How To Have A Sustainable Shave

Mikayla Richards | July 19th, 2017

For the environment, let’s just say that shaving can be a ‘hairy’ situation! The process of shaving for some is a daily habit, for others a weekly chore and maybe for some an experience never had. Disposable razors are the most popular option for shaving needs, but unfortunately, they are the least environmentally friendly option. Besides their limited use, they also require large amounts of water and are often paired with shaving creams that contain a wide variety of chemicals.

Let’s face it, in our desire to be ‘hair-free’, our shaving habits are contributing a large amount of waste, use precious natural resources and contaminate the environment. Here is a look at some alternate shaving options for both men and women that are better for the earth and steer clear of disposable razors.

Eco-Friendly Razor Options

https://www.buschsystems.com/resource-center/images/uploads/library/electric-razor.png

Disposable razors are not the only shaving option, there is a whole other world of razors out there. Other shaving options include electric razors, safety razors and straight edge razors. All of them have their own unique set of benefits and depending on your shaving needs there is certainly one for you!

An electric razor is an eco-friendly option because it is reusable and depending on the quality of the razor can last for years. Electric razors do not require water or shaving cream. One con about them is they do use electricity. However, the good news is there are now many electric razor options that are powered by solar energy or rechargeable batteries.

Another option is to use a safety razor, this was the popular choice for razors before disposable razors were introduced. A safety razor has a permanent head and handle that requires only the blades to be replaced. Although there is more of an initial investment, only the blades have to be purchased as time goes on. Blades are relatively inexpensive and last a lot longer than disposable razors. It is an eco-friendly, cost-saving option.

Straight razor does not have to be just a treat when you are at the barber. Straight edge razors are one of the most eco-friendly options out there. With proper care, they can last a lifetime which means no replacement waste. Even if it is not a lifetime it’s much longer than a disposable razor!

While using any type of razor it is important to take care of it. This means cleaning it after every use and storing it outside of the shower. This will extend the life of razor which will save you money and reduce razor waste.

Eco-friendly Razor Free Options

If you are tired of shaving, there are also many eco-friendly hair removal non-shaving options! The first option is to go au naturel and not to shave at all! But of course, if not shaving is not an option for you, consider shaving less or trimming your hair instead. Waxing and/or sugaring are popular hair removal options. You’re probably thinking ‘ouch’ but this option creates little to no waste and does not use water. It also causes your hair to grow back lighter and thinner than shaving, which means less hair removal in the future.

Shaving Cream Dilemma

https://www.buschsystems.com/resource-center/images/uploads/library/shaving-soap.png

Shaving cream is an extra cost, creates extra packaging and contains lots of toxins. Shaving cream containers end up in a landfill releasing toxins into soil and water. Also, every time you rinse off your shaving cream it then enters and contaminates the water system. Remember, shaving cream is not necessary for all types of hair removal. For example, if you choose to use an electric razor, waxing or sugaring you don’t need shaving cream. If you do need shaving cream for your preferred method, consider making your own or buying eco-friendly shaving cream. An eco-friendly shaving cream could include:

Using a shaving soap. Shaving soap has little to no packaging, it has a longer lifespan than canned shaving cream and it cost a lot less.
Using shaving cream that comes in a recyclable bottle instead of an aerosol can. Aerosol cans are harder to recycle and are not accepted in all recycling programs.
Using shaving cream products that are made with all natural ingredients that will have less impact on the environment.

With all these different sustainable shave options, it is hard to decide which one to try first! Whichever option you try, you can feel confident knowing that you are helping the environment!