Electric Razors Are the Most Underrated Beauty Tool in My Shower Arsenal
The closest, most seamless shave.
With a million different choices in the hair removal category these days, I often find it a little trickier to decide which route I want to take. Whether I'm just looking for convenience or flirting with something longer-term, there are more options than ever. Some fall into the semi-permanent camp (hello, at-home laser devices), while others are as low-effort as reaching for one of the best electric razors. But I found that the best choice on the day-to-day was whatever fit into my routine and my tolerance level—which, spoiler, is low.
That's where electric razors come in. If you’ve been loyal to a drugstore razor forever, same. But I’ll say this: electric razors are wildly underrated. They’re not just for men’s faces, and they’re not some clunky device that'll just take up space on your vanity. Used properly, they can deliver an impressively close, irritation-free shave on legs, bikini lines, even underarms—without the nicks and bumps.
Most electric razors are battery-powered or rechargeable and rely on rotating or oscillating blades that cut hair without dragging directly across the skin. Translation: they’re fast, work on wet or dry skin, and tend to be far more forgiving if you’re sensitive or prone to ingrowns.
And no, this isn’t just my personal experience. I spoke with board-certified dermatologist Rachel Nazarian, MD, at Schweiger Dermatology Group, and Caitlin Orszulak, Senior Scientist, PG Grooming—the company behind well-known shaving brands like—to break down why electric razors deserve a spot in your rotation. Plus, they break down how to use them correctly and which ones are actually worth buying.
The Best Electric Razors
- Best Electric Razor Overall: Philips Beauty Lady Electric Shaver Series 8000
- Best Electric Razor for Travel: Remington Smooth Silky On the Go Shaver
- Best Wet-or-Dry Electric Razor: Panasonic Electric Shaver for Women
This electric razor from Philips can be used on wet or dry skin, features a rechargeable battery, and comes with four accessories to customize your shaving experience, including a trimming comb and a "soft glide cap" for a closer shave. Reviewers say that it has a long battery life, too, which is a huge plus if you want to tackle your legs, arms, and bikini line. It's basically the crème de la crème of electric razors.
Number of Razor Blades: 3
Power: Rechargeable
Area It’s For: All over
Waterproof: Yes
What I Love: Rechargeable; Comes with several accessories; Can be used in the shower
What I Don’t: Works better on wet skin than on dry skin
Review for MC: "I had always thought of electric razors as scary, cutting machines, but I was pleasantly surprised by this device. I used it dry on my armpit when I was running out the door and forgot to shave, and it was a lifesaver! I only needed to do a couple of passes for a smooth, close shave, and it didn't irritate, tug, or skip against my skin at all. It's also easy to hold, durable, and a charge lasts for a long time. I now keep this in the shower as my go-to razor because it's so easy to use." — Brooke Knappenberger, Associate Commerce Editor
Brooke Knappenberger tests the Philips Beauty Lady Electric Shaver Series 8000.
If you need an electric razor you can use on the go, this one from Remington is perfect. Not only has it garnered 15,000 five-star reviews on Amazon lately, but those reviews also claim that it’s great for sensitive skin and is easy to use—all essential qualities when you’re not showering at your own place. This compact electric razor is cordless, can be used wet or dry, and is battery-operated, so you don’t need to pack yet another charger with you.
Number of Razor Blades: 3
Power: Battery Powered
Area It’s For: All over
Waterproof: No
What I Love: Compact size; Can be used wet or dry; Good for sensitive skin; Gives a close shave
What I Don't: Some reviewers say it’s better for the bikini line than the legs
Review for MC: "I'm very prone to ingrown hair, so the razor I use is everything. This little guy may be small, but it's mighty. It really gets rid of all the hair in just one to two passes and leaves my skin stubble-free. Plus, I've noticed a huge reduction in my ingrown hairs on my arms and armpits compared to regular razors." — Siena Gagliano, Beauty Editor
Samantha Holender tests the Remington Smooth Silky On the Go Shaver.
