Preparing for summer means getting sexy, smooth legs. Try the best easy steps for sexy legs, that give you some of the best tips for smooth legs, whether you prefer shaving or waxing.
Exfoliation is important, but over-exfoliating can increase the risk of razor burn and ingrown hairs. If you haven’t exfoliated in a while, do it the day before hair removal, since both shaving and waxing exfoliate the skin naturally.
Tips for Smooth Legs
Right before shaving or waxing you can use a mild exfoliating cream, that contains either AHA or BHA. Even a mild scrub with sugar can be too much for sensitive skin right before hair removal.
Your legs should be wet for at least 3 minutes before you reach for the razor. Warm water is best while hot water can dry out skin. Wet your skin in the shower or with a washcloth, soaking it in the bathtub can cause swelling around the hair follicles that prevent a close shave for smooth legs.
Forget the moisturizer before you shave. Most lotions clog up the pores and will prevent reaching all the hair with the razor.
Get Smooth Legs Fast
Triple blades are your best bet when choosing the right razor, but what you do after shaving or waxing is equally important. Do not rub your legs with a washcloth or a loofah after hair removal, since this can increase the risk of infection or redness.
Apply a good moisturizer once you’re done and make sure it includes sunscreen with SPF of at least 15, that blocks both UVA and UVB rays. Complete your look for hot smooth legs with a light self-tanner, preferably a spray that’s applied with swipes in all directions.
If you have blemishes, stretch marks or spider veins, use a heavy duty concealer on your legs, preferably with sunscreen.
What to Avoid for Smooth Legs
Some shaving products contain irritants you should avoid if you want to stay clear of red bumps and ingrown hairs. Alcohol, peppermint and menthol might be good for a man’s face, but they’re bad for your legs, so stay away from these ingredients. The same goes for products with AHAs, since the glycolic acid usually irritates freshly shaven skin.
If you have sensitive skin, choose fragrance-free products that usually contain less irritating agents. There are few products designed specifically for preventing red bumps, but you should purchase one if red bumps are a major problem. Paula’s Choice Redness Relief Treatment can be great for your skin, along with over-the-counter cortisone creams.
