Razor

A razor is a tool used for shaving or removing hair, typically by cutting hair at or near the skin's surface with a sharp blade. Razors come in several forms, including straight or cut-throat razors, safety razors with a protective guard, disposable razors, and electric razors that cut hair without a traditional blade in direct contact with the skin.

The term razor derives from the Latin rasum, meaning 'to shave'. Early razors used sharpened stones or metal blades. The straight razor dominated shaving from the 17th into the 19th century, with precision honing and strap-stropping. In the 20th century, safety razors and disposable blades became common, followed by modern electric and cartridge razors.

Types vary by blade mechanism. Straight razors require manual sharpening and stropping. Safety razors use replaceable blades and a guard to reduce skin contact. Electric razors employ rotating or oscillating blades powered by electricity, offering dry or wet shaving in some models. Cartridge razors combine multiple blades with lubricating strips and a pivoting head.

Construction and maintenance: Blades are typically steel, sometimes coated to reduce corrosion and improve edge retention. Straight razors require regular stropping and periodic honing; safety and cartridge razors involve blade replacement and routine cleaning. Proper drying after use helps prevent rust, and some models benefit from occasional lubrication of moving parts.

Safety and usage: Skin preparation with warm water softens hair and opens pores. For straight razors, hold at a shallow angle (about 15 to 30 degrees) and use light pressure to minimize cuts. Safety, cartridge, and electric razors reduce direct slicing contact, but blades should be replaced as recommended to maintain effectiveness and hygiene.

Razor design continues to balance closeness, safety, convenience, and cost, with ongoing developments in blade materials, coatings, and motor technology.