Philips rotary shavers often run reliably for many years – however, the shaving heads do not. If shaving takes longer or your skin is irritated afterwards, the blades are usually blunt. Here you will find Philips' manufacturer recommendations, the typical signs that it is time for a replacement, and what you should look out for when changing them – for HQ8/HQ9 (Speed XL) series shavers and for the BodyGroom.
What Philips recommends
Shaver heads: every 2 years
For the shaving heads of its shavers, Philips recommends replacing them every 2 years to maintain optimal shaver performance. Newer devices also display a symbol when the shaving heads should be replaced.
BodyGroom foil: every 12 months
The rhythm for the BodyGroom is shorter: Philips recommends changing the shaving foil every 12 months. During body shaving, a larger surface area is treated per application – consequently, the foil and blades wear out faster.
These figures refer to the manufacturer's original parts, but they are the best guideline for any spare part.
Five signs that a replacement is due
- The shave takes longer. You have to go over the same area multiple times until it is smooth.
- The shaver pulls on the hair. Dull blades pluck instead of cutting cleanly.
- The skin is red or burns afterwards.
- A shaving cage or the shaving foil is damaged. Cracks, dents, or holes – then replace immediately.
- The replacement symbol lights up (on devices with a display).
Which spare part fits?
HQ8 and HQ9/50 Speed XL: 3 shaving heads
The set of 3 shaving heads fits Philips shavers of the HQ9/50 Speed XL and HQ8 series, for example, HQ8140, HQ8160, HQ8170, HQ8250, HQ8260, HQ8270, HQ9160, HQ9170, HQ9190 as well as PT920, PT925, and PT927.
BodyGroom and TT20: Shaving head with trimmer
The BodyGroom replacement shaving head with foil and integrated trimmer fits the BG20xx, BG7xx (S7000), and TT20xx series, among others, as well as other identical models. It replaces, for example, the parts TT2000/43 and HQ1072.
You can find your model number on the device or in the instruction manual. Always check it against the list of suitable models on the product page before purchasing.
Tips for replacement
- Replace all three shaving heads at the same time. This is the only way for all heads to work evenly – a single new head next to two blunt ones does not achieve much.
- Do not mix up blades and shaving cages. When cleaning "run-in" shaving heads, the blade and the cage belong together. If they are mixed up, cutting performance can noticeably decrease.
- Ensure correct fit. Do not close the retaining frame until all heads are lying correctly in their seat.
- BodyGroom: Pull off the old shaving head and attach the new one until it clicks into place.
How to extend the service life
- Clean after every shave. Tap out the hair or – for washable devices – rinse under running water.
- Leave to dry open before putting on the protective cap.
- Do not clean shaving cages and foil with pressure. They are thin and bend easily.
In summary
- Philips recommends: Shaver heads every 2 years, BodyGroom foil every 12 months.
- At the latest when the shaver pulls, the skin burns, or a part is damaged, it is time for a replacement.
- With rotary shavers, always replace all three heads together.
Matching products: 3× Shaving heads for Philips HQ9/50 & HQ8 Speed XL, Shaving head for Philips BodyGroom with trimmer. You can find all spare parts in the category Philips Shaving Heads.
Note: All mentioned brand names are the property of their respective owners and are used here only to indicate which devices our products are intended for. Our products are third-party replacement products. The replacement recommendations come from Philips and refer to original parts.