How to choose and use a beard and mustache trimmer


Beard trimmers have been around for a long time, and during the existence of this device, many varieties have been created. Even in the assortment of one manufacturer, there are usually several lines of trimmers at once, not to mention situations when you need to choose from a dozen models of different brands. It is easy for an unprepared person to get confused in all this variety, so if you are planning to get a trimmer, before going to the store you need to find out what important points you should pay attention to. Let's look at this difficult issue using Philips trimmers as an example.

Nutrition

Most modern beard trimmers are powered by built-in batteries, but there are also models powered by mains power and even regular batteries.

The last option is exotic, which, however, also has the right to life when used somewhere far from civilization. It is preferable to buy a trimmer with a built-in battery that can also work from the mains. This is an important nuance, because some models, when connected to the network, immediately begin to charge the battery and will not cut hair until it is charged. Take this into account if you don’t want to get into a situation where you have to sit and wait for half an hour to touch up the other half of your face.

Reviews from satisfied bearded men

Trimmer Braun BT3020. 1. Fits comfortably in the hand. 2. Stylish design. 3. The shaving quality is excellent. 4.Good price. 5.Point length adjustment with good steps. I think it turns out just great! A huge advantage is its compactness; even when you go on a trip, you can take it with you. ... It’s also worth noting that the trimmer holds its charge just fine and can be cleaned under water. The trimmer has become one of the most important things in everyday life. I definitely recommend it to anyone who likes to experiment with their appearance!!!

curgin150

https://irecommend.ru/content/otlichnyi-trimming-ot-braun

Amazing trimmer! Philips BT7210 left only positive emotions. Initially, I used a hair clipper to cut and trim my beard. After the machine, hair was everywhere. This trimmer collects all cut hair into a built-in container. The bathroom is now clean! 20 hair length adjustments provide endless possibilities for creativity! Trips to the hairdressers are cancelled! Separately, I would like to note the battery life from the built-in battery. Personally, one charge lasts me almost a month of trimming my beard.

Artyom P

https://irecommend.ru/content/super-trimmer-0

... Panasonic er 2031... it's worth the money and will work for more than one year. Very good power, of course it won’t work for your head, but it shaves your beard and mustache with a bang. There are also six length adjustments, which allows you to create the beard you want or even shave it clean; small knives remove hair quite cleanly. The battery holds great, I charge it once every 3 weeks, and I shave three times a week. In general, you can write a lot of good things, but it’s better to take it and see for yourself. I recommend it to everyone, friends!!!

provatorov

https://otzovik.com/review_2614159.html

Autonomy and charging time

Autonomy is another important parameter on which the ease of use of the trimmer depends. Modern models, as a rule, can work on a single charge for about 40 minutes, although some Philips trimmers have a battery life of up to a record 75 minutes. This is quite enough for several cutting cycles, which will allow you to take the trimmer with you on trips and travels. More budget models are designed for 30 minutes of work, so if you want to save money, you will have to remember to charge the trimmer after each haircut.

Charging time also matters. For models with a large battery life, it is not as important as for compact trimmers with a small battery. If you choose the latter, be sure to pay attention to the presence of a fast charging function. It will help out in cases when the battery runs out at the most inopportune moment.

And further. It would be good if the battery charge indicator was truly informative and not just for show. This will further reduce the likelihood of unpleasant situations when you need to tidy yourself up, but the trimmer is discharged.

Men's shaving trimmers - what are they?

The trimmer is an evolution of the regular clipper into a beard and mustache shaving device. This is a more functional and highly specialized device that can tidy up facial hair, as well as get rid of unwanted hair in the nose or ears. It allows you to make limited adjustments to your hair - you can use it to trim your temples.

To draw attention to this group of products, manufacturers produce videos about each model that appears on the market. Functional:

  • trim your mustache carefully;
  • shape the beard;
  • get the effect of “one-day stubble”
  • remove hair length;
  • get rid of imperfections in the ears or nose;
  • tidy up the intimate area and armpits;
  • make a hairstyle edging.

It is often said that a trimmer is necessary for shaving a beard, but you should know that this accessory will not replace a regular machine. Its design does not allow you to completely remove hair; it is only possible to trim it to the desired level; the video shows how to care for your beard using this device:

Difference between trimmer, razor and clipper

To maintain a stylish appearance, it is better to have all three devices in your set of men's accessories. Each of them is designed to work out specific components of a neat image.

