5 Secrets to a smooth & silky shave

I'll never forget the first time I shaved my legs. I was already 13 years old because my Dominican mom had this strange rule that I couldn't shave my legs until I officially hit puberty. By then all my friends from school were already rocking smooth, hairless legs while I (the only Latina in the group of coarse!) was sporting knee-length skirts that revealed all those embarrassing pelitos. Anyhow, I've been shaving my legs ever since–not waxing. Despite what some people might say, you can still get super smooth legs all with the help of a razor!

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Being a woman takes patience, time and money. I already like to splurge on professional blowouts, mani/pedis and bikini waxes, there's absolutely no room in my schedule or budget for frequent leg waxing too. So to make my life a little easier, I just shave. I do such a great job, most of my friends swear I get my piernas waxed. But no chica, there's a fine art to leg shaving. Here's how I keep my legs silky, smooth every single time!

Image via Thinkstock

Get the right razor

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Drugstore.com

When it comes to getting the closest shave, it's about the razor. Look for one that's designed with three blades and that comfortably glides, like Venus Quench Shave Quench Razor ($13). It also comes complete with shave gel bars, so all you have to do is add some water for a light lather and a smooth shave. Also, make sure the blades are fresh!

Shave in the shower

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Thinkstock

I always shave my legs in the shower. Why? Not only is it easier for you to position yourself (not to mention a lot cleaner) but standing in the shower for a few minutes also helps soften your skin, making it easier to have a smooth, close shave.

Use shaving cream

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Kiehls.com

A lot of chicas I know like to lubricate their legs with some conditioner before shaving, but I find that it tends to clog up my blades. Instead, I like to massage a rich shaving cream on my already wet and clean legs, like Kiehl's Simply Mahvelous Legs Shave Cream ($16). It helps keep legs smooth and moisturized for hours.

Moisturize

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Walgreens.com

To lock in moisture I like to apply a light oil, like Neutrogena Body Oil ($11) while my legs are still damp. Followed by a rich moisturizer like Vaseline Total Moisture Cocoa Radiant Body Lotion ($4).

Tan

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Target.com

For sexy, summer legs, add a gradual self-tanning lotion, like Jergens Natural Glow Revitalizing Lotion ($9). It gives the illusion of more toned legs.