Go Feral for Fall: How No Shave November Can Help the Planet
Picture this: a month without razors, fewer bottles in your bathroom, and maybe a rugged, outdoorsy look that says, “I just chopped some wood.” No Shave November isn’t just about ditching the razor; it’s about embracing a low-maintenance lifestyle that’s good for you and great for the planet. So let that beard grow wild—it’s doing more than just giving you that lumberjack vibe!
What is No Shave November?
If you’re unfamiliar, No Shave November started as a clever way to raise awareness for men’s health issues, like prostate and testicular cancer, by encouraging people to skip their grooming routine and donate the money they’d typically spend on shaving supplies to charity. But beyond the human health angle, there are also ecological perks to the “don’t shave, don’t care” mentality.
1. Save Water, One Beard at a Time
Water scarcity is real. Each shave typically uses around 3 gallons of water, between washing your face and rinsing the blade. By skipping the shave, you’re conserving gallons of water each week. If everyone got on board, those savings could make a measurable impact on water usage.
2. Fewer Chemicals, Fresher Streams
Every squirt of shaving cream, every dollop of aftershave—these mainstream grooming products are full of synthetic chemicals. Not only do they absorb through our skin, but they also wash down the drain into wastewater treatment plants, which aren’t always equipped to filter out every toxin. By going au naturel you’re not only reducing your exposure to these substances, but you’re also lessening the chemical load in our waterways.
Curious about safer alternatives? Check out the Environmental Working Group’s (EWG) database with over 117,000 personal care products rated by their chemical content.
3. Ditch Disposable Razors
If there’s one thing we’re learning in the eco-movement, it’s the importance of reducing single-use plastics. Disposable razors might be convenient, but they’re a major waste generator—millions end up in landfills each year. Skipping the shave this November means fewer razors tossed, and fewer resources used to produce and package them.
When you do decide to shave again, consider switching to a reusable razor handle with refillable heads. Some brands offer metal or wood razor handles which reduces plastic even more. Every little step helps, and choosing reusable or recyclable options can make a long-term impact.
Ready to Go Feral?
Growing out a beard might feel like a small act, but it’s a reminder that sometimes, the simplest changes in our routines can have a big impact on the environment. So, this November, let your hair down (or out) and know that your “wild” look is doing more than just saving a few bucks—it’s making the world a little greener. And if you’re inspired to give back, consider donating what you save to organizations that support health and environmental causes.
