Blade Sharpness in Dermatologic Surgery

In the precise world of dermatologic surgery, not all blades are created equal. While surgeons and medical professionals are familiar with various blade types, one crucial characteristic often goes unexamined: sharpness. A recent study has shed light on this subtle but significant aspect of surgical instruments, revealing insights that could impact procedural outcomes and patient care.

The Hidden Importance of Blade Sharpness

Most medical professionals understand that different blades have unique advantages based on their shape and size. However, sharpness—a critical factor in blade performance—has historically been a subjective assessment. This lack of objective measurement means that surgeons have largely relied on experience and intuition when selecting blades.

A Scientific Approach to Measuring Sharpness

Researchers tackled this challenge by developing a standardized method to measure blade sharpness. Using the Sharpness Tester from the Cutlery and Allied Trades Research Association in Sheffield, UK, they measured the force required to cut through a silicone cylinder. This innovative approach provided a quantitative way to compare different blade types.

The Sharpness Ranking: Surprising Results

The study tested various blades used in dermatologic procedures, ranking them from sharpest to least sharp:

1. Double-edged razor blade (0.395 N) 
2. Dermablade (0.46 N)
3. #15c blade (0.575 N)
4. #10 blade (0.647 N)
5. Standard #15 blade (0.664 N)

The differences might seem minimal, but in surgical precision, even small variations can be significant.

Double Edge Razor Blades were the sharpest blade type tested by a large margin.

Implications for Surgical Practice

This research highlights that blade selection is not just about familiarity or habit. The sharpness of a blade can directly impact:

• Precision of incisions
• Patient comfort
• Healing and scarring potential
• Overall surgical efficiency

Practical Takeaways

For dermatologic surgeons and medical professionals, this study offers a new perspective:

• Consider blade sharpness as a critical factor in instrument selection
• Understand that different procedures might require different blade characteristics
• Be open to testing and comparing blade performance objectively

Conclusion

While technology and techniques in dermatologic surgery continue to evolve, sometimes the most critical improvements come from understanding the fundamental tools we use. Blade sharpness is no longer just a matter of intuition—it's a measurable, important consideration in surgical excellence.

Note: Always consult with medical professionals and follow established clinical guidelines when selecting surgical instruments.

Source: The Sharpness of Blades Used in Dermatologic Surgery. F. Awadalla, C. Hexsel, L. Goldberg. Published in Dermatologic Surgery 1 January 2016

 The double edge razor blade is perhaps the most iconic blade in terms of shaving history.  Beginning in the late 1800’s the shaving with a safety razor, which utilizes the double edge razor blade, became the best way to get a premium shave.  Today our double edge razor blades are made of Platinum Stainless Steel and coated to reduce the friction in every shave, cut, or slice. 

Double edge razor blades are currently used in a variety of industries.  Some people still prefer to shave with the traditional safety razor and just switch out the double edge razor blade when one blade dulls.  Our 12-356 Double Edge Razor Blade is sold with 10 blades in a dispenser, an excellent choice for personal use.  Used blades can be slipped into the back of the dispenser for safe and efficient disposal.   In addition to personal use, barbers still commonly use double edge razor blades for shaving.  Beauty and barber supply shops stock our double edge razor blades for personal as well as commercial use.

Double edge razor blades are also used in bakeries, beginning with the tradition in France of slitting a baguette in a diagonal fashion, called scoring, in order to facilitate the raising of the bread.  Used today by bakers of all types, the double edge razor blade used on a baker’s lame, or handle, and is the preferred way to efficiently score bread.

Double edge razor blades always come individually wrapped or in dispensers.  Blades are flexible and can be snapped in half at the end of the blade’s life.  We always encourage safe handling and disposal for all razor blade products.  Depending on the quantity and usage you require, we recommend three different double edge razor blade products.  Our 12-356 comes 10 blades per dispenser, as mentioned above.  Our 17-141 Double Edge Razor Blade offers 250 individually wrapped blades per carton.  And our 25-044 Israeli made Double Edge Razor Blades offers 100 individually wrapped blades per carton.

