April 30, 2021

how to shave with a safety razor

Summer is almost here in Vancouver, and that means two things – the seawall and the beach. It also means my legs will be coming out of hibernation, and they will need a clean, fresh shave before I hit either of these local hot spots!

Well, perfect timing because this week we are talking about safety razors and how to use them.

"I am so scared to use them!"

I was too… but I found myself purchasing a beautiful dusty rose-coloured razor initially because I need everything in that colour. However, I couldn't just have my safety razor sitting around looking pretty; it had a job to do, and I needed to learn how to use it.

So, let's dive into some tips and tricks that I have learned that will assist you with these not-so-scary razors! 

  1. Don't rush the process: Take your time! This is so important because rushing during a shaving routine is an accident waiting to happen. This could ultimately result in nasty nicks and cuts or irritated skin. Also – missed areas! How much do you love noticing that one patch you missed after you've dried off and put everything away?
  1. Steam/Soak: Whether you're a shower or bath person; steaming or soaking your skin to soften the desired areas is a must.
  1. Exfoliate!!!: I find this step crucial as someone prone to ingrown hairs; it always prepares my skin for a flawless shave and happy skin afterwards. Exfoliating helps soften the hair and clear out pores while allowing the safety razor to glide across your skin without any interferences.
  1. Shave oil/soap: Depending on what you fancy more for your skin... Start by lathering up one area at a time and rinse your hands afterwards to ensure a good grip on your razor.
  1. Don't apply pressure: Let these brass beauties' weight do the work for you! When it comes to positioning, I tend to hold my razor at a 30-degree angle, but this might differentiate from what makes you feel the most comfortable.
  1. Go with the grain: I suggest going with the grain to start, but gradually you can go against the grain once you are comfortable. Here is my general approach during my shaving routine.
  • Legs: I go against the grain as I find my skin is not as sensitive in this area.
  • Bikini: Personally, this area is my most prone to getting ingrown hairs and irritation; I tend to go with the grain first and then across the grain to finish.
  • Armpits: I hold my skin taut here and start by going with the grain and finishing by going against.
  1. Keep your razor in mint condition:
  • Make sure to rinse your razor after every pass to clear away the debris and buildup from your shave.
  • Another tip is to change your blade often or every time to keep it from getting dull as this can cause irritation or ingrown hairs. Blades can be bought in bulk for a very low cost in comparison to your regular plastic disposable. Ps… one of the best aspects of safety razors is that the used blades can be stored in a tin or a blade bank and you can recycle them!
  • While changing your blade, rinse the safety razor parts thoroughly with water and soap and let it air dry on a clean towel.
  • Store your razor in a dry place or in a razor wrap. 
  1. Aftercare: Make sure to pat your skin dry or air dry if possible. Apply a moisturizer or ingrown hair oil, and voila! You're ready to hit the beach.

I hope these tips and tricks can help you feel more confident when using your new safety razor, and if you don't have one, Nature's Bodega sells Well Kept safety razors (with your first blade included!) in three different colours: dusty rose, cream, or matte black. If you're looking to cover all the bases with the essentials, we also have the entire shaving kit available!

Let us know if you have any additional tips with safety razors; we'd love to hear from you!

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 - Sophia B.

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Written by Nature’s Bodega