Shaving

A quality safety razor handle typically costs NZ$30 to NZ$60 and lasts indefinitely with normal care. Replacement blades cost significantly less per shave than cartridge refills — typically around 30 to 50 cents per blade versus $3 to $6 per cartridge. Most people find the switch pays for itself within two to three months.

There is a short learning curve of approximately three to five shaves to adjust technique. The key differences are: hold the razor at a 30-degree angle to the skin (rather than perpendicular as with a cartridge razor), use short strokes without applying pressure, and let the weight of the razor do the work. Most beginners achieve a comfortable shave within a week.

Yes. Safety razors are effective for leg and underarm shaving. The technique is the same as for face shaving: short strokes with the grain of hair, minimal pressure, and a 30-degree blade angle. Many women find safety razors give a closer and more comfortable shave than conventional disposable razors.

Collect used blades in a small tin or a blade bank (a small metal container specifically designed for used blades). Once full, seal the container and dispose of in general rubbish rather than recycling, as loose blades pose a risk to waste workers. Some metal recycling facilities accept sealed blade collections — check locally.

Natural shaving soap is a concentrated bar or puck of soap that is lathered with a shaving brush to create a rich, cushioning lather. It typically contains simple plant-based ingredients without the synthetic propellants, SLS, and synthetic fragrance found in canned shaving foam. The lather from a good shaving soap is more lubricating and protective than most canned foams.

A standard shaving soap puck (approximately 100g) typically lasts three to six months of daily shaving, depending on how much product is used per session. This is significantly more economical per shave than canned foam or gel, which are largely water and propellant by volume.