When it comes to shaving, guys have it pretty easy. They tend to focus on removing hair on the face and neck, and maybe if they’re feeling adventurous they may shave their chests or their heads. Many ladies on the other hand, succumb to the social pressure of attaining a virtually hairless, smooth body. That means removing hair from not only the legs and armpits, but also several other unmentionable and dangerous (to put a razor blade close to) areas of the body. The pressure to maintain this smooth visage also means shaving unsightly hairs on a daily basis.
Listen up ladies, before you grab a hold of that razor, here are a handful of hair removal hacks to ensure a smooth shave every time:
1. Invest in razors with moisture strips
You’ve seen them at the drugstore; those razor blades with the little pink, yellow, and green strip attached. It’s time to make the transition to razors with moisturizing strips build right in. Sure, they may cost a few dollars more, but that aloe or jojoba strip is meant to help the blade glide effortless over your skin, removing unwanted hair while protecting your precious skin from razor burn and nics.
2. Take your beau’s shaving cream for a spin
On average, shaving cream for men tends to be a bit cheaper than shaving cream for women. However, they do the exact same thing. And because your dude uses shaving cream on his face, his products tend to be thicker in consistency in order to remove thick, stubborn beard hair, which means you may get a smoother, closer shave on those gams.
3. Sub conditioner for shaving cream
We’ve all been there! It’s leg (shaving day) and the shaving cream is gone. Rather than attempting a dangerous dry shaving (ouch, razor burn), lube those legs and underarms up with hair conditioner for a smooth, closer than usual shave. You might be a hair conditioner convert when it comes to shaving, I know I am!
4. DIY shaving creams
In a pinch, or to make your own natural shaving creams at home, try combining ingredients from your cupboard. Chances are you have natural moisturizers such as coconut or shea butter on hand to mix with natural scents (i.e., lavender or peppermint).
5. When to switch up for a fresh razor
If you’re shaving your underarms and legs at every shower, chances are you’re extending the lifespan of razors at the cost of your skin. Keep in mind that disposable razors should be replaced every 3 to 5 shaves.
6. A word about protective razor covers
All disposable razors come paired with a protective plastic cover for a very good reason. These covers should be replaced between uses in order to keep your razor clean and free of soap and buildup that could compromise your next shave.
7. Exfoliate
Most of us wouldn’t think of exfoliating with a loofah or exfoliating scrub prior to shaving. In fact, I often exfoliate after shaving my legs. Turns out I’m wrong! Exfoliating pre-shaving eliminates debris and dead skin cells so you can get a closer, smoother shave. So give your skin a good scrub prior to shaving. Maybe even try out a homemade scrub using brown sugar and essential oils for a smooth, clean shaving surface.
8. Knee shaving safety
It happens almost every time I shave; I nic one or both knees. But I’m told it’s possible to get into those little nooks and crannies safely by bending the needs as you shave to cooperate with your body’s natural angles. The bending effect stretches out the tender skin for a closer shave.
9. Go with the grain first
Shave with the grain or else you’ll end up with nasty razor burn. But it’s tough to resist an upward shave if you don’t get all of those fine leg hairs. Unless you have really sensitive skin, you’re likely okay shaving against the grain, as long as you shave in the direction of the grain first.
10. A little post-shaving pampering
Sensitive skin demands more than shave and moisturize. In fact, after-shave treatments can go a long way in preventing dry skin and irritating razor burn. Try making a post-shave leg salve with aloe vera, honey, or baby oil. You can also treat sensitive armpits and bikini lines with gentle coconut oil.
11. Opt for permanent hair removal
Maybe you’ve had enough of shaving multiple times per week. Thankfully, there are plenty of alternatives to more permanent hair removal:
. Try a hair removal lotion (i.e., Nair)
. Waxing
. Sugaring
. Threading
. Laser hair removal
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