As you might know by now, achieving silky smooth skin after shaving requires more than just a quick glide of the razor. Without a well-rounded shaving routine, we can easily be left with pesky ingrown hairs, a shaving rash, and dry, irritated skin. If this sounds familiar, chances are you’ve probably wondered whether to exfoliate before or after shaving, or how to shave your legs for flawless results. Luckily for you, we’ve tried, tested, and perfected our “everything shower” and have all the tips and tricks you need for a fool-proof shave, every time. From the importance of prepping your skin to post-shave care, we’ll let you in on the best way to shave for that soft, smoother-than-butter finish.
Do you exfoliate before or after shaving?
The short answer: always exfoliate before shaving. Exfoliating beforehand helps remove dead skin cells which can clog your razor and lead to irritation or uneven results. By prepping the skin with a gentle scrub or exfoliating mitt, you’ll also lift hairs away from the skin, reducing the chance of ingrown hairs and ensuring a closer shave. Exfoliating after shaving should be avoided as your skin is more sensitive post-shave, and can become irritated. Instead, focus on hydrating and soothing the skin once you’ve finished shaving.
If you’re looking for instant results and a moisturised finish after exfoliating, we recommend using a sugar scrub. The fine sugar granules gently buff away dead skin cells, leaving your skin smooth and prepped for shaving. However, if you have sensitive skin and want to avoid physical exfoliation, a chemical exfoliant is a great alternative. Powered by ingredients like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), chemical exfoliants dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to shed more easily. This makes them a gentler option, providing smoother, brighter skin over time without the need for scrubbing.
What does shaving cream do?
Shaving cream is a must-have when it comes to achieving a smooth, irritation-free shave. Its main mission is to moisturise the skin, allowing the razor to glide effortlessly over the surface. This reduces friction, which helps prevent cuts, ingrown hairs, and razor burn. Shaving cream also softens the hair, making it easier to cut, and hydrates the skin to keep it from drying out during the shaving process.
While some people skip shaving cream and opt for soap or body wash, using a product designed specifically for shaving is highly recommended if you’re after the silkiest, smoothest finish. Shaving without it can lead to a rougher shave and increased chances of irritation or ingrown hairs.
Should you moisturise after shaving?
Yes, yes, and yes. Moisturising after shaving is one of the most essential steps when it comes to maintaining smooth, hydrated skin. Shaving can strip away natural oils, leaving your skin feeling dry or irritated. Applying a moisturiser or body oil post-shave helps restore lost moisture, soothe any irritation, and lock in softness. It also prevents your skin from becoming flaky or rough, ensuring that your smooth shave lasts longer.
A great body moisturiser will be packed with ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid to replenish your skin’s barrier, leaving the skin soothed and nourished. If you prefer a more lightweight, fast-absorbing feel, try out a body oil. These dry quickly, moisturise the skin, and leave a subtle, healthy glow.
Our Go-To Shaving Routine for Smooth Skin
Now you’ve got all the tips and tricks to achieving your silkiest shave, it’s time to put your knowledge into action. Here’s our step-by-step guide to shaving success.
1. Cleanse the skin: Start by cleansing your skin with warm water and a gentle cleanser. This opens up your pores and softens the hair, reducing the chance of irritation after shaving.
2. Exfoliate: Using your favourite exfoliator (*hint hint* the By BEAUTY BAY Body Exfoliating Buff), gently buff your skin to help remove dead skin cells and prevent clogged pores, razor bumps, and ingrown hairs.
3. Apply shaving cream: Apply a generous layer of shaving cream or gel to damp skin, making sure to cover the entire area you’re shaving. If you love a sweet fix, we urge you to try out the mouthwatering Mallows Beauty Strawberry Shave Butter.
4. Get shaving: Make sure your razor is clean and sharp, as this will reduce the need to go over the same area repeatedly, minimising the risk of irritation. Shave the skin in short, gentle strokes, following the direction of your hair growth. Rinse the blade often in between shaving to avoid product-build up.
5. Moisturise: Complete your shaving routine by gently massaging a soothing moisturiser or body oil into the freshly shaved areas (we recommend using the Sol de Janeiro Bum Bum Body Firmeza Oil if you want to smell irresistible). This step replenishes hydration and soothes any post-shave redness, leaving your skin smooth and supple.
Now that you’re armed with all the best tips for a flawless shave, you’re just a few simple steps away from softer skin. Exfoliate before, lather up with a hydrating shaving cream, and don’t forget to moisturise after for that silky finish. Get ready to glide into your smoothest shave yet.
