Shave the Planet: Best Eco-Friendly Razors & Shaving Cream
- Valinda
- Nov 14, 2023
- 17 min read
Updated: Apr 25
Jump to:
Did you know that, as early as 4000 BC, women used arsenic and other dangerous substances to remove hair from their bodies? They did this to prevent the spread of diseases or harmful animals such as lice and even the ancient Egyptians removed hair from their bodies. They waxed themselves instead of using harmful substances. Both men and women removed all their hair from head to toe but purely for aesthetic reasons.
After World War I, also known as the roaring ’20s, women become more independent and felt freer in their bodies. This was accompanied by the rise of the hair removal industry as bodily hair became the symbol of self-neglect. The marketing of hair removal products increased, beauty salons started to offer hair removal services and new permanent hair removal technologies were developed.
Whether or not you want to participate in this hair removal trend is up to you. I greatly admire women you are confident enough to go au naturel but it is not for me. I would like to remove some of my bodily hair but I want to do that as sustainably as possible.
Alternatives to Shaving
In a world where sustainability is no longer just a trend but a necessity, the quest for eco-friendly alternatives has extended to our daily routines, even to the seemingly mundane act of shaving. The era of disposable razors, with their plastic waste and short lifespan, is making way for a revolution in grooming: eco-friendly alternatives. Embracing this change isn't merely about a guilt-free shave; it's a commitment to reducing environmental impact without compromising on quality. Imagine a shaving experience that not only leaves you feeling refreshed but also leaves behind a smaller carbon footprint. Welcome to the world of eco-conscious grooming, where every stroke is a step towards a cleaner planet.
Stop shaving
Did you know that more and more women are not shaving their armpits these days? About 1 in 5 don't shave and it is undeniable that in the past 2 years, this number has probably risen sharply. Many have embraced their body hair and find it incredibly liberating to be completely themselves. They are done with feeling ashamed of something completely natural and have started to love themselves more the way they are. For them, removing body hair was often something that (male) society expects from female society. By stopping this, they give themselves power and freedom from the weekly (sometimes daily) time-consuming activity.
The decision to stop shaving is a personal choice and may have different benefits for different people:
Saves time: Not shaving can save time in the morning or when getting ready for an event, as there is no need to spend time shaving.
Saves money: Not having to purchase shaving products or shaving equipment can save money in the long run.
Better for the environment: Not shaving reduces the amount of waste generated by disposable razors, electric razors, or other shaving products.
Increases body positivity: Choosing not to shave can be an empowering decision for some people and can help them to embrace their natural body hair.
Reduces the risk of skin irritation and ingrown hairs: Shaving can cause skin irritation, razor burn, and ingrown hairs, which can be uncomfortable and painful. Not shaving can reduce the likelihood of experiencing these issues.
It's important to note that everyone has the right to make their own choices about their body hair and that there is no right or wrong decision when it comes to shaving.
Electric razor
There are several benefits of using an electric razor over disposable razors, including:
Cost-effective: Although the initial investment for an electric razor may be higher than disposable razors, in the long run, they can save you money. Unlike disposable razors that require frequent replacement, electric razors can last for years with proper maintenance, which can help save money over time.
Convenience: Electric razors are convenient to use as they don't require shaving cream or water to operate. They can be used anywhere, including on the go, making them ideal for travelers.
Time-saving: Electric razors can save you time in your daily grooming routine as they are quick and easy to use. Unlike disposable razors that require several passes over the same area, electric razors can complete the job in one or two passes.
Skin-friendly: Electric razors are designed to be gentle on the skin, which can help reduce the risk of nicks, cuts, and razor burns. They are ideal for people with sensitive skin who may experience irritation from disposable razors.
Environmentally-friendly: Electric razors are a more sustainable alternative to disposable razors as they can be used for years, reducing the amount of waste generated by disposable razors. They also do not require shaving cream, reducing the amount of plastic waste generated by traditional shaving methods.
In conclusion, while disposable razors may seem like a more convenient option, electric razors offer a range of benefits, including cost-effectiveness, convenience, time-saving, skin-friendliness, and environmental sustainability.
Epilator
An epilator is not a very popular method to remove hair however, it is the method I have used for years. Using an epilator has several benefits over using disposable razors, including:
Longer-lasting results: Epilators remove hair from the root, which means that hair takes longer to grow back compared to shaving with disposable razors. This means you'll have to use the epilator less frequently than you would need to shave.
