Types of wilkinson blades
Wilkinson blade is a popular name in the razor industry. These are double-edged razor blades for shaving. They offer a clean and smooth shave and are compatible with various safety and straight razors. Users can get an excellent value-for-money experience each time they shave. Some of the types of Wilkinson blades include the following:
- Classic blades: These are simple, affordable, and easy-to-use blade packs. They feature a plastic casing with a yellow and blue color theme. Each pack contains 5 blades. Many people grew up using these blades.
- Premium blades: These blades offer a close and comfortable shave. They have 5 flexible blades that adapt to the contours of the face. They come with a rich aloe vera and vitamin E strip for extra comfort. The blades are encased in a premium blue and silver-colored plastic housing. Each package contains 4 cartridges and 1 handle.
- Advanced blades: These blades provide up to 12 shaves per cartridge. They have 6 precision-engineered blades with microfine combs. The combs smoothly guide the hairs to the blades for a clean cut. The advanced blade also has an aloe vera strip, a flexi-hinge, and an ergonomic handle. Each pack contains 4 cartridges and 1 handle.
- Men's safety razor blades: These are double-edged stainless steel blades. They come wrapped in wax paper and stored in a tin case. Each tin case has 10 to 25 blades. The blades are sharp and precise, giving a close and comfortable shave. Users can adjust the razor head to achieve different angles and smoothness levels.
- Women's safety razor blades: These are also double-edged stainless steel blades. They are sharp and durable, providing a clean and smooth shave. The blades come in pretty pink and gold colors. They are packaged with 10 blades in a tin case.
- Guitar-shaped blades: These are the most common blade type. They are compatible with all safety razors. The blades have a slight curve and a central notch that fits the razor handle. Users can achieve a close and comfortable shave by adjusting the razor head to different angles.
- Single-edged blades: These blades only have a sharp edge on one side. They are suitable for use in razors specifically designed for single-edged blades. The razors are ideal for shaving hard-to-reach areas of the face and body.
How to choose wilkinson blades
- Price: Blades that come in packs of 5 to 10 are usually more economical than those that cost single units. Think of the price per shave when buying blades. Disposable razors may seem cheaper at first but can add up quickly if multiple ones are used each time they run out of blades. Generic brand blades are often significantly cheaper than name brand ones like Gillette but may not provide as many shaves before becoming dull.
- Shaving Style: The number of shaves needed before a razor is replaced depends on the person's shaving style. Those with coarse stubble may need to replace them more frequently. Those who shave their entire face may be able to get more uses out of a single blade. Consider how many disposables would need to be bought each week compared to the cost of purchasing a reusable razor.
- Blade Features: Blades with extra features like moisturizing strips or flexible heads may cost more but could provide a closer, more comfortable shave. Generic brands may not have these added benefits. Read reviews to see if they provide as many shaves before dulling.
- Quality: The quality of the blade is an important factor to consider when making a purchase. Generic brand blades may not last as long as name brand ones like Gillette, but they can provide enough shaves for those who don't mind the difference.
- Brand: Generic blades are often cheaper but may not provide as many shaves before getting dull. The brand of the blade can impact its price and quality. Name brands like Gillette are known for their superior quality, while generic options are more economical.
- Packaging: The packaging of the blades can also affect the price. Blades that come in fancy packaging may cost more, but they are easier to store and access. Consider the convenience of the packaging when making a purchase.
How to use, install & product safety
Wilkinson sword blades are easy to use. This is a simple guide on using them.
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How to Use
Prepare the hair to be shaved. This can be done by washing the hair with water to soften it. The shaving area should also be damp to make the shaving easy. Use shaving cream or gel to lubricate the hair. This will provide an even smoother shave and reduce the risk of cuts and nicks.
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Grip the Razor Correctly
Hold the razor with a steady grip. Ensure the blade is at the right angle against the skin. This is about 30 degrees. Allow the weight of the razor to do the work. Move it across the skin with short, even strokes. Do not apply excessive pressure to avoid cuts.
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Shave with Confidence
Begin the shave in the direction the hair grows. This reduces the chances of ingrown hairs. Use minimal passes and short strokes. Rinse the blade frequently under running water to prevent clogging. If a second pass is needed, do it in the opposite direction of the hair growth.
