Does Mineral Oil Work for Electric Razor Lubrication? My Experience with Baby Oil, Ballistol, and More

[Jim Elliott]

I recently came across a comment on the Electric Razor Rap YouTube channel where someone mentioned using mineral oil to lubricate their electric razor. While I’ve never tried mineral oil, I have used baby oil in the past and found it works well. Based on that, I’m planning to buy some mineral oil to test it out for razor lubrication. I’ve also heard good things about Ballistol, so I plan to try that, too.

I’m curious, though—has anyone else tried using mineral oil on their electric razors? How did it work for you?

It’s important to remember that after cleaning your razor, you should lubricate the blades. Today’s razors are so easy to clean, often just requiring a rinse under hot water, that people sometimes forget about lubrication. Skipping this step can lead to premature wear on the blades, reducing their lifespan and effectiveness. Even though cleaning is simple, don’t neglect lubrication!

 

[Jim Elliott]

Here's a new video where I clean the Remington Balder Pro XR7000 with hot, soapy water followed up with blade lubrication with unscented baby oil.

 

[culcreuch]

Well I suppose I have as Ballistol is mineral oil based. Difference between it and traditional oil is that in water it emulsifies and evaporation means that the metal surface is completely covered. I have used it for years on firearms, air rifles and shavers. No rust and no mechanical failures. I don't use anything else.

 

[Shaverman]

I've never used it. When Remington Shaver Saver became discontinued, I switched to Wahl's Clipper Oil. The only negative I've heard about mineral oil as well as other petroleum-based products like Vaseline Petroleum Jelly is that it tends to be greasy and causes issues for some people's skin, but the small amount if any that would touch your face I wouldn't think would be an issue. To me, having possibly more greasy residue on the cutters could be an issue in attracting dead skin/whiskers. Then again, having a coating on the cutters of oil or "grease" would, I think, keep them well-lubricated.