Simple tasks like shaving get harder with age. It’s becomes more difficult to shave neatly and safely especially when using a traditional safety razor.
An electric razor is the best for most seniors. It not only provides a more precise shave, it’s also prevents accidental nicks.
In this buying guide, we are going to review the best electric razors for elderly men. We considered factors like ease of use, battery life and safety to pick the most outstanding products.
But first, here are some tips to keep in mind when shopping for a senior-friendly electric razor.
What to Consider When Buying an Electric Razor for an Elderly Man
a. Type of Shaver
There are two types of electric razors: foil and rotary.
Foil razors offer the best protection for elderly men. They consist of blades covered with metal foil. The blades never come into contact with the skin, which reduces the risk of irritation and cuts.
On the downside, they don’t do so well with long hair compared to rotary razors.
Rotary razors consist of several round heads with spinning cutters underneath.
A rotary razor is great for shaving long hair and hard-to-reach areas.
b. Corded vs. Cordless
Most electric razors are cordless. These are the best for seniors simply because they are easier to use without a cord getting in the way.
You can shave comfortably even while seated.
Battery life is not a big issue. Most electric shavers can last over 40 minutes, which easily covers several days’ worth of shaves.
c. Ease of Use
For obvious reasons, an electric razor for someone elderly has to be easy to use.
It should be lightweight, comfortable to hold and precise even in slightly shaky hands.
Different razors use different types of technologies to provide a neat shave with the least effort. For instance, some razors have sensors that adjust the blades to beard density.
Others can automatically adjust the blades based on skin sensitivity.
Some razors have a flexible head that makes it easier to shave around curves and in hard-to-reach areas.
On the same note, the razor should also be easy to maintain. All the razors we’ve reviewed below require nothing more than a quick rinse under the tap.
d. Additional Features and Accessories
These will vary depending on the type and price of an electric shaver. Here are some of the best extras to look for.
- Pop out trimmer. If your shaver has this, you don’t need to buy a separate trimmer for your sideburns and moustache. Just press a button and the trimmer pops out.
- Wet and dry shaving. A wet/dry shaver allows you to shave while still in the shower.
- Quick charge. Most electric shavers take about an hour to charge up. But that’s not helpful when you need a quick shave and the battery is empty. A shaver with a quick charge feature lets you get a full shave’s worth of charge in 5 minutes.
- Battery life indicator to let you know when it’s time to recharge the shaver.
- Pouch for travelling and storage.
The Best Electric Razors for Elderly Men Reviews
1. Braun Series 5 5140s Men’s Electric Foil Shaver
This is a foil shaver with a flexible head that can turn in 8 directions. This ensures the razor stays in contact with your skin even on curved areas for a close smooth shave.
A dedicated middle trimmer targets flat hair and strands growing sideways for a neat shave.
An integrated sensor automatically adjusts the blades to different hair densities. The razor works well whether you are smoothening off some slight growth or cutting down a weeklong stubble.
For your sideburns and moustache, there is a pop-out trimmer.
The shaver is 100% waterproof so feel free to use it in the shower.
When you are done shaving, a quick rinse under the tap is enough to get it clean and ready for the next shave.
What we like about it:
- Long battery life (50 minutes).
- Convenient battery life indicator.
- Wet & dry shaver.
- Easy to use and maintain.
2. Philips Series 3000 Wet & Dry Men’s Electric Shaver with Pop-up Trimmer
This is a rotary shaver with three shaving blades.
The head of the shaver can turn in 4 directions, which provides a precise shave even in hard-to-reach areas and contours.
The rotary design is great for seniors. It almost completely prevents nicks and ensures a smooth shave.
If you want a precise trim on your sideburns and moustache, just press a button and the attached trimmer attachment pops out.
The battery life is quite good at around 50 minutes. You’ll shave for several days before you need to recharge it.
It takes only an hour to fully charge up. You can also let it charge for just 5 minutes if you need a quick shave.
The shaver is 100% waterproof and can be used in both wet and dry conditions. So if you find it more convenient to shave in the shower, go right ahead. You’ll not damage the razor.
To clean it, just open the shaver heads and rinse under running water.
What we like about it:
- Long battery life.
- Low risk of cuts and nicks.
- Flexible heads provide smooth shave.
- Waterproof – you can safely shave in the shower and rinse it under a tap.
3. Remington F7800 Dual Foil Shaver
This is a great choice if you are looking for a cheaper foil shaver. It consists of two foil blades plus a pop-out trimmer for extra precision on your sideburns and moustache.
This shaver uses a unique technology to make shaving easier and faster. They call it Triple Shave Technology.
