Revisiting the Gillette Mach 3 Men's Razor

I have never been one to jump on a bandwagon. I rarely purchase something new and improved just because it has a number of added bells and whistles. I have been shaving with disposable razors for years. Except for a few brief interludes I have been loyal to no brand, always buying what is on sale.

I listened to friends and coworkers raved about the Gillette Mach3 line of razors for years. I didn't believe their affirmations of the three-bladed razor. My razors had two blades and did the job at a fraction of the price. Where do I go that I need a shave so close that three blades are required?

Having reached a high-point in my career I decided that little luxuries were okay. I decided to give the Gillette Mach3 Turbo a try. Gillette released the revolutionary shaving system in 1998 after spending $750 million in research and development. I figured it had proven itself in the marketplace and I could safely purchase the item.

Having experienced shaving with only two blades I was not aware that something better, much better, was available. After that first shave, tentatively dragging that large three-bladed implement across my cheek, I can be counted among the converted. I was amazed. The blade seemed to glide over my face, taking every trace of beard with it.

After some research I discovered the point of having a three-bladed razor is to allow for a shave with less skin irritation. I thought it a clever marketing ploy aimed at the gullible. I will proclaim the benefits of the Gillette Mach3 Turbo from the mountain tops. It does provide a closer shave with less irritation. Why didn't I listen to my friends and start using this system nine years ago?

The cost, of course. Replacement blades for the system are not cheap. In fact, they are down-right pricey. Fifteen dollars for three replacement cartridges? Too much, I told myself over the years. But, being a man that loathes shaving and often launches into bathroom tirades I have discovered that the extra cost is well worth the benefit. The first blade I placed on the new razor has lasted me six weeks, shaving approximately every other day. For a clean, close shave, I am willing to pay more. I am not a slave to vanity, but looking good is sometimes important.

The Gillette Fusion was recently released. This state-of-the-art razor features five blades, and battery-generated micropulse technology for the closet shave. Based on my track record I'll probably adopt his cutting-edge personal care technology in nine years.