Device type in comparison
TrimmerHair clipperElectric shaving device
Advantages:
  • the trimmer is more compact;
  • variability of application areas (from facial hair to intimate areas);
  • possibility of design, not just trimming;
  • easier maintenance: the nozzles are washed with water, and the machine elements require lubrication.
  • The cost of the trimmer is lower, there are many options up to 1000 rubles;
  • forms neat bristles of the same length;
  • shortens hair to the same level with fine adjustment of the required length;
  • more attachments and functions.
Flaws:
  • cannot be used for vegetation longer than the maximum step (usually 10 mm);
  • poorly suited for very coarse hair.
  • not suitable for close shaving;
  • more difficult to balance the blades.

The standard trimmer adjustment range is 0.3-20 mm. Determine what beard length you prefer, this will help you choose a model. The device for lengths greater than 10 mm often has a cutting accuracy increment of 2 mm.

The similarity in functionality is the reason that an electric razor often has a trimmer attachment. This part is suitable for simple operations, but for hard-to-reach places or mustache design you will still need a separate device.

Blades

Blades are an important part of any cutting device, and the trimmer is, of course, no exception. How long it will serve you directly depends on the quality of the blades. They come in regular steel and stainless steel (there is also ceramic, but it is not found in household trimmers). But the thing is that the trimmer blades are not an ordinary knife and you won’t be able to sharpen them yourself. If spare blades are available from the manufacturer, they will cost so much that it will be easier to buy a new trimmer. That's why good trimmers have self-sharpening blades. Philips uses stainless steel blades that sharpen as you go and never lose their sharpness.

If you don’t want to buy a new trimmer every six months or a year or put up with the fact that it will pull your hair, you should choose models only with self-sharpening blades.

What to look for to choose the perfect trimmer

What is a trimmer? It would seem like nothing special, a device for facial care. However, not all so simple. In order for the purchase to live up to your expectations, you need to decide “on shore” the requirements: what you want to get from the device.

Supply system

Some people's lives involve moving, while others practically never leave the house. Based on this, you can choose the optimal type of power supply for the trimmer.

  1. Rechargeable. Almost every trimmer has a built-in battery. As a rule, it takes 8–10 hours to fully charge, but then you can use it continuously for 30–40 minutes. Enough for one haircut. In professional models, serious manufacturers, for example, Braun, install two batteries for stable operation. Even in difficult conditions, the device charges in just 1 hour for battery life of 50 minutes. There are professional models that last 80 minutes after an hour of charging. And models with fast charging: 5 minutes of charging the lithium-ion battery will provide 3 minutes of operation. This time is quite enough for correction. It is worth paying attention to whether the trimmer has an LED indicator of the battery charging status. You might think this is an insignificant detail. But it is convenient to see the battery status in order to charge it on time.
  2. Network. Such models are in the minority and are inconvenient to use. The advantage is that there is no need to change batteries. If you choose this option, it is important that the power cord is at least 1.8 m long. It is desirable that it can rotate.
  3. Mixed. Combines battery and mains, for which a special adapter is provided. If the battery runs out during a haircut, you don't have to wait to charge it.
  4. From batteries. Simple finger ones are suitable. Most often these are compact models weighing about 150 grams. It is not advisable to use them in a damp bath or on wet hair.
  5. From the cigarette lighter in the car. The range of such models is narrow; for those who like to travel by car, it is an excellent option to keep their face tidy.


Works only from the network

Purpose

The chosen beard shape determines which type of trimmer is best to choose.

  • For the beard. Models are equipped with only 1–2 attachments - combs for setting hair length. Suitable for both lovers of light stubble and those with a full or hipster beard. Hair grows in different directions, so for proper shaping, use a trimmer with a large number of length settings to create a smooth transition from short hairs on the sides to long hairs at the bottom.
  • For mustache and beard. These models include two integrated trimmers for added versatility. In addition to the main, full-size one, there is another retractable one. The retractable trimmer comb is narrow, more durable, and does not bend. This is a great tool for giving your upper lip hair a precise, stylish look. This trimmer supports, for example, a Van Dyke or a goatee, which requires a perfect mustache and contour, but does not require many length settings.
  • Universal. Combines a trimmer and an electric razor. A great option when the style includes a combination of a beard and clean-shaven areas. This device provides care for vegetation on the entire body. It has a larger number of accessories, for example: a razor for contours, an attachment for the nose and ears, an attachment for fine cutting and modeling. This is the choice of young, daring experimenters who are ready to change.

