When we’re young and learning how to shave our legs for the first time, it can take a little practice to perfect the technique, and there may be a few nicks in the process, in addition to the dreaded razor burn. Here are the top things you’re doing wrong when shaving your legs – avoid them and get smoother skin than ever.
1. Exfoliating too soon before shaving
Shaving is actually a form of exfoliation, so if you scrub your skin too raw and remove all those dead cells, it means too much irritation. After rubbing, the pores on the legs are more open, which will lead to more cuts. Instead, do it at least 48 hours in advance.
2. Long strokes are key
With short and uneven strokes you will be able to cut yourself in a short time. Make sure your razor is not clogged with hair or shaving cream. Instead, focus on small sections and use long, slow strokes to avoid the need to cover your leg with toilet paper.
3. Alcohol-based lotions
Using alcohol-based aftershave can further dry out your skin. Our legs are already dry after shaving, and if you’re worried about which ingredients work best, consider coconut oil or shea butter to stay hydrated and soft.
4. Sharing razors
Although it may be convenient, it is definitely not safe or sanitary. Sharing razors can spread fungus, bacteria, and other nasty things. With blood present, you can even contract hepatitis B and C. Staph infections are also possible.
5. Old razors
Using an old disposable razor is a no-no! Even if you have one with ejectable blades, replacing them is also important. When the blades become duller, certain points have to be sharply worked over, which increases the risk of cutting. Dull blades also cause burns.
6. Shave without showering
You might think it makes no difference, but shaving in the middle of the shower will allow your legs to absorb moisture better. It will prepare the follicles and soften them, making the difficult task of shaving much easier.
7. Swim after
Whether it’s the chlorine in a pool or the natural exfoliating sand beneath your skin, your pores are open and sensitive during shaving, and performing this activity in any environment immediately afterwards will leave your legs in a mess. Instead, wait a day and you should be in the safe zone.
8. Use soap instead of shaving cream.
Dry shaving is the absolute worst thing you can do and will quickly lead to ingrown hairs, burns, and cuts. Soap scum will build up on the shaver and make it less effective; Instead, opt for a shaving gel, ideally one that contains aloe vera.
9. Change address
Always shave in the same direction. If you don’t, you will feel very irritated and have bumps for days. Going against the grain causes nicks and also pulls your hair, while going in the same direction is safer. If you need a close shave, be careful when you get to those tough spots.
10. Not using lotion afterwards
Just as it is essential to use a shaving cream or gel with moisturizing ingredients, applying a little lotion (or oil) to still-damp skin will retain water, trapping it in the skin and keeping hair more supple.
11. If you are a woman, use a single-blade men’s razor
Dollar store razors are tempting because they’re so inexpensive, but those one- or two-blade monstrosities don’t work well with the curves of a woman’s body. Instead, opt for more sheets, with a 5-sheet option from brands like Venus or Schick that will fit your shape a little better and likely contain a moisturizing strip.
12. Apply firm pressure
Pressing hard does not equal a closer shave! In fact, the firmer the pressure you apply, the more you will traumatize the skin. A lighter touch with newer leaves is the way to go. An easy slide should do the job.
13. Leaning it on the edge of the shower
Try not to store your razor in a place where it will be constantly soaked in water. You can dull it faster and keep it dirty. After all, it’s basically sitting in a puddle of stagnant water with dead cells. Try hanging it somewhere or placing it in a less humid area of the bathroom. Gross.
14. Embrace Better Prevention Methods
Maintenance is key to stopping razor burn before it happens. When you shave to straighten, you cause ingrown hairs. To combat this (and the long-term scarring that can develop from it), use a body wash with exfoliating power or an extra scrub twice a week. This will remove the skin that traps all those pesky hairs. If you have ingrown hairs or bumps, apply a warm compress to relax the hair.
