Razor burn: it's universally disliked by men and women alike. Neither looking good nor feeling good, it seems to be an inevitable part of shaving. If you're hoping this blog will provide a quick fix, I must disappoint you. We'll, instead, delve into the annoyance of using cartridge razors and get back into traditional wet shaving, an old-school romance that offers a different experience with less of the burn. But first, let's focus on the issue at hand: razor burn.

What's Going On with Razor Burn Anyway?

Let's break it down. Razor burn happens when your skin decides it doesn't like the way you're shaving. Maybe the blade is dull, or perhaps you're pressing too hard or too fast. Whatever the reason, your skin's not happy, and it's letting you know that it’s irritating.

In this blog, we will be talking about:

1. What you may be doing wrong?
   
2. What’s the proper way?
   
3. What's wrong with your cartridge razors?
   
4. The comparison
   

 Hope by the end, this can give you some idea to improve your current struggle!

1, What you may be doing wrong?

1. Using Dull or Damaged Blades: A dull blade doesn't cut hair cleanly and can pull at the skin, causing irritation.

2. Pressing Too Hard: Applying too much pressure can remove the top layer of skin, leading to razor burn.

3. Shaving Without Proper Lubrication: Shaving dry or without enough shaving cream or gel can increase friction between the blade and the skin, causing irritation.

4. Shaving Against the Grain: Shaving against the direction of hair growth can cause hair to be cut below the skin level, leading to ingrown hairs and razor burn.

5. Not Prepping the Skin: Failing to clean and warm the skin properly before shaving can make the hair and skin less pliable, increasing the risk of irritation.

6. Using Alcohol-based Products: After-shave or other skin products containing alcohol can dry out the skin, exacerbating razor burn.

7. Over-Shaving an Area: Going over the same area multiple times can cause over-exfoliation, leading to irritation and razor burn.

8. Not Cleaning the Razor Properly: A dirty razor with trapped hair, soap, or shaving cream can harbor bacteria, potentially leading to skin infections or increased irritation.

9. Ignoring Skin Sensitivity: Not taking into consideration personal skin sensitivity or allergies to certain products can lead to additional irritation and razor burn.

10. Rushing the Shave: Hurrying through the shaving process without using proper technique or attention to detail can lead to nicks, cuts, and razor burn.

11. Using the Wrong Products for Skin Type: Using shaving products that don't align with one's skin type can lead to irritation and increase the risk of razor burn.

2, What’s the proper way?

The full guide below are those who've made it and chilling on their private beach right now, reading this for fun while their personal barber shaving for them. But for those of us still doing the daily shave ourselves, the steps in bold are your go-to moves that you should try to nail every time you shave. Give them a try, and happy shaving!

3, What's wrong with your cartridge razors?

Generic store-bought cartridge razors are ubiquitous and often chosen for their convenience and “affordability”. However, they may have some drawbacks, depending on the individual's needs, preferences, and values. Here are some common concerns: 

• Quality Issues: Some may have dull or misaligned blades, causing irritation or uneven shaves.
• Frequent Replacement Needed (so not really cheaper): Cartridges often have to be replaced frequently to maintain sharpness, approx. every 5-7 shave.
• Long-term Cost: While initially cheap, ongoing expenses for replacement cartridges can be extremely expensive over time.
• Environmental Impact: Often made with non-recyclable plastic, contributing to waste.
• Potential Irritation: Could cause skin irritation or razor burn for some users.
• Lack of Customization: Fewer options to tailor the shave to individual needs or preferences.
• Limited Cartridge Choices: Specific cartridges might be required, limiting options and possibly increasing costs.

4, The comparison

So the question you may have is: Are we shitting on cartridge razors because we are selling traditional safety razors?

To answer simply: Yes, we do sell safety razors, but no, we don't like cartridge razors not because of our business interests. It's because they really aren't that good. That's why we chose to carry traditional safety razors to start with.

For cost, here is the breakdown: 

You may look at this table and start to wonder, 'If traditional razors are so effective, why did cartridge razors ever become a thing?' The answer isn't about a revolutionary improvement in shaving. Instead, it's all about a business model. Much like the strategy of selling an affordable printer only to charge a fortune for the ink cartridges later, razor companies crafted an alluring path. They sell you inexpensive, plastic razors with flashy designs and support them with extravagant marketing campaigns, only to ensnare you into a relentless cycle of buying pricey replacement cartridges. It's not about offering a better shave; it's about keeping you coming back for more😵‍💫.

Don't mistake it; transitioning to a traditional razor isn't some mystical remedy that'll make razor burn vanish overnight. But it's more than enough motivation to reevaluate what you're shaving with, how you're wielding that tool, and the care you're giving your skin. It's about quality, not just a quick fix.

Our Traditional Safety Razors

Yes, like I said, we sell these fancy traditional safety razors...I mean, why the hell you think I am writing this blog...so! Check them out!

	The Leaf Razor introduces a first-of-its-kind pivoting head in the world of safety razors,  which means you won't have to retrain yourself from the cartridge razors. And with the  interchangeable three-blade system, allowing choices between 1 and 3 blades for customized shaving. Best of all? You can finally clean the blade thoroughly.
	A forgotten gem for any modern bathroom. It's the go-to gadget that anyone can use, regardless of age or skin type. Are you a no-frills minimalist or someone who likes a touch of luxury in their routine? Either way, this classic tool has you covered and will help you start your day with style.