10 tips for smooth legs – how to shave your legs properly

Summer is just around the corner, and with it comes that necessary evil – shaving your legs. Do you also struggle with ingrown hairs, dry skin, itching and hair that grows back far too quickly? Then it's time to make a few changes to your shaving routine.

1. Exfoliate before shaving

Exfoliating removes dead skin cells so that new hairs can reach the surface, which helps prevent ingrown hairs. Exfoliate 2 days before shaving rather than right before, so your skin doesn't get too irritated.

2. Soak your legs for a few minutes first

It's very important to always wet your skin with warm water before shaving. It's even better to stay in the bath or shower for a few minutes, as this softens both skin and hair. Your razor can then cut closer to the follicle, so it takes longer for the hair to reappear. Just don't soak for too long: after 15 minutes your skin starts to wrinkle and swell, which makes shaving harder.

3. Use shaving foam

Shaving foam softens the hair and follicles, so your skin is less irritated. It protects the skin and lets the razor glide more smoothly. If you don't have any shaving foam, hair conditioner works too. But never use shower gel or soap, as they increase redness and irritation.

4. Don't use a razor with fewer than four blades

I recommend investing in a razor with at least four or five blades. The more blades a razor has, the lower the chance of nicks. Some women even recommend men's razors, as they are better than most women's ones. Either way, choose a good-quality razor with a pivoting head.

5. Use a gentle shower gel

Your shower gel also contributes to irritated, dry skin after shaving. Most gels contain harsh cleansing agents that strip the skin of its beneficial oils and dry it out even more. Instead, we recommend a gentle shower gel that cleanses while caring for and moisturising your skin.

6. Change your razor blades regularly

It sounds obvious, but how many of us keep using a razor for longer than we should? Old blades are less effective and leave the skin more irritated. They can also harbour bacteria, which can lead to inflammation. It's best to replace your blade every 10 shaves or so.

7. Shave against the direction of hair growth

This gets you closer to the hairs, so they take longer to grow back. It's also the only way to remove fine, short hairs properly. You'll need to shave less often, and your skin will feel smoother and softer afterwards.

8. Rinse your legs with cold water afterwards

This helps calm irritated skin and stops small nicks from bleeding if you cut yourself while shaving.

9. Use a nourishing balm after shaving

The right aftercare reduces the risk of ingrown hairs and the little red bumps that sometimes appear on the skin. It's also essential for truly smooth, soft skin. Avoid products with alcohol or fragrance, as they irritate the skin even more.

We recommend the Honey Balm Stick, which soothes irritated skin, reduces flaking and dryness, and relieves itching.

10. Exfoliate regularly and keep your skin moisturised

You can use a sugar or salt scrub, a dry body brush or an exfoliating glove. Exfoliating removes dead skin cells and helps prevent ingrown hairs. Moisturising lotions and balms prevent flaking, dryness and irritation.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Which direction should I shave my legs?

• Start by shaving in the direction of hair growth, then go against it to remove the fine, shorter hairs too.

What can I use instead of shaving foam?

• Hair conditioner works well instead of shaving foam. Avoid dry shaving, shaving with just water or with soap, as this irritates the skin even more.

Why are my legs still prickly after shaving?

• Shaving doesn't remove the hair from the follicle – it only cuts it off at the surface, so it's common to feel stubble a day or two later. If you feel it straight after shaving, try shaving against the direction of growth and use a sharp razor with at least four blades.

Does shaving make hair grow back thicker and darker?

• Shaving shouldn't change the thickness, colour or growth rate of your hair. However, it leaves each hair with a blunt tip where it was cut, which can make it feel and look thicker and darker.

How often should I shave my legs?

• Every two to three days if you want smooth legs with no visible hair. It depends on your preferences and how fast your hair grows.