Hair Removal 101: The Art of Shaving

Source: Creatas Images/Jupiter

Which methods should you try? What works best? There are loads of options and opinions floating around the web, so I thought it best to test them myself to see which hair removal products, methods, and treatments really reign supreme. First up? The art of shaving.

Top tips for a clean, close shave:

- Pre-treat your skin a few minutes before you shave if you’re prone to irritation, nicks/cuts, or ingrown hairs. I adore The Art of Shaving’s Pre-Shave Oil, but you could just as easily use your favorite body oil/cream (or even hair conditioner) to soften the hair and protect your skin.

- Always opt for a 'wet shave', as the moisture and heat will allow for a smoother shave.

- Experiment with shaving creams, balms, and gels to find what works best for you. Whether it’s a splurge/steal or formulated for men, the right product can make all the difference. In a hurry (or hotel)? Try using your hair conditioner- it’s a fast, effective alternative.

- Change your razor blade frequently. If you prefer disposable razors, try to limit your use to no more than two to three shaves per razor, and if you use replaceable blades, it’s best to toss them after four to five uses.

- Splurge on a razor with a pivoting head (to avoid nicks).

- As for the blade, choose one that has multiple blades (for the closest possible shave opt for 3 or 4), and a moisture-strip for added protection.

- Moisturize the area as soon as you’ve stepped out of the shower/bath (for maximum absorption). If you find body creams or oils too heavy, try a lightweight gel formulation like Shave Savour from Whish.

- Lightly exfoliate every day/other day to ensure you avoid any ingrown hairs. I love the Ingrown Hair Eliminating Peel Pads from Bliss, but you can also use your favorite body scrub (or a body wash with salicylic acid/body lotion with glycolic acid) to keep the area clear.

Have any shaving tips/techniques of your own? Do share!