After a Year, I'm Still Impressed!

Over the years, I've tried several brands of electric razors, only to return to a regular blade. The reasons? Never could get a "close" shave, difficult to clean the razors, batteries that eventually would not recharge.

I have seen the ads for the Braun self-cleaning razors and was intrigued. The price, however, kept me from taking the plunge. Finally, a year ago, I received a Braun Activator 8595 for Christmas. I started using it and have been happy with it ever since.

The razor truly works as advertised. My shaving feels as close as a blade. The cleaning process works well and leaves the shaver smelling great. Charging is easy and I've never had a problem with a weak battery, even after an 8 day trip without a recharge! The razor fits well in my hand and has a good heft without being heavy. I like the pivoting head allowing the cutting head good contact with the contours of my face. The head can also be locked in one position. The trimmer works well, too.

The shaving process is quick and easy. I have course facial hair that grows quickly, so I shave every day and sometimes in the evening for "five 'o clock shadow." I adapted to this razor from a blade very quickly. You don't need any special gels or lotions. Just shave in a normal manner, keeping your skin taut. One gripe I had with previous electric razors I have owned is that they took a long time to get anything near a close shave. I can honestly say that the Braun shaves very quickly and comfortably without having to go over the same section of your face over and over. To me, it is as close a shave as I experienced with a blade and shaving cream. I have experienced no skin irritation or burning with the Braun, unlike other electrics I've used. I've read some reviews on this razor with complaints about the cutting head getting hot. To date, this has not happened to me. Sure, it warms up some after a couple of minutes but not uncomfortably so.

Cleaning is a simple process. After a shave, simply place the razor back in the charger/cleaner. A light will indicate what type of cleaning is needed: "Economy," which is of short duration and usually shows if you clean it every day. "Normal" is of somewhat longer duration and usually appears if you only clean every two or three days. "Intensive" is for when you only clean about once a week. (Although I tend to clean the razor every day, the "intensive" cycle is indicated about once per week.) The cleaning fluid is easily replaced and lasts about 4 to 6 weeks. An indicator lets you know when the fluid level is low or empty. Refills are available at any discount or drug store. The fluid has a pleasant, slightly citrus smell and is (I believe) alcohol based. The cleaning cycle is somewhat noisy, but since I shave in the morning it is not an issue for me. The only odd thing is the very bright blue LED on the charger. It is so bright that it can easily function as a night light. My wife makes me shut the bathroom door at night because of its brightness.

So after a year, I'm very pleased with the Braun 8595. I will replace the head in about 6 months (recommended every 18 months) and keep going. I enjoy close, fast shaves with a nice smelling razor. I won't be going back to a blade.