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11 Best Women’s Razors for the Smoothest Shave, According to Testers

Experience your best shave yet with these top-tested razors.

By
VerifiedTested by Beauty Lab Director
Various razors being used on a lathered, shaved leg against a pink background.

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Even with all the DIY hair removal methods out there these days, there’s one that’s still the simplest and quickest: shaving. A great razor can make the process even easier. We’re talking no more razor burn, painful nicks, or annoying bumps, thanks to closer shaves that leave you with silky smooth skin.

Our top picks:

That’s why the chemists and product analysts in the Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty Lab evaluate almost every type of razor and hair removal product you may have in your rotation. We sent women's razors to consumer testers who provided feedback on how easy they were to use and their overall satisfaction with the products. From there, we narrowed down the top-performing razors, including options for your face and sensitive skin. The Athena Club The Razor Kit came out on top for shaving in one pass and being easy to maneuver. See what else scored best.

The Razor Kit
Credit: Athena Club

Pros

  • Five-blade razor for a close shave
  • Easy to maneuver around hard-to-reach areas
  • Designed to hydrate skin as you shave

Cons

  • May feel heavier to some

Minimize shower time with a razor that 89% of our testers agreed was best at shaving hair in one pass. The GH Beauty Award winner also earned a perfect score for maneuvering around hard-to-reach areas. The five-blade razor comes with a silicone handle for easy gripping while its skin guard comes coated in hyaluronic acid that aims to hydrate as you go.

WHAT TESTERS ARE SAYING: Multiple consumer testers appreciated the close shave this razor left behind. "I like that it got around my knees and ankles well and gave me no razor burn," one tester reported, while another added, "It left my skin incredibly smooth with not a hair left." Note that one tester found it heavier than other razors.

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Features At A Glance

Type of razorCartridge razor
BladesFive
FeaturesAluminum handle coated with non-slip silicone and a hyaluronic acid serum strip
Hydro Silk Ultra Sensitive Disposable Razor

Pros

  • Easy to maneuver and comfortable to hold
  • Simple to clean
  • Removed coarse and fine hair

Cons

  • Not ideal for face, according to one tester

The five blades are designed to move with the curves of your body to make it easy to maneuver, preventing nicks and providing a close shave. Its built-in moisture strip contains aloe and chamomile to hydrate and soothe.

WHAT TESTERS ARE SAYING: Testers gave it a perfect score for delivering a smooth shave, gliding effortlessly, working well on dense areas, and removing both fine and coarse hair. “This razor was super sharp, comfortable to hold, and provided the smoothest shave I've had in a very long time. No nicks and no having to pass over the same area more than once,” a tester said. However, it may not be ideal for the face, as another tester said, “Shaved under my chin and I got razor bumps.”

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Features At A Glance

Type of razorDisposable
BladesFive
FeaturesErgonomic handle and aloe moisturizing strip
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Venus Extra Swirl Women's Razor
Credit: Gillette

Pros

  • Glides over hard-to-reach areas easily
  • Gives a close, long-lasting shave
  • Gel/lotion band around blade for a smooth shave

Cons

  • Lubrication around the blade can become sticky

Shaving can be tough for those with sensitive skin, but this was designed to be safe for even the most delicate complexions.Uniquely designed with a ball to allow the razor to twist side to side and pivot more easily, this refillable option from Gillette performed very well in our testing. It was able to maneuver around tricky areas with ease: All testers agreed that it glided over skin easily, and nearly every tester said that it easily moved around difficult areas such as knees and ankles.

The blade has a gel/lotion band around it for smooth lubrication, but some testers found that it became sticky. We recommend frequently changing the cartridge to avoid that.

WHAT TESTERS ARE SAYING: Some of our consumer testers reported they could shave less frequently when using the Venus Extra Swirl Razor. One tester liked "the super close shave and the fact that I shaved less often yet still had smooth skin."

