While it is still possible to buy cheap razors with a single blade, having razors and shavers with multiple blades has long been a reality, and while you might wonder if new products deliver diminishing returns, companies continue pushing the envelope to deliver better results, with Panasonic an excellent example.
Ok, so I haven’t as yet had the opportunity to try Panasonic’s new ES-LS9A Elite 6-Blade Shaver, the brand’s first 6-bladed model, but the first thing I thought of was The Onion’s satirical piece which predicted, in 2004, Gillette bringing out a 5-bladed razor, which happened in 2005. https://www.theonion.com/fuck-everything-were-doing-five-blades-1819584036
Of course, razors are different to shavers, but do the same job of delivering a clean and close shave, with the personal care industry having been big business for decades, and obviously, one of the hallmarks of a civilised society.
So, how does Panasonic describe its 6-bladed system, and how does it work?
Panasonic states its ES-LS9A Shaver integrates six advanced Japanese blades designed to tackle all beard types. Based on the art of Samurai sword-making traditions, we’re told the blades are constructed with surgical-grade stainless steel to ensure that even after years of use, they maintain their sharpness while minimising irritation and redness to the skin.
No doubt this premium nature explains its AUD $899 premium price, but this is definitely not usual for the top end of the shaver market.
There are two new blades – thick stubble blades coated with titanium, as well as two finish blades, and two lift blades, all of which are designed to cut more hair in a single pass.
Panasonic explains the tapered blade tips increase the height of the beard capture area and ensure that long, flat-lying and tricky hairs are handled “with ease”.
Here’s the official video that shows all of its major features in action:
Indeed, the ES-LS9A’s durable inner blades are nano-sharpened to a 30-degree angle, which we’re told allows cuts to be made as close to the root as possible for a smooth, irritation-free wet or dry shave.
Naturally, the ES-LS9A builds upon the success of its predecessors, as is the case with technologies that evolve with each new generation.
This new shaver features a 22D Flexible Shaver Head with a new floating blade mechanism, so that users can seamlessly follow the contours of their face and neck. The mechanism moves the six blades in 22 independent directions – both vertically and horizontally – so each stroke covers a greater area and cuts quickly and cleanly, reducing the overall burden on the skin.
Panasonic isn’t just magnetic in its marketing, either – the ES-LS9A also integrates an ultra-fast linear motor with advanced mag-lev technology, delivering 84,000 cross-cutting actions per minute to help cut through all facial hair thicknesses. The linear motor also guarantees there is no loss of motor speed, even when handling the thickest of beards and when battery charge is low, which is all quite impressive.
So, how do the advanced electronics deal with different types of beard? Here, Panasonic explains the ES-LS9A has “Responsive Beard Sensor Technology” which precisely detects facial hair thickness and density at a rate of 220 times per second. Billed as revolutionary technology, Panasonic explains this allows its new shaver to boost power where beard growth is heavier, reducing the amount of pressure placed on the skin.
So, what are the aesthetics?
Well, the shaver is available in a smart matte black finish, which should complement any bathroom counter with its simplistically sleek design, and also comes with an Auto Cleaning and Charging Station to thoroughly clean and sterilise the Shaver after every use, something you obviously expect from a premium shaver. The dock automatically removes any beard clippings or sebum caught within the Shaver while charging the unit simultaneously.
In addition to the ES-LS9A, Panasonic has also announced the release two other models: the 3-bladed ES-LT2B for AUD $379 and 3-bladed ES-LT4B for $329 Shavers.
As can be seen from the promotional imagery at the two links for those two 3-bladed shavers, these shavers are aimed at a younger market, while the premium 6-bladed shaver is aimed for more mature and discerning consumers.
Anyway, these two 3-bladed models feature 39,000 cross-cutting actions per minute to power through thick beard growth and minimise skin irritation. They also feature an ergonomic design with three independently moving blades that precisely follow facial contours and provide a gentler shave. The ES-LT4B also has a 2D head with directional (left and right) movement to reduce the number of strokes needed for a close shave.
Consumers can enjoy stylish design and a modern colour palette, with the ES-LT2B available in matte black or white, and the ES-LT4B featuring red or blue colour options.
Chasnyn Ousmand, Product Marketing Manager – Personal Care at Panasonic Australia said there is strong consumer demand for hassle-free solutions that promote self-care and wellness, noting: “In recent years, we have observed how Australian men are taking greater care of their personal hygiene, grooming and style. Personal care is becoming less taboo, and consumers are more attentive to their appearance and overall wellbeing. Naturally, they are searching for products that deliver high-quality results consistently.
“We are thrilled to be a part of this personal care evolution with the launch of our ES-LS9A 6-Blade Shaver as part of our extensive range. This release in partnership with Shaver Shop, combined with the launch of our ES-LT2B and ES-LT4B models, will deliver greater choice, convenience and flexibility for Australian men,” Ousmand concluded.
The ES-LS9A, ES-LT4B-A841 (Blue) and ES-LT2B Shavers are available exclusively at Shaver Shop stores. The ES-LT4B-R841 (Red) is available from Shaver Shop and all participating consumer electronics retailers.
