A
reader recently sent an e-mail inquiry asking:
“What
can I use when shaving my legs? I have large, visible
pores and my legs are not smooth. When wearing dresses, I
always have to wear stockings but I would like to go bare.
What can I use?”
A
common issue among women, especially since warm weather
and summer fashions are already here. First, when
shaving, use a mild shaving creme and avoid using bar soap
or foams, since they contain more air bubbles and can
cause more nicks and cuts. However, the most important
product to use to minimize the appearance of pores and
remove dead skin cell build-up is a body exfoliator. Use a
formula suitable for body type once a week in lieu of
shower gel – make this a regular habit since males and
females of all ages experience dead skin cell build-up,
especially on the knees and heels. To help further
minimize the appearance of large pores, choose a glycolic
body lotion with a small amount of glycolic acid (approximately
3-5%, but some are available in 10%) to ensure a smooth
surface. If a glycolic body lotion becomes too drying,
alternate it’s use to every other day or to 1-2 times per
week (depending on each person’s skin type/tolerance). As
for going sans stockings, there are many self tanning
products available on the market and formulas continue to
evolve each year, becoming more shimmery and sweet
smelling! The latest trend is a self-tanner that’s both
instant and gradual. Again, exfoliate first to ensure an
even application, apply tanner to get a wash of instant
color, and continue to use for approximately 2-3 more days
to help color last for up to 5-7 days (again depending on
each person’s skin type). Allow tanner to dry for 10-15
minutes before dressing. Another self-tanner trend not
only gives instant and gradual color but also helps
instantly firm, mimicking the effect of nylons minus the
sagging ankles or dark toe line.