If you have any questions about our line of double edge razor blades or their suitability for your need, please contact us at (310) 452-1034.

The Razor Blade Co. is pleased to offer high quality razor blades at competitive prices in our line of industrial cutting tools and bulk personal shaving. We've complied a list of our top ten most popular products, favorites among our customers across America and internationally:

#1  94-0186 Single Edge Blade
The Razor Blade Co.'s most popular single edge razor blade is our 94-0186 single edge blade.  These blades are constructed with premium quality carbon steel and are fitted with an aluminum back to avoid rust. With a thickness of .009'' these blades fit most standard single edge razor blade tools. Each shipped blade is protected in shelling paper for safe handling and rust protection. These blades are our most practical and economical option for single edge razor blades.

#2  11-100 No. 11 Hobby Blade
These universal #11 hobby blades, also known as x acto blades, fit with standard art and hobby knives/handles.  These blades are suitable for both industrial uses and hobby uses.  The number 11 hobby blade's classic xacto blade shape allows for uses in many applications demanding precision.

#3  87-0511 No. 11 SS Long Contour Blade
Our number 11 contour blades are non-sterile and not for surgical use.  These stainless steel #11 contour blades have a long point and are great for making precision cuts that require the added strength of stainless steel.

#4  33-0365 Premium Twin Blade Disposable Razor
Our premium platinum twin blade disposable razors come packaged in bulk.  Designed with a pivot head, lube strip, and safety cap, they are the perfect blade to purchase in bulk without compromising function.  These disposable razor blades serve many customers' needs; they are used for hospitality as well as institutional needs. 

#5  87-0111 No. 11 SS Contour Blade
These number 11 contour blades are also non-sterile and not suitable for surgical use.  The 87-0111 #11 stainless steel contour blades are great for making precision cuts.  With its thin design and stainless steel construction, these surgical blades can tackle standard to specialty blade jobs.  The same shape as the 87-0511, these contour blades have a slightly shorter blade length.

#6  62-0167 Gem Extra Sharp Uncoated Single Edge Blade
These Extra Sharp Uncoated GEM single edge blades are part of our premium single edge blade line.  The stainless steel construction of these single edge razor blades, make them stand out in their class.  These industrial razor blades can be used in many applications with a variety of standard blade tools. Each shipped blade is protected in shelling paper in order to keep each blade in optimal condition.

#7  62-0165 GEM Extra Sharp Coated Single Edge Blade
These Extra Sharp Coated GEM single edge blades are the sister of the 62-0167 in our premium single edge blade line. These industrial blades are PTFE coated to reduce friction, allowing for a better cut and a longer-lasting edge.  These single edge blades can be used in many applications with a variety of standard blade tools. Each shipped blade is individually wrapped for safe handling.

#8  94-200 Heavy Duty Economy Single Edge Blades
The Razor Blade Co.'s heavy-duty carbon steel single edge blades are fitted with a steel back and can be used in many applications with a variety of standard blade tools. Equipped with a steel back to deal with added stress, these blades offer an excellent solution to heavy-duty blade jobs.

#9  89-0043 Coated Injector Blade with Dispenser
Our Coated Platinum Chrome injector razor blades come with an easy to use dispenser for safe handling and dispensing. Dispensers can aid in keeping handlers safer and allow for easy storage and distribution across a factory.  Each dispenser is packaged on a card for an excellent retail presentation. The Razor Blade Co. sells injector blades both in dispensers and in bulk to suit your preference. 

#10  311721 Twin Blade Bulk Disposable Razor
Our twin blade disposable razors are packaged in bulk and have a fixed head is colored light blue and come with safety caps.  Perfect for customers who require a bulk alternative to buying shaving razor blades.  These blades are suited for hospitality and institutional uses.  Another alternative to the 33-0365 Premium Twin Blade Razor.

Still can't decide?  If you need help choosing the right razor blade for your application, call one of our helpful customer service representatives at (310) 452-1034 today.  Representatives are available Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm.