Whew, that was close! If you’re not saying that about your last shave, then it’s time to take a look at your shaving habits to get your skin smooth and touchable. Before you even allow a razor to touch you, give your skin the right care to get the closest shave and to minimize irritation. Exfoliate your skin with a scrub or loofah in the shower regularly – once a week should slough off dead cells, which allows the razor to get closer to skin when you do shave. It also helps keep the razor sharp and cuts down on nicks. Follow every shower and bath with a moisturizing lotion. When you shave, use a new razor to cut down on drag and help the razor pass smoothly over your skin. Never use your guy’s razor – men’s facial hair is coarser than women’s body hair, and it can dull the razor. Allow your hair and skin to soften for up to five minutes in the shower or bath, then begin shaving. Whatever you like to use to lubricate skin is fine; just be sure to use something. Don’t fall for the more expensive pink cans of shave gel – usually, they’re the same thing, plus fragrance, as the men’s version. The only difference is the price tag. If you don’t care to invest in shaving cream or gel, then simply use body wash or even conditioner. Pull the razor in the opposite direction of hair growth, unless your skin is very sensitive. It will result in a less-close shave but will reduce irritation to pull the razor in the direction that hair grows. To minimize red bumps, particularly in the bikini area, shave that area first while the razor is at its sharpest. Shave with the grain – in the direction that hair grows. After your shower, pat the area dry and apply aloe vera gel or hydrocortisone cream if the bumps are particularly bad. Many women simply leave this area to the experts to wax. It’s a smooth move!