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Best Razors For Acne-Prone Skin

If you’re looking to prevent acne after shaving, using the right razor is an absolute must. While the act of shaving itself doesn’t cause acne, the wrong razor can aggravate current blemishes and irritate the skin, and may even cause breakouts if not used correctly. 

With this in mind, choosing the proper razor is key for maintaining a calm and clear complexion, especially if you shave on a regular basis. Below, we’re going to dive into my top recommendations for the best razors for acne-prone skin. 

What Type of Razor is Best for Acne-Prone Skin

When it comes to acneic skin, I recommend using cartridge razors. These types of razors have a swiveling head that moves with the angles of your face, which makes it far less likely to accidentally nick your skin or an active blemish. Many also have strips infused with lubricating and soothing ingredients, which can help reduce any irritation.

Since you need to change the cartridge regularly, it ensures you aren’t spreading any pore-clogging debris or bacteria to the skin from previous shaves. Of course, this is only true if you’re actually switching out the cartridge on a regular basis (after every five to seven shaves). You’ll also need to thoroughly clean your razor between shaves for the best results. 

Some cartridge razors are better than others when it comes to shaving acne-prone skin, so there are a few things to keep in mind. I suggest aiming for razors (whether cartridge or not) that have three or less blades. Razors with more blades cut closer to the skin, which can cause more irritation – especially if you’re currently breaking out. These types of razors also have a higher risk of causing razor bumps. 

It’s also best to look for cartridge razors that have skin guards that protect against irritation. Cartridge razors that are specifically made for sensitive skin are usually good options for men with acne, since they’re gentler on the skin. 

Below, I have two cartridge razor recommendations, as well as other types of razors that are suitable for skin prone to breakouts. 

The Best Razors for Acne-Prone Skin Summary

BestRazors for Acne
OverallGillette Mach3
On a BudgetBIC Sensitive Single Blade Shaver
Electric RazorPanasonic Arc5 Electric Razor for Men
Disposable RazorBIC Sensitive 2
Straight RazorNaked Armor Solomon 7/8″ Straight Razor
Cartridge RazorSchick Hydro Slim Head Sensitive Razor

Best Overall:
Gillette – Mach3

The Gillette Mach3 Razor is perfectly made for sensitive and acne-prone skin. This razor features a comforting lubrication strip, and three blades that offer a close shave without causing any irritation.

GoodGlow Score

4.6 /5 5/5 Product Rating
shave

Irritation-Free Shave

Offers a close shave without aggravating the skin

Three Blades

Three Blades

The blades offer a close shave while still being safe for acneic skin

minus

Lubrication Strip

The strip supports the skin and ensures the razor glides smoothly

guard

Microfin Skin Guard

The skin guard gently pulls on the skin to allow for a smooth shave

As stated, cartridge razors are generally my recommendation as the best types of razors for acne-prone skin. The Gillette Mach3 is my top overall pick. It’s created with three high-quality, super strong blades that are made to stay sharp longer. This means you don’t need to worry about dull blades causing irritation or ingrown hairs. 

The blades used are the company’s DuraComfort blades, which feature an open-blade architecture. This blade style makes rinsing out dead skin cells, excess shaving cream, and other debris between each shave a breeze. This is an absolute must for acneic skin-friendly razors, as you don’t want to spread pore-clogging debris around your face.  

A lubcriction strip also ensures the razor glides smoothly, and adds further anti-irritation and anti-redness benefits. This strip eventually fades to white, which signals that it’s time to switch out your blades. The razor also has a microfin skin guard that lightly stretches and smooths out the skin to allow for the best shave. 

Gillette Mach3 Pros:

  • Lubrication strip comforts and protects the skin. 
  • Easy to clean, which means a lower possibility of spreading pore-clogging debris.
  • Three blades, which deliver a close shave without causing irritation. 

Gillette Mach3 Cons:

  • Lightweight handle feels a bit cheaper.

Best On a Budget:
BIC – Sensitive Single Blade Shaver

This disposable razor from BIC is well-suited for those looking for an affordable and gentle razor. The single blade offers a quality, close shave without aggravating the skin.

