6 Ways To Shave Less Often

When it comes to shaving, most of us dread having to spend extra time in the shower. If you do choose to shave (and, by the way, don't let anyone tell you you have to in the first place), you're probably looking for ways to prolong time between shaves so you have to do this chore less often. Quickly hopping in and out of the shower might do the trick at the moment, but it won't give you long-lasting hairless skin, and you may find yourself whipping out the razor sooner than you would have hoped.

According to a survey by the American Laser Centers, women shave their legs on average 12 times a month, spending 10.9 minutes per shaving session. On top of that, 11 percent of women shave every day. For those of us who live a busy life, those extra minutes can add up, not to mention the cost of constantly replacing razors and beauty products. According to the same survey, the average women will spend $10,000 on shaving-related products over her lifetime. Shaving less frequently can not only help you save time, but also money.

If you are looking for ways to shave less often, consider these six tips from some well-versed beauty and skin experts.

1. Exfoliate Before Shaving

"The first and most important thing is making sure that you're fully and completely exfoliated before you shave," says celebrity makeup artist Jenny Patinkin over email. "If you have any dry skin or patches, it prevents the blade of your razor from getting an even, smooth glide along the surface of your skin."

Try: Tree Hut Shea Sugar Scrub, $6, Amazon

2. Use A Sharp Blade

"Getting a nice, smooth, close shave with a good razor may help give you a few extra days before you’ll feel the need to shave again," says dermatologist Dr. Ava Shamban over email. Toss your disposable razors when they get dull, and be sure to keep them dry after each use to prolong their lifespan.

Try: Gillette Mach3 Sensitive Disposable Razors, $14, Amazon

3. Keep Your Skin Hydrated

Proper post-shaving skin care routines can help your skin feel smoother for longer. "When you layer a combination of lotion and oil on your legs, you get both deep skin hydration as well as a little build up on the surface which helps to keep a smooth feeling longer," says Patinkin.

Try: Alba Botanica Hawaiian Kukui Nut Body Oil, $6, Amazon

4. Use A Multi-Blade Razor

You might want to consider ditching your single blade for a razor with multiple blades, which can give you a closer shave. "Using a multi-blade razor is equivalent to making several passes with a single or double blade one, ensuring that you get the closest shave possible," says Patinkin. "It's like a 1-step shaving back-up plan."

Try: Bic Soleil 4-Blade Disposable Razor, $8, Amazon

5. Go Against The Grain

Although shaving with the grain may be a better choice for sensitive skin, going against the grain (carefully) can give you a closer shave that will last longer. "Be careful if you have sensitive skin, because shaving against the grain may cause more skin irritation and may be more associated with the development of ingrown hairs," says dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, MD over email.

6. Use Shimmery Lotion

RCK Shimmery Lotion, $50, Amazon

"Using a reflective or slightly shimmery lotion bounces light away from the skin and distracts from any little regrowth that might otherwise be visible," says Patinkin. "RCK is a favorite of mine."

Prepping your skin and taking the right steps will help to ensure that your skin stays smoother for longer, but if you're really looking to stay away from the razor, consider other options such as waxing, sugaring, or laser treatment.

Images: Pixabay (6); Bustle