Shaving gel softens hairs to make it easier to remove them with your razor. Gels create a lubricated surface that your razor can glide over. They tend to be gentler on the skin than soap, and may contain moisturizers, vitamins, and botanicals. Talk with your dermatologist for advice on the right skincare products for you.
Always shave with the grain of your hair, and avoid shaving the same area more than once. Also, always use a clean, sharp razor blade. Dull blades can irritate your skin and cause nicks, cuts and razor burn.
A razor should slide smoothly across your skin. If your razor snags or pulls, your blade is getting dull and should be replaced. Dull blades can cause nicks, cuts and razor burn. You should also replace your blade if there are any traces of rust on it.
Soak your legs in warm water for a few minutes to soften the hair before you shave. Next, liberally apply an alcohol-free shaving lotion or gel (alcohol can dry out your skin), leave the gel on for a few minutes to soften hair. Technique is important in shaving. For a close shave, shave against the hair growth pattern, pulling the razor up from your ankle toward your knee. However, if you have sensitive skin or shaving tends to irritate your skin, move the razor with the grain of your hair, and don't shave over the same area more than once. Finally, be sure to use a clean, sharp razor blade to prevent your skin from pulling and don't apply too much pressure as you shave.
Here’s how we recommend a good shave, whether you’re taking care of your
face, legs, or other areas:
Some shaving products are better than others for certain types of skin. For example, using shaving cream rather than shaving foam may be a good idea if you have dry and sensitive skin. If you're not sure which type of skin you have, or which type of shaving products are best for you, ask a dermatologist.
A dermatologist can provide the best advice for addressing ingrown hairs, also known as razor bumps. You can try using a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently dislodge ingrown hairs that are piercing the skin. Buy a separate toothbrush just for this purpose, and use it gently in a circular motion. Seek a physician’s assistance for medical concerns.
There's no specific timeframe that dictates how often you should replace your razor blade because many factors can affect the blade. If you shave every day, you'll need to replace your blade more often than if you shave every other day or less frequently. And if you have thick, coarse hair, you may have to replace your blade more often than someone with thin, fine hair.