How to Get Smooth Legs 101

Having soft, smooth legs is ideal whether we choose to shave them or not. If you do shave and fall victim to razor bumps or burns in this area way too often, don’t let your skin suffer. Ahead, we broke down exactly how to reverse poor shaving habits or incorrect hair-removal tactics to keep your legs feeling as silky as you expect. And if you don’t shave, no problem, there are ways to keep your legs feeling smooth with hair, too.

Exfoliate 

Dead surface skin cells can cause your legs to feel rough, so sloughing these cells away is the first step. Using a body exfoliator before hair removal can help. Make sure to exfoliate your legs a few hours before any hair-removal regimen, and use an exfoliant that is gentle. Our go-to for this is the Kiehl’s Gently Exfoliating Body Scrub. 

Pick the Right Razor

Not all razors are created equally. Some razors are formulated with moisture strips to help keep irritation on your legs at bay. Grabbing a top-quality razor can make a huge difference to the skin on your legs. To help avoid nicks, tugs and scrapes, do your research on your razors before you purchase them. We like the Billie Razors, which are encased in a charcoal soap for a smooth, close shave. 

Wet Your Legs Before Shaving

You should never — under any circumstances — try to shave your legs when they’re dry. Dry shaving can result in irritation and itchy bumps. Make sure you let your legs soak in water before you shave. If you’re shaving in the shower, give your skin some time to get wet first.

Use a Gentle Body Wash

Before shaving, wash your legs with a mild body wash that’s infused with hydrating properties. The Carol’s Daughter Almond Cookie Softening Body Wash is formulated with almond oil and can give your skin a boost of moisture while it cleanses.

Use a Shaving Cream

We can’t tell you enough how important it is to use a shaving cream when shaving. It differs from your average soap because most shaving creams are formulated to reduce friction between the razor and skin. If you want to help prevent cuts and scrapes, you should always use a shaving cream before picking up the razor. We like the Skin Regimen Shaving Gel and House 99 Sharp Cut Shaving Stick.

Shave Cautiously

While you’re shaving your legs, do so with caution. Shave gently, and shave small sections at a time. Always rinse your razor after shaving each small area, and make sure you’re shaving in the direction of your hair growth. Shaving in the direction of hair growth helps avoid pulling and tugging that can cause ingrown hairs and cuts.

Use a Body Cream or Oil

To make sure your legs get all the hydration they can, use a moisturizing body lotion immediately after you step out of the shower or are finished shaving. We recommend using a moisturizing all-over body cream like the CeraVe Moisturizing Cream, or an oil specifically designed to reduce ingrown hairs like the Fur Oil.

Use Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen

Your face isn’t the only place that needs UV protection. Skipping sunscreen on exposed areas of skin can leave your skin open to sun damage. If you’re wearing a dress, skirt or shorts, apply a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 before heading outdoors, and reapply at least every two hours. Try the Coola Classic Body Organic Sunscreen Spray SPF 50.

Change Your Razor Head Often

Using a dull razor likely won’t end in a clean shave and can lead to ingrown hairs and irritation. If you shave frequently, make sure you change your razor head after every five uses to keep your shaving routine clean and efficient. 

Read More:

6 Things That Age Your Skin Prematurely

Why You Keep Getting Razor Burn and Razor Bumps

The One Skin-Care Product Everyone Should Be Using Daily