Your Guide to Getting Smoother Legs

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. We love the Kiehl’s Gently Exfoliating Body Scrub and the Fur Silk 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.

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 using a razor. It differs from your average soap because most shaving creams are formulated to reduce friction between the razor and skin. We like the Kiehl’s Ultimate Brushless Shave Cream White Eagle Shave Cream or the Skin Regimen Shaving Gel.

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.

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 OUI the People Hydrating Body Gloss.

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 La Roche-Posay Anthelios Lotion Spray Sunscreen SPF 60.

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.

 Photo Credit: Chaunte Vaughn

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