Double Edged Safety Razors: Economic and Environmentally Friendly Way to Shave for Women
Shaving
Nothing epitomizes self-care like smooth shaven legs. However, the time it takes to get the end result and the amount of money spent replenishing razors can take a toll. I finally decided to give the double edge razor a try. I was remarkably surprised at how smooth it left my legs—and without a single nick.
I was able to easily open the blade and clean the razor throughout the process, which left a smooth finish to the very end. I couldn’t believe how long the razor lasted, how easy it was to change the blade, and the amount of money I was saving. In addition to the personal gain, I knew I was making an impact on the environment.
As cute and safe as I thought my disposable razors were, they were also contributing to a greater amount of waste and were bad for the environment. While smooth shaven legs feel great, knowing I was making a change to help the environment felt even better.
Tips for Women Using a Double Edge Razor:
If you’re considering making the switch, here are a few things I’ve learned that can make the experience even better:
1. Prepping Is Key:
Start by softening your skin and hair with warm water—ideally after a shower. Exfoliating beforehand helps remove dead skin cells and reduces the risk of ingrown hairs. A gentle sugar scrub or exfoliating glove works wonders.
2. Use a Good Shaving Cream or Soap:
Skip the canned stuff. A quality shaving soap or cream makes a big difference. Lather it up with a brush or your hands—the cushion and glide protect your skin and let the blade do its job effortlessly.
3. Go Slow and Let the Razor Do the Work:
There’s no need to press down. Hold the razor at a 30-degree angle and use short, gentle strokes. Stretch the skin slightly with your free hand to get a closer shave, especially in tricky areas like the knees or ankles.
4. Legs, Underarms, and Bikini Area—Each Has Its Own Technique:
- Legs: Use long, steady strokes and reapply lather if needed. Shaving with the grain (downward) first, then against (upward), can help minimize irritation.
- Underarms: Shave in multiple directions, as hair here grows in all directions. Use very light pressure.
- Bikini Area: Go slow, use a fresh blade, and shave with the grain if you’re prone to irritation. Some people prefer to trim first if the hair is longer.
5. Aftercare Makes All the Difference:
Pat your skin dry and apply a gentle moisturizer or aftershave balm (unscented or alcohol-free is best). If you’re prone to ingrown hairs, look for products with tea tree oil, witch hazel, or salicylic acid.
6. Keep Your Razor Clean:
Rinse your razor thoroughly during and after each use. Let it dry completely to prevent rust. Store it in a dry area rather than the shower.
7. Economical and Eco-Friendly:
Double edge blades are incredibly inexpensive and recyclable in many areas (just use a blade bank or safe container for disposal). Compared to disposable razors, you’ll save money and drastically reduce waste.
8. Accessories
- Astra razor blades
- razor stand
- shaving soap
- soap cup
- brush to lather
- razor banks for disposing old razors
Final Thoughts:
Switching to a double edge razor felt like stepping into a more intentional form of self-care. It’s not just about how your skin feels, but the small rituals—slowing down, being mindful, and doing something kind for your body and the planet. If you’ve been curious but hesitant, consider this your gentle nudge. You might be surprised at how empowering it feels to take control of your routine and discover a new (and old-school) way to shave.