understand how both types of razors differ, what their advantages and disadvantages are.

Rotary electric razor device

The working part of a rotary electric razor consists of several heads. Each of them contains hidden blades that rotate in a circle. The head is covered with a fixed metal mesh. During shaving, hair falls into the mesh cell and is cut off by the blade. The heads themselves in modern models are made movable. Thanks to this, they follow the contours of the face, which allows you to cut hairs as close to the skin as possible.

The heads of cheap rotary razors have one or two blades. This negatively affects the quality of the shave.More expensive models are equipped with three or more knives in each head. They provide maximum smoothness to the skin. The number of heads themselves may also vary. Most often there are from 1 to 3. Devices with 4 to 5 heads are also on sale today.

Important! Since rotary shavers consist of a large number of rotating parts, the mechanism requires regular cleaning and lubrication. Otherwise it will quickly fail.

The device of a foil electric razor

The working unit of a foil electric razor consists of a block of movable blades covered with a stationary metal mesh. The knives perform reciprocating movements at high speed. One block can have from 1 to 3 knives. The number of blocks in one razor can also vary. In cheap models - 1-2, in expensive ones - 3-4. The greater the number of knives in the device, the cleaner the skin turns out to be in the end.

During shaving, hair falls into the opening of the mesh and is then cut off with knives. In modern models, the working unit is movable. Thanks to this, the hairs are cut at different angles, which ensures a smooth shave. All meshes in such a device have different cell sizes. Therefore, hair of any thickness and density can be easily cut.

The main differences between the two types of razors

The main difference between a rotary razor and a foil razor is their design. In the first, the knives perform a rotational movement, and in the second, a reciprocating movement. Because of this, shaving techniques also differ. Rotary devices need to be moved over the face in a circular motion. Operations when working with a mesh-type device should resemble using a conventional razor. Straight-line smooth movements are made against the direction of hair growth.

The time it takes to achieve completely smooth skin also varies. Rotary devices do their job faster. A foil razor will have to be passed over the same area of ​​the face several times, therefore, the entire procedure will take much more time.

Let's compare the main characteristics of the two types of razors

To make it easier to choose a razor that is suitable for daily use, the table compares their important characteristics.

Most modern models of both types are now available with a battery. Wireless use increases the safety of devices.Inexpensive devices will need to be charged more often. And expensive models are equipped with a powerful battery, the charge of which is enough for many uses.

Advantages and disadvantages of a rotary razor

Assessing all the features of a rotary razor, we can highlight the following advantages:

1. Floating heads follow the contours of the face, allowing you to achieve the best possible shaving quality.
2. The razor is durable and almost impossible to damage. With proper care and timely replacement of blades, it will last for many years.
3. Allows you to cut hairs of any thickness and length.
4. The knives self-sharpen during operation, and therefore they will not have to be changed often.
5. High shaving speed.

The disadvantages of such models include the high likelihood of irritation on the face after use. The device is in too harsh contact with the skin. The mandatory use of soothing aftershave lotions will be required. A disadvantage is also the high cost of components for devices of this type.

Important! If the quality of work of the rotary razor has decreased, or painful sensations on the skin have appeared during the procedure, then it is time to replace the knives in the device.

Advantages and disadvantages of foil razors

Foil razors are small in size and easy to hold in your hand. Among their other advantages are:

1. Such a device is capable of shaving hairs even in hard-to-reach places, for example, under the nose or around the mustache.
2. Failed grids can be easily replaced with new ones, and the components for most models are inexpensive.
3. The device removes even fairly long hairs.
4. Suitable for people with any skin type, does not cause irritation.

Among the disadvantages of grid devices is their unreliability.Meshes are easily damaged by strong pressure on the skin or impact. The disadvantage was the low shaving speed; you will have to go over the same area of ​​the face more than once.

Important! Using a razor with a damaged foil can cause skin injury. Therefore, the device must be carefully inspected before each use.

So which razor is better to choose?

Based on the characteristics of razors, as well as reviews from men about them, we can conclude that people with thick, coarse stubble are better off giving preference to rotary models. With their help, you will be able to completely remove all facial hair. But you need to be prepared for dryness and irritation.

Mesh devices are suitable for people with sensitive skin. They do not injure the epidermis. But the procedure with such a razor will take much longer. But shaving will be delicate. The skin will remain smooth, without redness and peeling.

Those who wear a mustache should also choose a foil razor. A rotary device will not be able to carefully bypass this area. And the mesh will help to trim the edges of the mustache and remove all unnecessary hairs.

Men with soft stubble that grows rather slowly should purchase a rotary model. It will allow you not to spend a lot of time shaving. In just a few movements you can become the owner of perfectly smooth skin.

Features of caring for electric shavers

In order for an electric razor to perform its functions well, it is important to properly care for it. This is the only way she can demonstrate all her advantages. The principles of care for rotary and mesh type devices are the same. The following activities will be required:

1. Regular cleaning.After each use, you need to remove any hairs stuck in the cutting part. Most often, a special brush is included with the device for this purpose. Expensive models have a docking station. With its help, you can not only charge the device’s battery, but also clean the working part of the razor.
2. Timely replacement of blades. Dull knives do not cut hair well. Their use may cause skin cuts. Therefore, at the first sign of a problem, the blades need to be replaced with new ones. Replacement is carried out independently according to the instructions that come with the device.
3. Lubrication. Rotary razors especially need it. Lubrication is done using machine oil. A couple of drops are applied to the working part of the device, which has been previously cleaned of contaminants. After this, the razor is turned on so that the oil spreads to all parts of the mechanism. After a minute, the device can be turned off.

Electric shavers are sensitive to mechanical damage. It is not advisable to drop them on the floor. A strong impact may damage the integrity of the product body. Dust and moisture will begin to get inside, which will quickly damage the device.

Razors that do not have a wet shaving function should be kept away from water. Moisture may short out the electrical wiring inside the device. Gadgets should also not be stored near heating appliances. This may cause the battery to explode.

Question answer

What additional functions can be equipped with both types of electric shavers?

Both types of devices are often complemented by a trimmer. With its help, you can give the ideal shape to your mustache, the border around your temples or your beard. In mesh models, the trimmer is often built directly into the body. To turn it on, just press a special button.The blades will change their position, and you can start working. Separate attachments are available for rotary devices. They are installed in place of the shaving head.

Is it worth overpaying for an expensive electric razor or can you get by with a cheap one?

For those who decide to use an electric razor for the first time, it is better to choose a model in the mid-price segment. It will be of fairly high quality and will last a long time. If the presence of additional functions and the duration of operation without recharging are important, then it is worth purchasing expensive models. Cheap devices often break down and are unable to provide a perfectly smooth shave. This applies to both rotary and mesh devices. Preference should be given to devices with an LCD display. It will show you when it’s time to recharge the gadget.

Which brands of electric shavers are best to buy?

The most popular electric shavers today are from Panasonic, Philips and Braun. These manufacturers offer a wide range of models from different price ranges. The devices are durable, high quality and do an excellent job.

An electric razor greatly simplifies the daily shaving process. It allows you to safely and quickly achieve maximum smoothness of the skin. And the choice of a specific type of device depends on the type of hair and skin, the needs of the man and his personal preferences.