If you’ve been constantly struggling with nicks and ingrown hair after every time you shave, then you probably ain’t doing it right, girl! Just like for every nighttime skin upkeep, there’s a routine, similarily there’s a method to the madness when it comes to shaving your legs. These 5 shaving (and also time-saving) habits will allow your skin to feel smoother, softer and as if a razor never even touched them even once! Scroll to check them out…

Tip 1. Exfoliate! Exfoliate! Exfoliate!

We all struggle with those stubborn ingrown hairs, amirite ladies? But in theory, ingrown hair is basically hair that’s trapped under the skin and form bends and different shapes in order to come out to the surface. Giving yourself a “spa” of sorts will definitely help this problem, and will ensure a better shave.

Here’s what you do, 2-3 days before your shaving day, use a mild exfoliating scrub—I love the L’Occitane‘s Almond Shower Scrub one. Exfoliating is great for removing all the dead skin cells and product (your moisturiser) build-up. It also is a great way to brighten your skin. Sometimes, I even like to gently use a dry brush over the skin.

Tip 2. Keep The Shaving For The Finale

A wise lady has once read that hot water opens up the pore of your skin ever so slightly. Whereas cold water closes up the pores… That lady was me! Keeping the shaving part to the end of your shower not only ensures a smoother shave, but your hair tends to be softer and less coarse since it’s been subject to heat for a couple of minutes already!

Tip 3. Shave In The Direction Of Your Hair

There are two ways one can shave—one, is against the grain (shaving upwards towards your body) and one is with the grain (downwards, in tandem with your natural growth). IMHO, the only way people with sensitive skin can achieve a more comfortable and clean shave is by shaving with the grain. Shaving against it does help to get a much closer shave, but it can also irritate sensitive skin and cause razor bumps.

Tip 4: Foaming Gel Will Be Your Friend

Foaming gels can make your skin so much softer. The foam creates a smooth barrier between the blade and your skin. It helps prevents snagging or any tugging of the skin.

Tip 5: Post Care Is Equally As Important

Taking care of your skin post-shaving is a must. Skip the high fragrance moisturisers and lotions, and instead choose hydrating creamy ones with ingredients like aloe vera and coconut oil. A great way to ensure smooth and soft skin post-shaving is to apply your moisturiser within five minutes to seal in the moisture.

Andddd, that’s how you can get smooth skin!

Follow @missmalinibeauty on Instagram for more updates.