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In the shaving world, there are two camps: the people who swear by multi-blade cartridge razors and those who favor old-school single blades. The reason is because everyone is after a perfectly close, smooth shave, but what kind of blade you use to shave actually does make a difference. Some people believe that more blades equals a closer shave, but there are plenty of others out there who say a single blade is all you need.

This is especially apparent when you start talking about ingrown hairs and razor bumps which a huge amount of men suffer from, particularly men of color and men with curly hair. As facial hair grows out, it can get stuck underneath the surface of the skin and form ingrown hairs. They can be painful and not great to look at, but also make shaving uncomfortable.

In recent years, safety razors have grown in popularity as a tool to prevent these razor bumps. Proponents of safety razors believe that multi-blade razors actually cut too close to the skin and shear hair too short, which makes it easier for hair to get caught as it grows out. Safety razors, which only use a single blade, don’t do that; with proper technique, these razors still deliver a smooth, close shave, but don’t cut hair too close.

That technique, though, is different than shaving with a cartridge razor and keeps many guys from making the switch. If you’re new to these razors, they can be intimidating (you’ll want to keep a box of tissues close by). And while safety razors use disposable blades, changing them can take some getting used to—it’s not always as easy as just popping on a new head. The good news is that the learning curve can be shorter if you get the right razor. These are the best safety razors for beginners and advanced users alike to try in 2022.

This adjustable safety razor makes the transition for cartridge razors easier and less painful. Start with the lowest setting to get used to the process and gradually work your way up once you get the hang of it.

Bevel was developed to help men who suffer from chronic ingrown hairs and razor bumps, especially those with especially curly hair. The crown jewel of the brand is the perfectly-weighted razor that makes shaving smooth and simple.

Read more: Best Grooming Products for Men

One of the best selling safety razors on Amazon, this butterfly-opening razor is perfect if you’re a little skittish about changing razor blades. Parker is one of the OG razor companies and is still one of our go-tos.

Unlike cartridge razors, the weight of a safety razor actually does make a difference. Using a heftier razor like this one could mean less guiding by hand and can cut down on the drag of the razor over your skin.

Merkur is one of the biggest names in the game of safety razors. We love this one because the top is magnetic so changing and adjusting blades is snap-on easy so you don’t spend time fiddling with extra bits. And the matte finish is nice enough to leave out on our sink.

Fans of Jack Black know the brand because of its luxurious body and shave products and this razor is no exception. It shaves like a dream and delivers a close, luxurious shave that you’d expect from the brand.

The longer handle on this razor makes learning to use a safety razor easier, because it feels more like a cartridge razor in your hand. The butterfly opening allows you to drop in blades to change them instead of unscrewing parts.

While we won’t say that it’s a reason to make the switch, straight razors just look damn cool. Case in point: this rose gold stunner. It’s lightweight, easy to use, and you’ll actually want people to see it.

Read more: Best Straight Razors

The entire Murdock London line was designed by the professional barbers at the iconic London shop and this razor is no exception. It’s similar to the ones used by Murdock barbers, but is easier for you to use at home.

Read more: Best Electric Razors for Men

This inexpensive razor is perfect for beginners who want to try out a safety razor without feeling like they have to commit forever. This razor is not intimidating and is the ideal tool to learn safety razor technique.

Read more: Best Shaving Kits for Men