Smooth Shaving
Some women believe that shaving is bad for their skin and causes dryness or irritation. Actually, shaving is beneficial because it allows dry, dead skin cells to be sloughed off and exfoliated while the hair is removed. Shaving is also the fastest, the easiest and the most convenient way to keep the body free from unwanted hair. It is also the least expensive.
But shaving needs to be done correctly; otherwise we will end up with dry, unevenly shaven skin, sometimes with nicks and little cuts that are prone to infection, and sometimes with rashes. Properly shaven skin will have a nice and smooth feel that can last for several days.
So how should you shave? Here is how:
- Prepare the skin of your legs for shaving by soaking the legs in warm water. The best time to shave would be after spending some time in the tub or after a long shower. Getting skin soaked softens and relaxes the hair, which will make it easier for the razor to glide through and help you avoid getting your skin nicked.
- If skin feels especially dry or rough, use an exfoliating scrub before you shave. By exfoliating, you remove dead dry skin cells and increase blood flow, promoting a closer shave and smoother skin.
- Change your razor blades regularly: Dull razors cause irritated skin, nicks and cuts. While shaving, wash the razor with warm water frequently to free from shaved off hairs.
- Be sure to use a moisturizing shave gel or cream. Soap works just as fine, too. This acts as a barrier to protect the skin from irritation, razor burn, nicks and cuts.
- Be careful in shaving areas with uneven skin, like the ankles and the knees, and also on scabs, if you have any.
- Experts have differing opinions on whether to shave “up” (against the direction of the hair growth), “down” (in the direction of the hair growth) or using both upward and downward strokes. You can experiment and see which way works best for you.
- When you are done shaving, rinse your skin off carefully to remove the residue of shaving cream or gel or soap that you used, as well as the bits of shaven off hair.
- Finally, after shaving, it is extremely important to use a moisturizer - lotion or cream - to help seal in moisture and prevent dryness.
- If you happen to nick yourself while shaving, rinse the wound off carefully and apply anti-bacterial and anti-scarring ointments to make it heal more quickly.