Do I really need to replace foils every year?

[Ryan]

I've been using a Braun Series 7 for about 18 months now and keep getting reminders that it's time to replace the foil and cutter assembly. The thing is, my shave still seems pretty decent and I'm not really having any major issues with it. The $50 replacement cost is kind of steep right now so I'm wondering if this is just a money grab or if there's actually a real need to replace them annually.

I clean it regularly and haven't noticed any obvious damage to the foils. Maybe the shave isn't quite as close as when it was brand new, but it's not terrible either. I've heard some people say they go 2-3 years without replacing parts and others who swear by the yearly replacement schedule.

Is this one of those things where manufacturers just want you to spend money on parts, or does performance really drop off significantly if you don't replace them? I don't want to damage the razor by waiting too long, but I also don't want to waste money replacing parts that are still functional.

For people who've experimented with longer replacement intervals, what was your experience? Did you notice a big difference when you finally did replace the parts? Or is it more gradual so you don't really notice the decline until you get new ones?

Any advice would be appreciated. Trying to figure out if I should just bite the bullet and order the replacement parts or if I can safely wait a bit longer.

R

 

[Shaverman]

Well, Ryan, everyone likely has a different experience. Since foils are thinner than combs on a rotary, they will wear, but I know for me, by keeping foils clean and lubricated, I really haven't changed a foil that often. I see reminders by the manufacturer as a way to sell more foils and cutters, especially since everyone's face is different, and there is no one right answer for everyone. The "closeness" you talk about might have as much to do with the cutter as the foil. If the cutter becomes less sharp from use, it can easily not shave as closely or smoothly.

The only time I've ever changed a foil was when it got a hole or tear in it, which is important as it can cut your face if the cutter goes through the foil. I would just keep my foil clean and lubricated. Now, if you ARE going to change the cutter, I would just change the foil as well so you'd start out with both a new foil and cutter.

 

[Jim Elliott]

Welcome aboard, Ryan. I have used a merry-go-round of different razors over the years to the point where I really haven't changed foil/cutter sets rotary cutter/comb sets that often. I changed the cutter/comb set on my Philishave HQ5401 a few years ago more out of curiosity than any reduction in shave performance.

With foil razors, though, as Shaverman pointed out, the foil will wear and the cutter will live up to its name and cut you if there is a hole in the foil. When you do replace the foil/cutter set, be sure to get OEM parts, unless, of course, your razor no longer has OEM parts available.

 

[culcreuch]

It really depends how you treat your razor. Mostly I wet shave. I believe that good prep, proper cleaning ( washing up liquid soap and water) and lubrication will extend the life of the consumables. None of my razors have cleaning stations. I prefer to clean manually. This process will extend the life of the foils and cutters.......but when the shave results demand the parts need replaced.....I would always change everything at the same time. It should be you and not the razor who decides when to change.