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Post-Shave Care
After shaving, rinse the area with cold water to tighten the pores. Gently pat it dry with a clean towel. Apply alcohol-free aftershave or moisturizer to soothe the skin. Store the razor in a dry place to prevent rusting and maintain its sharpness for the next use.
Product Safety
Wilkinson blades are designed for safety. Follow the tips below to use the blade safely.
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Use a Compatible Razor
Ensure the razor handle is in good working condition. It should also be free from damage. A damaged razor handle can cause a misalignment of the blade. This increases the risk of cuts and injuries.
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Keep Proper Angle and Pressure
A wedge razor should be kept at a 30-degree angle against the skin. Do not apply excessive pressure while shaving. It may cause cuts and nicks.
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Shave with Clean Blades
Always use clean, sharp blades for shaving. Dull blades can cause irritation and increase the risk of cuts. Rinse the blade under running water before each stroke to remove hair and debris.
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Store Blades Safely
Always return the protective cap to the blade after use. Avoid touching the blade with bare hands. Store it in a dry place to prevent rusting.
Functions, features, and designs of wilkinson blades
The design, features, and functions of the Wilkinson sword blades make them a preferred choice for many shaving enthusiasts. Below are some of them.
Functions
Typically, Wilkinson sword razor blades are used in double-edged safety razors
and straight razors. They provide a close and comfortable shave while reducing the risk of razor burn and ingrown hairs. They can also be used in re-usable cartridge razors to provide a close and comfortable shave.
Features and designs
- Sharpness: Wilkinson blades are known for their sharpness, which allows for a close and comfortable shave. Sharpness is a crucial factor in reducing shaving time and preventing skin irritation.
- Manufacturing material: Wilkinson sword razor blades are commonly made from stainless steel, which makes them rust-resistant and durable. The quality of the steel used in manufacturing directly affects the blade's sharpness and longevity.
- Coating: Some Wilikinson sword blades have a protective or lubricating coating that enhances their performance and protects them from rusting. Common types of coating are chromium, which makes the blade more durable and sharper, and PTFE, which reduces friction and provides a smoother shave.
- Edge design: Wilkinson blades have a double edge with a flat surface, which provides sharpness on both sides. Some blades have a rounded or safety edge that lowers the risk of cuts and is used by beginners or people with sensitive skin.
- Thickness and rigidity: Blades with more thickness offer more stability during shaving, while those with less thickness are more flexible and give a closer shave.
- Tabs: Most Wilkinson blades have safety tabs that protect the skin from the sharp edges of the blade. Some tabs have lubrication strips that give extra protection to the skin and reduce friction during shaving.
- Packaging: Blades are packaged in a plastic or metal case that protects them from damage and makes them safe to handle. Some packaging has a dispenser that allows easy access to the blades and offers a safe way to dispose of used blades.
Q&A
Q1: What is the average lifespan of a Wilkinson blade?
A1: The average lifespan of a Wilkingson blade is between 5-10 shaves. Factors like hair thickness, blade quality, and shaving technique can affect the number of uses a blade gives.
Q2: Can Wilkinson blades fit other razors?
A2: Some blades are designed to work with different safety razors and straight razor systems. Users should check compatibility between the blade and razor model. In most cases, users can interchange blades among different razors.
Q3: Are expensive blades better?
A3: More costly blades may use superior materials and manufacturing processes that could improve sharpness and comfort compared to cheaper options. However, “expensive” is relative. There are Wilkinson blades that are deemed inexpensive but still provide quality shave. It is important to try different blades to find one that fits the shaving style and budget.
Q4: How should Wilkinson blades be stored?
A4: Blades should be kept in a dry area where moisture will not rust them. A blade bank or designated storage container is ideal. Avoid touching the edge with fingers, as oils can diminish sharpness. Proper storage maintains blade longevity and safety.
Q5: Can Wilkinson blades be recycled?
A5: Many municipalities do not accept metal razor blades for curbside recycling due to safety concerns for workers. However, several companies offer blade recycling programs where used blades can be sent for proper processing. Some blade manufacturers provide specific information on recycling used blades.