Let’s kick off this post by debunking one of THE biggest beauty myths of all times: shaving makes your hair grow back thicker, darker and faster! Simply NOT true! As hair starts growing back due to hormones and genetics, it may give that impression since new ingrown hairs have not yet been exposed to light, but the reality is your hair is just the same as it was before shaving. So now that we sorted that one out, let’s tackle a fact! Shaving is annoying! Sounds harsh I know, but frankly, is shaving an activity you look forward to? I think not. So how do we get back to living life and not worry about having to shave yet again? As a seasoned shaver (TMI, I am quite a hairy), this is the 5-step protocol that has fool-proofed my routine and has helped me avoid the hassle of shaving for a prolonged period of time.
Step 1: Exfoliate
You want to start with a clean surface to prevent an uneven shave, nicks, razor burns and irritation. Always exfoliate your skin pre-shaving to help lift away dead skin cells that clog the pores and to create a smooth, soft canvas.
Here you have a few options. You can exfoliate using a body scrub (see a super simple sugar scrub DIY recipe, which by the way smells amazing, here) or you can dry brush. I talked about how to properly exfoliate using a scrub in a previous post here and don’t even get me started on dry brushing! I can talk about it for hours!! Although I have to admit I don’t dry brush as often as I should, I simply can’t recommend it enough! It is one of THE best wellness treatments you can do for skin and body! Dry brushing might sound a little intimidating, but in fact it’s so easy, go have a read here.
Step 2: Shave at the End of the Shower and Use Shaving Cream
Don’t ever shave on dry skin! Leave the shaving routine for the end of your shower to ensure the skin is softened. Avoid using a loofah or washcloth post-shave as the skin is more prone to irritation. Instead, wash your body prior to shaving. If you’re not showering, I would advise to moisten the skin with lukewarm water for a few minutes before shaving. Make sure to always use a shaving cream or gel whether you’re shaving in the shower or by the sink. These products are designed to moisturize the skin and help the razor blade glide easily, decreasing the chance of nicks, cuts and razor burns. My skin is sensitive and prone to irritation, so using a moisturizing shaving cream such as the Gillette Venus with Olay has been a game changer. I have used soap and hair conditioner in the past, but honestly, although better than not using anything at all, these products are not designed for shaving and rarely provide adequate lubrication. The Gillette Venus with Olay hydrates and protects the skin ensuring shaving goes on without a hitch, all the while preventing irritation and razor burns.
Step 3: Use the Right Razor
As with everything, the right tools make a world of difference and shaving is no exception. Using a clean razor with multiple blades and flexible head that adjusts to every curve of the body is key. Going over the same area a bunch of times can dry out and irritate the skin, so using a razor with multiple blades ensures a precise and closer shave. Over the years I have tried several different brands, but I always go back to the Gillette Venus razors. They have a vast array of options from their Comfort Glide which comes with moisture bars that release body butters while shaving, to a Bikini Trimmer perfect for those weekend getaways at the beach and a portable mini razor called The Snap which fits in even the tiniest of travel bags!
My personal favorite is the Gillette Venus Swirl, a razor with 5 blades and a flexible head. Unlike a traditional razor, the Gillette Venus Swirl moves in multiple directions to reach spots that could otherwise be missed. The design of this razor also features a micro-fine comb that guides the hair to the blades ensuring a flawless shave.
Replace your razor every 5-10 uses to ensure an efficient shave and prevent nicks and cuts, as well as decrease the likelihood of an infection from using rusty blades. After you shave, rinse your razor well with water and store in a dry place to prevent bacteria and mold from growing on the blades. This might be intuitive, but don’t share your razor with your husband or best friend. Everyone should have their own!
Step 4: Moisturize
This is the one step I’m always tempted to skip due to time constraints. But then I always remind myself that it’s in fact a necessary step. Damp skin is more prone to absorbing moisturizing products and staying hydrated. So after shaving, I towel-dry and reach for a hydrating lotion or body oil. I love the Maya Chia body range, which I have used consistently for over a year now. Their products are 100% natural, free of parabens, phthalates and artificial colors and fragrances. They are cruelty-free and a true superfood for the skin.
The Maya Chia Revitalizer is a high-performance body oil that provides 24-hour moisture for the skin. It’s formulated with a blend of oils from chia seeds, marula, baobab, pomegranate, cranberry, pumpkin and grape seeds. It’s non-greasy, absorbs quickly and nourishes the skin, while firming, revitalizing and toning.
Step 5: Go for the Glow
So when you first start to notice those ingrown hairs, don’t panic. You can still avoid the hassle of shaving just a tad longer by using a luminizing body oil such as the Maya Chia Illuminating Body Oil. This Chia Seed infused body oil is packed with natural and organic ingredients (Gotu Kola, Arnica Oil, Camellia Seed Oil, just to name a few) and offers a universally flattering, pearlized glow. The ultra-fine, delicate shimmers catch the light and distract from the stubble while giving your skin a youthful, luminous appearance. You can use this just on your legs or all over the body.
So now that shaving is out of the way, we can all go back to living life. What are some of your plans for the rest of the summer? Please do share in the comments down below, I’d love to know.
