We’re heading into summer and our hem lengths are slowly starting to taper off. If you’re like me and haven’t been paying close attention to your legs over the past few months, I’m starting to think about all the touch-ups and corrections needed (and for me personally, feeling comfortable) the first day of wearing a mini skirt.
When it comes to personal care (including embracing natural!), there’s no right or wrong way to do things. But we spoke to our best friends at LUI – grooming and shaving experts – about the dos and don’ts when it comes to buying a razor.
LUI founder Rebecca Harding shares her 10 best tips for a perfect shave:
Invest in a quality razor you’ll love using.
“A great shave starts with a great tool. We spent three and a half years developing the LUI razor to improve your shave. The ergonomic design fits comfortably in your hand, and the soft-touch handle and perfectly weighted grip ensure control and precision. Five diamond-sharp blades, encapsulated in a moisturizing Vitamin E pad, ensure an extremely close shave and moisturize the skin. Inspired by the fluidity of our bodies, the razor is inspired by how women shave.”
Shave with the direction of hair growth, then shave against the direction of hair growth.
“Many of us think that shaving against the grain gives a closer shave, but this can cause regrowing hairs to curl back into the follicle, leading to ingrown hairs and inflammation. Instead, shave in the direction of hair growth first, “trimming” the hair as close to the skin as possible. This also gives the skin ample time to moisturize and soften. Once this is done, shave against the grain last.”
Perfect your technique.
“The key is to take your time. Shave with long, gentle strokes, applying only a little pressure. If you find yourself needing to apply pressure, it might be time to replace your razor heads. This conveniently leads us to the next point…”
Replace your razor heads frequently.
“A dull blade is a recipe for disaster. If your blade isn’t sharp enough, it will drag across the skin and you’ll have to go over the same spot over and over again. This can lead to irritation, razor burn, cuts and ingrown hairs. Even worse, overused razor blades can become contaminated with dead skin cells and bacteria, which can cause infection or breakouts. We recommend replacing your replacement blades after 6-8 shaves.”
Exfoliate regularly.
“Ingrown hairs occur when a hair becomes trapped beneath the surface of the skin. There is no follicle for the hair to grow from, so it curls back into the skin. Exfoliating regularly (1-3 times a week) pushes ingrown hairs out of the follicles and gently removes dead skin cells, excess sebum, dirt and grime that may be clogging the hair. Just make sure to moisturize your skin regularly; a really nourishing body cream or oil that keeps the skin barrier renewed, soothing without stripping.”
Use a nourishing shaving cream.
“Dry shaving is micro-traumatic to the skin, compromising the skin barrier and can lead to the fungal condition folliculitis, ingrown hairs, rashes, irritation and dryness. It’s important to use a formula designed for shaving (never use body wash or conditioner!). We developed our shaving cream not only to protect the skin while shaving, but also to give something back to the skin. Luxurious, pH-balanced, antioxidant formula. It contains Shea Butter to soften the follicles and skin, while Aloe Vera and Avocado Oil soothe and relax.”
Shave with warm water.
“Hot water can be extremely drying to the skin and strip it of its natural oils and moisture. So turn off the tap—just a little. Good news for showering: Warm water softens your hair, making shaving easier. And while you’re in the shower? The steam gently opens your pores.”
Clean your razor blades.
“Razor blades can become clogged with hair, shaving cream, and dead skin cells. Rinse your razor blades frequently every few times you shave for a smooth, easy shave.”
Let your razor air dry.
“Leaving your razor in the sink of a wet shower or tub is just as unappealing as it sounds. It can cause blade rust and bacterial growth. To ensure your razor lasts a long time, rinse your blades thoroughly after shaving and store them out of the shower. And don’t try to dry your razor with a towel or paper towel (which can damage the blade).”
Make shaving a ritual.
“At LUI, we believe shaving should be a more pleasant experience. Previously, hair removal was considered a chore, but we want to change that: we believe shaving should have a place in your self-care routine. That’s why we develop conscious products that improve your daily/weekly/monthly grooming routine, taking your body and the environment into consideration. (And they look great, too.)”