This four-blade shaver from Panasonic is impressive for its ability to move forward and backward seamlessly, allowing you to remove hair in both directions for a quicker, more efficient shave. It is totally waterproof, and the non-slip ergonomic handle makes it a must-have in a shower when dealing with slimy soaps and body washes.
Number of Razor Blades: 4
Power: Rechargeable
Area It’s For: All over
Waterproof: Yes
What I Love: Has four blades; Can be used wet or dry; Waterproof; Can be used in both directions
What I Don't: You may have to go over the same area more than once if you have thicker hair
Review for MC: "When I'm in a rush to make it out the door (always) and realize I forgot to shave my legs, this Panasonic razor is my savior. I can be somewhat chaotic with my technique because it has razors that work both ways, while also having safety features so I don't cut myself." — Siena Gagliano, Beauty Editor
Siena Gagliano before and after testing the Panasonic Electric Shaver.
Dr. Nazarian recommends this electric razor from Conair because "the hypoallergenic foils are great for sensitive skin, and it has several different trimmers to pre-treat small areas, like the upper lip or bikini." It's battery-operated, comes with several attachments, and reviewers say it's painless and causes fewer nicks and bumps. They also note that it doesn't catch your hair as you move over the skin. To get the best results, exfoliate beforehand so all dead skin is out of the way for a closer shave.
Number of Razor Blades: 1
Power: Battery Powered
Area It’s For: All over
Waterproof: No
What I Love: Painless to use; Causes fewer nicks and bumps compared to a regular razor; Comes with a ton of attachments
What I Don't: Some reviewers say that it's flimsy
Customer Review: "I've owned many trimmers like this over the years, and this is by far the best. It operates so smoothly and does NOT catch, pull hair, or cut you. Excellent value for the money." — Amazon
This is me saying that spending $74 on an electric razor might be worth it. Available in six colors, this bestseller features ceramic blades that handle all types of hair on the body—but it’s especially helpful for coarse or curly hair. It comes with two guides measuring 3-6mm and 9-12mm, and is waterproof for wet or dry shaving. It’s cordless and rechargeable, with one charge lasting you 90 minutes of use. The ceramic blades are designed to be safer on the skin and to cause fewer nicks and cuts.
Number of Razor Blades: 1
Power: Rechargeable
Area It’s For: Pubic area; All over
Waterproof: Yes
What I Love: Made with ceramic blades that are better for your skin; Waterproof; Rechargeable; Cordless; Ergonomic design
What I Don't: Most expensive option on this list
Customer Review: "I’m officially obsessed. It’s so easy to use, I don’t worry about accidentally cutting myself anymore! If you run your finger along the blade when it’s not on, you can feel just how smooth it is! I love the colours they come in, I chose the sunlight yellow one, which is so bright and fun! I also found that it is noticeably quieter compared to other buzzers I have had. The ergonomics of it make it easy to hold at any angle, and the matte finish makes it almost buttery smooth to the touch," — Meridian
This electric shaver has a unique look and shape that not only fits in the palm of your hand (also making it great for travel), but also features an ergonomic design that makes it foolproof to use. It can be used pretty much anywhere, and it contours to your body's curves. It's also outfitted with five blades for extra precision and hair removal.
Number of Razor Blades: 4
Power: Battery Powered
Area It’s For: Legs; All over
Waterproof: Yes
What I Love: Quiet; Long-lasting battery; Travel-friendly shape; Charges quickly; Reviewers said using this tool was painless
What I Don't: Unique shape may take getting used to
Customer Review: "I got this for my daughter, and she is extremely against electric razors. She has chicken skin and tried this on her arm. Not one nic,k and left her arm smooth. She loves the other extensions like the exfoliating head and the trimmers. Great product for women!" — Amazon
Orszulak approves of versatile little devices like this because "you can use it anywhere," she says. "Since you don’t need to use water or shave cream, this is a great product to throw in your bag and use anytime, anywhere." It's also outfitted with a dual-ring blade design for thorough trimming and the removal of even the smallest hairs on your face. Plus, it's small enough to keep in your makeup bag for on-the-go care.
