Photo by Sander Sammy on Unsplash
Ever tried shaving with a rusty razor? Chances are, you probably didn’t get the best shave possible. Luckily, this is just one of the many reasons to change your old blades. As it turns out, a worn-out razor isn’t just unpleasant for you to use – it could be damaging your skin as well.
Properly maintaining your razor is as easy as it is important. Using a product like barbacide can disinfect and keep rust at bay, prolonging the life of your razor. Also, a dull blade can be honed easily using a razor blade sharpener, which will improve the quality of your shave and reduce tugging.
In this post, we’ll take a look at what happens if you shave with a rusty razor and whether or not it’s actually dangerous for your skin.
What Happens If You Shave with A Rusty Razor?
When it comes to shaving, it’s important to remember that the state of your razor can make a difference. A rusty razor may be dull, which means you have to apply more pressure to your skin to get a clean shave. This increases the risk of cuts and nicks while shaving. Additionally, a rusty razor is more likely to cause irritation to your skin since it can harbor bacteria and other germs.
Worn-out razors can also lead to ingrown hairs and acne breakouts. There’s a chance that you can even contract an infection if you shave with a rusty razor. Not to mention shaving with a rusty razor can increase the severity of the cuts they cause, causing more bleeding as well. Rust that remains in the skin due to shaving cuts could substantially contribute to infection.
Is It Dangerous to Shave with A Rusty Razor?
When you shave with a rusty razor, you could contract an infection from the bacteria living on the blade. When the blade first comes into contact with your skin, it can cause a small nick in the skin – allowing bacteria to enter your bloodstream. While it may be unlikely you’ll contract an infection with a rusty razor, you’re putting yourself at a higher risk than normal because the blade is likely dull.
When you shave with a dull blade, you’re increasing the chances of getting nicks and cuts. These can then lead to infections or swelling. Unfortunately, it’s nearly impossible to tell if a razor is rusty. You can’t smell it, nor can you see it.
However, there are a few ways you can check a razor before you use it. First, you can examine the razor for rust. If you see rust or discoloration, you should probably change your blade, or use a razor blade sharpener to return it to it’s former glory.
Some solid indications that you should change your razor include:
- How many times has it been used? Razor blades should be changed frequently, when was the last time you changed yours?
- Does the blade have any obvious discoloration? Discoloration on the blade indicates that there is a build-up of bacteria, lime scale, or rust.
- Does the razor tug at your hair while shaving? When a blade tugs at the hair rather than cut it cleanly it is likely to be dull and should be changed.
- Is the blade warped or damaged? Razor blades are made of very thin steel and can be damaged easily. Check the edge of your razor for any obvious signs of damage such as burs or chips.
- Where do you store your razor? Razors stored in very humid places like a shower can build up bacteria and rust far faster than if stored in a dry location. Try using a container such as a Razor Holder and Protector to store your razors and keep them dry.
Can You Get Tetanus from a Rusty Razor?
One of the most common myths about shaving with a rusty razor is that you can get tetanus. While tetanus is a legitimate concern, it’s unlikely you would contract it from shaving with a dull blade. Tetanus is a bacterial infection that can be contracted if the bacteria on your skin are allowed to enter your bloodstream.
While shaving with a dull or rusty blade can increase the risk of getting nicks and cuts, it’s unlikely the bacteria on your razor would be able to enter your bloodstream. That said, it’s still important to clean your razor after every shave to reduce the risk of bacteria living on it. You can also disinfect your razor by dipping it in rubbing alcohol or by placing it in the sun.
Recommended Products
RazorPit Sharpener
The RazorPit is a patented device that helps extend the life of your razor blades by removing built-up residue and debris from the blades. By using this sharpener, you can save money on buying new razor blades, reduce waste, and get a closer shave.
Parker Razor Travel Case
This stylish travel case is designed to protect your razor from scratches and nicks while on the go. It’s made of durable leather and features a closure to keep your razor secure.
Luxury Safety Razor Shaving Kit
The Luxury Safety Razor Shaving Kit is the ultimate grooming tool for men who want the closest, smoothest shave possible. This kit includes a double-edge safety razor, a stand, a bowl, an after-shave balm, a pre-shave oil, and a badger brush – everything you need for a luxurious shaving experience. The safety razor is made of high-quality materials and features a comfortable, ergonomic design that makes it easy to use. The stand, bowl, and badger brush are all made of premium materials that are both durable and stylish. The after-shave balm and pre-shave oil are formulated with natural ingredients that help soothe and protect the skin, leaving it feeling soft and supple.
Razor Holder and Protector by BLADELIFE
The Razor Holder and Protector by BLADELIFE is a versatile product that serves as both a razor stand and a travel case. It’s designed to extend the life of your razor blades by keeping them clean, dry, and protected from damage. This product is made of high-quality materials that are durable and long-lasting. It’s compatible with most standard razors and features a sleek, compact design that’s perfect for travel. By using this product, you can double the life of your razor blades, save money, and reduce waste.
Parker Genuine Leather Double Edge Safety Razor Protective Sheath
The Parker Genuine Leather Double Edge Safety Razor Protective Sheath is an essential accessory for anyone who wants to protect their safety razor while traveling. This product is made of high-quality genuine leather that is soft, durable, and water-resistant. It’s designed to fit most standard double-edge safety razors and features a snap closure that keeps your razor securely in place. The protective sheath prevents your razor from getting scratched or damaged while in transit, and it also helps keep the blade dry and clean.
Conclusion
When you shave with a dull or rusty razor, it’s more likely to cause infections, skin irritation, and even ingrown hairs. You can avoid these problems by changing your razor blades regularly and keeping your razors clean and dry. You can also disinfect your razors by dipping them in rubbing alcohol or a product like barbacide.
I once shaved with a rusty razor and ended up in the hospital for 3 days with a Staph infection in my chin. It was some of the worst pain I ever felt even the Morphine didn’t help much.
That’s terrible!