GoodGlow Score

4.6 /5 5/5 Product Rating

Affordable

Low price that’s great for those on a budget

single blade

Single Blade

The one blade offers a gentle shave

clean blade

Easy to Clean

Since there’s just one blade, no need to worry about debris getting stuck in the razor

Sensitive

Sensitive Skin-Friendly

This gentle razor was specifically made with sensitive skin in mind

If you’re trying to get that smooth, irritation-free shave without spending a ton of money I recommend the BIC Sensitive Single Blade Shaver. Single blades are great for acne-prone complexions, because they don’t get quite as close to the skin as multiple blade razors do. This means they are gentler on the skin. They’re also super easy to clean (no need to worry about gunk getting stuck between blades), so there’s less of a concern around spreading pore-clogging debris. 

Since this specific razor is made with sensitive skin in mind, it’s particularly well-suited for those looking to take a super gentle approach to shaving. In addition to the single blade, the razor has a slim handle that’s easy to hold. Each disposable razor also comes with a cover you can snap on, which makes them great for travel. 

Compared to the Gillette Mach3 (and the other recommendations below), the BIC Sensitive Single Blade Shaver isn’t going to give as close of a shave, since it only has the one blade. However, for the price, it offers great results, and it’s an excellent option for men prone to blemishes. 

BIC Sensitive Single Blade Shaver Pros:

  • Single blade that’s gentle on the skin.
  • Affordable. 

BIC Sensitive Single Blade Shaver Cons:

  • Not going to give as close of a shave as other options on the list.

Best Electric Razor:
Panasonic – Arc5 Electric Razor for Men

For acne-prone men looking for an electric razor, this Panasonic razor is one of the best options. It’s expertly designed with a sensor system and high-quality blades that ensure the skin isn’t irritated during the shaving process.

GoodGlow Score

4.5 /5 4.5/5 Product Rating
electric-shaver

Stainless Steel Blades

The blades are hypoallergenic, which ensures they’re safe for even the most sensitive skin

sensor

Smart Sensors

Sensors detect hair density to control the motor speed, ensuring the shaving process doesn’t aggravate the skin

shower

Water Safe

The electric razor is made to be safe for use in the shower

rotating

Pivoting Head

The razor easily follows contours to allow for a close and safe shave

I’ll start off by saying that electric razors should be used with caution if you have sensitive, blemish-prone skin. Generally, I try to guide men with acne towards non-electric alternatives instead. However, if you’re dead set on using one, the Panasonic Arc5 Electric Razor for Men is your best bet. While it’s certainly not the cheapest option on the market, it’s thoughtfully made to give a close shave that doesn’t aggravate the skin. 

This Panasonic electric razor has five hypoallergenic stainless steel blades. While many electric razors work slightly under the skin to remove hair, this one works on the surface of the skin. This ultimately means it gives a gentler, irritation-free shave. 

It also has an advanced sensor system that detects hair thickness, and then uses that info to adjust the motor speed of the razor. This is particularly ideal for sensitive and acne-prone skin types, because it stops the razor from using an excess of power on an area that doesn’t need it. This means it’s not going to irritate the skin. 

What’s also great about this razor is the built-in trimmer, as well as the pivoting head, which closely follows the contours of the face to give a great shave. I also love the cleaning and charging station, which automatically cleans the razor. The charge hold is also excellent. The cordless razor can provide 40 minutes of power on a single charge.

Panasonic Arc5 Electric Razor for Men Pros:

  • Hypoallergenic stainless steel blades are safe for even sensitive skin.
  • Sensor system ensures the motor speed isn’t causing skin irritation.
  • Built-in trimmer allows for easy detailing of mustaches, sideburns, and beards. 

Panasonic Arc5 Electric Razor for Men Cons:

  • Pricey, but should last for a long time. 

Best Disposable Razor:
BIC – Sensitive 2

If you prefer to use disposable razors, the BIC Sensitive 2 is an excellent option. Two blades provide a clean shave, while a lubricating strip ensures the skin is left without any irritation.

GoodGlow Score

4.4 /5 4.5/5 Product Rating
Three Blades

Two Blades

The two blades closely shave the skin without causing irritation

Budget-Friendly

Offers a great shave at a reasonable price

Sensitive

Good for Sensitive Skin

This razor is made to meet the needs of easily irritated skin

clean blade

Easy to Clean

Since it has fewer blades, it’s easy to clean

The BIC Sensitive 2 is my all-time favorite when it comes to a budget-friendly disposable razor. It’s a bit more expensive compared to the BIC Sensitive Single Blade Shaver (the other disposable BIC razor recommended above), but it has a few extra key features that the other option is missing. 