The mustache is trimmed every 2 to 4 days to maintain precise shape and maintain a neat, neat appearance.


A special reservoir for clipped hairs makes shaving easier

Number of cutting levels

The minimum haircut length ranges from 0.2–1.0 mm, the maximum is 20–25 mm. If a hair length of up to 10 mm is required, choose models with one attachment. If you need more, choose models with installation up to 20 mm. The number of cutting levels can reach up to 40. An important parameter here is the length step. In models Braun, Panasonic, Philips set 0.5 mm for lengths from 1 to 10 mm. In combs for cutting long hair up to 20 mm, the step can be 2 mm. The desired value can be easily set with one hand using a high-precision scale or dial switch on the housing. There are models in which the Ion-control function is enabled for ultra-precise installation - electronic adjustment of the length of the haircut. In cheap models, fixed-length attachments are added to the main trimmer, like in a hair clipper, which creates inconvenience during operation.


The desired cutting length can be easily set with one hand

Blade material

The sharpness of the knives determines how quickly and accurately the desired result will be achieved. They are made:

  • stainless steel;
  • made of titanium alloy;
  • with ceramic coating on the blade.

Even using the same source material, manufacturers achieve features in knives for their products.

  • Panasonic uses special stainless steel blades, which are sharpened at an angle of 450 using a special technology. The sharp leading edges of the knives carefully and accurately handle even thick and hard stubble without compromising the precision of the lines.
  • Braun equips its models with ultra-sharp stainless steel blades that promise unlimited service life.
  • Philips supplies titanium or steel self-sharpening knives. The steel blades lightly touch each other during cutting, thus sharpening occurs. They are always very sharp, the haircut is quick and neat.
  • Babyliss uses stainless steel. A special feature of the brand is the patented floating head. It changes direction at an angle of 330, fits tightly to the skin and precisely follows the curves of the face. The haircut comes out neat, but such a head is installed only in expensive models.
  • Rowenta uses knives made of stainless steel or titanium alloy. Titanium is three times stronger than steel. An additional plus is that they are not lubricated with oil.
  • Remington and Supra install self-sharpening knives made of titanium alloy.

Equipment

Depending on what kind of beard you wear or are preparing to wear, the equipment is selected. With the right selection, a clear contour of a beard and mustache can be easily modeled. By changing attachments, you can cut hair on your head and take care of your body.

  • The attachment is a beard comb with a hair length of 1–10 mm.
  • The attachment is a hair comb 11–20 mm long. Used for professional beards and head hairstyles. If you do the haircut yourself, it is convenient to straighten the hair even on the back of the head and the area behind the ears.
  • The attachment is a comb for body hair. It provides gentle care for the body, including intimate areas.
  • Attachment for nose and ears. Easily and painlessly removes hair from these areas.
  • Detail trimmer for precise trimming. Great for sideburns and long hair.


Trimmer configurations vary

In addition to attachments, the kit may include:

  • replaceable blades;
  • stand for trimmer and accessories;
  • contour razor;
  • cleaning brush;
  • oil for lubricating the knife block;
  • case.

Additional functions

A trimmer can do more than just shorten hair. Manufacturers are expanding the capabilities of the small device.

  • Vacuum hair collection system. A wonderful feature that prevents the bathtub and sink from getting clogged. The cut hairs are collected in a special reservoir, which is then easily removed and cleaned. In addition, you can trim your beard just before going out in formal clothes to maintain a flawless image. Especially recommended for beards with short hair length.
  • Automatic adjustment to any voltage. A useful feature for those who travel a lot. In any country, the trimmer will automatically adjust to the output voltage in the range of 100–240 V.
  • Laser guidance. The narrow beam shows a clear line along which trimming is needed. It makes it easier to achieve clear symmetry when shaving clean areas on the face. Helps maintain beard styles that require contour, such as a goatee or island.
  • Memory. The trimmer remembers the last selected cutting length. When the device is turned on again after switching off, it is automatically set to the last set position.
  • Backlight. Even the smallest hairs will not be missed.
  • Wet haircut without attachments using foam, just like shaving with a razor. Very convenient both at home and on the road.


