Gillette, Formlabs Partner on Customized, 3D-printed Razors

Shaving razors have become an increasingly commoditized product, so manufacturers have introduced all sorts of innovations to try to gain market share and lure customers away from disposables to premium blades.

Gillette has partnered with Formlabs to offer customizable 3D-printed razor handles as part of its Razor Maker project.

“Gillette is in the business of helping men look, feel and be their best, and that means giving them access to grooming options that not only meet their shaving needs, but also match their lifestyle, look and budget,” said Pankaj Bhalla, director, Gillette & Venus North America. “Earlier this year we introduced a range of new razor products and declared that ‘one size’ does not fit all men when it comes to razors. The Razor Maker pilot furthers our commitment to place power in the hands of consumers and literally have them custom-make their razors exactly the way they want them – tailored to their grooming preference, budget, look, color and style."

The new Razor Maker handles can be printed in seven colors. Image courtesy of Business Wire.

The company is making a limited quantity of 3D-printed razor handles available in the U.S. Each handle will be printed at Gillette’s headquarters in Boston using Formlabs’ SLA printers. Customers can create a handle on the Razor Maker website, using one of 48 designs that the company says are “so intricate they can only be produced using 3D printing technology.”

The handles can be personalized through color and text selection, and are compatible with the company’s MACH3 and Fusion5 ProGlide razor cartridges. The handles ship within two to three weeks, and are priced between $19 and $45 depending on the material.

3D-printed razors are surprisingly popular among 3D print hobbyists (you can view a discussion here), and Philips previously offered 3D-printed electric shaver as part of a pilot project that has since ended.

Source: Gillette