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All that hassle. Shaving, whether it’s your legs, face or underarms, can be - let’s face it - a bit of an inconvenience. Come summer, many of us suddenly become hairless poodles, shedding every hair grown during winter hibernation.
While some of us might have years of ‘experience’ with shaving our legs (we’ve been engaging in this sinister practice since the age of 13, after all), it doesn’t necessarily mean we are doing it correctly.
Here are a few signs that you might just be shaving your legs all wrong:
You don't get a close enough shave
Patience is a great virtue when it comes to shaving. Don’t shave as soon as you hop into the shower; give it 2-3 minutes before you start. Waiting will allow the hair to soften and open up the follicles for a better, closer shave according to Goodhousekeeping.com
You often get nicks and cuts from shaving - especially around sensitive areas like your ankles and your knees
Start by shaving in the direction that the hair grows (i.e. down the leg). Going against the grain will definitely get you a closer shave; however, it does increase your chances of getting nicks and cuts around your knees and ankles.
If you wait in the shower the recommended 2-3 minutes before you shave, until the hairs are soft, going against the direction of hair growth can be much safer. Rather shave twice, against the direction of the hair growth said Dr. Schultz to Goodhousekeeping.com.
You have ingrown hairs and itchy red patches of skin
Shaving dry is the worst mistake anyone can make. You need some kind of lubrication when you shave. Unfortunately, soap does not allow the razor to glide as easily against your skin. Rather try shaving gel or even opt for using your daily hair conditioner to avoid razor burn and possible ingrown hairs.
