Shaving Tips For a Well-Groomed Bikini Area
Before anything else, you should know that there ain’t no right or wrong way to wear your pubic hair. How much hair you shave or leave on is purely your preference, since it’s perfectly normal to have hair down there. So if you’d rather shave than any other hair removal method, then okay, go with it.
However, taking extra measures when it comes to shaving a sensitive area like your bikini zone is certainly a smart idea. To that end, here are some tips on how to shave for a smooth bikini area.
Do some trimming before shaving
Trim all your hair off I dare you. Just kidding! Joking aside, you can trim everywhere but your labia until your hair is only a few centimeters long. You can also opt to just trim down the edges of your hair until you’re satisfied.
A good pair of scissors will do. If not, you can up your game by using a bikini trimmer. But regardless of the trimming tool, the main point here is to be patient and be careful. You don’t want to accidentally cut anything that isn’t hair.
Exfoliate your skin first
Gently exfoliating your skin makes it easier to remove the hair. It leaves your skin feeling softer and encourages the hair to pop up a little bit. Just make sure not to scrub your skin raw or use anything too harsh. The rule of the thumb is to pick an exfoliating scrub that you can safely use on your face.
Also, stay away from any exfoliator that has microbeads as they can cause micro-tears on your skin. You can use a loofah sponge or gentle exfoliating gloves for the inside of your legs. But as for your vulva, it’s best to stick with a dry washcloth and to rub the area very gently.
Use a good razor to do the job
A good selection of razors is easily found in any local drugstore. Using a fresh razor makes all the difference. After all, the proper tools play a major role in achieving a smooth bikini shave. If you want to do a little more grooming than normal without completely going bare, you could use a men’s beard trimmer.
Although it may take some time to get used to it, a trimmer is faster and is less likely to cause skin irritation than a regular razor. To play it safe, you can find shavers and trimmers specifically designed for bikini areas. These kinds of tools come in various types, sizes, and shapes, so you’ll find the right one that suits your body best.
Apply a mild shaving cream
There’s so much more to shaving creams than just mere good-smelling shaving accessory. Shaving is technically the same as shaving your skin as well. So, if you shave without applying enough shaving cream, your skin will get abraded and irritated.
Pick one that is fragrance-free and unscented since perfumes and scents on the shaving cream can irritate your skin. When applying the cream, slather a thin layer, at least enough to make the hair shaft still visible. You may also want to leave it on for a minute or two to soften the pubic hair before your new razor takes over.
Shave with the grain
Shaving in the right direction is possibly the most crucial step in the shaving process. So, if you want to avoid ingrown hairs, cuts, and nicks, then make sure to shave with the grain. Glide your razor in the direction of the hair growth without putting too much pressure.
A new razor should have a sharp blade to sufficiently do the work for you. Also, avoid going in several directions with the razor because it can result in cuts and later on, ingrown hairs. Keep the blade downward when shaving along the bikini line. One pass of the razor is fine if you’re using a razor with many blades.
Make moisturizing a priority
Like your shaving cream, a light fragrance-free moisturizer would be your best bet. If you can find one that is also oil-free, then the better. Oil is known to clog your pores, so it’s best to just avoid them. A moisturizer can soother your skin and hair follicles that might have been inflamed.
What’s a good alternative for shaving?
A good alternative, you say. Well, if you ask me, I’ll choose waxing in a heartbeat. Sure, Brazilian waxing is excellent at keeping your bikini area as tidy as possible. That and many women can guarantee. Plus, it removes all your hair from the roots, so your bikini area is hairless for a few weeks.
That said, if pain intensity is the sole basis, then I’d quickly switch sides and go with shaving. While the results aren’t as long-lasting as waxing, the entire process is much bearable and significantly less painful.
