If you’ve ever dealt with nicks, razor burn, or irritation, you might be wondering how to shave your legs the right way.
Going from stubble to smooth takes more than a quick swipe, it requires proper prep, technique, and aftercare to help avoid irritation and discomfort.
Here’s our step-by-step guide, packed with gentle, practical tips to help you achieve touchable softness.
How to Properly Shave Your Legs: Step-by-Step
From the razor you choose to the way you move it across the skin, here’s how to shave your legs properly for a velvety feel.
Step One: Choose the Right Razor
Your razor is the foundation of your shave – if it’s pulling, feels coarse, or requires too much pressure, it could be time for a new one.
Fresh, sharp blades usually glide smoothly, removing hair efficiently and lowering the risk of irritation. While some last longer than others, aim to replace yours every 5-7 shaves to maintain an effortless, gentle shave.
Step Two: Prep Your Skin
The secret to a great shave starts before you even pick up your razor.
Soaking your skin in warm water first provides a supple base for your blade to glide on, helping to reduce friction and irritation.
For an even silkier canvas, exfoliating beforehand helps sweep away build-up to reveal skin that looks fresh and renewed. You can indulge in the cocoa comfort of our Chocolate Indulgence Foaming Salt Scrub, or uplift your senses with the tropical aromas of our De-Aging Saltmousse.
Step Three: Apply Shaving Gel or Cream
Not sure how to use shaving foam on your legs, or whether it’s even needed? Think of it as a line of defense that could help protect against unwanted tugging and irritation.
Applying a small amount works to form a gentle shield, helping your razor glide smoothly for a close, controlled shave. Our Easy-Gel Shaving Emulsion does just that, while soothing the skin with chamomile, safflower, and vitamin E.
Expert Tip: If you’re running low, hair conditioner might also work as an option to soften the blade’s path and help keep your shave just as comfortable.
Step Four: Shave with Care
From direction to pressure, your technique makes all the difference.
If you’re wondering what direction to shave your legs, we recommend starting at the ankle and working your way upwards with gentle, steady strokes.
However, if you’re prone to irritation, try following the direction of hair growth. If you find that you have to press quite firmly, this could be a sign that your blade is dull and it's time for a new razor.
Wash the blade regularly to prevent build-up and take extra care around delicate areas like your knees. Finally, check for any missed spots before rinsing your legs.
Step Five: Moisturize
Wondering what to put on legs after shaving? Moisturizer could help to soothe and soften your skin.
Once you’ve rinsed and gently patted your legs dry with a clean towel, smooth on your favourite after-shave, body cream, or oil to help keep them supple.
Rich in safflower, portulaca, and green tea, our Soothing After-Shaving Balm helps calm and cool your base. For a more sensorial treat, opt for our Chocolate Indulgence Moisturizer or tropical scented De-Aging Body Balm.
Common Shaving Mistakes
Now that you know how to shave your legs, it’s worth keeping an eye out for common missteps that could be sabotaging your smooth results.
Using a Dull Razor
Using a dull razor could be the reason your shave feels uncomfortable.
A worn blade may lead you to press harder or pass over the same area multiple times, which could lead to an irritated, uneven finish.
Replacing your shaving tool regularly helps maintain an even glide and reduce tugging and pulling.
Skipping Skin Prep
Starting your shave without prepping your skin could lead to irritation and discomfort.
When your legs are dry or unclean, your blade may struggle to glide smoothly, increasing the chances of unwanted friction.
Taking a moment to soak your base helps create a more supple surface, which could allow the razor to sweep easily and comfortably.
Shaving with the Wrong Technique
Even with the best prep and aftercare, poor technique could still lead to irritation or undesirable results.
To help reduce redness, nicks, and razor burn, keep pressure light, rinse the blade between strokes, and avoid repeatedly shaving the same area.
Shaving against the grain may also cause discomfort. If your skin is easily irritated, following the direction of hair growth could offer a gentler, more soothing glide.
Mastering how to shave your legs isn’t just hair removal, it’s a full routine that, when done right, leaves skin visibly soft and soothed.
With the right prep, technique, and aftercare, you’ll be ready to put your best leg forward.
Build a head-to-toe self-care ritual with our guide on how to elevate your body care routine.
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