I know firsthand how challenging it can be for black men to find an electric shaver that not only provides a close shave but also takes care of their unique skin needs.
For black men, the coarser and curlier nature of our facial hair means that we’re more prone to ingrown hairs and skin irritation. That’s why it’s crucial to choose an electric shaver that can cater to these needs. While there are many cheap electric shavers out there, they can often leave your skin feeling dry and chafed.
That’s why it’s important to invest in a quality electric shaver that’s specifically designed for black men’s skin.
After extensive research and testing, I’ve narrowed down the top five electric shavers for black men. These electric shavers are specifically designed to provide a smooth and comfortable shave for African-American men. But before we get into that, let’s take a look at some of the basic features that you should consider when choosing an electric shaver.
When it comes to choosing an electric shaver, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Individuals have different skin types, and what may be effective for one may not be suitable for another.
However, based on my personal experience and research, I’ve compiled a list of the top-rated electric shavers for black men.
By choosing one of these electric shavers, you can rest assured that you’re getting a product that’s been specifically designed to cater to your skin and hair type. While also saving you time in your daily routine.
What are the most common problems when it comes to shaving for black men?
As a black man, I’m all too familiar with the struggles of shaving. It’s not uncommon for men of all ethnicities to experience some unpleasant side effects from shaving, but African-American men seem to be affected to a higher degree.
Our curly, wiry, coarse facial hair is notorious for causing ingrown hairs, razor bumps, and skin irritation.
When hair is cut close to the skin, it can curl back into the skin and become ingrown, leading to a painful razor bumps. The problem is exacerbated by the fact that a typical shaver cuts the hair at an angle, leaving a sharp stump that makes it even easier for the hair to penetrate back into the skin as it grows.
This can trigger an immune response in the form of an inflammatory process, resulting in even more irritation and discomfort.
What’s worse is that in some cases, the hair can get covered by skin tissue and can’t emerge at the surface, leading to a similar outcome. These razor bumps can break out all over the face and neck, making shaving a painful and frustrating experience. Shaving before they heal can even cause scarring.
If you’re experiencing severe razor bumps or scarring? You should see a dermatologist. But there are also steps you can take to prevent razor bumps in the first place. Such as using a quality electric shaver designed for black men’s skin and hair. You should avoid shaving too closely or too often and use a moisturizing aftershave to soothe your skin.
Shaving can be a challenging experience for black men due to our unique skin and hair needs. But with the right tools and techniques, we can achieve a smooth, irritation-free shave and feel confident in our appearance.
How Does An Electric Shaver Works?
When it comes to electric shavers, there are two basic styles available: rotary vs foil shavers. As someone who has tried both, I can tell you that they work on the same principle but have significantly different designs.
In my experience, I’ve found that rotary shavers feature multiple circular foils on top, usually three, that have thin metal screens with small holes that your beard hairs poke through.
The blades in these shavers oscillate against the inside of the foil, which cuts off any hairs that poke through. On the other hand, straight foil shavers feature long, flat foils, usually with two of them, and sometimes with a more powerful trimmer nestled in between.
The blades under the foils move side-to-side, rather than oscillating, but otherwise, they work similarly to a rotary shaver.
One thing I’ve noticed is that flat electric shavers are easier to maintain, which is why most top-of-the-line electric shavers have flat foils. While rotary shavers’ oscillating motion makes them more prone to snagging, I prefer flat shavers for their ease of maintenance and overall shaving experience.
What are the qualities that an electric shaver for black beards should possess?
As a black man, finding the best electric razor for my coarse and curly hair can be a daunting task. The challenge lies in balancing the need for a powerful shaver to cut through my thick hair while also being gentle enough to avoid causing irritation and ingrown hairs on my sensitive skin.
These were the top two criteria I considered when compiling a list of the electric shavers for black men.
In addition to being powerful and gentle, a waterproof electric shaver is also crucial for achieving a comfortable and efficient shave.
Using shaving cream or shaving in the shower can help to soften the hair and make it more pliable, resulting in a smoother shave.
With these factors in mind, I highly recommend investing in an electric shaver that meets all of these criteria to achieve the best results for black men’s facial hair.
What’s The Best Electric Shaver For Black Men?
1. Braun Series 9 9390cc
In my experience, I have found the Braun Series 9 9390cc to be the best electric shaver for black men with bald heads.
