What Is a Foil Shaver and When Should Barbers Use One?

A foil shaver is an electric shaver with thin metal foils covering the cutting blades. It is used to cut very short hair close to the skin.

What a foil shaver does

The foil lifts short stubble while the blades cut beneath the foil. This creates a smooth finish on hair that has already been cut very short.

Common barbering uses

Barbers often use foil shavers for:

• Finishing skin fades
• Cleaning the lower part of a fade
• Removing short stubble on the neck
• Finishing some head shaves

When not to use one

A foil shaver is not suitable for long hair. Hair should be reduced first with clippers or trimmers. It may also be unsuitable for irritated, broken or highly sensitive skin.

Foil shaver vs razor

A foil shaver is electric and protected by foils. A razor uses a blade directly on the skin. The best choice depends on the service, skin condition and desired finish.

Good practice

Use light pressure and work on short hair only. Clean and disinfect the shaver head according to the manufacturer instructions.