ow often have you reached for your razor, only to find that you've used up all the cartridges? The frustration of this endless cycle of disposable shaving products is all too familiar. But what if this could be the last time you experience this?
Not only are eco-friendly razors a great reusable go-to, but they are also a bridge between the timeless art of a close shave and the modern imperative of sustainability. Read on to learn why you should consider switching, get useful shaving tips when transitioning to a sustainable razor, and find 10 eco-friendly, durable, and effective razors we highly recommend.
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What Is an Eco-Friendly Razor?
Eco-design is a product production process that accounts for the product's environmental impact throughout its life cycle. The process further focuses on products with the least environmental impact in their life cycle. Here are the four main criteria that clearly explain what an eco-friendly razor is:
Razor that Uses Durable Materials
An eco-friendly razor should feature handles made with long-lasting materials like stainless steel, brass, zinc alloys, and bamboo. Why durable? This allows you not to replace your razor as frequently and avoid using plastic alternatives that are not good for the environment. Bamboo is not as durable as metal but it lasts longer than plastic razor handles.
Metals such as stainless steel are recyclable at the end of life, and their bamboo counterpart is a better option for the Earth because it is biodegradable. Moreover, metal razors have some weight to them that often leads to a smoother and more controlled shave.
Razor with Replaceable Blades
Another feature to look out for in an eco-friendly razor is that they are usually designed to fit individual, replaceable blades and not entire cartridge heads. The small metal blade being the only part that gets discarded. This means there will be far less waste than bulky plastic cartridges.
It also makes recycling easy and reduces on packaging given that they often come in small, paper-based packaging. A razor with replaceable blades' initial price may be higher but the blade refills are much cheaper than the cartridges over time.
Minimal Packaging
Apart from the small, paper-based packaging the blades come in, eco-friendly razors come in cardboard boxes, paper wrapping, or metal tins. Also, some brands dealing in eco-friendly razors offer blade refill subscriptions with minimal, reusable packaging. This packaging cuts down on petroleum-based plastics and lowers the carbon footprint associated with the razor’s lifecycle.
Standard Double-Edge Blades
The use of standard double-edge(DE) safety razor blades is a traditional practice that’s friendly to the environment. Apart from its superiority for a clean shave, the simple metal strip minimizes material use and its universal compatibility makes it a fit in a wide range of razor designs.
Please note: The only thing to watch out for is if you are a regular traveler, be sure to place this kind of razor in checked luggage as airport security deems them as unsafe to carry onboard an aircraft.
Are Eco-Friendly Razors Effective?
Yes, they are and maybe you’ve already concluded this from our previous remark that standard double-edge(DE) safety razor blades give a clean shave.But we want you to understand why it’s deemed effective. Reasons:
Sharp, Single Blades Reduce Irritation
Eco-friendly razors such as safety razors typically use a single, sharp blade. It’s an approach that cuts hair cleanly without the need for multiple passes, therefore there’s reduced pulling and tagging that’s often felt with multi-blade systems that lead to irritation and ingrown hairs.
Here, a close shave doesn’t need a lot of pressure; it’s a gentle shave that further reduces friction and irritation on your skin. To add to it, a clean-cutting session awaits you with this option, meaning that you just need to shave over the same area a few times for a clean shave; and note that with time you will get better at it.
Quality Materials Provide a Smoother Glide
Previously, we talked about how eco-friendly razors like those made of metal have a substantial weight. This weight allows the eco-friendly razor to glide smoothly across your skin while you apply minimal pressure as you shave.
Eco-razor handles such as those made of bamboo or metals give you a secure grip, even when wet. An improved grip when shaving assures you that you will have more precise control when you shave.
Adjustable Options for Personalized Shaves
Eco-friendly razors such as the ones that are under the safety razor category offer adjustable features for a more customized shave. Blade gap adjustment, for example, gives you the option to change the blade and the safety bar distance; a larger gap exposes more of the blade for an aggressive shave and a smaller gap for a milder shave.
