I’d never really thought about exfoliating before shaving until I had teenagers.
My girls saw it mentioned on social media and they claim it makes it easier to get really smooth legs.
Do you use an exfoliator?
It’s been a running conversation about how many jars of exfoliator they go thru and if it is even really necessary.
I mean, can’t they just use a washcloth or make their own instead of spending money on it?
So the short answer to if you should exfoliate before or after shaving is you should exfoliate BEFORE.
Benefits Of Exfoliating Before Shaving
In this post, we’ll take a closer look at the benefits of exfoliating before shaving (my girls now feel justified) and explore some of the best exfoliation methods for achieving the perfect shave.
Plus, you’ll find 2 DIY exfoliator recipes that my daughters use when they run out of their store-bought exfoliator.
Note: In this post, I refer to exfoliating before shaving your legs but most of this information could pertain to shaving your face, too. Just be extra careful.
10 Benefits Of Exfoliating Before Shaving
Let’s take a look at the benefits of exfoliating before shaving your legs.
1. Smooth and close shave
Exfoliating before shaving can help to remove dead skin cells, dirt, and oil from the surface of the skin, making it easier to get a close, smooth shave.
2. Reduced risk of ingrown hairs
By removing the layer of dead skin cells and other debris, exfoliating can help to reduce the risk of ingrown hairs, which can occur when shaved hair becomes trapped under the surface of the skin.
3. Reduced irritation and razor burn
Exfoliating can help to remove excess oil and dirt from the skin, which can help to prevent irritation and razor burn after shaving.
4. Improved circulation
Exfoliating can help to improve circulation, which can leave your legs looking and feeling smoother, softer and healthier.
5. Brightened skin
Exfoliating can help to remove the buildup of dead skin cells, revealing brighter and healthier skin underneath.
6. Unclogged pores
Exfoliating can help to unclog pores, which can help to reduce the risk of acne and other skin problems.
7. Faster hair regrowth
Exfoliating can help to remove the buildup of dead skin cells and other debris, which can help to speed up hair regrowth.
8. Better product absorption
Exfoliating can help to remove the buildup of dead skin cells, which can make it easier for skincare products to penetrate the skin and be more effective.
9. Reduced appearance of cellulite
Exfoliating can help to improve circulation, which can help to reduce the appearance of cellulite.
10. Increased collagen production
As we age our bodies produce less collagen so anything you can do such as taking a collagen supplement, exfoliating, or collagen facials will help your skin glow and look younger.
Should You Exfoliate Before Waxing Your Legs?
It is generally recommended to exfoliate before waxing your legs, as doing so can help to remove dead skin cells and other debris that can get in the way of a smooth waxing process.
Exfoliating before waxing can also help to reduce the risk of ingrown hairs, which can occur when hair becomes trapped under the surface of the skin after being removed by waxing.
Additionally, exfoliating can help to prepare the skin by making it more even and smooth, which can make the waxing process less painful and more effective.
However, it’s important to note that the exfoliation should be done at least 24 hours before waxing to avoid irritation and redness.
Also, it’s recommended to use a gentle exfoliator and avoid over-exfoliating, as it can cause irritation.
How Does Exfoliating Help Razor Bumps?
Exfoliating can help to reduce the risk of razor bumps, also known as pseudofolliculitis barbae, a condition where the hair curls back into the skin, causing inflammation and irritation.
By removing the layer of dead skin cells and other debris from the surface of the skin, exfoliation can help to reveal fresh, healthy skin underneath.
This can help to reduce the risk of ingrown hairs, which can occur when shaved hair becomes trapped under the surface of the skin.
What Parts Of Your Body Can You Exfoliate?
You can exfoliate many areas on your body but it’s important to note that, some areas of the body such as the face, are more sensitive than others, so it’s important to use gentle exfoliating products and methods, and not to exfoliate too often to avoid irritation.
Also, it’s important to moisturize the skin after exfoliating to keep it hydrated and healthy.
1. Face
Exfoliating the face can help to remove dead skin cells and other debris, which can improve the overall appearance of the skin.
Remember what I said earlier about collagen?
Using a scrub to exfoliate will help reduce fine lines and wrinkles plus help your body produce more collagen.
Brand to check out: Avon Collagen Boosters
2. Body
Exfoliating the body can help to remove dead skin cells and other debris, which can improve the overall appearance of the skin and reduce the risk of ingrown hairs.