Cost-effective: While an epilator may have a higher upfront cost compared to disposable razors, it can save you money in the long run as you won't need to constantly buy new blades.
Reduced waste: Epilators are a more sustainable option as they do not create any waste, unlike disposable razors which need to be disposed of after a few uses.
Fewer ingrown hairs: Epilators can help reduce the occurrence of ingrown hairs, which can be a common problem with shaving using disposable razors.
Suitable for different hair types: Epilators can be used on a variety of hair types, including coarse or fine hair, and can be used on different parts of the body. Disposable razors, on the other hand, can be less effective on coarser hair and may cause irritation in more sensitive areas.
At first, using an epilator may seem like a painful experience, but trust us when we say that the long-term benefits are totally worth it! As you use it more often, you'll notice that your body hair grows back thinner and thinner until some places on your legs might not even have any hair at all. Of course, the initial pain might throw you off the first time but don't worry - the more you use it, the more your body will become accustomed to the sensation. Plus, think of all the time and money you'll save in the long run by not having to constantly replace disposable razors!
Waxing
This is the method I use today for my legs. When my epilator broke I had to consider whether I should buy a new one or go for a different method. I gave waxing a try as there are several benefits of waxing:
Longer-lasting results: Unlike shaving with a disposable razor, waxing removes hair from the root. This means that the results will last much longer than shaving, which only cuts the hair at the surface of the skin.
Smoother skin: Waxing leaves skin feeling much smoother than shaving with a disposable razor. Waxing removes hair and dead skin cells, which can leave the skin feeling softer and smoother.
Reduced risk of cuts and nicks: When shaving with a disposable razor, there is always a risk of cuts and nicks, especially in sensitive areas like the bikini line or underarms. Waxing eliminates this risk because the hair is removed in one swift motion, leaving the skin intact.
Less irritation: Waxing can be less irritating to the skin than shaving with a disposable razor. Shaving can cause razor burn and ingrown hairs, whereas waxing typically results in less irritation and fewer ingrown hairs.
Convenience: Waxing can be more convenient than shaving because it eliminates the need to shave daily or every other day. With waxing, the results can last up to several weeks, depending on the individual.
Overall, while waxing may be more expensive than using disposable razors, the benefits of longer-lasting results, smoother skin, reduced risk of cuts and nicks, less irritation, and convenience make it a popular choice for many people.
I sugar wax my legs which takes some practice and, like epilation, is a bit painful at the beginning (in both cases you pull the hair out, root and all). I, therefore, recommend that you watch several videos carefully and study the technique well. Also, do not start on a sensitive spot on the body, but only do this when you have mastered the technique well. The wrong technique can cause bruises and you don't want that in certain places. Only if you can do your legs well should you continue with the bikini line or armpits if you want to do these too.
By now, I like the use of sugar wax because it guarantees that I only have to do my legs once a month and don't have to worry about it. It does take a while before I have completely done my legs, it takes me about an hour, but after that, I don't have to worry about it for weeks.
In conclusion, there are several sustainable alternatives to disposable razors that can reduce waste and save you money in the long run. Safety razors, electric razors, and waxing are all great options to consider. By switching to one of these alternatives, you can make a positive impact on the environment while also enjoying a better shaving experience. With a little bit of research and some trial and error, you can find the perfect sustainable razor for your needs and start shaving with confidence and peace of mind.
What is wrong with Disposable Razors?
Unfortunately, most razors nowadays are disposable meaning after a few uses, they end up in landfills and contribute to the waste problem. Did you know that each year 5.000 billion (that is 5.000.000.000.000) disposable razor blades are used and disposed of worldwide? This amount is incredible and the fact that we still produce these types of razors is astonishing.
This is completely opposite to the first razor ever made. Gillette’s first razors were made completely recyclable and plastic-free. A little over 50 years ago they decided that adding plastic to their design was a great improvement and to make them disposable as well so people no longer had to change that sharp blade avoiding touching the blade and making it safer to use. Back then, using plastic was innovative and a great step forward. These razors were easy to use and much more convenient as they could be thrown away after use. Back then the impact their choices have on the environment was never even considered as convenience was much more important.
Now we are more aware of how our choices affect the environment we live in. Now we know that razor blades like these are very hard to recycle because they are made of lots of different materials. This is not only plastic, which in itself is hard to recycle, there is also metal and rubber present in a disposable razor. Next to that, they are also hazardous to work with because they are so sharp and therefore often end up in landfills as it is too much work to safely take apart and properly dispose of.
