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Whether on the leg, bikini line, or underarm, shaving bumps are ugly, annoying, and often uncomfortable. Luckily, you don't have to live with them. With a little care, you can avoid shaving bumps and enjoy smooth skin all year round!

Shaving bumps, often referred to as "razor burn," are actually irritated hair follicles which can lead to ingrown hairs. While they can occur anywhere on the body, they are most common in women on the bikini line. The key to minimizing your shaving bumps, wherever you shave, is to avoid irritating sensitive hair follicles.

First, make sure you use a sharp razor and always rinse it thoroughly. Depending on how often you shave, you might want to consider replacing your razor as often as once a week. A dull razor, or one that is clogged with soap and dead skin, will more easily catch on your hair follicles, causing irritation and ingrown hairs. Also, be careful in handling your razor; dropping a razor can damage the blade, causing nicks in your skin that can easily become irritated or mildly infected.

Before shaving, use a loofah or body scrub to gently exfoliate the area to be shaved. By exfoliating, you are removing the top layer of dead skin, allowing for a closer shave and preventing a dull razor. Exfoliating will also help prevent ingrown hairs by removing the top layer of skin that may clog the hair follicle.

Once you have exfoliated, spread your shaving gel or cream over the area to be shaved, and let it sit for a minute. This allows the cream to soften the hair, leading to a smoother shave.

If you don't have shave gel or cream, don't use regular soap to shave. Instead, spread a thick layer of conditioner over the area and let it sit for a minute before shaving. This will soften the hair, making it easier to shave; however, it will not protect your skin as thoroughly as a shaving product, so make sure you use extra care.

Your after-shaving care is just as important as your shaving technique in preventing shaving bumps. Avoid applying deodorant right after shaving as it can irritate delicate underarm skin. Use an after-shave gel containing lidocaine to soothe and prevent bumps on the bikini line, and make sure you moisturize legs after shaving to prevent dead skin build-up that can clog hair follicles.

Finally, remember that consistency is key. Use these tips every time you shave for smoother skin and a closer shave!

Learn more about this author, Heather Russell.
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