Smooth, Smart Shaving..

I have four basic tips I use when it comes to shaving in order to provide-and preserve smooth, healthy skin.

These are:

Prep your skin: The best way to do this is to exfoliate, not only do you remove any dead skin build up but the exfoliation and stimulation of the skin reduces the amount of ingrowns present (and despite common belief ingrown hairs are just as common in shavers as in waxers). The condition of the skin will be greatly improved as well, giving a healthy, glowing look. If your skin is sensitive use a soft gel with some exfoliant beads in it, otherwise something rougher like a scrub is ideal (I usually alternate the two to give my skin a break every now and then).

Use shampoo or conditioner: About two years ago I stopped using shaving cream and began using shampoo or conditioner lathered with water on my legs (I just grab the closest one). My theory was that it would provide smoother skin whilst reducing the abrasive/coarse feel that shaved legs get as the hair grows back (as someone who had always waxed I was used to softer/finer hair growing back). As an alternative body gel/wash creates a similar effect.

Men's razors: They are designed differently. Men's razors tend to have a bigger surface area which is flat. Not the 10 for $2 kind, these ones are probably anywhere from $5-10, often have a refill razor attachment and have a rounded razor shape. This, as I found out when I realised the biggest surface area would also equate to less time spent shaving legs, is less harsh on the legs and also results in less amount of nicks/cuts on the legs (also ensuring smoother legs!). They also seem to last longer.

Moisturise: Dry your legs and within the next ten minutes apply some moisturiser, it doesn't have to be alot (especially if you are heading out) but will help to keep that smooth skin! If you apply moisturiser to your skin atleast 2-3 times per week aside from shaving (could be in the morning when you get up or after a shower where you haven't shaved) your skin will be smooth and supple with little to no dryness or ingrown hairs. In winter, apply more regularly as skin is dryer at this time of year.

Here's to smoother skin due to smarter shaving!
Kooklah Xx