On the quest last year to be more ethical in my health and beauty choices, an instant red light for me personally, was my use of disposable, plastic razors. Of course, the most sustainable way of shaving is to outright not shave at all. But if you choose to shave like I do, then you might want a more ethical option. The razors marketed towards females are typically pink and never sharp enough, or that much effective after one use – Especially with my titanium hair follicles. My mind-set was to always buy the cheapest ones possible, since I couldn’t afford the constant purchase of anything above £3, and I could make them last as long as possible with more in a pack.
Of course, quantity over quality was the issue here, as cheaper razors purposely blunt much quicker, and so consumers replace more often. Another issue was actually disposing of them, which for me was having the walk of shame to general waste, and never knowing how to recycle them properly or safely. I realised that I didn’t want to waste anymore plastic or money, and so I made it a mission to find a reusable razor.
Initially, I looked into a bamboo razor that my brother had from Bulldog Skincare, which could be a great option for someone looking for one that’s more accessible in a supermarket or drugstore. For me, I thought the specific blades might become costly to replenish, and so I did some simple searching into other brands of safety razors. The professional-looking ones all seemed like a huge investment, but luckily, I found out that a brand I knew beforehand also sold safety razors online.
The brand is Jungle Culture, and they produce plastic-free, sustainable products that have an ethical supply chain from small farms, craft workshops and transparent factories. I already had one of their coconut bowls, spoon and straw in my collection, so I definitely trusted the brand for their quality and purpose, and so I immediately knew this would be the one for me. Their razors are also marketed as unisex which is brilliant, with some really cool design options – Like bamboo, metallic, or pastel chrome colours.
Although I was tempted by the mint green razor, I decided to go with their thin, bamboo razor in light wood. When it arrived, it came with its own little, draw-string pouch to store it in, as well as a razor blade to start with. Jungle Culture do offer razor blades separately on their website, although they state that any standard issue universal blades can be used, typically sold in supermarkets, pharmacies, barbershops, or online.
To set up the razor (being very careful) it’s a simple case of unscrewing the top from the handle, placing the blade between the two parts of the razor head like a sandwich, and then screwing back together. It’s a really easy process once you’ve done it once, and if you’re replacing an old blade, I’d recommend storing them in a tin or jar before properly recycling.
The first few times using this, it can be an adjustment with the weight of it, as with lighter, disposable razors I had the tendency to swipe haphazardly. But since this is a little heavier, practicing the speed and pressure of shaving can take a few attempts. It should also be said though that I didn’t feel at all in danger using this razor, with a stainless-steel safety guard, I’ve probably cut my legs far less than what I ever did with a disposable razor.
One of the main differences with this razor is the effectiveness of the shave, as I feel like the weight of this product also equates to the durability and quality. With a much closer shave, I’ve found that my leg hair in particular doesn’t grow back as fast anymore – And that’s coming from someone who would shave their legs, and immediately feel re-growth not even an hour later. Jungle Culture recommend 16 uses from each blade, which is an awful lot, and I’ve even pushed that further in the past few months to be honest. As long as I rinse and wipe the blade with a towel after each use, I’ve found that they can last that little bit longer, which is a definite perk.
After a good 6 months of using this product, I’m happy to say that I’m now converted to this razor, with no regrets or longing for anything else. If you’re a person who chooses to shave, and looking for a less wasteful alternative, then this might be for you.
Pros:
· A plastic-free product.
· Easier to recycle.
· A more effective shave.
· Free Shipping.
· Looks cuter, let’s be honest.
Cons:
· More of an investment than disposable razors – But it’s also a one-time purchase.
· A heavier weight means a little more practice.
· Replacing the razor blades yourself.
Of course, I’ll leave links down below if you’re interested in finding out more about Jungle Culture or their products. With this and a few other swaps, like my menstrual cup and deodorant, I’m hoping that I can benefit myself and the planet the best I can for now. Although I also want to make it known as always that I’m totally aware of how these swaps can be dependent on cost and accessibility too. But hopefully this can offer some inspiration to those in a position, or considering making the same choices.
For 10% off your purchase, use code 'BLOG' or 'ZEROWASTE' at the checkout - This doesn't generate anything for me, I simply saw this on a web page on their website!
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