How to Use The Body Exfoliant Before Shaving: A Step-by-Step Guide for Smooth Skin

Quick Answer

Use The Body Exfoliant in the shower before you shave to lift dead skin cells and soften hairs. Apply it in gentle circular motions, rinse thoroughly, then follow with your razor for a closer, smoother shave with less irritation.

Exfoliating before shaving is the secret to a smooth, irritation-free shave. It removes the dead skin cells that can clog your razor and cause bumps, and it lifts ingrown hairs before they become a problem. The Body Exfoliant is designed for exactly this step, and it's gentle enough for most skin types.

In this guide, we'll walk you through exactly how to use The Body Exfoliant before shaving, including when to apply it, how long to massage, and what to do after. You'll also learn common mistakes to avoid so you can get the best results every time.

Why Exfoliate Before Shaving?

Exfoliating before shaving serves two key purposes: it removes the barrier of dead skin cells that can dull your razor, and it helps release hairs that are trapped beneath the surface. This means a closer shave with less tugging and a significantly lower risk of razor bumps and ingrown hairs.

The Body Exfoliant uses a dual buffing complex with lava rock, bamboo stem, and avocado oil. The lava rock and bamboo provide physical exfoliation, while avocado oil nourishes the skin, leaving it soft and prepped for the razor. This combination is gentle enough for a pre-shave routine, even if you have sensitive skin.

• Exfoliating before shaving can help prevent ingrown hairs by lifting hairs away from the skin.
• A smoother surface means your razor glides more easily, reducing the chance of nicks and irritation.

When to Exfoliate in Your Shower Routine

Timing matters. You should exfoliate after your skin has had a few minutes to warm up and soften in the shower, but before you apply shave gel or use your razor. This allows the exfoliant to work effectively without stripping your skin of too much moisture.

A good rule of thumb is to wash your body first, then spend two to three minutes exfoliating the areas you plan to shave. Rinse thoroughly to remove all exfoliant particles, then apply your shave gel or cream. This order ensures your skin is clean, smooth, and ready for the razor.

• Don't exfoliate on dry skin – always do it in the shower or right after bathing.
• Avoid exfoliating right after shaving, as your skin will be more sensitive.

Step-by-Step: Applying The Body Exfoliant

Squeeze a small amount of The Body Exfoliant into your palm – about a quarter-sized amount is enough for one leg. Work it between your hands to warm it up, then apply it to the area you want to shave.

Using your fingertips, massage the exfoliant onto your skin in gentle circular motions. Focus on areas prone to ingrown hairs, like the bikini line, underarms, or the backs of your thighs. Spend about 30 seconds per area, then rinse thoroughly with warm water. Your skin should feel smooth, not stripped or irritated.

• Use light pressure – let the exfoliating particles do the work.
• If you have very sensitive skin, start with once a week and gradually increase frequency.

Your Step-by-Step Pre-Shave Exfoliation Routine

1. Step 1: Warm up your skin: Spend at least 2-3 minutes in a warm shower to soften your skin and open pores. This makes exfoliation more effective and less abrasive. Checkpoint: Your skin should feel warm and slightly damp, not hot or dry.
2. Step 2: Apply The Body Exfoliant: Squeeze a quarter-sized amount into your palm and massage onto the areas you plan to shave using gentle circular motions for about 30 seconds per area. Mistake to avoid: Don't scrub too hard – you want to polish, not abrade. If it feels painful, you're pressing too hard.
3. Step 3: Rinse thoroughly: Rinse off all exfoliant particles with warm water. Any residue can clog your razor or irritate skin. Checkpoint: Your skin should feel smooth but not squeaky clean. If it feels tight, you've over-exfoliated – back off next time.
4. Step 4: Shave immediately: Apply your shave gel and shave with a sharp razor, like The Body Razor Starter Kit. The exfoliation will have lifted hairs and softened skin, so you'll get a closer shave with less irritation. Don't wait too long – the benefits of exfoliation diminish after a few minutes.

Products That Support Your Pre-Shave Routine

• The Body Exfoliant: A gentle, skin-smoothing exfoliator powered by a dual buffing complex with lava rock, bamboo stem, and avocado oil that preps skin for your softest shave yet - or anytime your skin needs an extra bit of buffing. The first step in your Petal Soft routine. This is the product you'll use before shaving to remove dead skin and lift hairs, so your razor can glide smoothly and you get a closer, more comfortable shave.
• The Body Razor Starter Kit: Made with sensitive skin in mind, the Estrid razor features five sharp blades for a close shave and a vegan lubrication strip to protect skin, prevent irritation, and provide a smooth glide. After exfoliating, using a razor with a lubrication strip helps reduce friction and further minimizes irritation, giving you the smooth results you're after.

Exfoliating before shaving is a simple step that can transform your shave. By using The Body Exfoliant as the first step in your routine, you'll help prevent ingrown hairs and achieve smoother, more comfortable skin. Add it to your shower routine and see the difference for yourself.