3. Lips
Exfoliating the lips can help to remove dead skin cells and other debris, which can improve the overall appearance of the lips.
Our favorite: Avon Vitamin C Lip Scrub
4. Feet
Exfoliating the feet can help to remove dead skin cells and other debris, which can improve the overall appearance of the feet and reduce the risk of calluses and blisters.
5. Hands
Exfoliating the hands can help to remove dead skin cells and other debris, which can improve the overall appearance of the hands.
6. Scalp
Exfoliating the scalp can help to remove dead skin cells and other debris, which can improve the overall health of the hair and scalp.
5 Different Exfoliation Methods
Here are some of the best exfoliation methods.
Now all these methods are recommended to do before shaving but I’m listing them because you may decide it is time to take a closer look at exfoliating other parts of your body.
It’s important to note that, each person’s skin is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. It’s a good idea to test a small area first and see how your skin reacts, then adjust accordingly.
Also, you should avoid exfoliating immediately after shaving, as the skin may be sensitive, and the newly exposed skin may be vulnerable to damage.
1. Use A Scrub
Using a physical exfoliating scrub (like Tree Hut Scrub for your body), which has small granules that slough off dead skin cells. It’s a good idea to use a gentle scrub that is appropriate for your skin type and the part of your body you plan to exfoliate.
2. Dry brushing
Dry brushing is a method of exfoliation that involves using a dry brush with natural bristles to gently massage the skin in circular motions.
It’s a good idea to dry brush before showering or bathing for the best results.
Dry brushing also has many other benefits you can learn about in this video.
3. Chemical exfoliation
Chemical exfoliants use acids to dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells. Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) are common chemical exfoliants.
AHAs are water-soluble and are best for dry and sensitive skin, while BHAs are oil-soluble and are best for oily and acne-prone skin.
Try this one: Anew Isa Knox Clinical Intensive
4. Enzyme exfoliation
Enzyme exfoliants use enzymes to break down dead skin cells.
5. Shaving brush
Using a shaving brush to lather up shaving cream or soap, then applying it to the skin, can help to lift the hair up and away from the skin, making it easier to shave.
Homemade Body Exfoliator Recipe
Here’s a simple recipe for a homemade body exfoliator you can use on your legs, body, hands, and lips.
This homemade body exfoliator is gentle and effective, the sugar granules help to remove dead skin cells and the oil moisturizes and nourishes the skin.
You can try different types of oils and essential oils to find a combination that works best for your skin type.
Also, you can adjust the quantity of sugar and oil depending on your preference.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil or coconut oil
- 5-10 drops of your favorite essential oil (optional)
Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the sugar and oil and mix well.
- Add in your preferred essential oil if desired, and mix again.
- Transfer the mixture to an airtight container and store it in a cool, dry place.
- To use, take a small amount of the mixture and gently massage it onto your wet skin in circular motions.
- Rinse off with warm water and pat dry.
- Use the exfoliator once or twice a week and follow up with a moisturizer.
Homemade Face Exfoliator Recipe
Here’s a simple recipe for a homemade face exfoliator by Simply Earth.
Ingredients:
- 1 Tbsp of oatmeal
- 1 tablespoon of honey
- 1 teaspoon of brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon of almond oil
- 2 drops Frankincense essential oil
Instructions:
- In a small food processor or coffee grinder, grind oatmeal and brown sugar into a fine powder.
- Once they are ground, put them in a small sealable container, add in honey, and stir.
- In a separate small bowl, mix frankincense and almond oil.
- Add oils to oatmeal mixture, and stir.
- To use, wet face with warm water. Apply a small amount of facial scrub in circular motions to your face. Rinse with warm water, and pat dry.
- Store this recipe in a sealable container and use it once weekly. As with any exfoliator on the face, if you use it too often your skin will become irritated; that’s why we recommend using this recipe once weekly.
Our Favorite Exfoliators To Buy
- For body and legs: Tree Hut Scrubs or Avon Vanilla and Coconut Body Scrub
- For face: Avon Collagen Booster Microneedling Polisher
- For lips: Vitamin C Lip Scrub
- For hair: Clarifying Scalp Scrub
Bottom Line
Exfoliating before shaving is an important step in achieving a smooth and irritation-free shave.
My daughters can attest to its importance and think exfoliating is the only way to go.
Let me know what you think in the comments.
