1. PREPARE THE SKIN
fresh shaved legs
Before shaving any part of the body, you need to prepare the skin. If you are shaving your legs for example, its best to clean it first and to exfoliate the area. Exfoliating the skin will save you from ingrown hair. There are over the counter products for this or you can use a loofah or exfoliating glove.
For the underarm hair, cleanse the area first. This is especially true if you use deodorants and anti-persiprants. Cleansing it will also soften the skin and get it ready for shaving. The same is true for the bikini area.
2. USE LESS BLADES
Many razors have as many as 5 blades. Using more blades can lead to skin irritation because removes skin to the sub-dermal level when shaving. To avoid razor burns do not use razors with more than 3 blades. If you have sensitive skin, this will also cause ingrown hair.
Your razor should also have a sharp blade. Dull blades are among the cause of skin irritation and razor burns. Dull blades also mean that you make more passes when shaving causing more skin to be sloughed off leading to irritation. Change your razor at least twice a week if you shave every day to make sure that they are sharp.
3. SHAVE IN THE DIRECTION OF GROWTH
Hair in different part grows in different directions. Hair on the legs for example grows down, hair on the armpits grows in all directions and bikini area grows inward. When shaving the legs work on your ankles and bony areas first. Then shave from the knees going down following the direction of the hair. For the armpits, pull your arm up to stretch the skin and start from the bottom going up. Raising your arms up will pull the skin tight giving you a close shave.
The bikini area is very sensitive especially between the thighs. Shave from the outside going in. Shave frequently to avoid skin irritation. This area also has thicker curlier hairs making it more difficult to cut so make sure that the razor you use is sharp.
4. THE FINE PRINT
shaving tools for women
Shaving is done best when you use products like shaving creams. Women can use shaving creams for men because they are made from the same materials. The only problem with this is the smell. If you can stand the manly smell then using it should be fine. But before you apply shaving cream, read the fine print. Ingredients used in shaving cream (for men or women) can contain harmful substances that could irritate your skin. Alcohol for example if you have sensitive skin can cause irritation. If you have hypersensitive skin, its best to use products with a bit of hydrocortisone cream for a smoother shave.
5. GROW LESS HAIR
There are products designed to specifically grow less hair and they work. Hair can still grow but it is finer and a lighter color. Products like these take months of use to see longer results but they will work over time. It also depends on the area used. Facial hair for women for example is finer so results should be seen earlier compared to areas like the bikini or underarms.
Women should remember to not use shower gel or soap as shaving cream as they can dry out the skin faster. It's also best to moisturize after shaving. If you've run out of moisturizer, kitchen standbys such as olive oil and coconut oil work best.
Dale Bird- Teeth Monster LLC
