Try doing the rest of your bathing routine first—body cleansing, shampoo, and conditioner—then following with your shave at the end. This will allow maximum time for your skin to soften, regardless of whether you’re in the bath or shower.
Ice cold water should also be avoided, as this is very shocking to the skin.
Use a salt or sugar scrub from the store or online—you can find a great one at a variety of price points and in a variety of scents. Some good ones to try include Arbonne Awaken Sea Salt Scrub, Soap and Glory Flake Away Body Scrub, and St. Ives Smoothing Apricot Body Wash. You can easily make your own scrub at home. Try mixing together 1 1/4 cup of sugar, 1/2 cup of oil (olive, coconut, or baby oil work fine), and 3 tablespoons (44. 4 ml) of lemon or lime juice. [4] X Research source Exfoliation is also great for helping with in-grown hairs, which can be unsightly and ruin your best efforts at getting great skin on your legs. [5] X Research source
While it may seem easy to use body wash or soap since you’re using it on the rest of your body, these items will dry your skin. [7] X Research source It’s best to use a product such as shaving cream or gel that is specifically formulated for the purpose of shaving your legs. [8] X Research source This will help you get the smooth, glowing skin you’re after. Pay careful attention to how your hair grows. You should be shaving against the grain, and may need to shave up or down in certain areas depending on the direction of the follicles, in order to best remove the hair.
Replace your razor frequently, anytime you notice a dull or corroded blade or that you’re not getting a good shave anymore. This will also help you to avoid cuts and razor bumps. [10] X Expert Source Navid Malakouti, MD, FAADBoard Certified Dermatologist Expert Interview. 19 July 2021. [11] X Research source . Every three shaves is a good rule of thumb for replacing your razor. [12] X Research source
Waxing does hurt when it’s being done (though the pain is brief), so it’s not necessarily the best choice for those with very sensitive skin or who are averse to unnecessary pain.
Depilatory creams have traditionally been known for their strong odor, but newer versions aren’t nearly as offensive as their old-school counterparts. Some even have a tropical smell! Because you’re not pulling the hair out at the root, you’ll need to use depilatory creams, etc. , more frequently than you would if you were waxing. [15] X Research source
Laser hair removal is an expensive option, costing an average of $235 per session. Since it will take several sessions to see permanent results, it’s important to consider the overall cost when deciding on this route. [17] X Research source
Only moisturize after you shave, never before. Moisturizing before you shave will clog the pores and keep you from reaching all of the hair with your razor. [18] X Research source Avoid lotions that contain alpha-hydroxy or alcohol, as these products can irritate skin that has just been shaven. If your skin is particularly dry or prone to eczema, you may want to try a thicker cream as opposed to a lotion. Good options include CeraVe Moisturizing Cream and Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream, both of which are easy to find in stores and online.
Although you want to moisturize frequently, don’t overdo it; too much lotion can lead to clogged pores. Once or twice a day is sufficient.
Alternatively, try shea butter, coconut oil, or a petroleum jelly to create a moisture barrier. [20] X Expert Source Navid Malakouti, MD, FAADBoard Certified Dermatologist Expert Interview. 19 July 2021.
