When you've nailed down how to shave your legs in the way that's best for you, it can be easy to use shortcuts like reusing an old razor or lathering up with bar soap. These timesavers usually end up causing more problems, such as legs becoming studded with pink dots. Read on to find out how to prevent this and discover some new products to try.

Shave Last
It's tempting to get shaving your legs over with first when you start your shower since you may consider it a top priority. But, your skin hasn't had a chance to soften up yet. It's better to be in the water for 10 to 15 minutes and then shave. That's just enough time for the steam to open your follicles and for your hair to become soft. Soaking for much longer, though, is not advisable since your skin will get puffy, making it difficult to get a close shave.

Shave at Night
This may be an unexpected tip for how to shave your legs, but when you shave before going to bed, your skin has time to heal during the night. Hair retreats back into the follicles, and your skin looks clearer and fuller in the morning. Use a moisturizer like Enessa's Seaweed Nourishing Gel, $48, for even better results in the morning.

Exfoliating Is Important
Exfoliating may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of how to shave legs, but it is another effective way to prepare the skin as it gets rid of dead skin cells. Use a mild scrub, such as 'Bath and Body Works' Orange Ginger Sugar Scrub, $16. Exfoliate twice a week to prevent dead skin cells from trapping hairs.

Invest in a Good Razor
The right tool makes it easier to do any job, and when it comes to figuring out how to shave your legs closely, Gillette's Venus Swirl Razor, $8.99, is up to the task. Disposable razors are fine for a one-time use, but you should also have a quality one in your home for everyday use. Don't forget to replace the blade often.

Use Shaving Cream or Gel
For the razor to glide easily over your skin, lather up your legs with a moisturizing shaving cream, such as Aveeno's Therapeutic Shave Gel, $4.20. If you have dry skin, stay away from formulas that contain fragrance and alcohol. Regular soap doesn't create enough lubrication for the razor to work effectively and causes odd cuts and nicks in areas that are hard to reach.

Carefully Choose the Direction You Shave In
You've most likely been told to shave against the grain, but this can increase the chances of your skin becoming irritated. Your first strokes should always be in the direction your hair grows, and short strokes produce the best results. Once you've done that, you can reapply shaving gel and shave against the grain to get a closer shave if you so desire. One of the most important tips concerning how to shave your legs if you have sensitive skin is that it's best to avoid shaving against the grain.

Be Gentle With Your Skin
After-shave care is essential for ladies too. Your legs need moisturizing lotion to help reduce rashes and ingrown hairs from developing and sunblock to protect the newly exposed skin. Use an aftershave such as Nivea Men's Sensitive Post Shave Balm for alcohol-free, soothing hydration during the night and Clarins' Sunscreen Care Milk-Lotion Spray, $36, during the day to prevent sun damage.

MORE LIKE THIS