As with any new venture there is an initial outlay, but 'running' a DE razor is incredibly cheap; blades cost between 20-35p each. Compare that to a replacement Mach 3 cartridge, which comes in at around £1.80. That makes a double-edged blade between five and nine times cheaper than an inferior, non-recyclable cartridge. A DE razor will set you back around £30, give or take, but it'll last a lifetime and looks so much better on the bathroom shelf. Shaving cream and soap seems to go on forever, long out-lasting a can of shaving gel and offering far greater benefits in terms of shave quality and skin care. Shaving brushes vary in price but, again, a properly looked after brush will last for years. A brush will significantly enhance your shave, and is a fundamental part of the traditional shaving experience.