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Features At A Glance

Type of razorCartridge razor
BladesFive
FeaturesTwisting handle and a water-activated moisturizing ribbon
Venus for Pubic Hair and Skin
Now 15% Off
Credit: Gillette

Pros

  • Gentle
  • Easily shaves fine and coarse hair
  • Doesn't cause redness or irritation around delicate areas

Cons

  • Some wish it provided a closer shave

With a rubbery ergonomic handle and a patented "Irritation Defense Bar," this razor puts you in control of your shave. It is able to easily slice through both fine and coarse hair, leaving your skin feeling nice and smooth. Some online reviewers said it doesn't shave super close to the skin, so you might not get the closest shave with this one.

WHAT TESTERS ARE SAYING: One of our testers called this razor a "real game-changer, especially for delicate areas." She didn't experience redness or irritation while shaving with the Gilette Venus razor and added, that it "is so gentle that I barely felt anything."

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Features At A Glance

Type of razorCartridge razor
BladesFour
FeaturesErgonomic handle and irritation defense bar
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5
Best for travel

Athena Club Mini Razor

Mini Razor
5
Best for travel

Athena Club Mini Razor

$10AmazonAlso Consider

Pros

  • High testing scores for no nicks or irritation
  • Comes with travel case
  • High score for no ingrowns

Cons

  • Some testers felt the handle was too short

Suitcase space is limited, which is exactly where this lil guy comes in. A vented travel case is included to keep your razor dry and your suitcase (and fingers!) safe, making it easy to toss in a gym bag, too. Though small in stature, it doesn’t compromise on efficacy. That said, some testers felt the handle was too short. The brand’s “skincloud” serum strip is spiked with shea butter, avocado oil, and a water-activated hyaluronic acid serum for an extra smooth shave.

WHAT TESTERS ARE SAYING: “I love the travel aspect to this product,” a tester said. “Most travel cases don’t allow the razor to dry properly or it would make the gel strip go everywhere. This was a perfect case, providing ample airflow and was a great size for travel. On legs, it works great.”

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Features At A Glance

Type of razorManual cartridge razor
BladesFive
FeaturesTravel case and serum strip
6
Best Disposable

Schick Quattro for Women

Quattro for Women
6
Best Disposable

Schick Quattro for Women

Credit: Schick

Pros

  • Doesn't irritate skin
  • Won't nick skin
  • Easy to maneuver and hold

Cons

  • Can feel flimsy

For around $10, you can get this razor plus three additional refill blades. A great deal, it also performed well in Lab testing, earning the highest score among all razors (disposable and reusable) for gliding over skin easily, not irritating skin, avoiding nicks, and providing long-lasting smoothness. It features a pivoting head that is easy to maneuver. While it's designed to be lightweight, some testers shared that the razor felt a bit flimsy in their hands.

WHAT TESTERS ARE SAYING: Our consumer testers said they didn't have to go over areas more than once, with one saying they would "continue using it for sure." Multiple testers also found the razor comfortable to hold in their hand while shaving.

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Features At A Glance

Type of razorCartridge razor
BladesFour
FeaturesAloe and vitamin E conditioning strip
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7
Best for Pubic Area

Schick Hydro Silk TrimStyle

Hydro Silk TrimStyle
7
Best for Pubic Area

Schick Hydro Silk TrimStyle

Credit: Schick

Pros

  • Maneuvers easily, even around difficult areas
  • Provides a very close shave
  • Waterproof

Cons

  • AAA battery will need to be replaced

Taking the top spot in Lab testing for refillable razors, this Schick two-in-one razor and bikini trimmer was a favorite among testers. Earning the highest scores for easily maneuvering around difficult areas and providing a close shave, users don't have to take multiple passes to fully remove hair, making it great for thicker, coarser hair.

This waterproof multitasker scored highly for ease of use as well, but take note that the trimmer is battery-powered. One is provided, but you will need to put in a new one once it dies.