Some eco-razors’ designs offer blade angle adjustment; the angle at which the blade meets the skin. Also, others come with multiple base plates that you can swap out to change the razor’s aggressiveness. Adjustable weighted handles give you the ability to add or remove weights from the eco-friendly razor for the balance and feel that you prefer.
5 Useful tips to help adjust to an eco-friendly razor
Adjusting to an eco-friendly razor is a marathon, not a sprint, but one with much to offer and a great long-term experience. We’ll try to make the journey a little bit better with the following tips:
1. Start with A New Sharp Blade
A new blade guarantees that it has not been dulled by previous use and factory-sharpened blades are typically at their optimal sharpness when first unwrapped. A new, sharp blade allows for minimal tugging and reduced irritation shave.
It will give you the best first experience as it allows you to focus on the technique best for you and sets a benchmark for how your shaves should feel for a future reference of when it’s time to change the blade.
2. Apply Light Pressure
As you aim for close shaves you also want to avoid cuts, nicks, and razor burns; and for an eco-friendly razor with a new sharp blade, all you have to do is guide the eco-razor as it does most of the work. The weight of the razor itself in most safety razors is typically 70 to 100 grams, enough for an effective shave therefore only a little pressure is needed.
Applying light pressure not only ensures a smooth shave but also encourages you to focus on the proper shaving technique that suits you best. This is a key aspect of adjusting to an eco-friendly razor.
3. Shave with The Grain First
You have felt facial or body hair before, but now do it with the intent of knowing the direction of your hair growth. Shave in the same direction as hair growth(with the grain) for the first pass. If a closer shave is what you desire, re-lather and make a second pass across the grain (perpendicular to hair growth). Finally, to get the closest possible shave, a careful third pass against the grain shave is golden, but only if your skin can handle it.
Shaving with the grain first allows you to reduce the initial length of your hair with less skin irritation, ingrown hairs, and razor burn; it helps to lift the hair as it prepares your skin for the following passes.
5. Apply a Good Lather for A Smoother Shave
A good shaving lather should be rich, creamy, and have a yogurt-like consistency. If using a soap puck, swirl a damp brush on the soap for 30-60 seconds to load it, then work the brush in circular motions to build a rich, creamy leather. This routine will help provide you with just enough cushion to protect your skin and enough slickness for the eco-razor to glide smoothly.
Take Your Time and Be Patient
10-15 minutes spent on your entire shaving routine can be what’s needed for a thorough, careful shave. It’s a mindful process that needs you to be ever-present throughout, paying attention to the feel of the razor and your skin’s response. You should also account for proper pre-shave prep and post-shave care in your shaving routine. Patience will help you enjoy the process and turn shaving into a self-care ritual.
10 Eco-friendly Non-Disposable Razors We Recommend The Most
In our quest for a more sustainable approach to personal grooming, we bring you a curated selection of the best eco-friendly, non-disposable razors available today. Each has been carefully evaluated to meet the high standards in sustainability, effectiveness, durability, value for money, and brand ethics.
1. Hanni
This brand understands that 100% sustainability is not an easy target to hit but they have been able to achieve their zero plastic waste promise through innovative packaging and product design. Their focus on small and practical steps allows them to work more on developing sustainable products using sustainable practices.
Pricing: $6 - $68
Handle Material and Blade Type: Their razor has a weighted-metal handle and the blades are made from their proprietary Swedish steel blades.
Products: The Weighted Razor (suitable for both men and women), blade bin for safe storage of used blades, and 5, 20, and 50-pack stainless steel blades.
Suitable for Sensitive Skin? Yes, it’s great for sensitive skin. However, reviews suggest that the blade is sharp and will benefit from gentle application for first time users.
How to Care for It: Rinse thoroughly after each use, dry it, and store it in a cool, dry place.
2. SUPPLY
This small family run business prides itself in designing shaving and skincare tools that are durable, of great quality, and functional; “ruggedly handsome and hardworking” are the words they use to describe its products.
