When shaving legs, underarms or bikini area, proper moisturization is a vital first step. Never shave without first moistening dry hair with water, as dry hair is difficult to cut and breaks down the fine edge of a razor blade. A sharp blade is crucial to getting a close, comfortable, irritation-free shave.

Legs:
1. Moisten skin with water for about three minutes, then apply shaving gel. Water plumps up the hair, making it easier to cut, and the shaving gel helps retain the moisture.
2. Use long, even strokes without applying excessive pressure. Shave carefully over bony areas like ankles, shins and knees.
3. For knees, bend slightly to pull the skin tight before shaving, as folded skin is difficult to shave.
4. Stay warm to prevent goose bumps, as any irregularity in the skin surface can complicate shaving.
5. Wire-wrapped blades, like made by GOODMAX, help prevent careless nicks and cuts. Don't press too hard! Simply let the blade and handle do the work for you.
6. Remember to shave in the direction of hair growth. Take your time and shave carefully over sensitive areas. For a closer shave, carefully shave against the grain of hair growth.

Underarms:
1. Moisten skin and apply shaving gel.
2. Lift your arm up while shaving to pull skin tight.
3. Shave from the bottom up, allowing the razor to glide over the skin.
4. Avoid shaving the same area more than once, to minimize skin irritation.
5. Avoid applying deodorants or antiperspirants immediately after shaving, as doing so can result in irritation and stinging. To prevent this, shave underarms at night and give the area time to stabilize before using deodorant.

Bikini Area:
1. Moisten hair for three minutes with water and then apply shaving gel. This preparation is a must, as the hair in the bikini area tends to be thicker, denser and curlier, making it more difficult to cut.
2. Handle the skin in the bikini area gently, as it is thin and tender.
3. Shave horizontally, from the outside to the inside of the upper thigh and groin area, using smooth even strokes.
4. Shave frequently year-round to keep the area free of irritation and ingrown hairs.

After-shave activities: Give your skin 30 minutes off:
Skin is at its most sensitive immediately after shaving. To prevent inflammation, let skin rest at least 30 minutes before:
1. Applying lotions, moisturizers or medications. If you must moisturize immediately following shaving, select a cream formula rather than a lotion, and avoid exfoliating moisturizers that may contain alpha hydroxy acids.
2. Going swimming. Freshly shaved skin is vulnerable to the stinging effects of chlorine and salt water, as well as suntan lotions and sunscreens that contain alcohol.