This shaver is an excellent choice for those with sensitive skin as it reduces the risk of ingrown hair and irritation. While it may lack some of the bells and whistles of its cousin, the Series 9 9340s, the 9390cc still provides a great cut with its extra-thin head and powerful motor.
This electric shaver is perfect for frequent travelers since it comes with a travel case and charging cord. However, it does require manual cleaning, which is made easy by the included cleaning brush.
The integrated trimmer is a handy feature, and its ability to pop up or down with the press of a button is incredibly convenient.
One downside is that the 9390cc is not fully waterproof, which means it cannot be used in the shower.
Additionally, it does not come with a charging station, and you’ll have to purchase one separately if you want the convenience of an automatic cleaning system.
In conclusion, if you are a black man with a bald head looking for a reliable and efficient electric shaver, the Braun Series 9 9390cc is an excellent choice. While it may not have all the features of its more expensive counterpart, it still provides a great shave with minimal irritation and is ideal for those who travel frequently. You can check out my Series 9 9370cc shaver reviews.
2. Braun Series 8 8457cc
My best electric shaver for black men is Series 8. In my opinion, the Braun Series 8 8457cc is a great option for those looking for a mid-range electric shaver for black men.
Although it’s not as good as the now-phased-out Series 7, it still provides excellent performance, being very gentle on the skin. The shaving head is almost identical to the Series 7, making it a suitable option for black men.
You can save money by getting a solo Series 8 model like the 8417s and cleaning it manually. However, I find the cleaning station to be a useful accessory, and the replacement shaving head for the Series 8 is less expensive than the Series 9.
The Series 8 is suitable for wet/dry use, and all models provide the same excellent shaving performance. If you’re on a budget, this shaver is a good choice as it’s significantly cheaper than the Series 9.
The cleaning station included with the Series 8 has three cleaning modes and an active drying system that helps the cleaning fluid evaporate faster from the shaving head, making it more convenient to use.
Overall, the Braun Series 8 8457cc is a solid mid-range pick for 2023, but if you’re looking for an even more affordable option, keep reading.
3. Wahl Professional 5-Star Shaver
I’ve had the chance to try out the Wahl Professional 5-Star Shaver, and it’s definitely one of the good shavers for black men on the market.
Wahl has a long-standing reputation for quality shavers, and this one is specifically designed for men who want to keep their heads shaved cleanly.
One of the things that stood out to me was how gentle the foils are on the skin. Wahl has made them hypoallergenic, which makes shaving with this device a breeze, without worrying about skin irritation. While Wahl claims that it can be used for both beard and head, I suggest sticking to the head since that’s what it’s optimized for.
In my experience, using it for the beard doesn’t produce the best results.
The battery life of the Wahl Professional 5-Star Shaver is impressive, with a 60-minute run time on a single charge. This gives you ample time to get your head looking smooth and clean. The foil is effective, but it can be a bit fragile, and the material may break easily.
However, you can replace it without spending a fortune.
If you’re someone who shaves daily, this electric shaver is perfect for you. It may struggle a bit with longer hair, but for everyday use, it’s a great option.
Overall, I highly recommend the Wahl Professional 5-Star Shaver for black men who want a clean and easy shave.
4. Braun Series 7 790cc
When it comes to finding the top rated electric shaver for black men, I highly recommend the Braun Series 7 790cc. I have tried several electric shavers, but this one stands out from the rest.
It used to be Braun’s top-of-the-line shaver until Series 9 came out, but it still has exceptional features.
The stainless steel skin of the Braun Series 7 is easy to clean and shave, making it perfect for those with long beards.
This shaver is also ideal for black men with sensitive skin, and it comes with a cleaning station, one cleaning cartridge, and a travel case.
One of the features that I love about this shaver is the built-in edging trimmer. With the push of a button, you can easily switch between shaving and trimming without adjusting your grip.
The shaver has five-speed settings, allowing you to avoid snags on delicate areas like your upper lip and run it at full speed on your cheeks. You can also use it wet or dry, so you can shave in the shower if you prefer.
My impression:
While the Series 7 has a larger head, I found it to be an extremely smooth shaver.
After a few shaves, I got the hang of it, and it produces very few vibrations, making it feel and sound like a beard trimmer. Maintenance is also effortless. All you have to do is place it in the charging station and press the Clean button.