What makes this even worse is that these disposable blades often come individually wrapped in plastic and these individually packed razors are again wrapped in another plastic package. So both the manufacturing of the razor and the packaging require a lot of materials and energy for production.
Fortunately, we now know better and once you know better you can do better. So we know not to use disposable razor blades but there are more reasons to switch to a safety razor.
What are the Benefits of a Safety Razor?
It is better for your skin
The first one is the fact that because a safety razor has only one blade, there is less skin irritation, shave bumps, and ingrown hairs that are common with cartridge razors.
If you use a 5 blade cartridge razor and go over an area of your body or face 3 times, you have now exposed one area of your skin to 15 passes of a blade. In comparison, if you are using a safety razor, you are only exposing the skin to one blade each time a blade passes. The fewer times that you use a blade so close to your skin, the less it will be affected and the happier your skin is going to be.
It is cheaper
Yes, the initial investment of a safety razor is high but once you have made that purchase, the costs for a safety razor will be very low. A new blade for your safety razor will cost about 50 cents. This will obviously depend on the brand you choose.
The first year a safety razor might cost you €30 for a new razor and €26 for a new blade each week (€0,50 x 52 weeks). So €56 for the first year but for the next 10 years, a safety razor will costs you only €26 a year as you no longer have to purchase the razor but you only need new blades.
Disposable razors will costs you about 2 euro a piece (again this differs greatly per brand) and a new razor each week will result in €2,- x 52 weeks= €104 euro each year for disposable razors.
These exact same costs will return each year as disposable razors obviously are disposed of and can not be reused so they have to be purchased again.
They are better for the environment
They are more eco-friendly as you could read above, disposable razors create an immense amount of waste worldwide while a safety razor is much more eco-friendly. Once its lifetime is over, which is usually over 10 years long, the razor is completely made out of steel and therefore can be completely recycled.
10+ Eco-friendly Razors
Leaf Safety Razor
Introducing the ultimate sustainable shaving solution: Leaf razors! Ditch the plastic disposables and embrace a better, eco-friendly shave every time. These sleek and modern razors boast a pivoting head and up to three blades, making them the perfect tool for achieving a close, smooth shave. With all-metal construction, these razors are built to last and are easy to clean. But what really sets The Leaf apart from other safety razors is its spring-loaded pivoting head. It hugs every curve and contour of your body for a precise and effortless shave without any wastefulness. Customize your shave experience by loading all three blades for the closest shave, or choose to load only one or two blades in the middle and/or top positions for sensitive skin or hard-to-reach areas. Plus, with its stunning design, The Leaf will look great on any countertop. Make the switch to The Leaf and join the sustainable shaving revolution!
Twig Safety Razor
Get ready to upgrade your shaving game with the Twig razor! This sleek and modern razor is the perfect tool for achieving a smooth and gentle shave that's not only better for your skin but also for the environment. Unlike traditional double-edge safety razors, the Twig is specifically designed to be easy to use, with a single-blade fixed head that's forgiving for a quick and effortless learning curve. Its small safety razor head also makes it a breeze to shave tight spots, leaving your skin feeling silky-smooth. But what really sets the Twig apart is its safety-first design. Without a second live-edge on the other side, this razor is super safe and easy to use, making it the ideal choice for shaving intimate areas or hard-to-reach spots. Don't settle for less-than-perfect results or wasteful disposable razors. Try the Twig and experience a better, more eco-friendly shave today!
Well Kept Safety Razor
Get ready to say goodbye to those plastic disposable razors with the Dusty Rose Safety Razor from the incredible brand, well kept! This eco-friendly razor is the perfect tool for achieving your closest, irritation-free shave while also reducing the amount of single-use plastic on our planet. Made with a sturdy handle crafted from solid brass and a high-quality steel blade, this safety razor glides over your skin with ease, removing hair without tugging or pulling. Say goodbye to pesky razor bumps and ingrown hairs! But the benefits don't end there. Using a safety razor is not only more cost-effective than conventional razors in the long run, but it's also better for the environment. When you're done with your trusty razor, both the blades and the handle are completely recyclable. So invest in yourself and the planet by switching to a safety razor today. You'll love the results, and the planet will thank you!
