Say No to Razor Burn!

One of my favorite magazines is Real Simple. I love the clean, no-fuss layout- and the tagline, "Life Made Easier" (who doesn't want that?!). Each month, I look forward to the decorating and fashion tips, recipes, and home organization ideas... and the "New Uses for Old Things" section.

I think it was the August edition that featured shaving tips: the best razors, creams, lotions and potions, which direction to shave, etc. This tip stuck out to me, so I decided to try it:

Mix two squirts of baby oil and four drops of rubbing alcohol in your palm, then apply to just-shaved areas. The antiseptic-moisturizer combo helps prevent an itchy rash.

So on my next trip to the store, I found myself in the health & beauty section. Upon further examination of bottles of baby oil and rubbing alcohol, I decided that this could be a very messy cocktail. I made a few quick alterations - instead of baby oil, I bought baby oil gel (I opted for the aloe vera one, since I thought a little extra moisture couldn't hurt), and I bought regular rubbing alcohol, but I also bought a tiny (travel-size) spray bottle.

Then I tried it on a Friday evening before leaving for the weekend. A small squirt of gel, and 4 or so squirts of rubbing alcohol. It stung for a second, but I am pleased to report that not only was there NO razorburn to be seen, I had smooth, moisturized legs all weekend (without reapplying).

Downfall: Right after you apply, you might want to avoid rubbing your legs against any furniture - you'll end up with an oily dining room chair like I did.

Other shaving tips: Always use a sharp razor. Also, if you're prone to razorburn, avoid heavily scented lotions, which can irritate sensitive skin. Opt for the lightly scented or non-scented versions- not as much fun, I know, but better than having those ugly red bumps!

Verdict: fresh
Damage: less than $5!