One of the quickest, most convenient, and cheapest ways of getting rid of annoying body hair is shaving. But before you pick up that razor, here are some shaving hacks you should know. These will make getting rid of all that fuzz much smoother!
1. Make it the last thing you do in the shower
Hanging out in the shower or the bath for a couple of minutes before you start shaving helps soften the skin and open up pores, allowing a closer shave. The steam in the shower/bath open up the pores and loosens the hair follicles, making it easy to get a smooth finish without damaging the skin.
2. Exfoliation
Exfoliating before a shave removes the dead skin cells and softens the skin, providing a buffed and polished base for the razor to do its job. The result is completely fuzz-free and polished skin. Skip the post-shave scrubbing as it may irritate your skin.
3. Direction is crucial
As a general rule of thumb, swipe in the direction of the hair growth, followed by a swipe in the opposite direction. Skip the opposite direction step if you have sensitive skin.
4. Lather up
A gentle and creamy shaving cream provides a cushion for the razor and promotes a friction-free slide, which means less irritation, redness and itchiness. In emergency situations, when you’ve run out of shaving cream, a thick shower lather, a creamy hand wash or any conditioner will do the trick just fine!
5. One swipe is enough
It may be tempting to swipe and re-swipe the razor in the hopes of a smoother finish but resist the urge to do that. It may irritate your skin by causing redness, itchiness or dryness. A single swipe with a fresh, multiple-blade razor without too much pressure should do the trick.
6. Stick to girlie razors
Razors designed specifically for women often have moisturising strips, angular heads and protective cushions which ensure a nick-free shave. They are designed to angulate themselves to suit various body parts. Opt for these over the regular disposable ones to make this annoying routine a bit more bearable!
7. Small strokes
Using long strokes may seem efficient but the result isn’t nearly as precise as when you use small strokes with light pressure. It may take a little bit longer but the result will be better and will last longer.
8. Use a bath/body oil afterwards
Post shaving, using a body oil seals in moisture and gives the skin a glossy finish. Your skin is bound to feel a bit dry after an intense exfoliation and a shave, which is why it is crucial to compensate by giving it some moisture to avoid a scaly, dull appearance. Apply the oil on damp skin to make sure it absorbs well and leaves a dewy finish.
9. Ditch the razor after 3 uses
Using a dull blade means you have to go over each area a couple of times, resulting in skin irritation. Using a blade thrice would dull it enough to not give you the same effect as a fresh one would. Do your skin a favour and replace after a maximum of three uses!
Images: Shutterstock
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