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How to Shave Your Legs Without Irritation

Shaving the legs is quick and easy to keep skin smooth and polished, but when done wrong, it can also bring you irritation, razor burns, and cuts. Whether it is preparing for a major event or just to feel fresh, shaving of the legs really should not be a chore but a pleasant procedure that doesn't leave you with uncomfortable skin.





Prepare the Skin Properly


The secret of not experiencing any irritation from shaving your legs lies well before the razor touches the skin. Make sure your legs are well moisturized prior to shaving. Shaving on dry skin can cut and further inflame the skin. Softening hair and skin by soaking in a warm bath or taking a few-minute shower is an essential activity. Warm water opens the pores, softening hair and reducing friction during shaving. You are most likely going to feel a tug more on dry shaving, and this may account for red bumps and irritation. For those seeking longer-term solutions, laser hair removal can be more permanent for reducing regular shaving.


Exfoliate to Remove Dead Skin Cells


One of the more important steps involved with shaving one's legs is exfoliation prior to the process. Many a time, exfoliating becomes forgotten. This will keep the razor free, reducing strokes one is going to make because a good exfoliation will be the reason behind having a close shave. Lightly exfoliate your legs using scrub or exfoliating gloves while showering. Avoid using heavy pressure as it may lead to skin irritation, hence making all these more painful in the area to be shaved. It smooths out the surface for the razor to glide across through the light removal of the top level of skin along with those ingrown hairs.


Apply Proper Shaving Cream or Gel


Some of the best ways to avoid skin irritation from the actual activity of shaving include the application of shaving cream or shaving gel. These creams form a smooth layer between your skin and the razor, allowing the blade to just skate across without any cuts or nicks. Apply shaving cream meant for sensitive skin, or those moisturizing types containing aloe vera or shea butter. Try to avoid shaving soaps because they dry out the skin and create friction, resulting in bumps or cuts. Apply an amount of shaving cream over the area such that no spot is left without it. This would protect your skin throughout the shave.


Buying the Right Razor


The right razor can be a game-changer in the whole perspective of avoiding irritation. A razor like that gives a closer shave but if not used properly can give greater skin irritation. Another important thing is to change your razor blades regularly. A dull blade pulls on the hair instead of cutting it clean leading to razor burn and nicks. Replace your razor blade with a new one from time to time, as it pulls at your skin and isn't as sharp as it used to be. Those who have sensitive skin should use razors that have a moisturizing strip to give added protection while shaving.


Shave in the Right Direction


Though one is supposed to get closer to shaving by shaving against the grain, it might not be a good option as many times it is a cause of irritation. In shaving against the grain, there is the possibility of tugging the razor on the hair, leading to red bumps, razor burns, or ingrown hairs. On the other hand, shaving in the direction of growth will enable the razor to glide more easily over the skin. Start shaving from the ankle, going up; never rush when shaving. For people who are prone to irritation, shaving in the direction of the growth will minimize chances of discomfort.


Aftercare Is Just as Important


The good aftercare has to be ensured for the legs to be smooth and not irritated right after shaving. Avoid hot water or harsh scrubs just after shaving, because your skin would be super sensitive. Gently pat the legs dry with a towel without rubbing, as this may further irritate. Follow through with a moisturizing lotion or oil to rehydrate the skin. Look for moisturizers that contain aloe vera, chamomile, or Vitamin E, as all these things have active skin-soothing and healing properties. 


Avoid Shaving Too Much


Of course, one way to ensure the legs stay polished and looking nice would be shaving, but never overdo it: too much may irritate your skin or cause dryness because razors cut into sensitive skin. Give your skin time between shaving to allow all the redness or bumps to clear off. Secondly, remember: too much shaving removes natural oils in the skin. Apply moisturizer following each shaving to help lock it in.


The prepping of skin, usage of the right products, and technique will all enable you to keep your legs smooth, irritation-free each time. What was otherwise meant to be quite a chore in shaving will now become quite a decent procedure.


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