bump-free shave

The 1-2-3s of Shaving

April 11, 2011 at 5:36 pm , by Chelsea Rae Simmons

After a winter of hibernation (and squats), my legs are ready for some exposure. Though, the unpredictable spring weather is keeping my freshly shorn legs hidden beneath a layer of denim, this is the perfect time to practice the 1-2-3s of shaving to prep for summer.

The first step to getting the perfect shave is picking the right razor. Whether you’re a 3-blade or 5-blade kind-of-gal, make sure your razor is sharp. Many suggest changing your razor bade at least once a week, but the thought of buying yet another expensive pack of razor cartridges makes me cringe. Luckily, there are ways to extend the life of the blades: make sure the hair is wet and softened before your start shaving, dry off your razor when you’re finished, and make sure to store it in a dry area, not your shower.

The next step is lubrication. We’ve all experienced the itching-burn of an impromptu dry-shave, and it isn’t fun. So, break out your favorite shaving cream/gel so your razor has no problem gliding over your skin— make sure to rinse the blade after every stroke! For an extra-smooth shave we love to use the Venus Embrace Razor ($11) and Skintimate Skin Therapy Moisturizing Shave Gel ($3).

Last, but certainly not least, is preserving the just-out-of-the-shower smoothness— baby-soft legs are the goal. So, keep your skin supple with your favorite body lotion and/or ward off stubble with hair-growth inhibiting products like Whish Shave Savour Hair Inhibiting Gel ($26) or Completely Bare Completely Smooth Body Lotion ($42).

Want more shaving tricks? Here are some ‘Bump-Free Shaving Techniques’.