Shaving: it's something most women loathe. But unless we want to be mistaken for sasquatch, it's a necessary evil. Fortunately, there are things we can do to make our efforts worthwhile and get a silky-smooth shave every time.
Our lives would be much easier if we could all quit shaving and walk around with masses of free-flowing hair hanging from our legs, bikini areas and armpits. Unfortunately, until someone notifies the fashionistas of the world that this hairy look is “trés chic,” we have to consider removing it a necessity. Hair removal is big business; it seems like every day a new product is on the market proclaiming how easy, painless, and long-lasting it is. And every time, we fall into the trap, slathering ourselves with noxious creams and scalding waxes, zapping and pulling and tweezing and yanking – and inevitably, cursing and grumbling.
For most of us, when all else has failed, our old standby is to remove our hair the way our mothers taught us: with a razor. But even shaving isn’t without its disadvantages. We’ve all dealt with our share of itches, rashes, bumps and nicks, not to mention the stubble that seems to appear almost immediately (why can’t the hair on our heads grow that quickly?). The bottom line is that shaving is always going to be a hassle, and something we have to do more frequently than we’d like to.
However, there are things we can do to minimize the unpleasant side effects that are sometimes brought about by the blade, leaving us free to enjoy, at least for a little while, a smooth, close shave.
Don’t skimp on your razor.
I know it’s tempting to pick up a super-cheap pack of disposables on your way through the drugstore, but they aren’t always the best for getting the closest shave. You don’t have to dish out wads of cash on an expensive electric razor; choose a razor with refillable blades. They are definitely more expensive than disposables – some blade refill packs can cost you fourteen dollars or more – but if it’s a silky shave you crave, it will be worth it in the long run.
There are tons of them available, touting special features such as conditioning aloe strips or triple-blades. Choose one made especially for women – they’re designed to hug the curves of our legs and pits, plus they’re much cuter than men’s razors, if that’s important to you. A design with a flexible, pivoting head works best. Stock up on blades, too; you’ll want to have plenty on hand.
Blades should ideally be changed every fourth shave or so. Too much longer than that and they will become dull and built up with bump-aggravating bacteria from previous shaves. Between shaves, be sure to rinse your blade thoroughly and allow it to air dry.