Are straight razors illegal?

Author: Prof. Pierre Greenfelder  |  Last update: Wednesday, July 23, 2025

Each state's health authority lays out specific requirements for clean and safe practices in barbershops. We have checked rules & regs in many states including OR, CA, WA, CO, UT, PA, FL, TN, NY, NJ… In fact, the only state we have confirmed explicitly prohibits use of conventional straight razors is Rhode Island!

Is a straight razor legal to carry?

55.10. CARRY KNIVES OR DAGGERS IN PLAIN VIEW PROHIBITED. You may not carry (in plain view) any knife with a blade longer than 3 inches, or any ice pick, straight-edge razor, or similar. Exceptions are when you're carrying it for your job, or for recreation (camping, etc.) or for religious reasons.

Can barbers use straight razors in California?

Portland Razor Co. // straight razors and strops handmade in Portland, OR. — Yes, California Barbers and Stylists Can Use Real Straight Razors!

Can you carry-on a straight razor?

Disposable razors, replacement blades, and electric razors can go in either your carry-on or checked baggage; if you have a safety or straight razor, you can pack it in your carry-on — but you must remove the blades first and pack them in one of your checked bags.

Are straight razor shaves illegal?

In fact, the only state we have confirmed explicitly prohibits use of conventional straight razors is Rhode Island!

Why Did Men Stop Straight Razor Shaving?

Will TSA stop me for a razor?

A Safety Razor is allowed through the screening checkpoint without the blade. The blade must be removed prior to entering the screening checkpoint. TSA officers are not authorized to remove the blades from the holder.

Why did people stop using straight razors?

Straight razor production eventually fell behind that of the safety razor, which was introduced in the late 19th century and featured a disposable blade. Electric razors have also reduced the market share of the straight razors, especially since the 1950s.

How do barbers sanitize straight razors?

Sanitize. Between services, rinse the entire razor and immerse in an approved disinfectant. This isn't just because it's required by health authorities (which we've written about extensively in a previous post); keeping your razor clean will keep it looking and performing its absolute best.

Is it illegal to cut hair without a license for free?

Barbering without a license, or offering any hairstyling services for pay without a license is pretty much illegal everywhere. However, if you cut hair or style it for fun, that's another story. That is, if you do it for free, you're basically free to operate as you please.

Why do straight razors feel so good?

Straight razors are more tactile and do not have set razor angles, giving you complete control of your shave, better feedback, or blade aggressiveness, closeness, angle, pressure, and direction.

Can cosmetologists use a straight razor?

First, it means that a cosmetologist can't use a straight razor. Additionally, they can't work in a barbershop unless a licensed barber is also employed there. There's a bright side: they can offer more services. Cosmetologists offer a suite of services from skincare to makeup and styling for proms and weddings.

Why are straight razor shaves so expensive?

Straight razors are handmade

The reality is that it requires a lot of skill not only to know how to shape a blade but also how to put a very fine edge on it. This also takes a lot of time. On the other hand, multi-blade razors are made by mass production methods. This means they are faster and cheaper to produce.

What state has the strictest knife laws?

California knife laws are among the strictest in the U.S., and several cities and counties have even stricter local knife laws you are expected to follow. Many knives such as switchblades meet the statutory definition of “dangerous weapons,” which means possession, manufacturing, and sales are tightly regulated.

Are multitools legal in California?

California's concealed carry knife law does not require an intent to conceal or intent to harm. A credit card multi-tool knife is not a concealed dagger or dirk knife in California. Bias towards closure exception makes knife legal.

What makes a razor street legal?

How Do I Make My Polaris RZR Legal for the Street? If a Polaris RZR is allowed in that specific state, there are still a few modifications that need to be met. First, the vehicle must have safety lights. Then, it needs to have the right mirrors as well, including side mirrors and a front mirror.

What is the blue liquid in barber shops?

Barbicide is a disinfectant solution used by barbers and cosmetologists for disinfecting grooming tools such as combs and hair-cutting shears.

Why do barbers still use straight razors?

The straight razor, often referred to as the cutthroat razor, is one of the most iconic tools in the barbering profession. Known for its precision, craftsmanship, and the skill required to wield it effectively, the straight razor holds a special place in the hearts of barbers and clients alike.

Do you rinse a straight razor?

After using a straight razor, it makes sense to clean the blade because you need to wash off the lather residues or the bits of dead skin cells left on the blade. All that residue and grime can also dull the blade's edge. You do not even need any particular solution; plain warm water will do.

What is a butterfly razor?

The butterfly safety razor utilizes a twist-to-open mechanism head to make changing the blade easy and convenient.

Are straight razors making a comeback?

Modern razors boast more blades and promise smooth shaves, but the old-school approach to shaving is returning to barbershops and at home. That said, recently the old school approach to shaving, which is traditional straight razor shaving, is officially making a comeback both in barbershops as well as within the home.

Are straight razors good for pubic hair?

If you have a hard time maneuvering around the knees, or want to just remove small areas of hair–like, say, the bikini line–then a straight razor is perfect for you. Secondly, straight razors are a great option for people with sensitive skin who are prone to ingrown hairs and razor burn.

Can I bring a vape on a plane?

You can carry your vape or e-cig on a plane. Keep it in the cabin, but no smoking allowed! Learn more from FAA on how to safely pack your vape for air travel.

Does TSA allow straight razors?

Disposable and cartridge razors are generally allowed in both carry-on luggage and checked luggage, while straight razors and safety razors with blades must be packed in checked bags. Electric razors are also permitted in both carry-on and checked baggage.

Can I fly with deodorant?

The TSA prohibits containers with more than 3.4 ounces of liquid in carry-on luggage, so if you have a liquid or semi-liquid antiperspirant, be sure to check the quantity on the container. For example, many stick deodorants and antiperspirants come in sizes under 3.4 ounces, so it's fine to bring in your carry-on bag.

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