Dollar Shave Club changed how we think about razors, transforming a tedious shopping trip into a seamless subscription. But the personal care landscape has evolved dramatically since their 2011 debut. We've discovered several brands crafting products that go beyond the basic subscription model, emphasizing everything from sustainable materials to innovative design. While DSC focused on convenience and affordability, these alternatives demonstrate how personal care can be both practical and purposeful.
: Razors That Sparked a Body Hair Revolution
Billie doesn't just sell razors – they're actively dismantling decades of unrealistic beauty standards in the personal care industry. Their marketing proudly features actual body hair (gasp!), treating women's grooming choices as exactly that: choices.
Their signature razor combines American-made blades with a 360-degree aloe shave soap encasing, specifically engineered for the contours and angles involved in body shaving. The magnetic holder solves the age-old problem of rusty, shower-caddy razors, while the ergonomic handle offers impressive control. Their product line has expanded to include the Whipped Shave Cream, which creates a protective cushion between blade and skin.
Billie backs up their progressive marketing with concrete action, channeling resources into women-focused organizations. This combination of quality products and authentic values caught the attention of industry giant Edgewell, leading to a $310 million acquisition.
Why we like Billie
1
Progressive Values
Champions realistic beauty standards and body positivity
2
Innovative Design
Magnetic holder and 360-degree aloe encasing
3
Social Impact
Actively supports women-focused organizations
one of my fave affordable shave creams. smells so good and a nice clean shave!
Brothers Josh and Matt Fekete were tired of watching their shower accessories slowly deteriorate, so they created something better. Tooletries reimagines bathroom organization through sophisticated silicone technology and minimalist design principles.
The Harvey & Oliver Set showcases their innovative approach, using patented silicone grip technology that's naturally antimicrobial. Unlike traditional suction cups or adhesives that inevitably fail, these products maintain their grip through countless steamy showers. Their Body Scrubber demonstrates similar attention to detail, with an ergonomic design that creates rich lather while providing optimal exfoliation.
The brand's environmental consciousness shows in their packaging choices – they've eliminated plastic mailers entirely from their shipping process. This combination of innovative materials, thoughtful design, and sustainability makes Tooletries a compelling choice for bathroom organization enthusiasts.
Why we like Tooletries
1
Innovative Materials
Patented silicone grip technology with antimicrobial properties
2
Sustainable Packaging
Plastic-free shipping materials
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Durability
Products maintain effectiveness through prolonged use
: Military-Grade Grooming for Civilians
While many brands claim "military-inspired" credentials, Duke Cannon actually tests their products with active duty personnel. This real-world feedback loop influences everything from their formulations to their packaging design.
Their Best Damn Beard Box offers a comprehensive approach to facial hair maintenance, while their signature "Big Ass Brick of Soap" takes inspiration from Korean War military issue soap – complete with steel-cut grains for enhanced grip. The brand maintains authenticity by channeling proceeds to veteran organizations, demonstrating genuine commitment beyond marketing rhetoric.
Despite the overtly masculine branding, Duke Cannon's products reveal sophisticated formulations that prioritize performance. Their appeal lies in delivering results without relying on gimmicks or artificial ingredients.
Why we like Duke Cannon
1
Military-Tested
Products validated by active duty personnel
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Authentic Mission
Supports veteran organizations
3
Quality Formulations
Sophisticated ingredients with proven performance
: Bringing Department Store Quality to Your Medicine Cabinet
We've noticed an interesting trend: skincare expertise from luxury brands filtering down to more accessible price points. Huron exemplifies this shift, created by a former acne sufferer who spent years developing products for Estée Lauder and Tom Ford.
The Face Moisturizer Duo reflects this high-end heritage, combining sophisticated hydrating ingredients with textures that won't trigger breakouts. Their formulations skip harsh chemicals in favor of plant-based ingredients while maintaining the efficacy typically associated with premium brands.
Huron's transparency about ingredients and development processes reflects growing consumer demand for accountability in personal care. Their educational approach to skincare has attracted customers seeking to develop more informed grooming habits.
Why we like Huron
1
Luxury Heritage
Founded by former high-end skincare developer
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Clean Formulations
Plant-based ingredients without harsh chemicals
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Educational Focus
Helps customers understand skincare science
: Where Your Grandfather's Barbershop Meets Modern Mixology
Starting as a hybrid barbershop-cocktail lounge in New York City, Blind Barber has translated that unique atmosphere into a product line that captures the essence of contemporary grooming culture.
Their 90 Proof Pomade demonstrates how traditional barbershop knowledge can evolve to meet modern needs. The formula provides serious hold without the greasy aftermath common in conventional products, while incorporating ingredients that support long-term hair health.
This brand understands that modern grooming transcends pure functionality – it's about creating moments of sophistication in daily routines. Their barbershop-lounges serve cocktails alongside cuts, fostering a social atmosphere that influences their product development.
Why we like Blind Barber
1
Unique Experience
Combines grooming with social atmosphere
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Modern Evolution
Updates traditional barbershop products
3
Lifestyle Focus
Creates sophisticated daily rituals
: Zero-Water Innovations Reshaping Routine
After experiencing burnout in the conventional beauty industry, a former L'Oréal executive created Hanni to address both environmental concerns and modern lifestyle demands.
The Shave Pillow demonstrates their innovative spirit, enabling waterless shaving through sophisticated ingredients like mushroom extracts and olive oil. Their Cocoon Cleanse solid serum cleanser further challenges industry norms, producing impressive lather without traditional soap bases.
Hanni's products acknowledge a simple truth: modern life requires different solutions than previous generations. Their focus on waterless formulations and concentrated products speaks to growing environmental awareness while addressing the needs of busy consumers.
Why we like Hanni
1
Eco-Innovation
Waterless formulations reduce environmental impact
2
Industry Expertise
Founded by former L'Oréal executive
3
Modern Solutions
Products designed for contemporary lifestyles
This soap is phenomenal. It’s so foamy and smells wonderful. I can’t really describe the scent but it smells like flowers. It provides a great lather 🧼
The Evolution Continues
These brands reveal how far the personal care market has progressed since Dollar Shave Club's debut. From sustainable materials to sophisticated formulations, they're proving that convenience doesn't require compromise. As consumer preferences continue shifting toward more thoughtful consumption, we expect to see even more innovation in this space.