Considering a switch to a safety razor? Learn how to use one, which models tend to work best, and why making the change can simplify your routine and reduce waste. Once you start, disposable cartridges may quickly become a thing of the past.
I aim to live more sustainably and have become increasingly aware of how disposable razor blades and plastic cartridge heads contribute to environmental waste. I even once nearly stepped on a discarded blade at the beach. Still, it took me a while to commit to a safety razor.
Full transparency: My husband switched to a safety razor years ago, and at first the thin blade and the idea of assembling it genuinely intimidated me. I worried I’d cut myself. I also mistakenly assumed safety razors were primarily for men — which isn’t true — so this guide took time to put together.
It’s also worth saying: shaving is entirely optional. I don’t shave every area of my body and sometimes I shave infrequently. Do what feels right for you — it’s a personal choice.
What is a Safety Razor?
Safety razors date back to the 1800s and were created as a safer, more accessible alternative to straight razors used by barbers. They typically use a single, replaceable metal blade and have a compact, sleek design compared with multi-blade disposable cartridges.
Blades are usually stainless steel and come in styles such as closed comb, open comb, adjustable, and butterfly. For many women, a closed-comb safety razor works well since women’s body hair is often finer than men’s; many models also offer longer handles for easier grip. Safety razors are used with wet shaving techniques to reduce irritation and improve glide.
Why Switch to a Safety Razor?
The main advantages are environmental impact and long-term cost savings.
Sustainability – Unlike disposable cartridge razors, a safety razor’s handle lasts for years and the small thin blades are recyclable. Switching reduces plastic waste and the volume of discarded grooming products.
Cost – After the initial purchase of a durable razor handle, replacement blades are inexpensive, often costing around a few cents to a dollar per blade depending on brand and pack size. That can result in substantial savings over time, since you won’t be buying expensive multi-blade cartridges frequently.
Tips for Using a Safety Razor
Beginners may need a short adjustment period, but the technique is straightforward once you learn it.
Handle blades carefully – Thin safety blades look fragile and can feel scary to handle. Take your time when loading the blade and follow the razor’s assembly instructions. With careful, deliberate movements you can avoid cuts.
Short strokes – Avoid long sweeping motions. Use short strokes that cover a few inches at a time for better control and a closer shave.
Light pressure – Let the razor’s weight do the work. Pressing hard increases the risk of nicks and irritation; a gentle touch gives a smoother result.
Use a quality lubricant – A shave oil, gel, or cream helps the razor glide and reduces irritation, ingrown hairs, and razor bumps. Many people prefer lighter oils or gels that keep skin moisturized without excess residue. Choose a product that suits your skin type and provides a smooth surface for the blade.
How Often to Replace Your Blades
Blade lifespan varies, but a common guideline is to change the blade after roughly ten shaves. For women, frequency depends on how much and how often you shave; more coverage or denser hair may require replacing blades sooner, while infrequent shaving can extend blade life.
Recommended Safety Razor Brands
Here are a few reputable brands I recommend considering:
Well Kept – A popular choice I currently use. It’s a well-made option from a women-owned Canadian brand and tends to be pricier but durable.
OUI the People – A women-owned brand offering shave-friendly designs and complementary skincare and shaving products.
West Coast Shaving – A long-standing retailer with many razor styles and longer-handle options that can be easier to grip.
Merkur – A historic brand with many models and handle lengths; they offer reliable, classic safety razors that suit different preferences.
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