Get a leg up for summer
Summer is finally in full swing, so if you’ve been hiding your gorgeous gams underneath long skirts and skinny jeans all season, it’s time to do something about it. Flaunt what your mama gave ya and prep your pins for the warmer weather with these expert tips.
![LaLicious Sugar Soufflé Scrub, $34.00 at lalicious.com]()
Exfoliate first
Exfoliate firstPrior to waxing or shaving, it's of utmost importance to exfoliate your legs. While this is no new tip, it is tried and true, notes YouTube fashion and beauty guru Holly Ann-AeRee. "You’re not only showing off more skin during the summer, but you're also wanting that healthy glow. And nothing makes your skin look better than taking care of it!" So slough away those dead skin cells, and let your legs shine.
LaLicious Sugar Souffle Scrub, $34 at lalicious.com
![Gillette Venus & Olay razor, $11.99 at drugstore.com]()
Invest in a good razor or wax
Invest in a good razor or waxWhen it comes to choosing a razor or wax, it's okay to splurge, notes Sarah Dakar, in-house beauty director of celeb-coveted beauty brand Sonya Dakar Skincare. "Make sure you aren't using a product that has been sitting in your cupboard for a year, and with wax, check for expiration dates," she warns. "Your razor should be used a max of three times before tossing it. Otherwise, prepare for razor burn."
Gillette Venus & Olay razor, $12 at drugstore.com
![Aubrey Crème de la Shave, $5.99 at aubrey-organics.com]()
Shave the right way
Shave the right wayShave during a warm shower, when the hair is nice and soft, advises Melissa Cavanaugh, owner and co-founder of Pulse Laser & Skincare Center in New York City. “Make sure your razor is fresh, and that the area has been prepped with a shaving cream or shaving oil first. If your legs have extra-coarse hair or are prone to ingrown hairs, shaving with the growth of the hair can often be helpful." After you're done shaving, Melissa recommends using a gentle astringent to keep the area clean and free of bacteria.
Aubrey Creme de la Shave, $6 at aubrey-organics.com
![Aloe gel]()
And at the right time of day
And at the right time of dayA little-known secret is that the time of day you choose to remove hair is essential, says Sarah. When shaving your legs, it's best to opt for an evening or nighttime removal. "Our skin swells overnight, so an a.m. shave is not going to get nearly as close as it would at night. Pick a time when you won't have to rush as well. Because whether you're waxing or shaving, you'll want to take your time in order to prevent any cuts or irritation."
First Aid Beauty Aloe Plus Soothing Gel, $20 at sephora.com
![Nair Brazilian Spa Clay Shower Power Hair Removal Cream, $10.19 at drugstore.com]()
Try a hair removal cream
Try a hair removal creamHate shaving? Try a pain-free hair removal cream that actually smells yummy instead! Nair's Brazilian Spa Clay for legs and body removes hair while you shower using Nair Shower Power technology. Simply smooth on your legs before you hop in the shower and step out with silky smooth skin that stays hair-free for days longer than shaving. You can't beat that, now can you?
Nair Brazilian Spa Clay Shower Power Hair Removal Cream, $10 at drugstore.com
![Pure Fitness 5lb Dumbbell, $6.99 at sportsauthority.com]()
Do some squats
Do some squatsTo make your legs toned and tight for those short summer skirts and shorts, beauty and lifestyle expert and licensed medical aesthetician Kelley West recommends doing 40 to 50 squats a day while holding a five-pound weight.
Pure Fitness 5 lb Dumbbell, $7 at sportsauthority.com
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