Must-Know Tips for the Perfect Shave.

Can we talk? Like, really talk? Ok, let's do this. I hate shaving. It's just not fun. I would rather throw on jeans in the summer than have to shave. Or you know, eat straight salads for two weeks. Shaving just used to feel like too much effort...until I finally learned a thing or two that changed the whole game. 

Over the past year, I've had the chance to talk with several beauty experts and even a laser hair removal specialist to learn about how to make the shaving process smoother (pun intended, of course). 

Here are their expert tips:

1. Invest in the right razor.

If you're going the disposable route, make sure to toss it after three uses. We all have different shaving habits, so the number of uses is much easier to remember than a set time frame like one week. If your blade looks dull or is covered in gunk, it's time to let it go. For those looking to upgrade to something nicer (which you totally should), I always recommend that my girlfriends step away from their typical stores. One of my favorite options is Angel Shave Club, a boutique shave club subscription for women that delivers razors made of super high-quality US steel straight to your door. Angel Shave Club has also partnered with the Malala Fund to ensure that every subscription purchase helps a girl in a low-to-middle class country get 12 years of education. Pretty amazing, right?

2. Prepare for your shave by exfoliating first.

Exfoliating with a soft cloth or scrub lifts the hairs and also loosens up any dirt and grime holding onto your skin. Say goodbye to those dead skin cells (girl, you are way too cute for them anyway). Gross, I know, but exfoliating really does make a huge difference!

3. Use a pre-shave treatment.

I'm going to go ahead and give you permission to spend a little time in the shower doing absolutely nothing because one of the keys to a perfect shave is moisture. Dry hair is harder to cut and also dulls your razors faster. After you've been in the shower for a few minutes, reach for your favorite pre-shave treatment. Shaving cream works, of course, and hair conditioner also does the trick if you're in a bind (or, you know, just a too lazy to run to Target). I also love eos' Shave Cream in Pomegranate Raspberry and Completely Bare's No Bump Shave Gel. 

4. Get shaving using long, even strokes. 

This is the oh-so-exciting moment you've all been waiting for! You're about to be a hairless goddess, you gorgeous person you. Use long, even strokes with light pressure and let the razor and handle do the work for you. This will help prevent nicks, irritation, and razor burn. 

5. Shave your legs in two passes.

First pass: shave in the same direction that your hair grows. Second pass: now that your skin is warm and more lubricated, shave against the way hair grows for even smoother skin.

6. Use a post-shave treatment. 

This is the perfect time to use a light moisturizer to soothe your skin. Slather on coconut oil or aloe vera gel right after you get out of the shower. 

7. Clean your razor afterward.

Make sure to thoroughly clean and dry your razor every time after you use it and then store it in a dry environment. If your razor came with a plastic cover on it, put it back after you finish shaving. This will protect your blade and keep it clean. 

What are your must-know tips for the perfect shave? Tell me on social media at @melaniesutra!