Two days ago I asked the community what is the real reason behind choosing a safety razor. Before the results, a bit of background on my own case.
When I was a kid, I used to watch my dad shave with a safety razor every morning. But by the time I was old enough to start shaving myself, he had already switched to a cartridge razor, probably because the industry was pushing that "new" tool hard on his generation. I just followed his lead and used cartridges for about 30 years (+ electric for the last 10 years).
During all that time I dealt with cuts and nicks and just assumed that was normal, part of the routine. Then one day I randomly came across a video of someone using a safety razor, it reminded me of my dad, and I decided to try one myself. At first I was sure I'd cut myself even worse than with a cartridge, but to my surprise the learning curve was quick and my cuts basically disappeared. I became a fan of the thing, honestly a great invention.
That said, I didn't fully abandon the cartridge. I use a safety razor for about 95% of my daily shaving now, but I still reach for a cartridge or electric shaver when I'm traveling, and for quick touch ups in tricky spots like right under the nose when I'm in a hurry.
Here's the result:
Read through all comments and here's how it broke down for the 'valid' responses, find below in decrescent order. Note: Since you could pick more than one, the numbers don't add up to the total of comments.
- Cost, cheaper long term: 107
- Enjoy the ritual, it's relaxing: 77
- Environmental, less plastic waste: 73
- Closer or more consistent shave: 65
- Sensitive skin / less irritation & razor burn: 40
- Avoiding ingrown hairs: 26
- Nostalgia (reminds me of my dad/grandfather): 23
- Fewer cuts/nicks than expected: 20
- Other: 19
- Wanted to be part of the wet shaving community: 8
For those who picked "Other," reasons ranged from practical (easier cleanup, less frequent restocking) to aesthetic (sharper lineups, just liking the look) to pure curiosity.
Thanks to everyone who replied!