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I agree with your tips 100%, but sometimes I’m guilty of not following them. However, I stand by Gillette razor til the end of time … nothing else compares to them. My current ones are the Comfort Glides with White Tea.
Happy Monday my friend xox
Thank you for stopping by, Anxhela. Same here, I typically start with a clear plan in my head but not always follow thru. For me, exfoliating pre-shaving and moisturizing after shaving are the steps I sometimes skip. Have you tried the Venus Swirl yet? I strongly recommend when your done with the Comfort Glide. ~ Cat L.
Great read Cat! I love the venus bikini..but ive tried the swirl yet…i like the idea of the mini comb ?
Thank you, Nadia! So glad you enjoyed the post and found it helpful. The Swirl is definitely a game changer and has tremendously improved my shaving routine. Hope you get a chance to try it! ~ Cat L.
I have to admit I don’t look forward to shaving my legs but love the results. And your post gave me so many tips which I will definitely be putting into practice so I can achieve a smooth and longer lasting shave.
Gorgeous pictures. Loved them
Thank you, Esnath! Same here, don’t like the process too much but love the pain-free results! So glad you enjoyed the post and found it helpful.~ Cat L.
Hello and thanks for the shaving tips. I admit, I always shave on dry skin, so I will make sure to try the method you recommend next time I shave. I love your kimono! Stay gorgeous.
Thank you for stopping by, Daphne! I’ve seen your videos and your skin looks gorgeous! For me, shaving on dry skin doesn’t work. My skin is super sensitive, dry and prone to irritation. Using a moisturizing cream and a body oil afterwards do the trick! Hope you enjoyed the post! ~ Cat L.
Such great tips. I prefer to shave in the shower and Gillette Venus is also my go to razor! I just love how smooth my skin feels post-shave. You look so elegant in that beautiful robe Cat! I love it!
xx
Dom
http://www.calibeaute.com
Thank you so much, Dom! I greatly appreciate your feedback! So glad you enjoyed the post! ~ Cat L.
Great topic, my dear, thanks a lot for the tips and products recommendation! I need to try Venus Swirl and follow your advice on the exfoliation next time. 🙂 Gorgeous photos, as always! Wish you a wonderful day, my dear! 🙂
Thank you so much for reading and taking the time to comment! I am guilty of not always exfoliating my body before shaving and in general, but I do notice a difference when I take the time to do it. I’m trying to get into the habit of dry brushing more often as it’s something I strongly believe in. So glad you enjoyed the post and found it helpful! ~ Cat L.
I love how you make a routine as blah as shaving look so luxurious Cat! I’m definitely guilty of not replacing my razor blades (or really razor) frequently enough, which reminds me, I probably should add a new razor to my shopping list, haha. Will have to try out the Venus Swirl, it sounds great!
Jenny | Geeky Posh
Oh Jenny you made my day! Thank you for such a wonderful compliment! I am definitely guilty of not doing what I preach, but am trying to get better and keep consistent with routines that add value. Hope you get a chance to try the Venus Swirl, it’s quite the game changer! ~ Cat L.
Great tips ! I always exfoliate first and prefer shaving in the shower 🙂 Venus Swirl is my fave at that moment ? Hugs Cat !
Kédidja ~ beautymoodboard.com
Thank you for stopping by! So glad you’re enjoying the Venus Swirl as much as I have! It’s made shaving so much easier! ~ Cat L.
I love my Gillette Venus razors too! there is no other that’s better . My fav right now is the swirl, i love it . I really appreciate your tips , it now makes sense to wait till the end of your shower or bath to shave . As always beautiful pics ! I just got back to the U.S. from Benin , Cotonou which is in west africa, it was amazing , now looking forward to enjoying The rest of my summer with family and friends and of course catching up on what I’ve missed from your blog, Looking forward to the read ?
Hi Nina! Thank you for stopping by and taking the time to leave such a thoughtful comment. So glad you’ve been enjoying Gillette Venus products as much as I have! They make the whole shaving ritual so much easier!
Your trip to Benin sounds wonderful. Africa is a place I’ve had on my travel list for years and hope to be able to visit one day soon. Enjoy the rest of your summer, hope you have a memorable time with friends and family! ~ Cat L.
Thank you Cat! Yes they do ! The trip was definitely one I was looking forward to. Really ? Well You are always welcome to come to Benin with the family. I would be more than happy to have you ?
These are really great tips, although, I’m guilty of not following them all.
xx Alyssa // StyleVanity.com
Yes, same here! I can totally relate! It’s not always easy to stay consistent with a wholesome routine, I definitely need to get better! ~ Cat L.
yes!! Gillette Venus is my weapon of choice too!! I adidn’t know there’s a mini one…. sooo cute!!
I like that “weapon of choice” word selection, Linda! 🙂 🙂
You definitely need the mini in your life, especially with all the traveling that you’ve been doing! It’s just as mighty as the regular Gillette Venus razors, but more compact and travel friendly! ~ Cat L.
This sounds amazing! I really neeed to try this.
X Merel
http://www.andathousandwords.com
Thank you for stopping by! So glad you enjoyed the post and found it helpful! ~ Cat L.