How to shave for the first time

Deciding to shave for the first time is a big step for any teen and most will find it a tricky thing to navigate their first few attempts. If first-time shavers don’t have anyone to ask about shaving, they may not be armed with the right knowledge, or the right tools, to shave properly.

For that reason, Schick has put together a step-by-step guide with the help of hair and beauty expert, Geoff Mahanay.

These helpful hints will reinforce good shaving habits for teens and are a reminder of the correct techniques to employ to get that perfect shave.

Guide for first time shavers:

• Splash warm water on the skin, or soak for a few minutes, before shaving to soften the skin.
• Apply shaving cream or gel and allow to soften the skin for a few minutes before you start to shave.
• Some people find it easiest when they first start shaving to sit on the edge of the bathtub with their legs inside the tub.
• Press lightly in an upward motion towards your knee (shave in the direction against hair growth). Use short smooth strokes with steady, even pressure.
• Don’t rush or press down too hard. It’s important to shave slowly and gently. Let the razor blade do the work.
• Make sure you use a new and sharp razor. A dull blade can irritate the skin, and causes razor rash, and you can cut skin more easily with a dull blade. Also, use your own razor, don’t share a razor with others.
• Use extra caution around the knee, shin and ankle. These areas are trickier to navigate and easier to nick. Again, go slow.
• Most girls prefer to shave their legs and bikini area upward because this provides a closer shave, but underarm hair grows in lots of directions. To get a close shave, you may need to shave side to side, up and down. Just be careful.
• After shaving underarm hair, don’t apply antiperspirant for several hours until natural barrier oils return to protect the skin.
• Remember to rinse the razor under water after each stroke to get rid of the hair stuck in the razor.
• Thoroughly wash the skin with water after shaving, and moisturize after to keep the skin soft and hydrated. This minimises the chance of ingrown hairs.

Truths & Myths for First Time Shavers:

• A popular myth is that shaving makes the hairs grow back thicker, which isn’t accurate at all. Shaving only removes hair at the surface of the skin. The sharp edge caused by shaving the hair creates the rough “stubble” you can feel on your legs or armpits.
• As girls reach their teen years, hormone changes may cause hair to darken on the legs and under arms, prompting a desire to start shaving. Many girls become self-conscious about the change in their appearance and the arrival of more body hair.
• According to market research, the average age girls start to shave at 13

For Schick stockist locations, call 1800 810 310.

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Hi, I’m Anna the Editor of Beauty and Lace.