Super Eco

Photo credit: Badger and Blade

Like many men, I prefer to be clean-shaven, and my beard is much like that of Clint Eastwood's "Man with No Name" - I could strike a match on my beard stubble.

My current electric razor is nearing the end of its useful life, because the battery will not hold a charge. Even when plugged in, it does not have enough power anymore for a good shave.

Rather than purchase another electric razor or switch to a cartridge razor, both of which generate a significant amount of waste throughout their service lives, I have decided to go "back to the future" and purchase a modern version of the old-fashioned safety razor.

Just like in the good old days, these razors use fully recyclable steel blades, and even the razor itself could be recycled when it is no longer needed, or given to someone else. However, the razor does not need to look and function like an antique.

There are a few companies, such as Classic Shaving, that offer a good variety of razors to fit every budget and taste.

For example, the Merkur Vision (pictured here) allows for full adjustment of blade angle, which may appeal to those who like to tinker.

Although some of these modern safety razors can be quite expensive on initial purchase, the blades themselves are inexpensive compared with cartridge razor refills, or foil and blade sets for electric razors.

Of course, a badger-hair brush is a must to work up a good lather, and a good quality shaving soap completes the package, giving a much closer and smoother shave, with less irritation. If the gentleman chooses wisely, the soap may even be ecologically friendly.  The Gentlemens Refinery carries several shave creams with certified organic ingredients.

So, the next time you need to replace your razor, give some consideration to "the good old days!"

(Photo credit: Badger & Blade)