It consists of the two foil blades plus a third trimming system that specifically targets and pre-trims longer strands of hair.
The two blades can then focus only on the shorter strands.
This is handy if you tend to leave your beard to grow a bit long. You can still shave quickly without missing any hairs.
Like most other shavers, the Remington F7800 has a pivoting neck that allows the head to move in different directions.
This maintains constant contact with your skin and allows the shaver to adapt to your facial contours.
The 1-hour battery life is pretty good though it means a longer charging time (2 hours). But if you are in a hurry, you can get enough charge in 5 minutes for a single shave.
What we like about it:
- Washable head for easy maintenance.
- Triple Shave Technology makes shaving faster and easier. It also ensures smooth results.
- Flexible head for a close shave on all areas.
- Battery indicator.
4. Hatteker Mens Electric Shaver
If you are looking for a good quality budget shaver, we recommend this one.
It costs half the price of other rotary shavers but it shaves just as well and comes with most of their features.
For example, the floating shaving head easily adapts to the angles and contours on your face ensuring a smooth shave even on hard-to-reach areas.
You also get a pop-out trimmer for your sideburns.
The shaver is waterproof meaning you can use it in the shower without damaging it or electrocuting yourself.
Battery life is quite impressive. With just 90 minutes of charging, it will last a full hour. You’ll shave for several mornings before the battery needs a recharge.
For storage or travelling, there is a handy pouch included.
What we like about it:
- Excellent value for your money – shaves as well as shavers that cost twice as much.
- Long battery life thanks to the 600mAh Lithium-ion battery.
- Easy maintenance – pop open the head and rinse with water.
- Comes with a travel/storage pouch.
5. Panasonic ES-RT37 Three Blade Electric Foil Shaver Wet and Dry
This is our top recommendation if you are looking for a budget foil shaver.
It uses a 3-blade system that guarantees a close shave on all areas, even the ones that are normally hard to reach.
The blades have a special pattern that fits perfectly against your face contours. For extra precision, use the slide-up trimmer to work on your sideburns and moustache.
This is a wet and dry shaver so feel free to shave your beard in the shower. You can also safely rinse the head under a tap without damaging the electronic components.
The 45-minute battery life is slightly lower than that of other shavers but still long enough for several shaving sessions.
On the upside, the battery charges up in just an hour.
What we like about it:
- Affordable.
- Provides a smooth close shave.
- Can be used in the shower.
- Includes a trimmer attachment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How to shave with an electric razor?
To shave with an electric razor follow these steps;
- Know your razor. Read the manufacturer’s manual carefully. The manual will help you understand, set up and safely use the razor.
- Check the charge or batteries of your shaver.
- Protect your skin. Use pre-shave lotion or powder to lubricate your skin and achieve a better and smoother shave. If your razor is wet shaving, use enough shaving cream, gel or foam to soften your hair, allowing the razor to glide easily.
- Be careful when shaving. Use slow and gentle strokes when shaving. Speeding through will leave some areas uncut and will give your hair an uneven, sloppy look. Allow your razor to do the work. Do not press too hard but don’t be too gentle either. Find the right pressure by making sure the razor is cutting the hair and not your skin.
When shaving extra sensitive areas like below your nose, hold the shaver at right angles to your face. Use your free hand to pull your skin so the hairs stand upright for easier shaving.
Move the razor in the direction of hair growth. This is referred to as shaving with the grain. Shaving against the grain can cause irritation and red bumps.
- Take care of your shaver. Clean your shaver regularly while shaving. Rinse off your razor under running water or use the brush provided (depending on the model you are using) to remove the cut hair and extra shaving products. Avoid tapping the shaver on the edge of the sink to remove residues.
Electric razors perform better if properly maintained over time. Be sure to deep clean your shaver regularly and replace any worn out parts for a smooth shave.
- After care. After shaving, rinse your face with cool water and pat it dry. Remember to hydrate using a good quality aftershave. This will help to prevent discomfort after a shave.
Q: How to sharpen electric razor blades?
If you are using a foil style electric razor, the blades cannot be sharpened. You’ll need to replace the foil every 1–2 years.
If your shaver uses rotary blades, they can be sharpened. There are a number of methods to sharpen your blade including using ceramic surfaces. However, some of these methods are risky and might damage the blades. We recommend using sharpening heads.
You insert the sharpening head over the rotary blades and then run the razor to sharpen the blades.
Q: Where to buy an electric razor?
On Amazon, you’ll find an extensive range of electric razors for the elderly plus helpful customer reviews to will help you choose the best shaver for your needs.
Other places to buy an electric razor include Argos, Tesco and Shavers.co.uk.