- Women are rarely taught how to shave
- There are tips and tricks to help you achieve that elusive smooth shave
- Go for high-quality razors with multiple blades
Remember the first time you shaved your under-arms, legs, or pubic area? If you’re like most women, it was a harrowing experience that left you with cuts and irritated skin. Not to mention how it burns when sweat gets into the cuts!
Women are rarely taught how to shave- most of us have to figure what works through trial and error.
Some of us give up and go for more sophisticated hair removal methods such as waxing or laser hair removal. However, the good old razor still comes in handy if you’re on a tight budget.
Do you still look like something out of a horror flick after a shave? Then this guide is for you.
Here are some tips and tricks to help you achieve that elusive smooth, cut-free shave:
High-quality razor
Your cheap razor might be convenient in a pinch or when you’re travelling. But it’s likely to lead to nicks and razor burn.
Go for high-quality razors with multiple blades. This kind of razor dispenses more pressure, making each blade to cut with less force but more effect. You can use trial-and-error method to find a razor which works best for you or ask friends for recommendations. The best razors have lubricated strips, pivoting heads, and spring-mounted multiple blades.
If you have to use cheaper, disposable variety with just one or two blades - use only once or twice before disposing. The blades become blunt and less effective with every use.
Don’t be tempted to borrow your man’s blade- male hair is coarser and tends to dull a blade much faster. Not to mention you’ll also avoid infecting each other.
Exfoliate before shaving
Do you suffer from in-grown hairs? You have probably been shaving without exfoliating your skin first. Exfoliating gets rid of dead skin cells that clog up your razor and prevent a close shave.
Exfoliate by gently brushing your skin with a dry brush. You can do this before you get into the shower. Your normal exfoliator, or home-made scrub will also come in handy.
Never exfoliate after a shave- your freshly shaven skin is sensitive and might even have tiny cuts. Exfoliating now will make your skin burn and could irritate your skin and lead to redness.
No dry shave
We get it - you remember to shave your underarms when you’re just about to slip into a sleeveless dress! You don’t have time to go back into the bathroom for a wet shave.
But if you want to improve your shaving game, you must always take the time to have a wet shave. This will go a long way in helping you avoid nicks, razor burn, and ingrown hairs. Water hydrates the hair and skin, helping the razor glide smoothly over skin while cutting hair cleanly.
The best time for a shave is towards the end of your shower- when hot/warm water has adequately softened hair for easy cutting.
Ditch soap
Admit it- sometimes you use soap as a shaving cream! Dermatologists warn that using soap for shaving is more likely to lead to nicks and razor burns.
Invest in a great shaving cream- it will help create a barrier between your skin and the razor for added protection. It also helps the razor glide smoothly on your skin for a closer, smoother shave. Before buying a shaving cream, check the first three ingredients. Avoid the ones containing alcohol or fragrance- especially if you have sensitive or dry skin.
To make shaving cream even more effective, apply baby oil first. The oil will add a layer of protection for a nick-free and razor-burn-free shave.
In a pinch, use conditioner instead of soap. Olive oil is also a great alternative.
Shave right
You might be tempted to cut against the grain. Don’t do it. Always shave in the direction the hair grows for a closer, smoother shave.
For your bikini area, shave horizontally from outside of your upper thigh inwards. Use smooth, even strokes.
Finish with moisturiser
After you’re done shaving, it is important to follow up with proper after-care. Dermatologists say that you should apply a lotion or cream with 1 per cent hydrocortisone to prevent inflammation and bumps.
However, you can also apply some oil (coconut or baby oil are great choices) or your usual moisturiser.
