Clippers and Razors

What is the difference between a clipper and an electric razor?

A clipper cuts hair to a chosen length, thanks to a guard that clips onto the blade. It is used to maintain a short beard, shape the edges or shorten hair. An electric razor cuts level with the skin, like a blade, with no foam required.

Our clippers and razors range covers both families, as well as hybrid models. The Philips OneBlade is the example: a single blade that trims, shapes and shaves. It is used dry or in the shower, and its blade is replaced when it cuts less well.

Electric razors divide into two types. Foil razors have a thin perforated sheet of metal that shields the skin from the moving blades behind it. Rotary razors, on the other hand, have round heads whose blades turn.

The choice therefore depends on the beard style you want. For a three-day beard or a well-trimmed short beard, a clipper is enough. For a clean face every morning, the razor is essential, and many men use both depending on the day. We add smaller tools. The Wahl travel razor fits in a wash bag. The BaByliss nose trimmer cuts nose and ear hair without pulling it out.

How do you choose a clipper or an electric razor?

First look at the cutting lengths offered. The Philips OneBlade 360 comes with an adjustable 5-in-1 guard, which replaces several guards. The Philips Multigroom 3000 series is an all-in-one trimmer, with several heads for the beard, hair and edges depending on the model.

Then check whether the appliance is waterproof. A waterproof model is rinsed under the tap and used with a gel or a foam. Also compare the battery life in minutes and the presence of a charge indicator, so as not to run out of power halfway through the beard.

If you also want to clip your hair, check the maximum length of the guards. A clipper designed for the beard often stops at a few millimetres, whereas a hair clipper keeps more length on top. All-in-one models like the Multigroom cover both uses.

For the razor, think about your skin. Sensitive skin goes well with the foil, which acts as a screen between the blade and the skin. A pivoting head follows the contours of the jaw and neck better. After shaving, a balm or an oil from our beard care range is a pleasant finish.

How do you use and look after your clippers and razors?

Trim a dry beard that has been combed, against the direction of growth. Start with the longest guard, then shorten if needed: a hair cut too short cannot be put back. Shape the neckline last, about two fingers above the Adam’s apple.

After each use, remove the hairs with the supplied small brush, or rinse the head if the appliance is waterproof. A drop of lubricating oil on the blade of a clipper keeps it running smoothly and quietly. Leave the appliance to dry with the head open.

Cutting parts wear out. The foil of a razor is changed when it starts to pull or prick. Philips recommends replacing the OneBlade blade every 4 months with regular use. Put the protective cap back on the head after use, so as not to damage the foil in a wash bag. A pierced or bent foil pinches the skin and causes redness: change it straight away, without waiting for the recommended date.

To style after cutting, go to our waxes and pomades, and find the rest of the equipment in our men and beard range.