Colligiettes, summer is here! Utah has seen some warm weather a bit earlier this year, which means it’s time to break out your skirts, crops, and short-shorts! Here’s all you need to know when it comes to shaving your legs if you want your smoothest skin yet.
Before you shave, use a sugar scrub or lufa with body wash to exfoliate your legs (and body). When you have more skin exposed, it dries easier. This is a great a summer-long, full-body step for smooth skin, but if you don’t do it often, scrub over your legs quickly pre-shave. This scrub from Bath and Body Works helps smooth skin without irritating and smells like a margarita. Yum!
Exfoliate at the beginning of your shower and shave in the middle. Having running water on your legs for a few minutes will help soften the hair, which will ease removal. If wait to shave until just before you get out of the shower, your skin will swell and prevent your closest shave.
For shaving creams or gels, ignore the packaging! Products targeted to men and women are mostly the same. They only differ in fragrance, but you may want to search for a gel or cream that’s fragrance free. No dyes or smells means less irritation for you. More expensive doesn’t necessarily equal more effective, either. Grab what’s on sale! Lather on a medium-think layer for best protection.
Finding a razor that’s right for you can be a challenge. You probably don’t need five blades, and disposable ones work just fine. You may need to try a few different razors before you find your fave. Schick Quattro for Women has four blades for a close shave. Gillette Venus has three blades plus gel strips for added comfort. Let the search begin!
When shaving, use gentle pressure, and shave in the opposite direction of hair growth. Flex your foot to get the area around your Achilles tendon. Bend your knee to shave over any loose skin around your joint without nicks.
After shaving, pat your legs dry with a towel and apply a non-irritating lotion. Moisture is key in preventing those annoying red bumps! If you’re going to throw on your short-shorts and head outside, don’t forget your SPF.