NICKS & CUTS
Most nicks have the same few causes. Here’s how to avoid them, and what to do when one happens.
Nobody enjoys a nick. It stings, it bleeds more than it should and it leaves a mark on your face for the rest of the day. The good news is that most nicks come down to the same few habits, and all of them are fixable.
Why Nicks Happen
Pushing the razor into your skin forces the blade where it shouldn’t go. A light touch is safer and shaves just as well.
A worn cartridge tugs at hair and skin, which makes you press harder. See how often to change your blade.
Quick, long strokes in a hurry are a recipe for nicks. Slower, shorter strokes keep you in control.
The chin, jawline, Adam’s apple and upper lip all curve and change direction, so the razor can catch.
Three Things to Get Right
Let the weight of the razor do the work. If you feel yourself pushing, ease off and make another pass instead.
Action: Light touch, extra pass if needed.A fresh blade glides over skin with very little effort. Swap it when it starts to tug.
Action: Replace dull cartridges.On the chin, jaw and neck, stretch the skin gently and use short strokes. See shave your neck in comfort.
Action: Stretch the skin, short strokes.If You Do Nick Yourself
Rinse the area with cool water to clean it and wash away any lather.
Hold a clean tissue or cloth firmly on the nick until the bleeding stops.
Don’t pick at it. Skip anything stinging or strongly scented on that spot.
If bleeding doesn’t stop after several minutes of firm pressure, or the cut looks deep, get medical advice.
Nick Mistakes vs the Better Way
✗ The Common Mistakes
- Pressing down for a closer shave
- Using a dull cartridge
- Rushing with long, fast strokes
- Shaving in poor light
- Picking at a nick afterwards
✓ The Better Way
- A light touch and an extra pass
- A fresh, sharp cartridge
- Short, slow strokes
- Good light and a clear mirror
- Rinsing and leaving it to heal
A pivoting head follows curves, which can help around the chin and jaw. See pivoting razor heads explained.
- Premium handle with a quality rubber grip
- Pivoting action head
- Strip with vitamin E and aloe
- Free UK delivery
What customers say
“Excellent product, handle has a real weighty and quality feel”
“My now razor of choice”
“Very good quality yet reasonably priced”
Rated 4.5/5 from 15 reviews. Read them all on Trustpilot.
Frequently asked questions
Usually pressing too hard, shaving with a dull blade or rushing. Fix those three and most nicks disappear.
Technique matters more than head size. A pivoting head follows your face, but a light touch and a sharp blade make the biggest difference.
Anything containing alcohol or strong fragrance will sting. Rinse with cool water and leave the nick alone until it settles.
Yes. Start with the £9.99 starter kit, which includes a premium handle. You can change, delay or cancel at any time for free.
Nicks come from pressure, dull blades and rushing. Slow down, use a fresh cartridge and let the razor glide, and they become rare.