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But in the real world, you might have to figure out the whole thing on your own.
Here’s how to shave your legs so you don’t have razor bumps and irritation.
And that could involve lots of sub-par shaves and uncomfortablerazor bumps.
Learning how to shave your legs might seem simple (and it mostly is!
Thats where this handy guide comes in.
We chatted with board-certified dermatologists for the scoop on all (and we meanall) the leg shaving tips.
Choose a razor you feel comfortable using.
I like Gillette Venus Comfortglide Plus Olay ($15,Amazon).
It has five blades and the Olay moisture bar adds an extra layer of hydration, Dr. Peredo says.
Rinse and store your razor in a dry area.
Change your razor blades often.
Even the best razor wont give you a close, smooth shave forever.
A dull blade makes the shaving process longer and increases the risk of cutting yourself or general skin irritation.
So, how often should you change your razor?
The AAD recommends swapping it out for a new blade after five to seven shaves.
Avoid dry shaving your legs.
Dry shaving increases your chances of skin irritation, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
Using shaving cream can help to condition the skin and soften the hair follicle, Dr. Peredo explains.
Prep your skin (and do your other shower stuff first).
Warm water softens your skin and helps you get a closer shave with less risk for cuts or nicks.
Avoid using super hot water when you bathe, though, since this canmake your skin dry.
Before shaving, you canget busy exfoliatingthose legs.
Apply firm pressurebut dont press too hard.
Alright, now its time to talk about leg shaving technique.
Avoid pulling any skin taut too.
Shave in the direction of your hair growth.
If the hair is smoothed to the skin and looks neat, thats the direction of the growth.
As I teach my residency students when were doing surgery, Dont cut what you cant see.
Baby your skin post-shave.
This can help reduce your chances of getting irritated skin or ingrown hairs, per the Cleveland Clinic.
If you must, see to it you apply sunscreen.
Generally, thats just your hair growing back.
Its not actually growing back coarser or thicker (phew!
).
