Here we are, readers, on the second leg of our shaving adventure. (If you missed Part 1, ask a bud for a copy of last week’s KidNews.) Last week, we were general; this week we get down to details.
We checked with the experts for tips on how to execute the perfect wet shave (this is done with a razor and shaving cream, gel or lathered soap). You can clip the appropriate guide and keep it handy for when and where you need it. Do NOT use these tips with an electric razor; water and electrical appliances don’t mix. If you prefer a dry shave, check the instructions that come with your electric razor for the best shaving techniques. And no matter what, get the folks’ OK before you cut!
girls
Shower or bathe before you shave. A two- to three-minute application of warm water makes it easier to shave. Also, try not shave first thing in the morning, because body fluids puff up the skin during sleep. About 20 minutes of normal activity allows the skin to resume its normal tautness, putting the hair shaft in a better position to be shaved.
Use a cream or gel to keep hair moist and help the razor glide gently over your skin. Some people use soap, but shaving gels and creams won’t dry skin and clog your razor the way soap can.
To avoid nicks and cuts, press lightly and shave in the direction that feels most comfortable. Reapply shaving gel as needed.
Leave hard-to-shave areas such as the backs of knees and ankles for last. The longer you leave gel on, the easier these areas will be to shave.
Pat legs dry and apply a moisturizing cream or lotion.
Underarm hair grows in all directions. For a close shave, the area may have to be shaved side to side as well as up and down.
Never apply deodorants or anti-perspirants immediately after shaving underarms; they tend to irritate skin. Instead, apply talcum powder.
The bikini area often is a difficult area to shave closely. Shave in the direction of hair growth to avoid irritation and keep strokes to a minimum.
guys
Wash your face and neck with warm water and mild soap. Two minutes of soaking will achieve optimal beard softening for a comfortable shave.
Lather face and neck with shaving cream or gel. This keeps beard hairs soft and reduces friction between the blade and skin.
Using light, gentle strokes, shave in the direction of the whisker growth. Do not shave in both directions. Rinse the razor frequently to prevent buildup. Always use a fresh blade.
Shave cheeks, sides of face and neck first. The toughest whiskers grow on the chin and around the lips. Shave these areas last.
After shaving, rinse your face and neck with cool water and pat dry. Rinse the blade well, shake off water and store. Don’t wipe the blade with a towel or tissue; it’ll damage the edge.
Cut yourself shaving?
Hope you have a styptic pencil on hand. It’s made of aluminum sulfate, and you just moisten the tip with water, dab it on your cut (it stings a bit), then rinse and dry the pencil. The bleeding will stop pronto! The pencils are a few bucks at discount stores.