WHAT TESTERS ARE SAYING: One tester shared that the Hydro Silk TrimStyle is a "must-have razor. It provides a smooth shave experience." Another found the two-in-one design helpful because she didn't have to switch between razors.

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Features At A Glance

Type of razorCartridge and electric razor
BladesFive
FeaturesBattery-powered bikini trimmer
Hydro Silk Dermaplaning Wand
Now 19% Off
Credit: Schick

Pros

  • Removes face fuzz without irrtiation
  • Leaves behind no nicks or cuts
  • Budget-friendly

Cons

  • Takes practice to learn how to use

Sweep away dead skin cells with Schick's refillable face razor tool. The GH Beauty Award Winner safely and effectively removed thick facial hair for smooth skin, with no nicks or cuts experienced, based on Lab expert evaluations. A few online reviewers noted that there's a bit of a learning curve that comes with it—start slow and ease into using it as it may take a few tries to get the hang of it.

One purchase includes six refill blades, making this another great value pick thanks to its budget-friendly price of $20.

WHAT TESTERS ARE SAYING: “Maneuvering it around my face felt natural, and it removed my fuzz with ease and without irritation," said one tester.

RELATED: Best Dermaplaning Tools, According to Experts

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Features At A Glance

Type of razorFacial razor
BladesNot listed
FeaturesMetal handle
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Close Curves Electric Shaver

Pros

  • Works great on underarms
  • Can be used on dry skin without irritation
  • Includes a travel cap and pouch

Cons

  • Need to go over the same area multiple times to fully remove hair

If you prefer an electric shaver over a traditional razor, try out this one that features four rotating blades designed to help you cover large areas faster. Great for those who have sensitive skin, it can be used on dry skin without razor burn or irritation. Although pricier compared to most picks on our list, the shaver comes with a bikini comb, cleaning brush, and a travel cap and pouch.

WHAT TESTERS ARE SAYING: GH Beauty Lab testers loved it on their armpits, with one saying it gave them the "closest shave ever in my underarm area." However, testers did find it a little difficult to use since it doesn't have a pivoting head and had to pass over their legs multiple times to fully remove hair.

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Features At A Glance

Type of razorElectric razor
BladesFour
FeaturesIncludes a bikini comb
10
Best for Beginners

Billie Razor Starter Kit

Razor Starter Kit
10
Best for Beginners

Billie Razor Starter Kit

Credit: Billie

Pros

  • Colorful, stylish design
  • Non-irritating
  • Testers agreed it shaves closer than other razors

Cons

  • Moisture strip can get sticky once dry

Billie can be your one-stop shop for hair removal. Upon your first order, you'll find a durable razor in the color of your choice, two refill cartridges, and a magnetic holder for your shower. From then on, you'll get four five-blade cartridges as you need. The complete kit makes it ideal for beginners, plus it’s easy to maneuver, making it good for teens and tweens just learning to shave.

In our evaluations, 100% of testers agreed that the Billie razor excelled at shaving closer than other razors they tried. It was also a top choice for hair removal in the leg and pubic area and got extra points for not irritating skin. Its aloe-infused strip moisturizes skin in the razor's wake, but if not left on its magnetic holder, it can stick to other objects once it dries.

WHAT TESTERS ARE SAYING: One tester said it "glided smoothly, [was] pretty to look at, [and] using the holder was a reminder to shave!" Another tester said they "would definitely switch to this brand in the future."

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Features At A Glance

Type of razorRefillable razor
BladesFive
FeaturesMagnetic holder and aloe moisturizer
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11
Best for Bikini Area

Public Goods Bamboo Razor Handle

Bamboo Razor Handle
11
Best for Bikini Area

Public Goods Bamboo Razor Handle

Credit: Public Goods

Pros

  • Easily navigates around skin
  • Effectively removes hair from bikini line
  • Durable and luxurious handle

Cons

  • Blades sold separately

Navigate around skin, even the bikini area, with ease, thanks to this reusable razor handle with a pivoting head. Overall, our testers praised it for its easy trip over skin, and it earned the highest score in our roundup of razors for removing hair from the bikini line.

