Dermatologist shares four hacks for smooth, bump-free shave

Neera Nathan, a dermatologist and skin cancer surgeon trained at Harvard, has shared four shaving hacks aimed at helping people get smoother legs while avoiding razor burn, bumps and ingrown hair. She posted the tips in an Instagram video on 15 July.

Many people avoid razors altogether over fears of ingrown hair and razor bumps, opting instead for waxing or epilators. According to Hindustan Times, most shaving-related skin issues stem from technique rather than the razor itself.

In the video, Nathan said, "If you want legs that are silky smooth but get ingrown hair like this every time you shave, listen up. I'm a dermatologist. Let me show you four shaving hacks for legs that are smooth like butter."

Ditch women's razors

Nathan described women's razors as a "complete scam," saying many come with multiple blades that can push hair back beneath the skin instead of cutting it cleanly. This, she explained, raises the risk of ingrown hair.

She recommended switching to single-blade razors, typically marketed for men, for better results. Nathan said, "This may blow your mind, but most women's razors are a complete scam. This is the Pink Tax at its finest. A lot of these women's razors have tons of blades that can actually push hair under the skin, causing ingrown hairs. Instead, try a single blade razor generally marketed for men for less irritation and fewer bumps."

Don't skip exfoliation

Regular exfoliation removes dead skin cells and leaves skin feeling smoother, Nathan said. She suggested using a chemical exfoliant or glycolic acid before shaving to soften body hair and prepare skin for a closer shave.

She explained, "Do not sleep on the power of exfoliation, but I don't mean that ratchet dry brush. Try a gentle chemical exfoliating cleanser like this in the shower before shaving to help soften and loosen trapped hair. Or put a spray cap on your glycolic acid. Spritz on your legs a few times per week to help the hairs grow out instead of in."

Never skip shaving cream

Shaving cream softens skin and hair while creating a smooth surface for the razor, Nathan said, resulting in a closer shave. She said, "I am begging you to never skip shaving cream. Creates this slippery surface to minimise friction between the razor and your skin for a closer shave."

Use a urea moisturiser

Urea moisturisers deeply hydrate and soften skin while acting as a mild exfoliant, removing dead skin cells gently, according to Nathan. She said, "I highly recommend a urea moisturiser to soften hair, get rid of dead skin, and hydrate."