UK based planet-conscious brands for your home

Rose & Thorne was created as a result of their search to find a replacement for my plastic razor that was both environmentally friendly and designed beautifully.


Planet conscious principles.

Shop Rose & Thorne here

WHAT EXACTLY IS A

DOUBLE EDGE SAFETY RAZOR?

A brief history of the double edge safety razor and it’s relationship with women.

Double edge safety razors (or DE razors) are an all metal razor consisting of a handle and a head, in to which you sandwich a disposable (but recyclable) blade.

While originally used in WW1 soldiers supply kits, women did actually begin to use double edge safety razors in the 1950’s. This was until marketers realised more money could be made from selling women disposable plastic razors, to keep their profits high regardless of the environmental impact.

And so only men continued to use double edge safety razors, brands focused their attention on them; creating adverts and content speaking to swords, cut throat sharp blades and ‘the best a man can get’ leading to the male dominated environment and scary perceptions of today.

Double edge safety razors such as the Rose & Thorne Double Edge Safety Eco Razor offer women a closer shave, less skin irritation, and both a better economical and environmental solution. It’s time women reclaimed the double edge safety razor for both themselves and for the environment.

YOUR SENSITIVE SKIN SAVIOUR

Why does shaving cause skin irritation and our top tips for an irritation-free shave.

For some a result of shaving too often, for others it’s just part of their shaving life; sore red bumps and itchy skin has effected most women. Especially common in our nether-regions and also among the curlier haired, whatever you call it; razor burn, bumps or rash, skin irritation from shaving is never fun.

WHAT IS RAZOR RASH?

Razor rash or razor bumps refers to redness, soreness and irritation brought about by shaving. This irritation is a result of the process of the shaving, as it scrapes off the top layers of skin whilst cutting the hair. Razor rash is common when using multi-bladed razors as several blades are being drawn across the skin, which can especially add up if you use multiple strokes over the same area.

WHAT RESULTS IN INGROWN HAIRS? 

Hair grows at different angles, and for the curly ones among us it can grown in different directions. When a hair is cut a sharp edge is created, meaning when a hair starts growing back in the direction of the skin, it can cause inflammation in the form of little red bumps.

 

TOP TIPS FOR IRRITATION FREE SHAVING

1. EXFOLIATE

Exfoliating removes any dead skin and lifts the hair at the same time, meaning your razor can catch them all. 

2. SOAK, SOAK, SOAK

Leave shaving until the end of your shower or bath, this gives time for the hairs to soften and your pores to open, meaning less resistance and an easier glide for your razor. 

3. CREATE A BARRIER

Creating a barrier between your skin and the blade that helps the razor glide across your skin with the least resistance will reduce irritation. Choose your saviour of soap, oil or cream - as long as there is a good lather (and preferably natural) then your skin will thank you - and under no circumstances ever dry shave!

4. SINGLE BLADE SAFETY RAZORS

Ditch the multi-bladed razors and switch to a safety razor. The single blade results in fewer layers of skin being removed during shaving, resulting in less irritation. Also the chance of razor burn is reduced when shaving with a safety razor as less pressure is applied while using the razor compared to multi-blade razors. 

5. KEEP IT LOOSE

After the perfect shave do not undo your hard work by wearing tight underwear that may encourage the hair to grow back in to itself. Loose underwear (ideally organic cotton) will give the skin and hair room to breathe and space to grow back naturally - although who says you have to wear underwear at all?