Number of Razor Blades: 2
Power: Rechargeable
Area It’s For: Face
Waterproof: No
What I Love: Small size; Has specialized razors to remove the finest of hairs; Suitable for use on the face
What I Don't: Will have to replace fairly often due to cheaper materials
Customer Review: "I’m really happy with this facial hair remover. It’s small, lightweight, and very easy to use. I love that it’s painless and gentle on my skin, especially on sensitive areas like my upper lip and chin. It removes hair quickly without irritation, redness, or pulling." — Amazon
This trimmer from Gillette Venus is great because it "protects the skin from tug and pull so there is less irritation," says Orszulak. It's designed to specifically fit into the grooves and curves of the bikini line, avoiding nicks, cuts, or burns. It can be used either wet or dry, and has a cordless design for easy use. While gentle on the skin, the blades are specifically designed to handle coarse hair common in that area of the body.
Number of Razor Blades: 1
Power: Battery Powered
Area It’s For: Bikini line
Waterproof: No
What I Love: Cordless; Gentle on skin; Good for coarse hair
What I Don't: Battery-powered; Not rechargeable
Customer Review: "This trimmer is a godsend! It's easy to use, lightweight, and doesn't tug at hair. Perfect for the bikini area, delivering a pretty close shave for a trimmer. Definitely recommend!!" — Amazon
"This is the electric razor that I keep in my shower at all times. It's double-sided, so it's really the only shaving tool I use in a pinch. It's waterproof, which is a huge bonus, and comes with one refill of the blade, so I don't need to run out to buy a new one once I feel the blade getting dull," says E-Commerce Editor Julia Marzovilla. "I'm a bit forgetful when it comes to using shaving cream, so the hydrating serum on the head of the razor is a godsend, especially when my skin is on the drier side."
Number of Razor Blades: 5
Power: Battery Powered
Area It’s For: Pubic area
Waterproof: Yes
What I Love: Double-sided; Costs less than $20; Waterproof; Editor-recommended
What I Don't: If you leave it in your shower, the trimmer may rust
Customer Review: "Where has this been all my life? If you get this, you don’t need anything else. I have wasted money and tried different products to get the closest, smoothest shave without fear of cuts or irritation, but wasn’t successful until I found this product! You don’t need to use anything else with it. " — Amazon
This cordless razor from Philips has racked up almost 15,000 five-star ratings on Amazon. Shoppers love it because its head is smaller than some other electric razors on the market, making it great for quick, precise hair removal around the bikini line. It can be used wet or dry, features an easy-to-use cordless design for in-shower use, and comes with two attachments and a travel-friendly pouch to keep it clean. What more could you need?
Number of Razor Blades: 1
Power: Battery Powered
Area It’s For: Bikini line
Waterproof: No
What I Love: Good for travel; Good for precision; Can be used wet or dry
What I Don't: Battery-operated
Customer Review: "We ladies all know that keeping ourselves, uh, clean and tidy isn't always the easiest thing to do. I have tried shaving and waxing. Waxing isn't bad for the bikini line, but it's a different story once we're past that area. This razor is awesome! I received it yesterday and went straight to work. It comes with an AA battery, which is appreciated. You stick the battery in, turn it on, and go to town. It's lightweight and easy to use ergonomically. I" — Amazon
Should I Use an Electric Razor?
Before you buy an electric razor and start using it for yourself, it’s important to know why and when you may want to use one over a traditional manual razor. Ultimately, it depends on the finished look you’re after and the type of electric razor that’s available to you. “Electric razors tend to pull hair up before cutting, making them a little bit more efficient than manual razors, and require fewer additional tools, such as shaving cream,” says Dr. Nazarian. They're also better for sensitive skin as they provide a close shave while minimizing irritation.
Where Should I Use an Electric Razor?
