Away with the disposable razors
28.1.2019
Translation: machine translated
After my visit to "zero waste" advocate Carla Opetnik, I made a decision: I want to make my grooming routine more (environmentally) conscious. Today: My search for a sustainable alternative to disposable razors.
I'm actually in the middle of a laser hair removal process as I want to get rid of my hairs once and for all. However, as this will take a few more sessions in my case, I can't do without my wet razor in the meantime. The problem: I've been using disposable razors for years because the reusable version with a replaceable razor head has become too expensive for me in the long term. Epilating and waxing are no longer an option for me because of the pain, and the electric shaver that I bought two years ago full of hope has also disappointed me. So all that's left is wet shaving.
The only problem is that I haven't wasted a single thought on the environment, with "wasted" being the key word. My wear and tear with disposable razors over the last few years has resulted in a lot of plastic waste that I could have avoided. I realised this when I visited Carla Opetnik in November . Her philosophy of life: produce less waste and use natural alternatives wherever possible. She showed me what she uses for her shave: a safety razor. This is usually used by bearded men for their wet shave.
I now want to find out whether I can really shave my legs and co. with it.
The difference to the disposable and system razors is that you attach the razor blade to the razor manually. This bends the two sharp sides of the blade slightly downwards. They then protrude slightly from the long edges of the razor head. The comfortable gel pad is not required here. In addition, the plane is the safer alternative to the razor when shaving men. I dare to try my hand at turning my back on disposable razors with the vintage model from "Green + The Gent".
From 4 to 1
As soon as I've unpacked it at home, I start watching the first YouTube videos on the topic. After all, I don't want to look like a complete beginner in the truest sense of the word. The razor consists of four individual parts: the handle, the head plate, the razor blade and the rounded lid. Screw everything together and you're ready to go. But please take care when assembling, as there is a high risk of injury. Only hold the head by the short side. Ten razor blades are included. The handle is made of ebony and is ten centimetres long. The stainless steel head is made of chrome-plated die-cast zinc and has a closed comb. The difference to an open comb is that the closed comb is less susceptible to cuts as the blade has less "attack surface" and is therefore more suitable for fine hair. For thick (beard) hairs, an open comb is recommended.
Cut
The razor is much heavier in the hand than my lightweight plastic razors. To my surprise, I like that. As a result, I don't have to exert any pressure when shaving, but can simply pull the razor over my skin. The weight of the head does the rest. It takes me a while to get a feel for the angle at which I need to hold the razor. I'm overly cautious at first and sit on the edge of the bathtub to shave my legs. It takes a good five minutes. The next time I'll be a bit quicker. Nevertheless, shaving quickly between door and door is not an option. Even a dry shave is no longer an option. I have to be patient, as the risk of cutting is higher with the razor. Funnily enough, I think it's fantastic to consciously take time for myself. I just have to make sure that I apply enough foam or soap before shaving, otherwise the blade can't glide over the skin continuously and stalls.
Under the arms, it also works perfectly, as I can stretch the skin well. However, if you want to use the razor for intimate shaving, you need to be more careful. It can be done, but it takes a lot more time than you're used to because the razor head is large and immobile and therefore doesn't adapt to the "uneven terrain".
Conclusion
The safety razor takes a little practice to use, but is just as thorough as my disposable razors and doesn't have a limited lifespan. Shaving with it does take a little more time and sensitivity, but this is only a minor drawback for me. After all, I always hurt myself somehow when shaving hastily with the disposable razor. So taking my time is not only good for the environment but also for my cut-prone ankles. What's more, a razor including replacement blades is much cheaper over the years than my disposable razors. It is particularly practical that it can be unscrewed and thoroughly cleaned at any time. For me, one thing is clear: the safety razor will remain an integral part of my grooming routine. I will "use up" the disposable razors and then say goodbye to them once and for all.
If you want to join me on my journey to a more environmentally conscious grooming routine, then press the black "Follow author" button next to my profile. <p
Natalie Hemengül
Senior Editor
Natalie.Hemenguel@digitecgalaxus.chAs a massive Disney fan, I see the world through rose-tinted glasses. I worship series from the 90s and consider mermaids a religion. When I’m not dancing in glitter rain, I’m either hanging out at pyjama parties or sitting at my make-up table. P.S. I love you, bacon, garlic and onions.
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