There’s no hard-and-fast rule when it comes to changing your razor blade. Some sources say you can wait until ten shaves to replace your blade, others say you should change it every three to four shaves. With such conflicting information, how are you supposed to know when it’s time? As Men's skincare experts, here are some tips on how to tell when is it time to replace your razor?

When your razor blade is fresh, your shave should feel great. The razor should just glide over your shaving cream and your skin should feel nice and smooth. (Just make sure you don't forget the shaving brush) The hair also shouldn’t pull. If you find that you have to press down harder to get a close shave, it may be time to swap out your blade. Check out a few of our tips for shaving with a straight razor. As well as our other premium grooming products.

Getting cut?

If you find yourself getting little cuts when you shave, that’s a sure sign that your blade is dull and needs to be replaced. Cutting yourself happens on occasion, but after years of shaving, nicks to your skin should be few-and-far between. Bleeding when you shave shouldn’t be a regular thing. Bonus tip, when you do happen to cut yourself, lip balm will help slow down the bleeding and ease any pain. Make sure you check out our guide on how to deal with nicks and cuts from shaving and the art of manscaping.

Rusty razor?

Rust is never a good thing, and this one might seem obvious; when your razor blade is rusty, it’s a good idea to change it. There is a real chance of getting an infection if cut yourself so why take a chance? Razors can be expensive and if you want to get the most use out of them, there are instructions online to remove the rust with vinegar or lemon juice and salt. However, the bottom line is, shaving with a rusty razor won’t get you the smooth shave you’re looking for and it can be dangerous. Learn how to take care of your razor and a few of our grooming shortcuts.

Keep it clean

Assuming you’re good about rinsing your blade while you shave, gunk from skin flakes, hair, and shaving cream can still build up over time.  And since bathrooms are damp and notorious breeding grounds for mold, mildew can start growing on your razor blade, too. Just like with getting rid of rust, you could take an old toothbrush and thoroughly clean your razor blade to get some further use out of it, but whatever you do, you shouldn’t use a razor with a blade caked in grime. Unlike with rust, you can't get an infection from a dirty blade. Even if you don’t get an infection you can still irritate your skin.

Achieving the ultimate shave should be part of your daily grooming routine even if you have a beard or cool mustache style. Keeping a well-shaved neckline is an awesome way to keep your beard looking neat and groomed. Be sure to check out our guide on grooming your hip beard, and our cedarwood beard conditioner.

Replacing your razor blades can be expensive, however, if you purchase generic blades, you can save a lot of money. Disposable razors were designed for just a couple of uses, replacing them often will reduce the risk of skin-borne infections. If you have a brand name razor, changing the blades a couple of times a week will keep your shaving experience and your skin soft and smooth.