Can Astronauts Shave In Space?

Male and female astronauts in space are provided with electric or disposable razors to shave with. Due to the limited availability of running water on the ISS, electric razors are the preferred choice. In addition, most male astronauts opt to keep their hair short while on board and often assist each other by using an electric razor attached to a vacuum that collects the trimmed hair.

To avoid the hazards of floating whiskers, astronauts must take extra care when shaving in space. They use a special astronaut shaving cream called Astro-Edge, which is applied carefully and has a blue color. They use a regular razor and wipe it clean on a cloth as there is no sink. To prevent themselves from floating away, they lock their feet securely in place. After shaving, they use Velcro to clean themselves off. Shaving a mustache requires extra attention.

Chris Hadfield shows the challenges of shaving in space.