Great tool for maintaining symmetry

Price

If you want to look stylish, don’t regret spending once on a model from a trusted brand with an average price of 3.5–4 thousand rubles. You have to use the trimmer often, and in addition to its long service life, you will be pleased with the ergonomic design with a rubberized grip area. When the device lies comfortably in the hand and vibrates less, it is easy to control, achieving maximum precision and flexibility in movements without the risk of dislocating a joint.

Professional models cost from 8 thousand rubles. The main difference from household ones is a longer battery life. They are bought if the standard time is not enough.

Reviews of cheap models under 1.5 thousand rubles note that the batteries do not hold a charge well, the attachments are inconvenient to use, and the knives quickly become dull.

Length adjustment

Perhaps the most important parameter for a trimmer. The range of length adjustment and its step determines whether you will be able to realize this or that image. Adjustment using interchangeable attachments is the least preferable, as it complicates the selection of length and does not allow you to cut all the stubble hairs evenly. In good modern trimmers, the length can be adjusted using blades within the widest range. So, in Philips models, a special wheel on the handle adjusts the length from 0.5 to 10 millimeters in increments of half a millimeter (and in some even 0.2 millimeters). In this case, the length is displayed on the body, so there is no need to guess and look closely at the nozzle to understand what length is set.

Choose a trimmer with fixed length settings and minimal steps. This will create the effect of three days or a week of stubble, while at the same time making the beard neat and well-groomed.

Straight razor

"Opaska" is the oldest type of razor. Archaeologists have discovered a straight razor from ancient Rome. And before that, Sapiens shaved with the sharpened bones and teeth of large animals.

Around the middle of the 20th century, a change in the choice of razors can be traced: the T-shaped, “safety” razor completely replaced the “safety” razor. To the point that straight razors were completely banned for use in barbers and salons. Today, shaving with a real straight razor is a special procedure chosen by aesthetes and hedonists who enjoy the shaving process itself.

A straight razor costs many times more than the above mentioned razor. But if you're a fan of the ritual of traditional shaving, "caution" is a great investment for the future.

Care and technology

Since there are no replaceable blades in a straight razor, before purchasing, and even more so before using, you should learn how to sharpen it correctly. This cannot be learned from articles or instructions on the Internet. It is worth watching a video lesson from professionals in their field and being very careful in the process. A properly sharpened straight razor cuts hairs in the direction of their growth, does not leave irritation and creates the impression of slower hair growth after the procedure.


Johnny Depp's popular role as a murderous barber was based on the danger of this razor.

A straight razor is suitable for hair of any length. Again, sharpened like a blade, it can cut any volume of hair of any length in one go, turning an experienced bearded man into a gentleman with glossy cheeks.

The treatment of such a tool consists not only of sharpening, but also of thorough antibacterial treatment. The razor is tricky to handle: it is recommended to wipe it with a soft cloth, without touching the edge, so as not to dull it prematurely. Before, during and after shaving, you should never touch the razor with your fingers, or test the sharpness of the blade on skin, paper, fabric, etc. It is not recommended to store the blade in a place open to children and animals, and it should not be damp, and blades that are not wiped well enough will corrode, which will literally immediately entail getting rid of the tool. If the sharpening technique is incorrect, the edge (blade) will quickly become thin and become unusable. When sharpening a straight razor, you need to contact professionals who know how to use special sharpening stones.

Remember that a barber is a person who has been studying the art of shaving for a long time, after which tens, hundreds, thousands of men’s faces pass through him. It is the experience and atmospheric combination of this “edged weapon” with professional shaving cosmetics and the hands of a master that makes this shaving not just dangerous, but a whole ritual for the elite.

Peculiarities

And now the most interesting part - additional options. There are a lot of them, but, as in the case of cars, you should only choose those that are really necessary and useful. Unfortunately, it is impossible to add them to the trimmer or discard unnecessary ones, as in cars. This is another reason to take a closer look at the characteristics.

  • Vacuum system. A really useful thing, thanks to which the cut bristles do not scatter throughout the bathroom, but are collected in a container.
  • Wet cleaning. If the trimmer supports this function, then it can be washed directly under the tap, rather than wasting time on painstaking cleaning.
  • Laser pointers. A laser guidance system that allows you to achieve perfectly straight lines when shaping beards and mustaches of complex shapes (currently implemented only in Philips trimmers).
  • Voltage switch. Some models are capable of operating from a network with a voltage of 100–240 volts. Choose this one if you travel to different countries.

In fact, all additional functions are useful and add ease of use, but some may find them unnecessary. When comparing models, pay attention to such device capabilities and think about whether you need them.