The cleaning cycle takes about an hour, and a single cleaning cartridge is good for about a month of daily shaves.
What could be better?
The only downside is that the cleaning cartridges are expensive. If you use them every day for six months, you’ll have spent more on cleaning cartridges than on the shaver itself. But, you can always clean it manually if you’re traveling or want to save money on cleaning cartridges.
5. Braun Series 3 ProSkin 3040s
When it comes to finding the best black men’s electric shaver on a budget, the Braun Series 3 ProSkin line has a great option, the 3040s. As an entry-level range of electric shavers, it’s a cost-effective alternative to the higher-end Series 7, 8, or 9, without sacrificing too much on performance.
I have found that while it struggles a bit with longer and flatter hairs, it can still get the job done if used daily. For those with lighter beards, it may even be possible to use them less frequently.
One of the best things about the 3040s Shaver for black men is that it’s completely waterproof. So you can use it in the shower or rinse it under the tap for easy cleaning. It’s also comfortable to use and won’t irritate your skin.
The replacement shaving head (32b) is inexpensive and only needs to be replaced once every 18 months.
Braun Series 3 Replacement Head (32B/32S)
Overall, the Braun Series 3 ProSkin 3040s is a solid option for those on a tight budget. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of higher-end models, it still gets the job done without breaking the bank.
Maintaining Your Electric Shaver
Maintaining your electric shaver is essential for optimal performance and longevity. Here are a few basic tips to keep in mind:
- 1. Clean your electric shaver after every use to avoid buildup and ensure a close and comfortable shave. While cleaning stations can be convenient, you can also clean your shaver manually. First, remove the shaver head and rinse it under warm water to get rid of any stray hairs. Then, apply a small amount of soap to the blades and run them under water for a few seconds. Leave the head to the side to dry for an hour before putting it back together.
- 2. Regularly replace your blades and foils every few months, or sooner if your shaver starts to snag. Rusty blades and foils can lead to hair snags and cuts, so it’s crucial to change them out when they start to show signs of wear and tear.
- 3. While oiling your blades is optional, it can give you a smoother cut and help delay rust. However, newer shavers generally don’t come with blade oil, so it’s not necessary to oil them unless specified in the instructions.
By following these tips, you can keep your electric shaver in top condition and ensure a close, comfortable shave every time.
Best Way For An African American Man To Shave
When it comes to shaving, it’s important to take care and be gentle, especially if you have sensitive skin. Shaving in the direction of hair growth is recommended for black men with coarse and curly hair to avoid ingrown hairs.
Before you start shaving, prepare your skin by splashing some warm water on your hair to soften it, then exfoliate to remove dirt and oil. Using a pre-shave oil can also help lubricate your skin and replace any dirty oil you removed.
Next, lather up using shaving cream with a brush to lift the hair so that the blade can glide smoothly over your skin. When it’s time to shave, use your favorite razor and shave in one direction.
Once you’re done, put some beard oil or aftershave to soothe your skin and reduce irritation. Finally, try to let your beard grow a little bit before your next shave to reduce the risk of getting ingrown hairs.
What should be considered when selecting a shaver for black men?
Finding the best electric shaver can be quite challenging. It’s essential to consider the features of the electric shaver to avoid skin irritation, ingrown hair, and bumps.
Here are some factors to look for when choosing the shaver for black men.
Ease of Use
Black men have coarse and curly facial hair, which makes it crucial to choose an electric shaver that’s easy to use and won’t hurt the skin. Unlike manual razors, an electric shaver reduces the possibility of skin irritation, leading to ingrown hair and bumps.
Shaving Element
The number of shaving elements is an important factor to consider when choosing an electric razor. The more shaving elements, the smoother your shave. However, each element must be sharp enough to prevent disastrous results.
The blade quality, technology, and overall design are more important than the shaving element. Some electric shavers use rotary discs, while others use a foil design. You must consider your skin sensitivity and facial hair type before making a choice.
Grooming Function
Facial hair is trendy for black men, and the best electric shavers are designed with a grooming device. These grooming tools may come as a separate attachment or pop out from the trimmer’s back.
However, if you don’t need a groomer alongside your electric razor, you can go for another product to save costs.
Charging Capacity
Battery life is crucial because no black man wants to spend long hours waiting for his electric shaver to charge fully. The best electric shavers require a few minutes to charge sufficiently for a complete shave.