Pricing: $5 - $190
Handle Material and Blade Type: The Single Edge SE has a solid metal handle, single blade design with razors made from die-cast zinc alloy, and NickStop Technology along the safety bar to protect your skin from nicks and cuts.
Products: The Single Edge SE is designed for men.
Suitable for Sensitive Skin? Yes, designed to reduce razor burn and ingrown hairs.
How to Care for It: Rinse after each use, dry thoroughly, and store in a cool, dry place.
3. Jungle Culture
Jungle Culture was born as a solution to the damage a single plastic straw can exact on the environment and how long each one takes to breakdown. In fact, they started out making reusable straws later on expanding to shaving products as their happy customer base expanded. It’s a nomadic business that tries to connect the different cultures of far-flung communities they believe that it’s never too late to begin a sustainable life.
Pricing: $5 - $32
Handle Material and Blade Type: Its safety razors are made from bamboo and stainless steel.
Products: Reusable safety razors, bamboo safety razors, and teal safety razors; they are all suitable for both men and women.
Suitable for Sensitive Skin? Yes, these safety razors are gentle on the skin.
How to Care for It: Rinse and dry after each use, and store in a cool, dry place such as the razor stand.
4. OUI the People
In their mission to join the efforts to prevent 2 billion plastic disposable razors ending up in landfill annually, OUI the People’s team created their refill blades that are 100% nickel-free and made of stainless steel. This brand also focuses on mindful and minimalistic packaging.
Pricing: $75 - $170
Handle Material and Blade Type: The Single is made from stainless steel with a weighted handle.
Products: The Single (made for women)
Suitable for Sensitive Skin? Yes, it’s specifically designed for sensitive skin.
How to Care for It: Rinse thoroughly, dry, and store in a dry place.
5. Leaf
Leaf designs plastic-free shaving tools and aims to help their customers easily transition to a more sustainable shave care routine. Their modern design mimics a traditional cartridge, while still using easily swappable classic safety razors.
Pricing: $4 - $200
Handle Material and Blade Type: Made from metal with a pivoting head. Uses single or double-edge blades.
Products: Leaf Razor, Single Edge Razor, Dermaplaner (suitable for both men and women)
Suitable for Sensitive Skin? Yes, they are designed to be gentle on the skin.
How to Care for It: Rinse thoroughly from the outside or open the head and rinse between the blades after use, dry thoroughly, and store in a dry place.
6. UpCircle
As hinted in their name, this brand's focus is on the circular economy; this is on top of its cruelty-free, vegan, organic, and ocean-friendly products. Their Safety Razor was the winner of the "Best Tool of the Trade" in Natural Health Beauty Awards 2021 and is reviewed as providing "one of the closest shaves" while being easy to use by its customers.
Pricing: $10 - $55
Handle Material and Blade Type: Made from chrome with a textured handle for grip. Uses double-edged safety blades.
Products: Plastic-Free Safety Razor (suitable for both men and women)
Suitable for Sensitive Skin? Yes, suitable for sensitive skin.
How to Care for It: Rinse and dry after each use, store in a dry place.
7. ZWS Essentials
This company is based on the zero-waste lifestyle and was created with the passion to make online shopping a more environmentally friendly experience. Their sustainable single blade razor is reviewed as an easy to use and affordable solution by its customers.
Pricing: $2 - $90
Handle Material and Blade Type: The safety razors are made from stainless steel Made from stainless steel. Uses double-edged safety blades.
Products: Zero Waste Safety Razor, Fixed Head Twig Safety Razor, and Safety Razor; they are suitable for both men and women.
Suitable for Sensitive Skin? Yes, they can be gentle on the skin.
How to Care for It: Rinse and dry thoroughly, and store in a clean dry place.
8. Eco Roots
Eco Roots are women-owned, vegan, low-waste, and small business that aims to offer a sustainable solutions for "every person, every body, every identity". Their Safety Razor design is known for its durability, ergonomic design and lasting results.
