First time shaving your legs? Here's the honest truth: it's not complicated.
Warm water. A sharp razor. A proper shave cream. Done.
Most people overthink it. This guide won't let you.
What You'll Need
Keep it simple:
- A sharp, clean razor
- A shave cream or shave butter
- Warm water
- A soft towel
- A post-shave moisturiser
That's it. Nothing else required.
Step 1: Exfoliate First (Most People Skip This)
This is the step nobody tells you about and it makes a real difference.
Before you shave, use a body scrub to remove dead skin and unclog pores. This lifts the hairs so your razor can get closer, and it stops ingrown hairs before they start.
The FFS Revitalise & Renew Body Scrub uses salicylic acid and ground walnut shell to clear pores and smooth skin so your shave actually has a chance. Sweet almond oil means your legs feel soft, not stripped.
Use it 2 to 3 times a week. Your skin will notice.
Step 2: Warm Up Your Skin
Shower first. Always.
Warm water softens your leg hair and opens your pores. That means less resistance, less tugging, and far less chance of nicks.
Skip this and your blade works against you from the start.
Step 3: Apply Shave Cream
This is the step most beginners skip. Don't.
A good shave cream creates a protective barrier between your skin and the blade. Less friction. Less irritation. Smoother result.
FFS Moisturise & Glide Shave Cream is made with shea butter, coconut oil, and witch hazel. It softens hair before the blade touches it and keeps your skin calm throughout. It's also translucent, so you can see exactly where you've shaved and won't miss patches.
How to apply:
- Use on damp skin
- Cover the area fully
- Give it a few seconds to settle
No dry shaving. Not once. Not ever.
Step 4: Shave With Light, Short Strokes
You don't need pressure. The blade does the work and your job is to guide it.
- Short, controlled strokes
- Shave in the direction your hair grows (with the grain)
- Rinse your blade after every few strokes
Slow wins. Always.
The razor matters too. The FFS Razor Starter Kit comes with a premium 6-blade head with a built-in bikini trimmer, vitamin E strip, and rubber guard bar. Designed for control so your first shave feels easy, not stressful. Rated a Which? Best Buy for women's wet razors (August 2027). Not bad for a first razor.
Step 5: Rinse and Pat Dry
Once you're done:
- Rinse off any leftover shave cream with cool water
- Pat your skin dry, don't rub
Freshly shaved skin is more sensitive than you think. Rubbing irritates it.
Step 6: Moisturise Straight Away
Shaving is a form of exfoliation. Your skin needs moisture back in immediately after.
FFS Repair & Soothe Body Cream is lightweight, absorbs fast, and won't leave you feeling greasy. Almond oil, coconut butter, and shea butter work together to calm redness, lock in hydration, and keep your legs soft. Not tight and dry an hour later.
Skip this step and you'll notice. Do it every time and you won't.
Quick Wins for a Better First Shave
- Change your blade every 5 to 7 shaves. A blunt blade drags and causes irritation
- Always exfoliate before shaving to prevent ingrown hairs and strawberry legs
- Never dry shave, even when you're in a rush
- Go slow around knees and ankles. Awkward angles need more care
- If your skin feels irritated, give it 24 to 48 hours before shaving again
Ready to Start?
Your first shave should feel easy. With the right tools, it is.
The FFS Razor Starter Kit has everything you need. Which? Best Buy rated razor, a trial Moisturise & Glide Shave Cream, and fresh blades delivered to your door before you run out. Built for women. No faff.
FAQs
Do I have to shave my legs?
No. Full stop. It's your body, your choice, always.
Can I shave without shave cream?
Technically yes. But you'll almost certainly get irritation, dryness, or razor burn. Shave cream takes 30 seconds to apply and makes a real difference. It's not optional if you want a comfortable shave.
What causes shaving rash and how do I fix it?
Usually a blunt blade, skipping shave cream, or pressing too hard. Fix it: use a fresh blade, apply shave cream properly, and let the razor glide without pressure. If you already have a rash, apply a gentle moisturiser like the FFS Repair & Soothe Body Cream and leave your skin alone for a day or two.
Should I shave against the direction of hair growth?
Not for your first shave. Shaving with the grain reduces irritation significantly. Once your skin is used to shaving, going across or against the grain gives a closer result. But start simple.
How often should I change my razor blade?
Every 5 to 7 shaves is a good rule of thumb. If it starts dragging or tugging, change it sooner. A blunt blade is the number one cause of razor burn and ingrown hairs.
How do I prevent ingrown hairs after shaving?
Exfoliate before you shave. It's the single most effective thing you can do. The FFS Revitalise & Renew Body Scrub uses salicylic acid to keep pores clear so hairs grow back properly instead of getting trapped under the skin.
What's the best razor for beginners in the UK?
One that's designed for control, uses a sharp blade, and doesn't fight you. The FFS razor is built for women, Which? Best Buy rated (August 2025), and delivers fresh blades to your door so you never shave with a blunt one again.
