7 secrets for shaving your legs

Summer’s round the corner, and with it comes bathing suits, shorts, skirts, and…shaving. Here’s a simple, straightforward guide to getting a good shave. Even if you’ve been doing this for decades, these tips will help you get much cleaner and better results. You’ll avoid nasty nicks, and won’t irritate your skin.

Shaving secret # 1: a good cream

Shaving cream or shaving gel can pave the way for a smoother shave. That means you have less chance of developing ingrown hairs or a weird black stubble. Many of these products also contain skin-enriching formulas that will moisturize and heal skin and give it a healthy glow. Others contain ingredients that counter sun damage, which is extremely important if you’re going to bare your legs all season.

Shaving secret # 2: the best razor you can afford

Disposable razors are cheap but aren’t well constructed. The more expensive ones have a pivoting head that will adjust to the contours of your leg.

Shaving secret # 3: small scissors

Shaving works best on really short hair. If it’s been months or years since your last shave, start by trimming hair as close as possible. This prevents the problem of clogging the razor blade, or having to shave over an area several times just to get rid of all of the hair (you’ll irritate the skin, and probably end up nicking yourself).

Shaving secret # 4: a hot bath

This will leave your skin softer and help the hair follicle relax. Aim for a long shower of at least 5 to 10 minutes for best results.

Shaving secret # 5: Exfoliating scrub

Exfoliating scrubs will help remove dead skin cells, which will let you get a closer shave. For best results, rub in the exfoliating scrub with a soft wash cloth or those terry-cloth gloves.

Shaving secret # 6: Rinse between strokes

Even the best razors won’t work well if it’s clogged. Keep a small bowl of water by your legs so you can just lean over and give the razor a good swish in the water to remove the hair.

Shaving secret # 7: Moisturize

The skin gets very tender after shaving. Treat the skin with a little moisturizer, ideally one with a thin formula so it doesn’t clog the hair follicles. Ladies can try moisturizer with a light shimmer, which can really make legs look healthier and sexier. After all the trouble you went through to shave, might as well show it off! Have a great summer–and watch out for sunburn!

Photo from glamour.com