Beauty and the Beast (Wilkinson Sword Extra II)

Member Name: kelr101

Product:	Wilkinson Sword Extra II
Date:	23/07/06 (733 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Easy grip, funky colouring, smooth close shave

Disadvantages: Contains Lanolin, Slightly more expensive than competitors

During the summer months I often find myself wanting to shave my arms and legs more often, especially because the summer heat leads to short skirts, and sleeveless tops. I’m not a huge fan of standard “replace the blade” razors, because I inevitably lose the holder to begin with, so generally buy disposable razors.

Wilkinson Sword Extra II razors (5) are my current choice, and are available for £1.95 from Sainsbury’s, with other mainstream supermarkets also stocking them at a similar price. Their bright pink and jade packaging ensures they stand out from the more dowdy looking brands, and appeal to the girly side of me. They are currently classed as Wilkinson Sword Extra II Beauty razors, although this does appear to change dependant on the current years packaging. I have also seen them available in packs of 10. On the back are the ingredients listing, and a quick diagrammatic overview of the main points of the disposable razor.


*Razor Design*

Inside each package, no larger than a crisp packet, are 5 Pink and Grey razors. The pink strip has raised dots for a non slip extra grip, so you don’t lose control of the razor when shaving those more delicate areas. The twin bladed head, covered in protective plastic casing, has a lubrication strip of Aloe Vera and Vitamin E at the top, which is designed to soothe your skin whilst shaving, and a small release button to separate the blades, clear any hairs and prevent blockages.

The lubrication strip contains Vitamin E (Indexed as Tocopheryl Acetate), Aloe Vera (Indexed as Aloe Barbadensis), BHT (Anti oxidant to prevent discolouration) and Lanolin. Lanolin, although a good emollient which helps keep skin soft and smooth, can cause allergic reactions in some people.

Each razor appears to be well constructed, and doesn’t look as flimsy as some of the cheaper disposable razors. The colouring is attractive and pleasing to the eye.


*Performance*

Luckily for me I only have to endure minimal hair growth of my legs, as a result of suffering from eczema as a child, so don’t need to shave my legs as frequently as some. However as a result of this eczema my legs are more sensitive and prone to rashes and itches when using some razors.

I don’t use shaving foams or other similar products when shaving, as I often find this increases the itching but I do ensure my legs are wet to assist the smoothness of the blade. Using the Wilkinson Sword Extra II disposable razors has produced one of the closest and smoothest shaves I have ever experienced from a disposable. The release button helps clear the blade from accumulated stubble, and the Aloe Vera strip combined with the wet shave has prevented any nicks, and gives a nice cooling effect on my sensitive skin. I also moisturise my legs after shaving, and generally notice the odd hair that I have missed, but with Wilkinson this now appears to be a rarity.

Rinsing the blade off in cool water cleans the razor, replacing the plastic cap means you allow for further re-use. As my legs require minimal shaving I generally use one razor blade for 2-3 applications before the blade dulls.

I also use the Wilkinson Sword Extra II razors to have my armpits and on occasion my bikini line, and have never had any problems here. The pink extra grip strip allows for easier manoeuvrability when shaving, especially along the trickier bikini line. I’ve always noticed that my armpits are very smooth, and the results seem to last for around 48 hours (although this is dependant on personal hair growth). Generally one razor tends to last 3-5 armpit shaves, although during the summer months I prefer to shave daily so will change razors more frequently. It’s all down to personal preference, individual hair growth, and personal usage as to how long the razors will last.


*Conclusion*

Wilkinson Sword has a done a good job producing these razor blades, and has created a successful product. Each razor costs less than 40 pence, and can last for several applications depending on personal usage, although the Aloe Vera strip does diminish slightly with each further use.

I personally use these disposable razors on my legs, armpits and bikini line and have never suffered any adverse effects, a bonus considering I suffer from sensitive and dry skin, particularly on my legs, so am always wary of certain products. The quality of the shave is excellent, and the results long lasting.

I’ve seen the product available offline in many supermarkets and chemists (although for differing prices), and although appears to be slightly more expensive than some brands, but their ease of use, performance quality and overall results mean I would rather pay the extra couple of pence, than be subject to nicks and cuts on my body.


Recommend.






*Wilkinson Sword*

If you would like further information on the Wilkinson Sword products, then please log onto http://www.wilkinson-sword.co.uk/ . Here you can find information on their latest products, grooming secrets and the odd fun section.

Wilkinson Sword GmbH, Schutzenstr. 110, 42659 Solingen, Germany

Summary: Who would you rather be? Beauty or the Beast? Choose Wilkinson for Beauty...