How to Get Smooth Legs for Summer

Summer is officially in sight—which means it’s finally time to shed your heavy layers of clothing. Of course, after months of dry, cold temps, it’s not surprising that your legs might look a little pasty and maybe even dry. But now that they’re about to be on full display in your summer wardrobe, you may be wondering what you can do to make smooth legs a reality. To get smooth skin for all of the summer adventures you have in store, follow the five skin care tips we’re sharing below. Try these before slipping into your new summer skirts and shorts!

TIP #1. EXFOLIATE WITH A DRY BRUSH

Dry brushing is an exfoliating method that is all about gently rubbing your body with a dry body brush to help slough away any dead skin cells that have built up on the surface of your skin. This will help leave your legs soft and smooth. Once you’re done doing that, hop in the shower to wash off.

Editor’s tip: If you have sensitive skin, try using a loofah to exfoliate instead!

TIP #2. SHAVE THE RIGHT WAY

When it comes to shaving, you probably want to get it done as quickly as possible. But taking a little time to do it right can go a long way. After washing off in the shower post-exfoliation, it’s time to get to work while your skin is wet. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) advises that you apply a shave cream or gel and shave in the direction that your hair grows. Be sure to use a clean razor—the AAD recommends changing or throwing away disposable ones after five to seven shaves, FYI. Not only is using a sharp blade key for getting smooth legs, but using an old one could mean it’s covered in bacteria.

TIP #3: MOISTURIZE AFTER SHOWERING

Moisturizing is key for achieving smooth skin all over, and that certainly holds true for your legs. The best time to apply a body lotion? While your skin is still wet. The reason being, this can help lock in hydration. So, once you step out of the shower, apply a moisturizer before you’re completely dry. This will also serve as prep for our next tip. Speaking of…

TIP #4: FAKE A GOLDEN GLOW

Even if your legs are feeling smooth, they probably look quite pale after being bundled up for the past few months—but you can get a faux tan with the help of a little self-tanner. Here are three options to consider.

OPTION #1. MOUSSE

Stressed about ending up with stained sheets and clothes after giving self-tanning a go? That’s where the L’Oréal Paris Sublime Bronze Self-Tanning Water Mousse comes in. This self-tanning mousse has an invisible, hydrating formula that instantly gives your skin a natural tan look and even finish.

Step 1. Apply your faux tan. Shake well, pump into your hand, and smooth evenly over clean, exfoliated skin.

Step 2. Wash your hands. Wash hands thoroughly after use and let your skin dry completely before putting on clothes.

Step 3. Wait it out. Allow four to eight hours for the color to fully develop before showering.

Step 4. Reapply. For a longer-lasting tan, apply three times over 12 to 24 hours.

OPTION #2. LOTION

If you prefer a tanning lotion, look no further than the L’Oréal Paris Sublime Bronze Hydrating Self-Tanning Milk Medium. This tanning lotion is designed to gradually deliver an even, bronzed glow while softening and nourishing skin.

Step 1. Apply your self-tanner. Smooth on evenly over your entire body. Use sparingly around your knees, elbows, and ankles.

Step 2. Wash your hands. After applying, thoroughly wash your hands to avoid stained palms.

Step 3. Give it time. Let skin dry completely before putting on makeup or clothes. Give your tan time to develop.

Step 4. Reapply. For best results, use this self-tanner as a body lotion three times a week.

OPTION #3. MIST

Want an instant, airbrushed tan? The L’Oréal Paris Sublime Bronze™ ProPerfect Salon Airbrushed Self-Tanning Mist gives you salon-inspired airbrush tanning results at home. The 360-degree wide-angle jet applicator provides continuous coverage for a natural-looking tan—and the super-fine mist applies evenly and dries quickly with no need to rub it in.

Step 1. Apply your tanning mist. Spray the mist slowly and continuously at arm’s length without rubbing in. The formula will dry quickly.

Step 2. Be careful around key areas. Use sparingly around ankles, knees, and elbows.

Step 3. Be patient. Let your skin dry completely before putting on clothes.

TIP #5: AMP UP YOUR ILLUMINATION

Here’s a little secret for you: When you see someone with legs that look super smooth—say a celebrity in a photoshoot or a model on the runway—they might not actually have silky skin. The thing is, their skin looks smooth. And as we all know, how your legs look is just as important as they feel! To really make them not only feel smooth but appear that way, too, you’ll want them to glow. And if you know anything about makeup, you probably know where we’re going with this: You can use highlighter on your legs. Use an illuminator like the L’Oréal Paris True Match™ Lumi Glotion Natural Glow Enhancer to give your gams a gorgeous glow that will look amazing when you’re showing them off.

There you have it: Smooth legs that look silky and sun-kissed—just in time for summer!

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