This BIC razor has two blades, which allow for a close shave with little risk of irritation. While the shave won’t be quite as close as razors with more blades, it is still able to offer a smooth shave while being gentle on the skin. Since there are only two blades, it’s a relatively easy razor to clean. 

It also has a pivoting head, which ensures you’re able to reach every contour of the face for an easy shave. The pivoting head paired with the easy-grip razor handle makes shaving a breeze. 

What takes this razor to the next level – especially for acneic and sensitive skin types – is the wide lubricating strip. This strip is infused with soothing and moisturizing aloe vera and vitamin E. It allows the razor to easily glide across the skin, and also works to combat any skin aggravation. 

BIC Sensitive 2 Pros:

  • The two blades offer a smooth shave without causing irritation. 
  • A lubricating strip calms the skin and helps the razor glide more smoothly. 
  • Affordable. 

BIC Sensitive 2 Cons:

  • Not going to give as close as a shave as some other options on the list. 

Best Straight Razor:
Naked Armor – Solomon 7/8″ Straight Razor

This Naked Armor straight razor is the best of the best. The blade is made with top quality Japanese steel, which offers a super smooth shave.

GoodGlow Score

4.1 /5 4.5/5 Product Rating
razor-blade

Quality Blade

Blade is crafted with super hard Japanese steel that’s made to stay sharp

clean blade

Easy to Clean

With just one blade, cleaning the razor is a breeze

floor

Hardwood Handle

The sleek handle is easy to hold and stylish

rotating

Long Lasting

This straight razor will last for years

Straight razors are great for skin prone to acne and irritation, so if you feel confident using one, it can be an excellent route to take. Of course, the key to getting a clean, gentle shave is using a high-quality straight razor. I recommend the Naked Armor Solomon 7/8″ Straight Razor. It’s one of the pricier options on the list (along with the Panasonic Arc5 Electric Razor), but it’s going to last you a long time. 

This straight razor (along with the other straight razors Naked Armor offers) is crafted with some of the best quality steel available. The blade is made of imported Japanese steel, which has an incredibly high hardness rating. It’s made to stay sharp with proper maintenance, so you can use it for years. 

Since there aren’t multiple blades for grime to build up in, this straight razor is also super easy to clean, making it a very hygienic and acneic skin-friendly option. Bonus: with the smooth algum wood handle, it looks pretty sleek. 

Naked Armor Solomon 7/8″ Straight Razor Pros:

  • Uses the highest quality Japanese steel with a super high hardness rating. 
  • Easy to clean. 
  • Long lasting with proper maintenance. 

Naked Armor Solomon 7/8″ Straight Razor Cons:

  • Pricey.

Best Cartridge Razor:
Schick – Hydro Slim Head Sensitive Razor

This Schick razor was specifically made to be gentle enough for sensitive complexions, so it works well for acne-prone skin. This three-blade razor features gel pools that calm and hydrate the skin for a comfortable shave.

GoodGlow Score

4.4 /5 4.5/5 Product Rating
safety-razor

Narrow Cartridge

The slim cartridge is great for shaving areas of the face that are tricky to reach

minus

Skin-Supporting Gel Pools

Gel pools infused with aloe and pro-vitamin B5 calm and moisturize the skin

Three Blades

Three Blades

The multi-blade razor gets a close shave that doesn’t negatively affect the skin

Affordable

This great quality razor is available at a budget-friendly price

While I’ve already recommended another cartridge razor above, another option that I’ve had great results with is the Schick Hydro Slim Head Sensitive Razor. This dermatologist-tested razor is made with three blades that provide a smooth shave without aggravation. The narrow cartridge makes it a particularly ideal option for shaving harder-to-reach places, such as the sideburns or under the nose. 

A highlight of the razor is the seven gel pools. These are enriched with aloe and pro-vitamin B5, which soothe and hydrate the complexion to leave the skin feeling soft and comfortable after shaving. These gel pools also ensure there isn’t too much friction during the shaving process. Additionally, each blade has a skin guard, which allows the razor to give that smooth but gentle shave.  

