I read this article in Real Beauty on How to Shave Your Legs Less - Tips for Shaving Your Legs in Summer
Some of it was unexpected and interesting, although I can’t attest to the effectiveness.
Enjoy!
Exfoliate, Exfoliate, Exfoliate
Get silkier skin and a closer shave. "Exfoliating brings hair completely out of the follicle, helping strands to get on the same growth cycle," explains Hibba Kapil, owner of Manhattan green spa, Hibba NYC. Stems will stay smoother longer, since your razor reaches the tiny hairs that are normally trapped under dead skin. Look for products with salicylic acid or fruit enzymes for optimal results.
Begone, Oil
The reasons keep stacking up to spend time on a thorough, pre-shave scrub. Exfoliating removes any oils that are sitting on the skin's surface, letting your razor get as close as possible.
Use a Brush
Fascinated by the rough-looking brushes that dot barbershop counters? The took, often called a badger brush, is primarily used on your guy's face...which doesn't mean you can't give it a spin, too! "You really get the closest shave with gel and a brush," says Dr. Debra Jaliman, cosmetic dermatologist and author of Skin Rules. Use it to rub shaving cream in
Pick the Best Razor
According to Kapil, all razors are definitely not created equal. Women who suffer from dry skin should pick up options that are made with moisturizing strips; ladies who suffer from sensitivity issues will do best with a pick crafted specially for their concern. "For the sleekest results, always use a razor with multiple blades," she says.
Go Against the Grain
Along with making sure hair is well hydrated before beginning, Dr. Jaliman recommends shaving against the growth of your strands and using a fresh razor every time. We know that it might sound indulgent, but if it means less shaving, heck, we'll try it. If constantly tending to your stubble stresses you out, the doc suggests looking into at-home hair removal systems, like no!no! Hair.
Go Old-School
The method we're most intrigued by comes courtesy of Kapil's grandmother. "For excess facial hair, apply a mixture of besan and turmeric with a little water and rub it off once it dries," she explains. "To reduce the amount of fuzz on your legs, try a combination of lemon, sugar, and honey. Microwave the formula on high for two or three minutes, and spread a thin layer over your legs."
Try Soy
Fight regrowth while hydrating your stems by shopping for a lotion that includes soy. Some studies have shown that the ingredient is effective at stunting growth and shrinking the hair shaft's diameter, making this ingredient worth giving it a try.
Diet Switches
Warding off stubble might be as simple as swapping up what you eat! Kapil suggests cutting back on refined carbs and increasing your intake of vitamin B6. Get it by adding more meat and fish to your diet; non-carnivore gals can try bananas, cabbage, broccoli, watermelon, and carrots.
Try Alternatives
If constant shaving is getting old but waxing or laser sounds too painful, investigate methods such as sugaring. "Sugar is known as a natural laser, and alternating a treatment with your regular shave will lessen hair growth dramatically," says Kapil. "The gel we use is made of sugar, lemon, and water, and only sticks to the hair, not the skin." The soothing concoction won't aggravate pores as it slows the sprouting of strands.