Its sturdy bamboo handle offers a luxurious feel while its pack of four blades, though sold separately, won't nick your skin. Note the razor doesn't come with a blade cover and when wet, the handle can become slippery at times—so store it safely.

WHAT TESTERS ARE SAYING: "I appreciate that the handle seems long-lasting, therefore, better for the environment, and the overall look is more stylish," said one tester. Multiple testers reported a close shave without any nicks.

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Features At A Glance

Type of razorCartridge razor
BladesNot listed
FeaturesBamboo holder

How we test the best women's razors

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Experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty Lab test all kinds of hair removal tools from epilators and IPL devices to hair removal creams. To find the best razors, our analysts sent products to a panel of 191 consumer testers who gave detailed feedback on ease of use, performance, safety, and satisfaction. Testers used their razors at least twice and monitored their results for one week before recording their results. To put together the final list, our editors also consulted top dermatologists for their expert shaving advice and considered recent GH Beauty Award winners.

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What to consider when shopping for women's razors

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✔️ Number of blades: No matter if you prefer refillable or disposable, make sure the razor is multi-bladed. "Single-blade disposables are likelier to drag against the skin," says New York City-based cosmetic dermatologist Neal Schultz, M.D. For that reason, refillable and disposable razors that have three to five blades in the head are the best razors when it comes to hair removal, grip comfort, and maneuverability.

✔️ Maintenance: Besides using a good razor, a smooth and long-lasting shave depends on how you take care of your razor, regardless if it's refillable or disposable. It's important to replace your razors as soon as the blades dull or you feel discomfort to achieve an optimal shave. Subscriptions like Billie cover this for you without a second thought. For the best results, post-shave, rinse off your razor and store it in a clean, dry space to avoid microbial growth. After about five to seven shaves, toss the old blades to prevent irritation.

How can you avoid razor bumps?

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Sometimes a good shave is just as much about the preparation and technique in addition to using the right tools. According to Vancouver-based board-certified dermatologist Monica Li, M.D., and the GH Beauty Lab, these are the shaving skincare steps you should take to get your best shave:

✔️ Wet skin to help soften hair. This makes it easier for the blade to glide across. For a manual razor, Dr. Li advises never to shave on dry skin because it can increase the risk of irritation and cuts, which is why shaving in the shower or near the end of a bath is prime time.

✔️ Use shaving cream, gel, or a warm compresses. Doing so prompts a smoother shave and supports optimal hair removal. For peak softness, Dr. Li recommends letting the product sit on the skin for a few minutes.

✔️ Don't shave too hastily. Moving the razor over your skin too quickly can cause irritation, cuts, and bumps. You'll have to pass over the same area multiple times which can add to irritation.

✔️ Always shave with the grain of the hair. Otherwise, the tapered ends of just-shaved hair can poke back into the skin and cause ingrown hairs. Avoid stretching the skin completely taut when shaving, Dr. Li adds.

✔️ Splash skin with cool water after a shave to reduce potential skin irritation. Dr. Li also recommends moisturizing to keep cleanly shaven skin hydrated and smooth.

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Why trust Good Housekeeping?

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Researching and testing thousands of products for nearly a decade, Beauty Lab Director Sabina Wizemann spearheads our guides to hair removal and evaluates razors in our Lab tests. Temporary Beauty Editor Celia Shatzman most recently updated this story.

Headshot of Sabina Wizemann
Tested bySabina Wizemann
Beauty Lab Director

Sabina (she/her) is the director of the Beauty, Health & Sustainability Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute, where she has overseen skincare, haircare and makeup testing since 2012. She also reviews applications, substantiates claims and evaluates products for the GH Seal and the Beauty Awards and Sustainability Awards programs. She has a B.S. in chemistry from Ithaca College and more than 16 years of experience working in the pharmaceutical and personal care industries.  

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