“For women, using an electric razor on the pubic area tends to be a popular choice due to the hair in that region being thicker than other places,” says Orszulak. This is because the hair in your pubic area tends to be coarser and follow a different curl pattern or texture compared to other hair on your body. Electric razors can reduce the risk of ingrown hairs in that area because the hair isn’t cut as close to the skin.
“An electric razor can also be easier to control the amount of hair you want to remove, which can differ from person to person—some may opt to only trim around the 'bikini line' and keep hair everywhere else, in which case an electric razor is a great choice for them,” she adds.
Electric razors are also a great option for women who choose to shave their face and who may not be as comfortable using a traditional razor blade on delicate skin. “An electric razor is a great solve here [on the face], as it can feel less invasive due to it not having an exposed sharp edge,” says Orszulak.
When Should I Use an Electric Razor?
Dr. Nazarian says that electric razors "can be used on either dry or wet skin, allowing for more flexibility in your routine," she says. However, it's important to note that you'll get a closer shave with manual razors—Dr. Nazarian says that this is because they "have more surface tension as they glide across the skin," whereas electric razors do not cause the same surface tension. If you plan to use an electric razor in the shower, ensure that you purchase one that is waterproof.
What Are The Different Types of Electric Razors?
As with most beauty tools on the market these days, there are different options for you to choose from. For electric razors specifically, that means that you can pick from one of three common types: rotary, foil, and single-blade razors. Ahead, Orszulak quickly breaks down exactly what each style is and how they work.
- Rotary: “This will have blades that spin in a circular direction,” she says. “There are usually multiple rotating blades, which are covered by a circular foil, on a single head; these may be able to follow contours of the face more easily than a foil shaver.”
- Foil: “The cutting blades are covered with thin sheets of metal foil, essentially acting like a cage over the sharp blades,” Orszulak says. “The 'cage'—foil—protects the skin from coming into direct contact with the sharp blades. As the shaver moves over the skin, the foil can lift hairs and direct them to the blades.”
- Single-Blade: Single-blade trimmers “will have a guard that remains stationary, contacting skin while a cutting blade oscillates left and right above it, cutting the hairs being fed into the blades,” says Orszulak.
How We Tested
Marie Claire editors tested five electric razors, evaluating their efficacy on different parts of the body. We also assessed customer reviews, amazon reviews, and the razor blades on each device.
Why Trust Marie Claire
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Meet The Experts
Dr. Rachel Nazarian joins Schweiger Dermatology after years of practicing various aspects of dermatology, including cosmetic treatments, skin cancer, general dermatology and dermatologic surgery.Dr. Nazarian has written many published articles in medical journals as well as widely respected dermatology textbooks, such as Treatment of Skin Disease. Dr. Nazarian serves as a faculty member at Mount Sinai Medical Center’s Department of Dermatology, where she completed her dermatology residency. While completing her medical degree at Tulane University School of Medicine, Dr. Nazarian was awarded a grant from the Women’s Dermatology Society. Dr. Nazarian is a board-certified dermatologist and Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology.
Caitlin joined PG in September 2009, becoming a member of the Venus Blades Razor RD team. Over the last fourteen years, Caitlin has been involved in the development of multiple female projects including Venus Quench, Venus Olay, Venus Embrace Sensitive, Venus Swirl, and Venus Platinum. In the last two years, she has broadened her scope to also include Gillette Innovation, focused on improving the wet shaving experience for men. Specifically, she has spent much of her time focused on claims innovation and strategy. She works to ensure products come to market with compelling claims and visuals that are rooted in robust consumer and technical data. Her role allows her to stay very close to the consumer which has ultimately resulted in a sound understanding of habits and practices in the grooming category. She is located at the South Boston Manufacturing Center, also known as the Gillette World Shaving Headquarters. This site has been the technical center for developing and manufacturing the newest wet shaving technology platforms, using state of the art proprietary technology since 1903. Caitlin studied at James Madison University in Virginia, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology.
