Unless you’ve been hiding under a rock for the past few years, you might’ve noticed that the world needs our help! From wild fires to flash floods, Planet Earth is crying out for some TLC. And before too long, the damage could become irreversible.
Of course, the main responsibilities fall to the big dogs. But there are still a million ways that you can help from the comfort of your own home. And, believe it or not, some of the easiest changes to make involve your daily shave! Below, we’ve highlighted a few simple ways to make your morning shave more eco-friendly.
Switch to a Plastic-Free Razor
When it comes to plastic waste, the usual suspects are carrier bags, straws and bottles, but disposable cartridge razors are just as much to blame. In fact, they’re often much worse!
These awkward little blighters are made of mixed materials (plastic, metal and more) that can’t be easily separated. As a result, they’re notoriously difficult to recycle and often end up in landfill. Not good.
Thankfully, the answer to creating a more sustainable future can be found in the past, courtesy of the double-edge safety razor!
Double-Edge Safety Razors
The demand for traditional safety razors has grown dramatically in recent years, with men all over the world investing in a more eco-friendly way to glide through their stubble in style.
Unlike modern cartridge razors, safety razors are made from durable metals that stand up to the test of time. The end result is a plastic-free shaver that can be used time and time again, causing far less harm to the environment.
Better yet, the blades that safety razors use are plastic free, meaning they can be recycled too! Simply store your used blades in a blade bank and drop them off at your local pharmacy or responsible barbershop. They’ll then pass your blades on to recyclers that melt them down into fresh sheets of metal.
The single blades that safety razors use are also drastically cheaper than multi-blade cartridges, often working out at just £0.30 per blade. Most men can enjoy 3-5 sharp shaves before a new blade is needed, meaning you’ll be saving money as well as the planet!
A great example of plastic-free shaving is the Hill & Drew HDRC42. At just £10.99, this cost-effective safety razor is perfect for beginners. It’s made from a rust-resistant zinc alloy and is finished in a shiny chrome plating. Its lightweight handle boasts a stylish knurling that provides extra grip and it comes with a free travel case and mirror. Perfect!
Aside from all the eco credentials of double-edge razors, they also tend to offer a far more satisfying shave than cartridge razors. You see, the common misconception is that more blades equal a better shave. In reality, too many blades will create unwanted irritation, ingrown hairs and even razor bumps.
Use a Shaving Soap
Another great way to make your shave more eco-friendly is to try swapping your usual cream or gel for a shaving soap.
The main difference between shaving soaps, creams and gels is that soaps are set much harder. While this toughness does make using a shaving brush a necessity, it also means that soaps tend to last a little longer, making them better value for money. However, the key feature we want to focus on is how their packaging helps the environment.
Because of their solid and long-lasting nature, shaving soaps need to be kept in a shaving bowl during and after use. This means that many shaving soaps are sold with a reusable bowl, which helps to reduce the amount of single-use packaging created after every shave.
A good example of an eco-friendly shaving soap is the Mitchell’s Wool Fat Shaving Soap and Ceramic Bowl Set. This simple two-piece set offers a super smooth shave for just £18.99. It features a reusable ceramic shaving bowl and a generous puck of shaving soap, wrapped in a wax paper. All of this goodness comes packaged in a cardboard gift box, extending the product’s plastic-free credentials even further.
Grow a Beard!
Of course, the easiest way to make your shave more eco-friendly is not to shave at all! If you’re the kind of guy that finds shaving a chore, rather than a luxury, then growing a beard could be the answer to all your prayers.
For many men, growing a beard is a pilgrimage that requires patience and perseverance. That being said, you might still want to invest in some supporting products to join you on your journey to bearded excellence.
If that’s the case, we’d suggest a quick and easy-to-apply beard oil such as The Bluebeards Revenge. Their Classic and Cuban blends offer deep hydration that helps to soften facial hair and reduce beard itch. Better yet, they come in infinitely recyclable glass bottles.
And there you have it – a few simple ways to make your shave more eco-friendly! For more great shaving tips and tricks, check out our magazine today. And for the best deals on traditional wet shaving supplies, visit our store now!
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