by Jennifer J. Raymond

Created on: August 15, 2008

Whether you are getting your legs out for the summer or baring your underarms in a slinky new top, shaving is by far the most popular choice of getting rid of unsightly hairs. Shaving is a temporary method of hair removal and hairs usually grow back within a few days, this is because the hair is not removed from the follicle, it is only cut at the skin surface.

Due to its simplicity, you can shave pretty much any part of the body, but it is best to avoid the face, as the hairs will grow back thicker in appearance, due to the hair being cut straight across to expose a thicker part of the hair shaft. For facial hairs, bleaching or waxing are the preferred methods of choice.

Here are ten top tips for shaving to ensure smooth and hair free skin.

1. Refillable razors are more expensive but give a good close shave and the blades are encased much better so as to prevent against nicks. Disposable razors work well too, but it is best to use those that have a moisturising strip on them.

2. Regularly change your razor to make sure it is clean and sharp. As a dull blade can cause razor rash, ingrown hairs as well as taking much longer to get the job done.

3. It is highly recommended that you use a shaving cream or gel as this keeps the moisture in the hairs making it easier to cut and also makes the blade glide much smoother. Avoid using soap as this can dry the skin out and never shave dry skin, as this can cause razor rash and nicks on the skin.

4. Shave after a few minutes of being in the shower or bath as this softens the hairs making it easier to cut.

5. Try not to rush, as this will increase the chances of nicking the skin. Be especially careful around the ankle area, you can flex your heel to stretch the skin whilst you shave around this area.

6. To get the closest shave on the legs, use the razor in the opposite direction to hair growth. However if you have sensitive skin or are prone to ingrown hairs then shave in the direction of the hair growth.

7. Underarm hairs grow in different directions so you need to glide the razor in many directions and pull the skin taught to get the closet shave.

8. For sensitive areas such as the bikini line, shave in the direction of hair growth to prevent irritation.

9. When you have finished shaving, check in natural daylight for any missed regions, especially around the knees and ankle areas. If you spot stray hairs, reapply some shaving gel and glide the razor over these areas again.

10. Finally, moisturise your legs after shaving, as the process removes the outer layer of dead skin cells.

Shaving can be quick, simple and very effective, so if you follow these tips you will enjoy smooth, hair free legs in no time.

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