Pricing: $30 - $50
Handle Material and Blade Type: Eco Roots razors and blades are sustainably made from zinc alloy and stainless steel.
Products: Eco Roots safety razors are suitable for both men and women.
Suitable for Sensitive Skin? Yes, they are designed to minimize irritation.
How to Care for It: Rinse and dry after each use, store in a dry place.
9. Rockwell Razors
Rockwell Razors establishes itself as very viable alternative to the pricier cartridge razors and shaving clubs. Its personalized system creates a safe and space and comfort for those trying double-edge razors for the first time.
Pricing: $15 - $300
Handle Material and Blade Type: Rockwell’s safety razors are made from stainless steel.
Products: Rockwell 6S - Adjustable Stainless Steel Safety Razor(suitable for both men and women)
Suitable for Sensitive Skin? Yes, it has adjustable settings for sensitive skin and beginner beginner-friendly.
How to Care for It: Rinse thoroughly, dry, and store in a clean dry place.
10. Public Goods
Public Goods offer healthier, more sustainable products, while partnering with Eden Deforestation projects and The Campaign Against Hunger. By doing this, they are helping offset the tough environmental challenges that result from the affordable yet a more eco-friendly disposable product.
Pricing: $4 - $20
Handle Material and Blade Type: Its razor handles are made from bamboo and the razor blades are from stainless steel.
Products: Bamboo Razor Handle and Razor Blades (suitable for both men and women)
Suitable for Sensitive Skin? Yes, gentle on the skin.
How to Care for It: Rinse and dry after each use, store in a dry place.
The criteria we based our eco-friendly razor selection on
In our quest to recommend the best eco-friendly razors, we're driven by two core missions: delivering an excellent shaving experience and minimizing environmental impact. But how we do that, comes down to the following criteria:
Sustainability
In the context of sustainability in razors, their lifecycle from the sourcing of raw materials to their eventual disposal or recycling is the focus point. Materials used should be recycled or recyclable materials like metals, biodegradable or renewable handles such as bamboo handles, and should avoid the use of harmful chemicals or chemicals.
During eco-friendly razor production, waste of raw materials should be reduced, and energy-efficient processes such as the use of renewable energy are employed. Recycled or easily recyclable materials are used also in packaging while ensuring a minimalist packaging design.
Effectiveness
With an eco-friendly razor, effectiveness is in its ability to provide a close, comfortable shave consistently. The razor’s ability to cut hair cleanly with minimal irritation during and after shaving and a smooth experience during the process adds to the eco-friendly razor's effectiveness.
Durability
Here, an eco-friendly razor is determined by its ability to maintain its peek performance and structural integrity over an extended period of use. It includes the handle’s resistance to corrosion especially in wet environments, its ability to withstand accidental drops, and its grip and ergonomic features over time.
The razor’s head durability consists of a consistent blade alignment, resistance to loosening with repeated use, and for the adjustable razors, the durability of adjustment mechanisms. Durable razors need less frequent replacement, reduce overall waste generation, and conserve resources for production while offering a better value over time.
Price
Two primary business models exist in the razor industry: the cartridge model, which offers cheap handles but expensive refills, and the durable handle model, which features costlier initial purchases but inexpensive blade replacements. Eco-friendly razors often fall into the latter category, with safety razors using standard double-edge blades gaining popularity among the environmentally conscious.
Brand Ethics
We evaluate companies based on their approach to sustainability that extends beyond the physical product. This includes their environmental responsibility, such as commitments to reducing carbon footprints, implementing sustainable manufacturing practices, and responsibly sourcing materials. Also, their social responsibility such as fair labor practices, community engagement, and diversity initiatives are considered.
Happy Green Grooming!
Eco-friendly razors represent not just a better shave, they inspire a paradigm shift in our daily routines. Forged from durable materials like stainless steel and bamboo with innovative designed that minimize waste, these razors are at the forefront of cutting edge and sustainable grooming. As you draw one of these razors across your skin, you're not only grooming—you're helping decrease plastic waste-one shave at a time.