Products like the Phillips Norelco S9000 charge for an hour and can provide up to two hours of usage.
The Andis Electric Shaver provides up to 80 minutes of use on a single charge.
In conclusion, the best electric shaver for black men is one that’s easy to use, has sharp blades, and provides a decent charging capacity. Don’t forget to consider your skin sensitivity and facial hair type when making a choice.
Weight
The weight of the shaver is crucial. A heavy electric shaver can be challenging to handle, so it’s important to find a lightweight one that’s easy to use and can get hairs that are hard to reach.
Rotary Vs. Foil
There are two primary types of electric shavers for black men: foil and rotary. Foil shavers work best for shorter beards and daily use, while rotary shavers are better for longer stubble and less frequent use.
Manual Cleaner Vs Charging Stations
Finally, cleaning your electric shaver is essential to prolong its service life and optimize performance. You can choose an electric shaver with an in-built cleaning feature that charges the device as it cleans itself. So, you can opt for a product that is waterproof and can be cleaned manually.
Whatever your preference, taking care of your electric shaver will ensure the best shave every time.
Best Effective Techniques for Black Men Using an Electric Shaver
Discover these valuable insights and techniques specifically tailored for Black men to enhance their shaving experience with an electric razor.
Take note of these tips and elevate your grooming routine to achieve a smooth and comfortable shave.
Let’s Prep Your Skin:
Before diving into the shaving process, it’s crucial to properly prepare your skin. You must begin by washing your face with warm water and a gentle cleanser. This simple step helps to soften your beard and open up your pores. It results in a closer and more comfortable shave.
Embrace Pre-Shave Products:
I’ve discovered that using a pre-shave product, such as a nourishing oil or soothing balm, works wonders for the skin. These products not only moisturize but also create a protective barrier between the skin and the razor.
This significantly reduces the chances of irritation and those dreaded razor burns.
Going with the Grain:
When it comes to shaving with an electric razor, I’ve learned the importance of going with the grain of my beard.
Rather than going against the natural growth pattern, I carefully follow the direction of my hair. This mindful technique helps prevent irritation and the pesky occurrence of ingrown hairs.
By incorporating these practices into my shaving routine, I’ve experienced a noticeable improvement in the comfort and effectiveness of my shaves.
Remember, finding what works best for you may involve some trial and error. So feel free to adjust these techniques to suit your unique needs.
Opt for Precise Strokes:
When it comes to my electric razor, I’ve discovered that using short, precise strokes yields the best results. Rather than rushing and covering too much area at once, I take my time and focus on each section. This technique ensures a close, even shave without any missed spots.
Rinse and Refresh:
During the shaving process, I make it a point to rinse my electric razor frequently. This step helps to remove any accumulated hair, shaving cream, or gel, keeping the blades clean and efficient.
Regular rinsing ensures a smoother shaving experience and maintains the razor’s effectiveness.
Post-Shave Pampering:
Once I’ve completed my shaving routine, I give my skin the care it deserves. I apply a nourishing post-shave product, such as a moisturizer or aftershave, to soothe and hydrate my skin. This final touch provides a refreshing and revitalizing sensation, leaving my skin feeling great after the shave.
By implementing these additional steps into my shaving regimen, I’ve achieved improved outcomes and a more satisfying experience overall.
Remember, personal preferences may vary, so feel free to customize these techniques to suit your own needs and preferences.
Final Thoughts
As a person who has tried various electric shavers, I can tell you that finding the best electric shaver for black men is essential for achieving a smooth, irritation-free shave.
When using an electric shaver, it is important to use smooth, up-and-down motions to avoid snagging hair or nicking your skin. Unlike manual razors, electric shavers require a few passes over each area to catch every hair.
Higher-end electric shavers may only require 3-4 passes. But most models will require 5-6 passes to achieve a perfectly smooth face.
It is important to remember that everyone is different, and your face and lifestyle will have unique needs. Therefore, finding the perfect electric shaver for you may require some practice and experimentation.
Nonetheless, I hope that this article has been helpful in your search for a black men’s electric shaver. Even if you haven’t found the perfect shaver for you, I trust that you’ve learned a few things that will make your search easier.
If you have any other questions or would like to share your experience, please leave a comment below. Your feedback is always appreciated.
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