Why do people disdain the Gilette Fusion?

Pantisocrat · Feb 22, 2010

I love this razor, especially the vibration feature. It's like a facial message.

I have regained my appreciation for the 21st century shaving technology after trying to go straight. After a few cuts, I updated to a safety razor, a steel Gilette from the 1950s. I think I will go back to my Fusion now. Should I be trying any particular straight razor or safety razor for better results?

dcg · Feb 22, 2010

I get closer shaves with the safety razor, but definitely need to take my time and most often end up with a few nicks. I'm sure my technique still could use some perfecting.

Fusion seems like the hinge is in the wrong place and I can never get a close shave. I prefer the Sensor (XL?) if I'm going to use a cartridge.

Thomas · Feb 22, 2010

heh, it took me 30 days to stop cutting myself, and another 30 days to get a really good shave. I don't hate the Mach 3, but I don't like spending $$$ on cartridges and last a few days and then have to go. I do use the Mach on trips, since losing it isn't major heartbreak.

Now, why bother with the hassle? I like the challenge and taking time for myself.

bullethead · Feb 22, 2010

Was your straight properly honed? If so, it's just a learning curve. I rarely nick or cut myself anymore and i get a closer shave.

I still have a fusion on hand, for the times when i'm in a big hurry and need a quick shower and shave.

uhurit · Feb 22, 2010

I prefer a regular razor with old fashioned blades for the cleanest shave. When I don't have enough time, I use both. Gilette for the sensitive areas (neck)...straight razor for cheeks and jaw (most visible)

underwearer · Feb 22, 2010

I used a mach3 for years but I get better shaves with my '53 Gillette Superspeed. For me its all about the lather. get some Tabac soap or Proraso cream and a clam shell would probably work.

Asch · Feb 22, 2010

Is this one of those 6-blade monstrosities?

Gillette's razors peaked with the Sensor Excel. Simple and effective and doesn't destroy your skin.

Pantisocrat · Feb 22, 2010

Originally Posted by bullethead

Was your straight properly honed? If so, it's just a learning curve. I rarely nick or cut myself anymore and i get a closer shave.

I still have a fusion on hand, for the times when i'm in a big hurry and need a quick shower and shave.

I'm not sure. It's a "mint" condition Dubl Duck with fancy metal trims. I thought it looks like an expensive item back in the days. It doesn't have any rust and was still in box when I got it off of ebay.

Pantisocrat · Feb 22, 2010

Originally Posted by Asch

Is this one of those 6-blade monstrosities?

Gillette's razors peaked with the Sensor Excel. Simple and effective and doesn't destroy your skin.

Yep. I'm still quite amazed how clean a shave it gives me after only a few strokes. Safety takes longer and I could never get the close shave I want in the safety I currently own. Straight really takes skill though and I obviously haven't mastered the art.

Jack2000 · Feb 22, 2010

Fusions work great--it's hard to cut yourself, it requires almost no skill to shave with etc. but--the multi blade razors shave too close. If you are prone to ingrown hairs this is a problem. I switched to a safety razor and have less problems and still get a good shave. Cartridges are also really expensive compared to razor blades.

fredfred · Feb 22, 2010

Shave close-ness is a function more of shave preparation than blade. Heat face with hot towel, apply pre-shave oil, then shave soap/gel. Use fresh blade (cartridge or straight). Done.

underwearer · Feb 22, 2010

Originally Posted by Pantisocrat

Yep. I'm still quite amazed how clean a shave it gives me after only a few strokes. Safety takes longer and I could never get the close shave I want in the safety I currently own. Straight really takes skill though and I obviously haven't mastered the art.

How long have you been using a DE razor? It only takes a few minutes longer than using edge gel or whatever. What blades were you using? With a Superspeed and Feather blade I do 3 passes and my face is smooth as a prom queens thighs

lawyerdad · Feb 22, 2010

Originally Posted by fredfred

Shave close-ness is a function more of shave preparation than blade. Heat face with hot towel, apply pre-shave oil, then shave soap/gel. Use fresh blade (cartridge or straight). Done.
I'd say that's an overstatement. Preparation certainly counts. But I'm pretty sure the choice of razor makes a big difference. Also, it's going to vary a lot by individual. People's facial hair texture and growth patterns, skin, and face shape vary greatly. The notion that there is one universally "best" approach is kind of silly.

Originally Posted by underwearer

How long have you been using a DE razor? It only takes a few minutes longer than using edge gel or whatever. What blades were you using? With a Superspeed and Feather blade I do 3 passes and my face is smooth as a prom queens thighs

I think I choose my prom date poorly.

mgoose · Feb 22, 2010

People just want to use old straight or safety razors so they can seem like they are above the masses. They are much worse, at least for my skin.

As someone with super sensitive skin, the only razors that don't make my skin look like it was attacked by a rusty lawnmower are the multibladed ones, and vibrating helps too. I tried a professional straight shave and it took my skin two weeks to recover, never again.

1969 · Feb 22, 2010

Originally Posted by Pantisocrat

I love this razor, especially the vibration feature. It's like a facial message.

I thought this was considered degrading?

Why do people disdain the Gilette Fusion?

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