Shaving

Shaving is fine, but we all know the problems associated with it. Shaving is the method most of us go back to for our legs and bikini line, but the hair grows back way too fast and the stubble or redness it can cause on the thigh and crotch is obnoxious. There are ways around the redness, such as shaving with a good topical lotion like a hair conditioner or body wash and applying a nonfragranced moisturizer afterward. Also, one of the best op­tions for preventing red bumps is applying aspirin topically to the skin. Aspirin has potent anti-inflammatory properties even when applied to the surface of skin. Simply dissolve one or two aspirins in about a quarter cup of water and then use a cotton ball to apply the solution to the area you just shaved! This works on any part of the body you shave. You will be impressed by the results.

On the legs, using a mild scrub of cornmeal mixed with Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser can help keep flaky skin at a minimum, which means you can get a closer shave. Skin should never be shaved while dry; wet hair is soft, pliable, and easier to cut. Contrary to what many believe, shaving does not change the texture, color, or rate of hair growth. Hair density is genetically and hormonally determined; it has nothing to do with what you do topically to the skin (unless you traumatically damage the hair follicle via injury or burns).

Updated: September 28, 2015 — 1:53 pm