The humble shaving routine – once a rushed chore that you hoped to complete without a nasty nick! – is having a major moment as a form of self care. It’s popping up all over social media and beauty conversations, and for good reason. According to Expert Market Research, the Australian shaving market was worth over $528 million last year and is expected to hit $785 million by 2034. But the real story is that shaving is being reinvented, thanks to a fresh crop of female-founded Aussie brands shaking up the grooming game with sleek, skin-friendly tools that make the ritual as rewarding as it is effective.
For years, shaving felt like something you just had to do – no questions asked. Natalie Artinian, Senior Marketing Manager at Australian body care brand Billie, puts it perfectly: “People are pushing back on those old-school beauty norms and asking: Do I even want to do this? And if the answer’s yes, it should feel good.” Billie is all about flipping the script – no pressure, no guilt – just making shaving a joyful, empowering experience for anyone who chooses it.
Shaving as a Ritual: A Moment of Intention
Routines are about getting things done, but rituals, bring meaning. When approached mindfully, shaving becomes a moment to slow down and care for yourself. Picture the warmth of water, the softness of a rich lather, and the smooth glide of a razor across your skin. Natalie calls shaving “a reset moment” for some – a chance to centre yourself before the day starts. Even if it’s just a quick step before heading out, it should feel like your choice.
Science backs this up, too: small, consistent rituals like this can ease anxiety, improve focus, and boost your sense of control in a hectic world. That brief pause to nurture your skin can ripple out into the confidence you carry all day.
Confidence Built One Smooth Swipe at a Time
There’s a quiet power in feeling polished and cared for. Whether it’s the fresh, smooth skin after a close shave or the comforting scent of a favourite aftershave, these small wins add up. Natalie highlights how Billie’s products are designed to give you control and ease – like their award-winning Malibu Starter Kit with five sharp blades wrapped in aloe for a soothing glide, paired with their rich Whipped Shave Cream that turns shaving into something you actually look forward to.
“It’s about making shaving feel easy, effective, and even enjoyable,” Natalie says, emphasizing that when you prioritise yourself, even in simple ways, you’re signalling that you deserve care and respect. That confidence follows you through meetings, relationships, and challenges.
The Mental Wellness Boost in Your Bathroom
When life gets stressful, self-care often takes a backseat. But reintroducing manageable rituals – like a mindful shave – can be a powerful step toward feeling better. Natalie reminds us that shaving isn’t just about appearances; it’s about reclaiming control.
“The goal is to create tools that work brilliantly and let people feel totally in control of how and when they use them.”
But beware of the common mistakes that turn shaving into a dreaded chore: rushing through it, skipping preparation, or using dull blades can cause irritation and frustration. That’s why brands like Billie invest in dermatologist-tested products that feel good on all skin types, even sensitive skin.
How to Turn Your Shave into a Self-Care Ritual
If you want to elevate your shaving game, try these simple tips:
- Set the mood: Light a candle or play calming music to make your bathroom a sanctuary.
- Take your time: Use warm water and a soft brush to build a luxurious lather.
- Invest in quality: Choose razors and creams designed to nurture your skin and your senses.
- Practice gratitude: As you shave, thank your body for all it does for you.
- Be consistent: The real benefits come when you make it a regular, intentional habit.
Four Brands Leading the Shaving Revolution
These four Aussie-founded brands are changing how we think about shaving – making it more about self-love than just hair removal:
Billie: Natalie’s team champions shaving as a joyful, pressure-free experience. Their Malibu Starter Kit and nourishing Whipped Shave Cream combo makes shaving feel like a treat, not a task.
Gem: Found in Coles, Gem mixes cutting-edge razor tech with skin care benefits – think hyaluronic acid and aloe vera wrapped up in a dreamy purple foam that adds fun to your routine.
Florie: This silky duo, scented with pistachio caramel, is perfect for sensitive skin, transforming shaving into a moment of calm and luxury.
Vivre: After selling out multiple times, these viral razors now come with a chic redesign. They feature five ultra-sharp blades designed specifically for sensitive skin and full-body shaving.
Embrace Your Choice: Shave or Not, It’s All You
Perhaps the most refreshing thing Natalie shares is that shaving as self-care isn’t about pressure or expectations.
“Some people let their hair grow, others shave it off, and many fall somewhere in between – it’s not a contradiction, it’s autonomy.”
Whether shaving is your daily ritual or an occasional indulgence, it should always be on your terms.
The Final Swipe
Shaving as self-care is about reclaiming a little moment just for you – nurturing your skin and spirit and building confidence one smooth stroke at a time. So go on – light that candle, lather up, and make hair removal a ritual that feels good, looks good, and most importantly, is good for you.