Eco Roots Safety Razor
Get ready to upgrade your shaving game with our premium razor! Crafted from top-quality zinc alloy and stainless steel, this razor is both sturdy and sustainable. In fact, when it's time for a replacement, simply recycle it for an eco-friendly choice. But that's not all - with just one blade, you can avoid those pesky shaving burns, bumps, and ingrown hairs. Achieve a super smooth shave with just one pass! And the best part? This razor is cost-effective in the long run. When your blade gets dull, just replace it and reuse the razor. Plus, with 5 complimentary blades included, you'll be set for a while. But this razor isn't just practical - it's also gorgeous. With a great weight and stylish design, it will be the perfect addition to your sustainable bathroom counter. Don't settle for a subpar shaving experience. Upgrade to our premium razor today and experience the difference!
Bambaw Safety Razor
Say goodbye to skin irritations and ingrown hairs with Bambaw's safety razor for women - the key to achieving the closest shave effortlessly. This durable metal razor is made from high-quality materials that are designed to last a lifetime, making it the perfect sustainable gift for women. Unlike disposable plastic razors, the double-edged razor blades can easily be replaced, reducing waste and saving you money in the long run. Plus, the rose gold safety razor comes with a detailed digital manual that guides you on how to achieve the perfect shave for different body parts, as well as tips on extending the life of the blades and the reusable razor. It even includes two homemade recipes for shaving cream! Don't settle for a subpar shaving experience. Switch to the Bambaw ladies safety razor for an eco-friendly, cost-effective, and luxurious shave every time.
Zomchi Double Edge Safety Razor
Say goodbye to subpar shaving experiences and harmful waste with ZOMCHI's upgraded double edge safety razor! While we are currently in the process of updating our packaging, rest assured that we are committed to providing the best possible metal razor for the closest, cleanest shave. That's why we offer a 5-year guarantee - if you encounter any issues with our razor, just reach out to our customer service team and we'll get it sorted out within 24 hours. Plus, with its stylish texture grip and excellent control, our razor offers the maximum shaving experience. And don't worry about buying extra blades - we've got you covered with 5 standard blades included in the box. Made with rust-resistant stainless steel, these blades are easy to replace, so you can enjoy a sustainable shaving experience that minimizes single-use plastic waste. Upgrade your shaving routine and join the fight against disposable razors with ZOMCHI!
Jungle Culture Safety Razor
Say goodbye to wasteful disposable razors and hello to the future of sustainable shaving with Jungle Culture's collection of plastic-free safety razors. Available in six vibrant colors, including mint green, pastel pink, and rose gold, these eco-friendly razors are the perfect beauty swap for anyone looking to reduce their carbon footprint. With a straight textured handle for extra grip and fashioned from high-quality chrome, these single-blade razors are built to last a lifetime. Plus, they come with 10 safety razor blades, a hessian travel bag, and a gift box with a magnetic closure. As a responsible US and UK brand, Jungle Culture makes it easy to switch to sustainable living with their alternative to disposable razors. Not only do they provide the perfect shave, but they also give you a clear conscience and a community of eco-conscious individuals. Join the movement and give the perfect eco-gift with Jungle Culture's traditional safety razors.
Kinghood Double Edge Safety Razor
Upgrade your shaving routine with the KINGHOOD double edge safety razor - the perfect choice for both men and women! With its unique and beautiful colors, this razor will leave you with unforgettable memories. It's the perfect gift for couples and loved ones on any holiday. Not only is it stylish, but it's also eco-friendly! Say goodbye to disposable plastic razors that end up in landfills. The KINGHOOD safety razor is a zero-waste option that can be reused and recycled, making it a planet-friendly choice. Plus, with five gorgeous colors to choose from, you can find the perfect one to match your sustainable lifestyle. And let's not forget about its performance! With its anti-slip design and high-strength brass construction, this razor provides a comfortable and close shave without any skin irritations or ingrown hairs. And with 10 extra stainless steel blades included, you won't have to waste time and money buying replacements. Say hello to a high-end, quality shave with the KINGHOOD safety razor.
The Grooming Society
Get ready to take your shaving experience to the next level with our high-quality double edge safety razor! Crafted from brass and zinc alloy, this razor is built to last with a solid and durable design. The stainless steel blades are also rust-resistant for long-lasting use. Plus, with a grip texture on the 4-inch handle, you'll experience enhanced anti-skid grip for a safer and more convenient shave. And for even more convenience, we've included 10 double edge blades in the package, so you can reduce time and money on buying extras. Installing and removing the blade is also a breeze with the easy-to-use closed comb design. And if you have any issues, don't worry - we offer a 365-day after-service guarantee for a full refund or replacement. Upgrade your shaving routine today with our double edge safety razor!
