Gone are the days when men shaving their legs was something only athletes did. Whether it’s for sports, aesthetics, or personal comfort, men’s leg shaving has become more mainstream than ever. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and then dive into how to achieve the smoothest legs with the right tools and techniques.
A Brief History of Men Shaving Legs
Historically, men’s leg shaving can be traced back to ancient cultures. Greek athletes and Roman soldiers shaved their bodies, including their legs, to showcase their physiques and for practical reasons in battle. Fast forward to the 20th century, cyclists and swimmers began adopting the practice to enhance performance and aid in faster recovery after injuries.
Today, the reasons are more varied. Beyond sports, some men prefer the feel of hairless legs, it’s better for displaying leg tattoos, and some simply like to do it as part of their grooming routine. Whatever your reason, we’re here to ensure you do it like a pro.
How to Shave Your Legs Like a Pro
1. Preparation is Key: Start with a warm shower to soften the hair and open your pores. That will make the shaving process smoother and reduce the risk of irritation. Use an exfoliating scrub to remove dead skin cells, which can help prevent a rash when shaving.
2. Choose the Right Tools: For the best results, use a safety razor for shaving. We recommend a long handled safety razor for extra reach. Three of the best long handled safety razors are the hugely popular Merkur 23C long handled safety razor, the Rockwell 6C adjustable safety razor for adjustable blade exposure or an expertly crafted British safety razor like the Edwin Jagger DE89 long handle safety razor are all excellent choices. These razors provide a close shave while minimising the risk of cuts and irritation. Ensure you’re using high-quality double-edge safety razor blades.
3. Lather Up: Apply a generous amount of shaving cream or gel. A good lather will protect your skin and provide a smooth surface for the razor to glide over. Look for products that are hydrating and suitable for sensitive skin to prevent a rash when shaving.
4. Shave with Care: Using your safety razor for shaving, start at the ankle and move upwards in long, steady strokes. Do not apply too much pressure; let the razor blades do the work. Rinse the razor blades frequently to remove hair and cream build-up.
5. Mind the Knees and Ankles: These areas are tricky due to their contours. Bend your knees and use short, gentle strokes. Take your time to avoid nicks.
6. Post-Shave Care: Rinse your legs with cool water to close the pores. Pat dry with a towel and apply a good lotion after shaving to hydrate and soothe the skin. This step is crucial to prevent irritation and keep your skin smooth and refreshed.
Key Products We Recommend
At Blades and Whiskers, we offer a range of high-quality products to make your leg-shaving experience superb. Consider the following:
- Merkur safety razor: Renowned for their precision and reliability.
- Rockwell safety razor: Notorious for their adjustability and build quality.
- Edwin Jagger safety razor: A British safety razor known for its excellent craftsmanship.
- Double-edge safety razor blades: Our selection of double-edge blade options ensures you get the perfect shave every time.
- High quality shaving cream: Essential for protecting the skin during the shaving process remember to pick one aimed at sensitive skin for extra protection.
- Post-Shave lotion: Vital for maintaining skin hydration.
Embrace the trend and enjoy the benefits of men’s leg shaving. With the right techniques and tools, you can achieve smooth, comfortable, and irritation-free legs. Visit our range of razors, blades, shaving creams, shaving soaps and post-shave products to step up your grooming game today!