Dermatologists recommend changing blades or throwing out your disposable razor after 5-7 shaves. Never use a razor that’s full of gunk and hair, even if the blade is still sharp. If you get ingrown hairs, razor burn, or acne frequently, try using an electric shaver instead of a razor. You won’t get as close a shave, but it will be gentler on your skin.
When you wash your face, use a gentle, moisturizing face wash without harsh or drying ingredients, like alcohol. This will help prevent irritation and dryness, which could make you more prone to nicks and breakouts. [4] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source Don’t dry your face when you’re done. It should still be damp before you start shaving.
Let the cream sit for 2-3 minutes before you shave. That will give it time to soften and condition your hair and skin. [6] X Research source
On the other hand, shaving against the grain will give you a smoother, closer shave. [8] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Experiment with both techniques to see what works best for your skin. Use short, light strokes and take care not to apply too much pressure so that you don’t cut yourself.
You might have to spend more time on some of these areas to get a smooth shave. Don’t go over the same spot so much that you scrape or irritate your skin, though.
Warm water is best for washing away residue from your shaving cream or gel, which can cause irritation and breakouts if you don’t rinse it off thoroughly. A cold-water rinse can also help soothe any inflammation and irritation after you shave. [12] X Research source If your skin feels really sore, hold a washcloth soaked in cold water against your face for a few minutes. [13] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source
Don’t use aftershave products that contain alcohol or strong perfumes. These harsh ingredients can dry out your skin and make irritation worse. [15] X Research source
Use a mild, gentle soap or body wash that won’t dry out and irritate your skin.
Exfoliation can also help release ingrown hairs from a previous shave. [18] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source
Don’t try to shave your legs using just soap and water. Soap doesn’t create enough lubrication for the razor, and it can also dry out your skin and make irritation worse.
If you have a hand mirror, keep it nearby so you can use to see what you’re doing in trickier areas, like the backs of your thighs.
On most parts of your legs, the hair grows downwards. This means, for example, that you’d start at your ankles and shave upwards when shaving your lower leg. If you start getting a lot of razor bumps or breakouts, switch to shaving in the direction of hair growth. [22] X Research source
Don’t forget to rinse the razor between strokes! Wash away any obvious shaving cream, dead hair, and gunk in the blades. [24] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source
Work methodically and in short sections. This will make it easier to be sure you don’t miss any spots.
It may help to pull the skin above your knee tight with your other hand as you shave.
The hair in your inner thigh area may be thicker and curlier than the hair on your lower legs. If this is the case, or if you’re especially prone to razor bumps in the area, shave with the grain instead of against it. [28] X Research source
Using a hand mirror can also help you spot hair you might have missed.
Cosmetics such as self-tanners will go on more smoothly and evenly if you rinse your legs with cold water before applying them post-shave.
Use a moisturizer that’s free of harsh ingredients, like alcohol or strong perfumes. You don’t want to irritate any nicks, cuts, or scrapes!
In a pinch, you can use hair conditioner or body oil. [34] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source However, shaving cream or gel is usually best for the sensitive skin in your armpits.
Shave in short strokes so your razor doesn’t get clogged with hair. Rinse the blade between strokes to get rid of built-up gunk. [37] X Research source If you get a lot of razor bumps and ingrown hairs in your armpits, stick to shaving in just one direction. You can also try using an electric shaver. Choose a model that has built-in lotion or moisturizer to reduce irritation.
You can also use a gentler alternative, like a baby powder or a deodorant made for sensitive skin. While putting deodorant on freshly shaved skin can be painful, it likely isn’t dangerous. Recent studies don’t show any link between deodorant use and breast cancer or other serious health conditions, even when you use it on broken skin. [40] X Research source
Be very careful not to cut or jab yourself! You can also use an electric trimmer. If you go this route, make sure your hair is totally dry first. Don’t use the trimmer in the shower, since there’s a danger of electric shock. [43] X Research source
Try to soak your skin and hair for at least 10 minutes for the best results.
If possible, use a razor with a built-in moisturizing strip.
As you work, apply more cream or gel as often as you need to. [47] X Research source
Take care not to use too much pressure or pull the skin too tight, or you could nick yourself.
Some healthcare experts recommend going against the grain for a closer shave. If you try this, observe your skin carefully over the next few days. If you notice bumps and breakouts, stick to shaving with the grain next time. [50] X Research source Rinse the razor between strokes to prevent clogs. A gunky razor is more likely to cause irritation and razor bumps.
You might also prefer to use this approach in the area around your anus, or on the inner edges of your labia if you have a vagina.
Don’t rub your skin with the towel, or you could irritate the sensitive, freshly shaved skin.
It’s common for your skin to feel itchy or irritated in the pubic area as the hair starts to grow back in. If you develop ingrown hairs or razor bumps, let your skin rest and heal for a few days before you shave again. Gently exfoliate the area with a loofah when you wash to help remove dead skin and release trapped hairs.
You can also use a gentle exfoliating scrub, such as a sugar or oatmeal scrub. Smooth it over your skin with your fingers in small, circular motions. [56] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source
If you’re dealing with an area like your chest or your back, you might want to stick to just trimming the hair short, or use an alternative method like waxing or a hair removal cream. Shaved hair in these areas can get very prickly and uncomfortable as it grows in.
Rinse the razor frequently between strokes so it doesn’t get clogged up.
If you can’t get someone to help you, use a hand mirror to help you see what you’re doing. You can also buy razor extenders or shavers with long handles designed for shaving back hair.
The clippers will work better if your hair is clean. [66] X Research source
While you’re showering, you can also remove flakes and dead skin from your scalp with a gentle scalp scrub or soft brush. This will help keep your razor—and your hair follicles—from getting clogged.
The skin on your scalp can be sensitive and prone to breakouts. Choose a shaving product that’s gentle, without a lot of strong perfumes or other harsh ingredients. [69] X Research source For extra lubrication and protection, try smoothing on a pre-shave oil before you add your shaving cream.
If you’re shaving with clippers, it’s better to go against the grain. Clippers don’t give as close a shave as a standard safety razor, so you’ll get a cleaner look if you shave in the opposite direction from the hair growth. [71] X Research source Be extra careful when shaving the back of your head. Not only is it harder to see what you’re doing, but the hair tends to radiate out in different directions at the back of the scalp.
You may need to gently pull your skin taut with one hand to get a close shave when you’re working in trickier areas, such as the space around your ears. Don’t forget to rinse your blade between strokes so it doesn’t get gunked up.
Once your head is shaved, it will be more sensitive to the sun. Slather on a moisturizing sunscreen or put on a hat before you step outside!