Eco-Friendly Shaving Cream
Badger
Say goodbye to those pesky ingrown hairs, nicks, and painful shaves! We understand the struggle, which is why we've found the ultimate solution: Badger's Organic Shaving Soap. This bar of goodness is packed with glycerin, coconut oil, and aloe vera that create the perfect "slip" for your razor to glide effortlessly across your skin, leaving you with a bump-free, ultra-smooth shave. And that's not all - this magical soap also contains low furocoumarin bergamot, a non-photosensitizing essential oil that reduces irritation and redness. For the ultimate shaving experience, pair it with a pre-shave oil to moisturize and prepare your skin and follow up with a post-shave balm to soothe and nourish. Say hello to the ultimate shaving experience with Badger's Organic Shaving Soap!
Burdock
Say goodbye to razor burn and bumps with our organic razor burn & bump treatment! Our secret ingredient is all-natural burdock root, which has been used for centuries for its anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. This powerful ingredient not only moisturizes your skin but also raises hair follicles for a closer shave while preventing infections and inflammation that cause razor bumps and burns. To soothe sensitive skin, we've also added natural coriander and rosemary, locking in moisture for your beard all day long. Plus, our 5oz bar of shave soap puck lasts up to 200 shaves, which is four times longer than traditional shaving cream. Great for all skin types, our organic shave soap will give you a close, smooth, and irritation-free shave without any harsh chemicals or irritants. Switch to our all-natural burdock soap and say hello to healthy, happy skin!
MoonDance Soaps
Get ready for a luxurious shaving experience with MoonDance Shaving Soaps! Handmade with care at a family-run facility in North Carolina, these shave soaps provide the ultimate razor glide for a classic, close shave. The secret? Bentonite clay and nourishing wheat germ oil create a slick, dense lather that effortlessly glides across your skin, leaving it smooth and irritation-free. And with ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and vitamin E, these soaps also provide deep hydration and moisturization. Whether you're a man or a woman, you'll love the clean, fresh scent and nourishing benefits of these shaving soaps. Each 3" round disk weighs 4 ounces and fits perfectly in your favorite shaving mug. So why settle for a mediocre shave when you can indulge in the best? Try MoonDance Shaving Soaps today and experience the ultimate shave.
Kitsch
Get ready to elevate your shaving routine with Kitsch Shave Butter! This luxurious formula is enriched with hydrating and nourishing ingredients that keep your skin smooth, soft, and moisturized, leaving traditional shaving methods in the dust. Say goodbye to clogged razors and residue on your skin, as the clear formula of Kitsch Shave Butter ensures a smooth and close shave without any interference. Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, this gentle formula is free from harsh ingredients that could irritate the skin. For the ultimate shaving experience, pair it with Kitsch Perfect Glide Safety Razor. Plus, with its eco-friendly packaging and commitment to reducing single-use plastic waste, Kitsch Shave Butter is the perfect choice for anyone looking to make their shaving routine more sustainable.
Eco Friendly Shaving Accessories
Recycling Tin
Are you tired of tossing your used razor blades into the trash, knowing they'll end up in a landfill? We've got the perfect solution for you - our blade reccling tin! This tin provides a safe and secure place to store all of your used razor blades, and can even hold a few years worth of them! But what happens when the tin is full? It's easy - simply seal it up and send it back to us at Leaf. We'll take care of the rest, ensuring that your used blades are safely and responsibly recycled. Or, if you prefer, you can locate a scrap-metal recycling drop-off near you and deposit the tin there. With our blade recycling tin, you can feel good knowing that you're doing your part for the environment and making a positive impact with every shave.
Final Thoughts: Smooth Skin, Clear Conscience
Shaving doesn’t have to come at the cost of the planet. By switching to eco-friendly razors and sustainable shaving creams, you're not just upgrading your grooming routine—you’re making a conscious choice to reduce waste, support ethical brands, and protect our planet with every stroke. Whether you go for a sleek safety razor or a refillable system paired with a natural shaving cream, small changes add up. So next time you reach for your razor, remember: it’s not just about looking good—it’s about doing good too. Ready to shave the planet? Your smoothest, greenest shave awaits.
Comments