Shaving your legs can be a tedious task, but it’s important to do it correctly to ensure that you get the smoothest and closest shave possible. In this article, we’ve compiled 30 tips that will help you shave your legs effectively.
1. Start With Clean Skin
Before you start shaving, it’s important to ensure that your skin is clean. This will help to remove any dirt and oil that may get in the way of your razor blade.
2. Exfoliate Your Skin
Exfoliating your skin before you shave helps to remove any dead skin cells that may block your blade, which can lead to ingrown hairs. Use a gentle exfoliating scrub to remove all the dead skin cells.
3. Use Warm Water
Using warm water to soften your skin and hair makes it easier to shave effectively. Make sure the water isn’t too hot, as this can dry out your skin.
4. Use Shaving Cream or Gel
Using a shaving cream or gel helps to lubricate your skin, which reduces friction when you shave. This means you’ll be more likely to avoid nicks, cuts, and razor burn.
5. Choose The Right Razor
The right razor will depend on your personal preference and the texture of your hair, but ensure you pick a good quality razor with sharp blades to avoid razor bumps, burn, and bruises.
Change your blades every 4 to 5 uses or when the edges start to dull.
6. Shave In The Direction of Hair Growth
Shaving in the direction of hair growth helps to prevent ingrown hairs and reduces the chances of razor burn and bumps.
7. Don’t Apply Too Much Pressure
Don’t apply too much pressure when you shave as this can cause nicks and cuts. Use a light touch and let the razor do the work.
8. Rinse Your Razor Frequently
Rinsing your razor frequently helps to remove any hair and shaving cream buildup, ensuring that your razor remains sharp and effective while shaving.
9. Don’t Shave Over The Same Area Too Many Times
Shaving over the same area too many times can lead to razor burn, bumps, and nicks. Try to shave each area only twice, but no more than thrice, to avoid irritation.
10. Use After-Shave Lotion
Use an aftershave lotion or balm after shaving to soothe your skin. This helps to reduce redness and irritation and keeps your skin hydrated.
11. Use Cold Water To Rinse Your Legs After Shaving
Rinsing your legs with cold water helps to reduce any irritation and close your pores, which can help reduce ingrown hairs.
12. Avoid Tight Clothes After Shaving
Avoid wearing tight clothes after shaving, especially around the area you’ve just shaved to reduce irritation, inflammation, and ingrown hairs.
13. Don’t Shave Over Injuries or Sunburns
Don’t shave over any injuries or sunburns as it will only cause more pain and irritation. It’s best to wait for the area to heal before you shave.
14. Don’t Share Razors or Shaving Equipments
Sharing razors, creams, and shaving equipments can be dangerous and spread infections from one user to the other. It’s crucial to have your own shaving equipments and to change the blades regularly.
15. Shave Every 2-3 Days
To keep your legs looking their best, it’s recommended that you shave every two to three days. This ensures your legs stay smooth with minimal hair growth.
16. Dry Your Razor After Use
Dry your razor after use, preferably with a towel to prevent rust and lengthen your razor’s life.
17. Avoid Shaving Against The Grain
Shaving against the grain can cause irritation and ingrown hairs. Stick to shaving in the direction of hair growth.
18. Use A Mirrored Surface
Use a mirrored surface that offers good visibility to ensure you don’t miss any spots while shaving.
19. Don’t Shave When Your Skin Is Dry
Never shave your legs when your skin is dry as this can cause razor burn, cuts, and nicks. Always ensure your skin is adequately hydrated.
20. Regularly Wash Your Razor Blade
Regularly washing your razor blade while shaving can prevent the buildup of bacteria which can cause infection when you cut yourself.
21. Moisturize Your Legs Daily
Moisturizing your legs daily keeps your skin from drying out and helps to prevent ingrown hairs. Use a moisturizer that is specially formulated for your skin type or an all-purpose moisturizer.
22. Don’t Shave Too Close To The Skin
Don’t shave too close to your skin as this can cause irritation and ingrown hairs. Leave a bit of space between your skin and the razor blade.
23. Don’t Shave Over Stretch Marks
Shaving over stretch marks can cause more damage and make them more visible. Avoid these areas when shaving as much as possible.
24. Use An Electric Razor
If you have a sensitive skin or lots of imperfections, using an electric razor is recommended as they are gentler on the skin and less likely to cause razor burn.
25. Shave Before You Shower
Shaving before you shower can help soften the hairs, making it easier to shave and smoother skin finish without the irritations.
26. Don’t Rush
Don’t rush while shaving. Take your time and use even strokes to ensure that you get a smooth and close shave without irritating the skin.
27. Use A Shaving Brush
A shaving brush can help to spread the shaving cream evenly and reduce friction during shaving, resulting in a smoother finish without nicks and cuts.
28. Don’t Use Dull Razor Blades
A dull razor blade can cause hair-pulling, razor bumps, and other irritations that you want to avoid when shaving. Change your razor blade every 4-5 uses to avoid these problems.
29. Use Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe vera gel is a great way to soothe your skin after shaving and prevent razor burn and bumps. Apply it to your legs after shaving to reap the benefits.
30. Be Gentle With Your Skin
Being gentle on your skin, especially when shaving the area around your knees, is essential to prevent cuts and nicks. Use a light touch and be careful when shaving around this area.