Shaving is an essential part of any beauty routine—at least for those of us who aren’t brave enough to get a Brazilian wax—and because it’s bikini season, shaving has basically become an everyday habit. However, many people don’t know how wasteful shaving can be for the environment. Our landfills and waterways have become clogged and overflown with disposable razors and other products that help us remove hair from our bodies. But never fear, there are ways to shave and feel your silky smooth skin while producing less waste for a happier earth, from ditching disposable razors to switching to plant-based shaving cream. Here, L’OFFICIEL guides you on your journey to making your shaving routine sustainable in an effort to reduce your environmental footprint.

Switch to a Straight Edge Razor or Safety Razor

Think about how many disposable razors are used just a few times then are thrown away—straight edge razors are more of an investment, but they’re made of metal, allow you to have a closer shave, and need fewer blade replacements than a disposable one. Safety razors are also a protective device for the skin with a built-in bump acting as a buffer, but still give you a close shave. TL; DR, you can use these razors exponentially more times than you can use a disposable razor, and they don’t contain plastic, so they are way better for the environment.

Swap for a Plant-Based or Natural Shaving Cream

While natural shaving creams are more beneficial for the environment, they’re also better for your skin. Swap out your traditional shaving cream if it contains any chemicals or harmful toxins that could pollute our waterways, like the hydrocarbon propellants butane and propane, and go for a plant-based cream that won’t foam. This way, you’ll be able to smoothly shave while protecting your skin from potential irritation and discoloration. Plus, most natural creams have vitamins that will nourish skin and fight inflammation.

Quit Using Microbead Exfoliators

If you go the exfoliating route, we suggest using a natural sugar (they can be found in your pantry) instead of microbead washes. While these beads are made of plastic and eventually make their way into bodies of water, they can also cause small tears in your skin, leaving you exposed to bacteria.

Recycle Your Blades

No, you can’t deposit your used metal blades right into the recycling bin, but you can recycle them and drop them off at a dedicated recycling center for those who like to go the extra mile.

Don't Over-Shave

While the feeling of hairless skin against clean bedsheets is as close as it gets it heaven, over-shaving can cause skin irritation. Give yourself (and the environment) a day or two between shaves. It’s may seem like a small step, but this way, you’ll use fewer razors and help the earth by producing less waste.