Which brand of beard trimmer is best?

Devices for beards and mustaches are mainly represented by models from several brands:

  1. Panasonic is a Japanese company that produces hair clippers, electric shavers and trimmers for men; the products are distinguished by their quality and variety.
  2. Philips, the brand offers reliable and versatile devices and regularly introduces new developments.
  3. Remington, a company that has long specialized in electric shaving and haircutting devices, has both budget and premium trimmers in its line.
  4. Braun, the brand maintains an ideal price-quality ratio.

When purchasing, it is customary to focus not so much on the manufacturer, but on the characteristics of the device. Each of the listed companies can offer customers convenient and functional devices.

Conclusion

So, before buying a trimmer, you first need to decide on the type of power supply. It is best to opt for models with a combined option, powered by both battery and mains power. It is desirable that the trimmer has a fast charging function and a battery life of 40–60 minutes. The blades are self-sharpening only and only made of stainless steel. Length adjustment should be taken as the most important parameter and choose models with minimal adjustment increments. Among the additional options, the vacuum system and wet cleaning function are definitely considered useful. Everything else is at your discretion.

A good starting point in your search for the perfect beard trimmer is the official Philips website, where you can compare all existing types of trimmers and clearly evaluate the benefits of different models. Happy shopping and a thick beard!

T-shaped machine

The safest of the three shaving tools presented is the T-shaped razor. This is a kind of interpretation of modern cassette machines, which most men use in our fleeting world. It also has the shape of the letter “T”, namely: the standard blade is hidden under the head of the machine. This minimizes the risk of misfiring while shaving and cutting yourself. Also, the T-shaped machine is safe in terms of hygiene. The used blade can be easily pulled out and thrown away.

Care and technology


Hold the machine straight, moving it lightly downwards in the direction of hair growth.
This type of machine is very easy to maintain. As mentioned above, the blade can be easily replaced with a new one with a simple movement of the hands: unscrewing the head of the razor and carefully removing the interposed blade. No fuss with sharpening and special relationships to fabrics, training and techniques. It is enough to simply wash the razor after each use, monitor the sharpness and cleanliness of the blade, as well as the dryness of the machine and the humidity of the room in which the razor is located. It, like any of the above, can rust in a humid environment.

It is recommended to dispose of used blades in special containers, the cost of which, of course, is not comparable to the safety of you and your loved ones. Keep the razor and blades away from children and animals.

When suddenly switching from a cassette razor to a T-razor, you will notice a difference only in the degree of direction of the blade during shaving.

The technology is simple. The process does not require any pressure from your hands, much less applying a certain force: the T-shaped machine moves due to its own weight, without damaging the epidermis. Thus, hairs are easily cut in the direction of growth, without causing uncomfortable metal interference and irritation to the skin.

Trimmer care

I would also like to say a few words about the care that the beard trimmer itself requires. There is nothing complicated here. Just regularly lubricate the working area (where the blades are) with special oil. One or two drops are enough, but they will significantly extend the life of your useful accessory.

Also, try to keep your trimmer clean. To do this, remove shaved hairs that have accumulated under the nozzle with the special brush included in the kit. This way you can maintain your bearded, but neat and stylish image for many years, getting real pleasure from “communicating” with your universal “assistant”.

Rating of the TOP 10 best trimmers and clippers for cutting beards and mustaches

PlaceModelPrice
#1Philips OneBlade QP2530, black/lime
#2Philips HC5612, blue
#3Philips BT1216 Series 1000
#4Philips BT5502 Series 5000
#5Remington MB4120
#6Braun MGK 3221, black
#7Braun MGK 7221, black/silver
#8Philips MG1100 Series 1000, black
#9Panasonic ER-GB42
#10Remington PG6000

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What is the difference between a trimmer and a machine?

Among all kinds of devices, the machine stands out for its versatility. The trimmer is very similar in principle to working with hair machines. But the trimmer has more delicate tasks: it removes short hair from the face and, if necessary, from other parts of the body, it also adjusts the length being cut, and models the mustache and beard.

The machine has a large distance between the teeth, while the trimmer has a much smaller distance between the blades. This advantage reduces the risk of skin injury during cutting. The minimum length of a haircut with a trimmer is 0.5 ml; a machine does not give such a result.

The weight of the trimmer is significantly less. Thanks to batteries, trimmers can work without recharging.

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