Schick Hydro Slim Head Sensitive Razor Pros:

  • Aloe and pro-vitamin B5-infused gel comforts and hydrates the skin.
  • Three blades provide a close shave.
  • Narrow cartridge is ideal for getting to hard-to-reach places. 

Schick Hydro Slim Head Sensitive Razor Cons:

  • None. 

The Best Shaving Cream for Acne-Prone Skin

What’s equally as important is using a shaving cream that is safe for acne-prone skin. Many shaving creams available on the market contain comedogenic (pore-clogging) ingredients. In order to keep your skin clear, grooming with a suitable shaving cream for your skin type is an absolute must.

Keep an eye out for gentle formulas made with soothing and non-irritating ingredients. Some ingredients to look for include glycerin, aloe vera, and allantoin. Some shaving creams are also made with acne-fighting ingredients, such as tea tree oil and salicylic acid. These are excellent options.

There are also some ingredients I highly recommend avoiding. Coconut oil is commonly found in shaving creams, but is unfortunately very comedogenic. Pass on shaving creams that are formulated with it. I also suggest steering clear of dyes, fragrances, eucalyptus oil, and menthol, all of which can be irritating. 

Need more help? Ask our team!

I’ve helped over 2,500 people clear their acne naturally. If you cannot easily find an answer to your question on the website, please reach out to me by email ([email protected]) or send me a message on Instagram or Twitter. I will reply within 24 hours.

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sam wood is GoodGlow's Chief Editor
Analyzed by Sam Wood
Hi I’m Sam Wood. I’m the chief editor, lead acne expert, and health coach behind GoodGlow. I’m also an author of one of the top selling acne books on Amazon, a husband, father of two, and a pretty good cook!

I’m so glad you found GoodGlow and hope the information I have spent the last 10 years cultivating will help you clear your skin and improve your overall health.

I began experiencing acne breakotus as a sophomore in high school, but unlike most of my friends, my acne actually got worse as I got into my 20s. I exercised regularly, ate healthy (or so I thought) and spent hundreds of dollars a month on high end skincare products and supplements to help clear my skin. Despite these measures my acne breakouts and scarring only got worse as the years wore on.

This greatly wore on my self confidence and mental health. Simple things like taking pictures or going out with a large group made me feel self conscious. So I avoided these situations whenever I could help it.

As a last ditch effort I decided to try an extremely restrictive diet recommended by a close friend with an autoimmune disease. After following this diet for about two months my skin started to clear for the first time in over 8 years. The good news is that this restrictive diet is not actually necessary for 99% of people to permanently clear their skin, and over the course of a few months I was able to add back about 90% of my “normal diet”.

After clearing my skin I spent the next 4 years self experimenting on myself with different diets, supplements, skincare products to try and find a pattern for what was triggering my acne breakouts. I even tried different meditation, ice baths, and accupuncture to try and isolate the root cause of the breakouts.

In the end I realized that an extremely restrictive diet was not necessary for clear skin. The most important thing to do is to avoid inflammatory foods in your diet. Some common examples of this are fried foods, alcohol, sugar, and dairy.

Most impoirtantly I stopped reading trendy websites for skincare advice and began reading medical journals authored by dermatologists and nutritionists. Although the information in the articles was great the information was not easily understandable to most readers (including me). I spent hours dissecting individual posts and looking up terms I did not understand. Over the next 6 months I gradually began to understand these journals and started self experiemting some of the research on myself.

After experiencing quite a bit of success personally, I started sharing my research on forums and with close friends struggling with acne. When I shared the research it was in easy to understand, plain English. Everyone I talked to loved what I had to say and kept asking more and more questions. So I decided to start a blog so I could just send someone a link when they asked a question instead of rewriting something I had sent 100 times before 😅

While the same directional principles apply to everyone, acne is very personal and should be treated on an individual basis. That’s ultimately why I created GoodGlow. To help everyone reverse engineer the root cause of their acne and clear their skin permanently.

To date I’ve helped over 2,500 people clear their skin using a natural, holistic approach. If you are unable to find an answer to your question in any of the articles my team has written please reach out and I will do my best to guide you to the proper information and resources so you can make a thoughtful, informed decision. Read more of Sam's articles.

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