Summer brings its warmer weather and with it, you pull out your shorts, bikinis, and sun dresses. It’s that time of year when you know that you will be shaving a lot more often.
Hair removal is easier if you exfoliate first. Use a loofah or body scrub in the shower to get rid of dead skin and ingrown hairs. If you can safely and conveniently shave in the shower, do so, or wait until you get out. Shaving is facilitated when your hair is soft from being wet.
If you are not shaving in or just after your shower, you will need to wash your legs with a washcloth, soap and warm water. Wash and rinse against the natural growth of your hair to make it stand up. Do not allow to dry unless you are using a electric razor.
There are many shaving creams on the market today. A clear gel is a popular choice as you will find missed hair easier to spot. Creams and lotions are great too and some have delicious scents. Experiment with different brands to find one that’s just right for you.
You may find a real razor is best and to get a close shave you will need to change your blade after every five or six shaves. Many people are happy with disposables. You should also consider a wet/dry electric razor which prevents the cuts and nicks that can occur with a bladed razor. You will need to clean the razor head every time you use it.
No pressure is needed as you shave, using straight upward strokes from ankle to knee. If you are using an electric razor you may find circular strokes are best. Be especially careful around your ankle as cuts and nicks can occur on the uneven surface. You will keep your leg straight for most of the operation, although once you get to your knee you may find it easier to bend your leg so the skin is smooth. Rub your fingers all over your legs to find spots you missed. If you are satisfied, dry well and you are done! If you do experience a cut, a wonderful instrument called a styptic pencil, a short medicated stick used to seal small cuts and nicks, especially from razors, can be helpful. Never share a razor with a friend as infections can be spread easily.
Shaving your underarms needs to be done slowly and with care as a nick can be painful. Shave in every direction as underarm hair does not grow in one direction like leg hair does. Use a soothing aloe vera spray or lotion on your underarms and legs after shaving. Then follow with a pleasant body lotion for maximum moisturizing.
For your first bikini wax seek out the services of an esthetician as the bikini area is very delicate. If after you have used a professional and want to try it yourself,
experiment on your legs first.
Alternatives to shaving include bleaching, which lasts about two or three weeks and lightens the hair closer to skin tone, so that it is harder to see. Waxing, which leaves the area very smooth, will last one to six weeks. Depilatory creams and lotions leave your legs smooth and doesn't stimulate hair follicles. Electrolysis, done by a professional, takes a minimum of six treatments as one hair is removed at a time, but it’s a popular choice and is permanent. Lasers are faster and may produce a permanent solution as well after several sessions. One must avoid sunlight while healing.
Removing unwanted hair is just another procedure among many which make you look great. It is a step-by-step process that can be learned and perfected and which will change the way you feel.
